Legalizing Same-Sex Marriages
Shawndra Emery
Westwood College- Northlake Campus
Abstract
In recent years, the issue of gay rights has become more heated than ever. Same-sex couples have been fighting for equal treatment under the premises of the law and the church since as far back as the 1950’s. The LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) community has come far in their fight, but still has an uphill battle ahead of them. Though today’s society is more tolerant, our community still holds firm to the more traditional ideas of marriage and family. In this paper, I will argue my point of believing why same-sex marriages should be legalized and I’ll also address the issues of the opposing side. It’s been said by some that same-sex marriage distorts the purpose of marriage and family. Gay and lesbian couples believe it is a constitutional and human right to choose their life partners, same as any heterosexual couple, and have that partnership recognized in the eyes of the law and church. I will address these key points as well as others.
Outline
Marriage Equality
Thesis Statement: Gay Marriage should be legal because it is a constitutional and a human right. I. History of Homosexuality A. History in ancient times on homosexuality B. History in Greek and Roman times on homosexuality C. The 1969 riots at Stonewall Inn, New York, NY D. Issues today concerning same-sex marriage equality
II. Reasons why same-sex unions should be banned E. Same-sex marriage threatens the structure of society and severely distorts the purpose of marriage and family. F. The three most practiced religions in the US deem homosexual relations as sexually immoral. G. The most vital point of marriage is procreation, same sex couples cannot procreate.
III. Reasons why same-sex marriage should be legal H. Same-sex couples feel a desire to have society recognize their lifetime commitment to