Gay marriage as a democratic civil rights issue

Gay Marriage

The issue of gay marriage is a very hot topic in today's world of current events. Many have attributed this quest of equality as a civil rights issue that compares to many of the civil rights battles fought in our history. The purpose of this essay is to make an argument for gay marriage as a viable means of expression for society. I will present this argument by using literature that supports this thesis and by adding my own commentary to the subject. I will give three main points to help clarify my argument and present a well defined case that ultimately supports theses actions.

Reason #1: Democracy

Regardless of one's own personal views upon the morality of the subject of gay marriage or homosexuality in general, many people in this country support this issue. Cillizza (2013) recently reported that "that not only is each younger generation increasingly supportive of gay marriage but within each generation people are getting more and more ok with legalizing it as they get older. Just 25% of Baby Boomers backed legalizing gay marriage in 2004 but that number has rapidly risen all the way to 43% in 2012. Ditto Gen X'ers -- 37% of whom backed gay marriage in 2004 and 53% said the same in 2012. Combine the fact that young people are heavily supportive of gay marriage and every generation is growing more in favor of legalization as they age and you see why the numbers on gay marriage have moved so quickly -- and why they aren't likely to ever reverse themselves." It is clear a majority of opinion had drifted towards supporting this issue.

A democracy suggests that people have the right to control their own destiny through a majority. In other words if you are in the minority of opinion, you risk having your rights taken away. Democracy is therefore nothing much more than a competition of ideals. It just so happens that today the demand of legalizing gay marriage is creeping into the majority. Many states in the last few years have already legalized gay marriage and recognize it as a worthy pursuit.

Reason # 3: Tolerance

Tolerance is a virtue. Accepting others that reside in the minority is a good exercise at demonstrating compassion and empathy towards others. These qualities are in great need in today's violent and self-serving society. Any demonstration by people wishing to open up their minds to new ways of doing things can ultimately lead to other breakthroughs in social developments. Gay marriage doesn't threaten anyone in any real way. While homosexual sex is often regarded as offensive and weird, there are much more offensive and wierder ideals out there in today's world that need to be explored and understood. Gay marriage as an issue can no doubt inspire other minority groups to be recognized as important and viable sources of citizens.

Its just mean to deny someone their wishes when those wishes do not impose any harm on anyone else. This idea of letting others be as they are is humane and kind. We need more of this attitude to help identify more serious problems in society such as violence, deceit and warfare. Overall, I support this issue as means to healthy living and tolerant acceptance.