The debate on gay marriages has been a very hot political subject for many years and because it is such a hot subject, the number of places that have come out publicly either for or against the topic is not astounding. While there are few states which allow gay or same-sex marriage, there are some that are more liberal, affording almost equal rights. Massachusetts is currently the only state in the United States that allows same-sex marriages. The state of Rhode Island is liberal enough to recognize as legal, any same-sex marriage that is performed in Massachusetts, which is a major victory according to many same-sex supporters.

The elections of recent years have seen this as a very hot topic and with the White House stressing openly that marriage can only involve a man and a woman, not same-sexes, many states have been very reluctant to allow same-sex marriages. However, a few states have permitted same-sex civil unions, which are very similar to marriage.

These states are California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, New Jersey, and Vermont. The District of Columbia also recognizes same-sex unions and the Governor of New Hampshire has stated publicly that he will soon sign a bill giving the go-ahead to same-sex unions. This is a major victory for those who support the movement.

Although many states have not given the go-ahead to the topic of same-sex marriage, there are states that are sitting around discussing the subject. Many couples who are struggling for their rights have pointed out that there is absolutely no difference in the way they run their households compared with their heterosexual counterparts. They have also stated that while they may be with a partner who is the same sex as them, they do still love their partner and ought to have the legal right to marry them too.

This has always been a contentious topic, and likely will continue to be a contentious subject for many years to come. With the issues raging within the states and at the national level, it will probably be a very long time before the gay and lesbian rights groups are able to truly declare a victory for their cause. Nevertheless, there is some solace to be taken in the small triumphs as they occur, and another Governor of a state being ready to sanction a civil union is at least a move in the direction towards victory.

However, the fact remains that the views of the individual states usually reflect the views of the President. With a President in office who is a staunch opponent of same-sex marriage as well as civil union, it is unlikely to allow much room for many victories until a more accommodating, or rather liberal, President is in the White House. Time will tell what President Obama’s views are.

After the bill has passed through all the channels of state, it will go into effect as early as the next year for the New Hampshire residents, who have been waiting patiently. Each state that gives this right to its residents opens the door to more states to become more tolerant. Finally, this paves the way for America to join the bulk of Europe in recognizing the legal inequalities of straight and gay couples nationwide.

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