Gays and Their Struggle For Human Rights ILANA

Gays and Their Struggle For Human Rights -ILANA KHONONOV

First Amendment �“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances” - If the first amendment guarantees Americans their basic freedoms, is it right that homosexuals can not marry in many states ?

Can two people of the same sex be married? �The Defense of Marriage Act was passed in 1996 by President Bill Clinton. -It states the government is not required to consider a same sex relationship a marriage - States decide whether or not gay marriage should be allowed in their state

Arguments Pro-same sex marriage �Denying them is a violation of religious freedom �Marriage benefits should be available to all couples. �Denying these marriages is a form of minority discrimination. �It doesn't hurt society or anyone in particular.

Anti- gay marriage arguments �Most religions consider homosexuality a sin. �It would weaken the definition and respect for the institution of marriage. �It would weaken the traditional family values essential to our society. �It could provide a slippery slope in the legality of marriage (e. g. polygamy) �Research shows homosexuality leads to a much lower life expectancy, psychological disorders, and other problems.

States allowing gay marriage�Connecticut �District of Columbia �Iowa �Massachusetts �New Hampshire �New Mexico �New York �Rhode Island � Vermont

Human Rights �Although America is a country that promises equality for all, homosexuals are yet to be treated equally in society. Lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgendered people are denied basic civil, political, social and economic rights. Even in these modern times, only a few states fully recognize same sex marriages. Gays are definitely denied the human rights which America is based on.