The debate about gay marriages has been a very hot political subject for many years and because it is such a hot topic, 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 a few that are more liberal, allowing almost equal rights. Massachusetts is currently the only state in the United States that allows same-sex marriages. The state of Rhode Island is generous 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.
Elections of recent years have seen this as a very hot subject and with the White House stating publicly that marriage can only be between a man and a woman, not same-sexes, many states have been very reluctant to sanction same-sex marriages. However, a few states have permitted same-sex civil unions, which are very similar to marriage.
Those states are, in alphabetical order: 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 openly that he will soon pass a bill permitting same-sex unions. This is a major victory for the supporters of the movement.
Although many states have not allowedf same-sex marriage, there are states that are sitting on the fence 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 should have the legal right to marry them too.
This has always been a hot issue, and likely will continue to be a hot 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 permit a civil union is at least a move in the direction towards victory.
However, the fact is that the actions of the individual states usually reflect the opinions of the President. With a President in office who is a staunch opponent of same-sex marriage and civil union, it is unlikely to allow much room for many more victories until a more accommodating, or rather liberal, President is in the White House. Only 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 most of Europe in sanctioning the legal inequalities of straight and gay couples nationwide.