In such a sophisticated society, there is no denying that the living style of homosexuals has gradually been accepted by mainstream communities. Nonetheless, some hard-line opponents, especially right-wing Christians, thwart the legalization of same-sex marriage based on religious perspectives. They believe that as marriage is a divine institution between the opposite sexes, same-sex marriage is no difference from violating God’s will.
However, would it possible that Christians who are against homosexuality misunderstand the teachings of the Bible? As all of us know, fraternity is one of the most important beliefs in Christianity. How paradoxical it is that Christians on one hand advocate the importance of fraternity but on the other hand defend against homosexuality without showing any concerns! More importantly, with accordance to universal core value, everyone irrespective of sexual orientation is born equal, meaning that everyone in the world has the right to yearn for love and being loved. Under no circumstances can one deprive of basic human rights of others.
Apart from strong reactions from religious traditionalists, there are also vehement oppositions from social conservatives who put forward the point that same-sex marriage does not conform to morality such as social values and general perceptions. Nevertheless, from my point of view, whether a person gets married with member of same sex or opposite sex is indeed a matter of personal choice which does not harm others.
As a matter of fact, according to recent scientific research, sexual orientation is the result of genetic composition. Since homosexuals are basically inborn, their sexual orientation cannot be altered during lifetime. As a result, it is rather unjust to place all the blame on them for being gay because it is not their faults. With respect to this, denying same-sex marriage is a form of minority discrimination. Therefore, same-sex marriage should be lawfully recognized in order to defend homosexuals from discrimination.
Last but not least, some argue that the legalization of same-sex marriage would further weaken the traditional family values essential to our society. However, some of the traditional family values are a bit old-fashioned and no longer applicable to modern society. In recent years, our society has undergone a series of fundamental changes in ethical conceptions. With regard to such tremendous alterations, the concept of ‘family’ has to be re-defined and broadened.
In fact, families could still be organized under same-sex marriage by adopting children. The only important thing that should matter in marriage is love, not sex. I believe that homosexuals can build up a harmonious family if love exists between family members. If same-sex marriage is legalized, not only does marriage benefits such as joint ownership can be available to all couples, but it also encourages homosexuals to have strong family values and give up high-risk sexual lifestyle.
In conclusion, the institution of marriage conveys dignity and respect towards a couple that make a lifetime commitment to support each other. Like heterosexuals, same-sex couples deserve such kind of dignity and respect as guaranteed by marriage. As modern citizens, we should be more open-minded and tolerate social diversity. We should also learn to show our respect to homosexuals and recognize their rights to make commitment to the one they loved. I am convinced that marginalized gay groups could integrate with the mainstream society harmoniously if same-sex marriage is legalized.
