-ILANA KHONONOV Gays and Their Struggle For Human Rights

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.