The debate on gay marriages has been a very hot political topic 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 subject 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 generous enough to recognize as a legal marriage any same-sex marriage that was carried out in Massachusetts, which is considered a major victory by many same-sex supporters.

Elections of recent years have seen this as a very hot topic and with the White House stressing 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 sanctioned same-sex civil unions, which is 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 OK to same-sex unions. This is a major victory for those who support the movement.

While many states have not given the green light to the subject 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 manner they run their households compared to 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 contentious topic, and likely will continue to be a hot topic for many years in the future. While the topic rages within the states and at the national level, it will more than likely be quite a long time before the gay and lesbian rights groups can really declare a victory for their cause. Nevertheless, there is some solace to be taken in the small victories as they occur, and another Governor of a state being ready to allow a civil gay union is at least a step 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 triumphs 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 most of Europe in sanctioning the legal inequalities of straight and gay couples nationwide.

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