On June 25, the United States legalized same sex marriage under its Constitution. The Supreme Court ruled that the 14th Amendment of the Constitution, which grants ‘equality to all its citizens,’ extends to same-sex couples, and this announcement brings equality to millions of Americans who were denied this Constitutional right until now.
The Supreme Court clearly states in its decision that “the fundamental liberties protected by the 14th Amendment’s Due Process Clause extend to certain personal choices central to individual dignity and autonomy, including intimate choices defining personal identity and beliefs.”
Religious organizations insist that the “traditional” sense of marriage is only between a man and a woman. However, this is not defined anywhere, but is a view passed down through generations.
In my opinion, religious beliefs should act in favor of inherent dignity, which is worthy of its followers. It’s possible to be religious and hold an evolutionary view at the same time. As quoted in the Bible, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male or female, for you all in one Jesus Christ,” (Galatians 3:28). Therefore, God may reign but he doesn’t legislate.
Supporters of marriage equality have won the political and legal argument by an extensive margin: 5-4. Religious extremists believe their right to practice their religion is being threatened by living in a society where there is same-sex marriage allowed.
“I saw Satan dancing with delight, the day the music died in the United States of America,” tweeted Bryan Fischer, a religious rights activist, on the day of the ruling.
However, Texas Governor Greg Abbott soothes the fear of people in his speech when he says, “Despite the Supreme Court’s rulings, Texans’ fundamental right to religious liberty remains protected. No Texan is required by the Supreme Court’s decision to act contrary to his or her religious beliefs regarding marriage.”
As emphasized, this will not hurt religious extremists as they have the choice to practice it or not.
The decision of same-sex marriage approval throughout the United States of America is groundbreaking in American history, and more time should be given in celebration of this event.
After the passage of the decision, many homosexual couples celebrated by getting married and having it recognized in all states.
On Monday, June 29, Lafayette County hosted its first same-sex marriage ceremony at the courthouse on the Square in Oxford.
“No union is more profound than marriage for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice, and family. This decision has given equal dignity to all citizens respecting their right to love,” said Anthony Kennedy when sharing the Supreme Court’s decision in the case.
I am happy to say that, in the end, love has won!
Soumya Sharma is a sophomore liberal arts student from Oxford.
