The traditional definition of marriage would be the union of a man and a woman in sacred matrimony. Marriage means many things to different people. It can mean the coming together of two people or two families. This could mean marrying your best friend or your long-time lover. It is a promise to always stand by your partner until death do you part. Who is to say that this union should only be allowed in a heterosexual relationship? One person's opinion should not interfere with another person's right to live their life as they would like to live it and with whom. Opponents will say that allowing same-sex marriage is unconstitutional and violates religious rights (CLGS, nd). Supporters argue that same-sex couples should have access to the same marital benefits and public recognition that heterosexual couples enjoy and that banning same-sex marriage constitutes unconstitutional discrimination (ProCon, 2012). Ultimately, studies show that same-sex families are able to live just as productively, if not better, than families with heterosexual parents. To ensure an atmosphere of absolute religious freedom, the founders of this country also enforced the strict separation of church and state (Anti-Defamation League, 1999). In a country where marriage is in decline and those getting married are increasingly educated and affluent, refusing to administer legal marriages is a poor form of social protest. Everyone needs these protections; a promise to God will not force a deadbeat parent to pay child support. Equal access to a civil contract (especially a contract that brings so many advantages) is a question of social justice, of civil rights. Granting full marriage equality to lesbian and gay couples would in no way endanger the religious rights of...... middle of paper ...... religious views should have no influence on laws which are put in place regarding the marriage institution. There are many benefits to the married couple and to society, including the profits made from the various fees, taxes, and ceremonies associated with marriage that would greatly benefit the American economic system. If the economy was under control, it would certainly have a direct positive effect on other areas of the country, including poverty, education and health care. Additionally, allowing same-sex marriage promotes a positive and healthy family structure, as well as less confusion for the child and more support services in the community. Opponents will offer various arguments to deny that anything beneficial can come from a same-sex marriage, but in my opinion the facts are there and it makes no sense to continue to refute this issue..