Marriage Equality Same-sex marriages gradually became more common in America as the evolution of marriage continued. Homosexual couples now have a greater chance of being accepted than a few years ago. The current situation regarding same-sex marriage is not the most ideal, but America expresses optimism (Richey W.). Federal judges consider banning same-sex marriage unconstitutional, and more states have now legalized same-sex marriage (17 Legal). Same-sex marriage is now legal in 17 states, either by court order, state legislature, or popular vote (17 Legal). Although public attitudes toward same-sex marriage and homosexuality in general have become more tolerant in recent years, a significant portion of the American population still considers limiting marriage to opposite-sex couples to be wrong. both a good public policy and a moral right (Gay marriage). . The act of same-sex marriage has been banned in 33 states either by constitutional amendment or state laws (17 laws). Although same-sex marriages are still rejected by more than half of the United States, the gay community remains optimistic about achieving marriage freedom and equality. The gay community is waging a constant battle for gay rights and marriage equality. Gay marriage has been a highly controversial issue since the Hawaii Supreme Court first brought it to the national stage (Gay Marriage). In 1993, the Hawaii Supreme Court issued a decision in Baehr v. Miike who led many to believe that the court was about to order the state to allow same-sex couples to obtain a marriage license (gay marriage). Since marriages within one state are usual...... middle of paper ...... Olson, Theodore. “The Conservative Case for Same-Sex Marriage.” Good reasons with contemporary arguments. Ed. Lester Faigley and Jack Selzer. Boston. Longman, 2012. 371-374. Richey, Warren. “Supreme Court: Both sides in same-sex marriage debate express optimism. » Christian Science Monitor December 7, 2012: Academic Search Premier. April 17, 2014. Von Drehle, David. “How Gay Marriage Won.” Time 181.13 (2013): 16. Academic Search First Web. , Elizabeth Schlain and Roberta A. Kaplan. “Is Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act unconstitutional? » Supreme Court Debates 16.5 (2013): 21-28. Academic Search Premier, April 17, 2014. Legal Same-Sex Marriage and 33 States Banning Same-Sex Marriage - Gay Marriage - ProCon.org. " ProConorg Titles. Web. April 15, 2014.. Works Cited