On Friday, June 24, 2011, New York became the largest state to allow same-sex marriage and recognize its legitimacy. It was approved 33 to 29, winning by only one vote. Without the one vote, the difference would not be a substantial amount to push it forward. 

In celebration, the Empire State Building, known for lighting different colors for special events, was proudly lit with the colors of the rainbow. 

In recent years, marriage equality has been a prominent debate in politics. Many conservatives believe that marriage should be kept between a man and a woman. Some liberals believe that sexual orientation should not be a factor in the institution of marriage. Personally, I am of the latter.

As an average teenager in an average New Jersey high school, I am exposed to the diversity of today’s society. This diversity spills into the various different types of relationships at my high school. Love should be about love, and sexual orientation should not have an effect on it. If my male friend wishes to marry his boyfriend, no one should be allowed to tell them they are not allowed to marry.

Not only do I have gay and lesbian friends, but I'm also proud to admit that I have gay and lesbian blood relatives. For instance, I have known my cousin all my life and have always looked up to her. Within the past few years, she has come out to my family. She is still the same fun-loving person I knew. The only difference between she and I is that she prefers girlfriends, while I prefer boyfriends. She is no different than I. Why is it that she cannot marry who she loves, but I may? The fact that the state of New York is taking a step forward makes me believe that the gay and lesbian minority will be recognized and given the rights they deserve. 

Many churches believe that marriage should be between a man and a woman and will not allow same-sex marriages and/or civil unions to take place under their roof. All I would like to ask is “What about tolerance?” Why is that we must tolerate people of different sexes, races and religions but not those of different sexual orientation? Whether one is gay, straight, bi, or even transgender, one should be able to marry who one loves.

Like the proverbial expression states, “Love is blind.” We should honor this proverb and celebrate the giant leaps marriage equality is making. 

 

Cassandra and her boyfriend Ryan at her junior prom.