Anderson begins his article with "Americans respect marriage, not only as a crucial institution of civil society but the fundamental building block of all human civilization" (Anderson, 2013). This is very true when it comes to the government ruling on same sex marriage. "Government has an important interest in promoting marriage among heterosexual couples because of their reproductive ability" (Washington Post, 2013). Reproduction can only occur among a heterosexual couple which is viewed by some as a traditional marriage practice. "Marriage exists to bring a man and a woman together as husband and wife to be father and mother to any children their union produces. Marriage is based on the biological fact that reproduction depends on a man and a woman, and on the social reality that children need a mother and a father" (Anderson, 2013).
This is a true statement that reproduction is only achieved by a heterosexual couple, but some argue it shouldn't be the driving factor that allows two couples to be married. All Americans stand equally before the law and have their civil rights equally protected rights to free speech, religious liberty, free association and every other traditional civil liberties, but they continue to fight for the right of same sex marriage. The question is whether a new "civil right "the right to have the government and private citizens recognize one's same-sex sexual partnership as a marriage ought to be created, redefining marriage in the process. What's the issue with the government recognizing same sex marriage? "It will force every citizen, house of worship and business to do so as well" (Anderson, 2013). These statements blow my mind, because this country was built on honesty, integrity, and freedom. For example On September 22, 1862, Lincoln had issued a preliminary proclamation that he would order the emancipation of all slaves in any state (or part of a state) that did not end their rebellion against the Union by January 1, 1863.
