Same Sex Marriage- Effect on Child Development

I am 100% for equal rights, and one day hope that everyone in this country will have the right to marry whomever he or she wishes to. I regard marriage as a very serious commitment and I believe that it should not be taken lightly. I also believe it is absolutely ludicrous that some people believe that same-sex couples should not have that right, for various reasons. This has been a hot topic in the social media world for some time now as different events in politics fuel reactions from both sides, and I could go on for days about my feelings on the subject.

One of the arguments I see and hear often is the believe that same-sex couples are depriving children of a "normal" family life, which could potentially have a negative effect on the child's development. I can see how this is a natural point of curiosity, as our society is used to a different family model. A "normal" family in America, that is to say one that is socially acceptable, consists of a father, mother, and their biological children. However, I must say that I find it rather close minded to assume that children cannot thrive in any other model. Anyone who has done any basic studies in different cultures throughout the world and throughout different time periods will know that this is not the only family model that works. 

Statistics from a multitude of sources claim that children from same-sex couples, whether brought in from a previous marriage, adopted, or conceived otherwise, thrive just as well as other children. Considering this information takes us back to the big picture. Statistics or no, we must remember that people are not only defined by their ability to bear children or their sexual orientation, just as they are not defined by the color of socks they choose to wear. There are many different factors environmentally, biologically, and personality-wise that contribute to what type of parent any given person will be. 

Very few people in this world will claim that all single mothers are worthless and should not have their children, and many would agree that this is a very discriminatory and stereotypical statement. Furthermore, families that stem from divorce and remarriage often end up with three or more parent figures and often do just fine. Why is this any different for same-sex couples? If children can thrive without a father or mother in other family models, why can't that be true for children who have two mothers or two fathers? 

It is my opinion that this isn't a true issue at all, but rather another outlet that close-minded interest groups use to raise their argument for oppressing the rights of people in same-sex relationships. Children are raised in many, many different family models in this country, and that certainly does have an impact on them, but that does not mean that two men or two women cannot do a fabulous job of raising an upstanding, contributing member in society. There are many variables that can contribute to the type or parent someone will or will not be, but that is present even in traditional marriages.Sexual orientation is an irrelevant factor in determining whether a person is or is not a fit parent.

This video of Zack Wahls protesting such oppression in Iowa state is an excellent example, and I find this young man to be an inspiration. I hope that more people will stand up and share their story the way he so courageously did. I know from experience that speaking to legislators can be a daunting task, but he did it so well, and I hope he and others will continue to do so.