There are many LGBT issues and many of those issues pertain
to gay rights. In many cases gay rights are not equal to those afforded to the
straight community. Currently, those that fight for gay rights have a big focus
on the legal right of relationship recognition for same sex couples. There are
many benefits to the legal recognition of same sex relationships including the
acquisition of legal rights that are generally reserved for married couples.
In
addition there are many social benefits associated with the legal recognition
of same sex relationships. For one, there is the psychological aspect
associated with recognition. Couples that are unable to have their relationship
recognized, many feel that there is something wrong with the relationship. In
fact, the psychological implications can be astounding. Also, legal domestic
partners are able to enjoy many benefits associated with health care and
employment that they would otherwise be unable to enjoy.
LGBT issues include issues that relate to health insurance and health care
decisions. For example, couples that enter into a domestic partnership
agreement are sometimes able to share health benefits and to make medical
decisions regarding a partner’s health care.
In many cases, states that have
legal domestic partnerships, allow employers the opportunity to offer shared
health care to employees and their partner. However, they are often not
required to do so. In addition to shared health benefits, domestic
partners are able to take part in one another’s health care and any decisions
associated with that care. In many cases, partners are the individuals that are
most aware about their partner’s wishes. Without the ability to make decisions
regarding a partners health care, partners are often left without recourse if
their partner’s wishes are not followed.
LGBT issues also include certain areas of employment. In some cases, domestic
partners may be entitled to death benefits when their partner passes away. For
instance, some employers offer death benefits for their employees. In the past,
same sex partners had no legal right to those benefits. However, registered
domestic partners are often able to collect such benefits.
In addition,
domestic partners are allowed to enjoy a workplace free of any discrimination
that is based on their relationship. For example, employers must not deny paid
bereavement time to same sex couples, if it offered to opposite sex couples.
Gay rights should always equal those of the heterosexual community in the
workplace.
There are many LGBT issues that many members of society are faced with. Gay
rights are one of the biggest issues. In fact, currently, gay rights are
seriously lacking in this country. By legalizing domestic partnerships and
civil unions, the public affords a large population the opportunity to enjoy
the equal rights they are entitled to.
The benefits associated with the legal
recognition of same sex relationships, far outweigh the alleged detriment to
society. LGBT issues should be considered by everyone, so that all citizens
have the opportunity to enjoy equal rights.
