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Gay Marriage Laws in Arkansas

Gay Marriage Laws in ArkansasWhile  a large
percentage of the population continues to be pro gay marriage, there are still
many states that have laws that are anti gay marriage. However, some people
believe in equal rights for all, with the exception of being allowed to call a
civil union marriage. Many people believe there should be a distinction between
marriages and civil unions, and therefore, those people may be anti gay
marriage. Yet, many of those people are not biased, they just want a
distinction made so that marriage is defined as a union between opposite sex
couples.   


Arkansas law could be considered to be based on an anti gay marriage
sentiment. In fact, an amendment was passed in 2004 that states that marriage
consists of a union between a man and a woman. In addition, that amendment
strictly forbids the recognition of any union between same sex couples. The
state will not recognize the union, and will not grant the individuals any
rights associated with marriage.


While many may not be considered to be pro gay marriage, most are not anti gay
marriage either. For many, the distinction is in the language used. For some,
marriage is defined as a union between a man and a woman. However, those same
people may have no problem with civil unions or domestic partnerships. For many
people, the words used can make all the difference. 


Because of the language
used, Arkansas state laws could be considered anti gay marriage. However, there
are many in the state that are pro gay marriage, or believe in the right to
civil unions, and continue to fight for equal rights. In many cases, people get
caught up in the language used, so progress toward equal rights, can be slow.


For many, the distinction between marriage and civil union, is simply based on
the gender of those entering into the union. However, for those in the LGBT
community, the distinction can impact the availability of benefits and rights
for their partner. Many people that are pro gay marriage, believe that the
union should entitle partners to benefits such as health care and the ability
to collect their partners pension.


However, those that are anti gay marriage
believe those type of issues impact the definition of marriage. However, pro
gay marriage activists are beginning to impact public sentiment and some
progress has been made toward equal rights.