The fact that same sex couples are excluded from being able to marry does not mean that it has kept up with the majority of American values today. In the same survey of UCF students, it was found that 85% feel that gay and lesbian couples should be accepted by society. .
Despite the overwhelming support shown to same-sex couples, the survey found that nearly half of the students surveyed have witnessed or called someone a "faggot", "dyke" or "homo". Eighty-eight percent surveyed have used the phrase "that's so gay" to describe something they dislike. Although there are high percentages of students who feel gays should be accepted, they still hold a stigma against those who are gay. .
American tradition has been to safeguard its citizens and expand laws where they leave them unprotected (as was done for workplace protections and voting rights). It is also American tradition to ban discriminatory laws and the only was gay rights can move forward is if more people push for this. This issue is a problem because many same-sex couples go unprotected. .
There are no laws to protect the rights and property of a same sex couple who live together. Same-sex couples are going to exist whether or not there are those who oppose homosexuality. Laws should embrace what is reality and give those involved in homosexual relationships protection. Any step towards legal recognition of same-sex marriages is a good step- but these couples will not be considered equal until they can receive marriage licenses. American history has proven that separate but equal does not ensure real quality. Civil marriages would provide same-sex couples with more benefits and protections under law. All American citizens deserve a fair chance to pursue the American dream. Every person has dreams of growing up, falling in love and getting married. Same-sex couples should be given the right (just as everyone else has) to fulfill that dream.