Same-sex marriage

Definition

Same-sex marriage is the legally recognized union between two individuals of the same gender, granting them the same rights and responsibilities as heterosexual couples. This significant shift in societal norms has been marked by legal battles and legislative changes, reflecting broader discussions about equality, human rights, and the role of courts in shaping public policy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The movement for same-sex marriage gained significant momentum in the early 21st century, culminating in a series of court decisions and legislative actions that challenged traditional definitions of marriage.
2. Obergefell v. Hodges was a critical moment in U.S. history, as it not only legalized same-sex marriage but also set a precedent for recognizing the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals more broadly.
3. Public opinion regarding same-sex marriage has shifted dramatically over the past two decades, with increasing support reflected in national surveys and electoral outcomes.
4. In many countries around the world, the legalization of same-sex marriage has sparked broader discussions about LGBTQ+ rights and equality, influencing social and political movements.
5. Judicial approval ratings can be influenced by high-profile cases like those concerning same-sex marriage, as public responses to these rulings can impact perceptions of judicial legitimacy and impartiality.

Review Questions

• How has the legalization of same-sex marriage influenced public perception of judicial institutions?
  • The legalization of same-sex marriage has led to polarized opinions regarding judicial institutions. Some people view courts as champions of civil rights and equality when they uphold same-sex marriage, while others may see them as overstepping their bounds. This duality can significantly affect judicial approval ratings, with public trust fluctuating based on how these decisions align with individual beliefs about marriage and equality.
• Evaluate the impact of Obergefell v. Hodges on subsequent legislation and court decisions regarding LGBTQ+ rights.
  • Obergefell v. Hodges had a profound impact on LGBTQ+ rights, as it set a strong legal precedent that challenged discriminatory practices against same-sex couples. Following this landmark ruling, many states began revising their laws to align with the ruling, leading to broader protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in areas such as employment and housing. The case also encouraged activists to pursue further legal challenges to combat discrimination, shaping a more inclusive legal landscape.
• Analyze how shifting societal views on same-sex marriage might affect future judicial approval ratings and court dynamics.
  • As societal views on same-sex marriage continue to evolve towards greater acceptance, this shift could significantly influence future judicial approval ratings. Courts that rule in favor of LGBTQ+ rights may see increased support from segments of the population that value equality and justice. Conversely, rulings that oppose these rights may lead to decreased trust in judicial institutions among advocates for LGBTQ+ rights. This dynamic could create a complex interplay between public opinion and judicial decision-making, potentially affecting how judges approach cases involving civil rights.

Related terms

DOMA: The Defense of Marriage Act, a U.S. law enacted in 1996 that defined marriage as a union between one man and one woman and allowed states to refuse to recognize same-sex marriages performed in other jurisdictions.

Obergefell v. Hodges:

A landmark Supreme Court case in 2015 that ruled state bans on same-sex marriage unconstitutional, effectively legalizing same-sex marriage across the United States.

Civil unions: A legal relationship similar to marriage that provides some or all of the legal benefits of marriage but does not confer the full status or recognition as marriage itself.