Although the federal government does not recognize same-sex marriage in the United States, such marriages are recognized by some individual states. There are 6 states that grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples: Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont. Maryland recognizes same-sex marriages but does not grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples. Despite this apparent progress, the legalization of same-sex marriage in the US has been driven by court rulings and legislative action, rather than voter referendums[1]. However, public support in recent years for its legalization has grown considerably in the US. Several recent polls have shown support for legalized same-sex marriage above 50%, but the issue remains politically divisive.

In my home country of Australia, a recent Age/Nielsen poll of 1400 taken earlier this month shows a growing majority of Australians favour legalising same-sex marriage. Sixty-two percent of voters would like to see gay marriage legalised, a rise from 57% a year ago, while only 31% are opposed, compared with 37% in November 2010. The poll shows there is majority support in every mainland state, with support greater among women than men (71-53%)[2].

Prime Minister Julia Gillard recently announced a conscience vote for Labor MPs on gay marriage at next month’s party conference. Given the personal nature of the issue and the deeply held beliefs, a conscience vote for MPs (Members of Parliament) is appropriate, Ms. Gillard says, so they can decide “according to their own values and beliefs.” In response, the Australian Rainbow Labor Network said a conscience vote was not the answer. “Matters of equality should not be the subject of a conscience vote,” spokesman Andrew Barr said.

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JULIA Gillard will back a conscience vote for Labor MPs on gay marriage, as the Age/Nielsen poll shows a growing majority of Australians favour legalising marriage equality.

But in a stand that will deeply disappoint those arguing for change, the Prime Minister also wants opposition to gay marriage to stay in the ALP platform, which will be debated at next month’s party conference.

Sixty-two per cent of voters would like to see gay marriage legalised, a rise from 57 per cent a year ago, according to the poll. Thirty-one per cent are opposed, compared with 37 per cent in November 2010.

Full Story from smh.com.au

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