Marriage rights how many

Oklahoma's statute requires couples to get a marriage license; however case law has upheld common law marriages in the state. States that did allow, and will still recognize as valid, common law marriages entered into prior to the date it was abolished. Create Account. What about religious groups who believe homosexuality is wrong - won't this pressure them to recognize homosexual couples or accept marriage of gay and lesbian couples?

We are not asking people to change their religious beliefs. There are many things about modern society that religious organizations disagree with, such as divorce and birth control that are now legal in this country. Civil marriage and religious marriage are different. At issue here is civil marriage - a legal institution regulated by the government that grants over 1, legal rights and obligations.

The First Amendment protects the right of people of faith to organize themselves according to their own beliefs and traditions, and no law recognizing marriage of lesbian and gay couples will limit the freedom of religions to define marriage as each sees fit. What about those people who say their religious beliefs are threatened by marriage of lesbian and gay couples? Just as we did not ask them to change their religious beliefs when we legalized divorce and legalized birth control.

Ending discrimination against gays and lesbians is the same thing. In some countries, same-sex couples also experience additional restrictions. For example, in Taiwan same-sex marriage is only available to Taiwanese citizens or a citizen of a foreign country that recognizes same-sex marriage who seeks to marry a Taiwanese citizen. By clicking "GO" below, you will be directed to a website operated by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, an independent c 3 entity.

By using this site, you agree to our use of cookies. To learn more, please read our Privacy Policy. Accept More Information. Processes of Legalization 21 countries have legalized same-sex marriage nationally through legislation.

Among these, Australia, Ireland and Switzerland legalized same-sex marriage through legislation only after nation-wide votes. Hodges, these laws are null and void. Thirty-seven states have legalized gay marriage, with restrictions in Kansas , Missouri , and Alabama. Hover over Click on a tile for details. Same Sex Marriage States