Today social media is fighting again sharing different 'opinions' on whether or not minorities and marginalized communities deserve rights. Sigh.

Equal rights mean equal rights. A civilised society does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, gender, or sexuality, and denying marriage privileges is clearly discriminatory. Both gay and straight couples are entitled to the legal rights that come with marriage, including those related to taxes, property ownership, inheritance, and adoption. Denying queer people equal rights is homophobia, no matter how you try to paint it as "opinions".

While I have a lot of arguments against the very idea of a marriage, it is a popular and socially successful institution, therefore extending it to as many individuals as possible not only makes sense but is the bare minimum. Couples have tried to solidify their love and solemnly bond themselves together through marriage since the dawn of time. The strengthening of society will result from the opening of that relationship to everybody. Legalization acknowledges reality: homosexual people exist, they love each other, and they wish to commit to each other through marriage, just like straight couples. The state, church or anyone else should not be allowed to dictate how consenting adults live their lives. If two individuals fall in love and desire to marry, they should be able to do so regardless of their partner's race, religion, nationality, or sexuality.

Love and marriage should be solely a matter of personal preference. Individual freedom is violated when others intervene in people's private lives, deciding who can marry whom.