Dissecting The Rights of Gays in The United States

'Dissecting The Rights of Gays in The United States'

Introduction

In America, the debate over gay rights has been ongoing for years. Many Americans believe that gay individuals should have equal rights, including the right to marry and adopt children. According to ABC News, supporters of same-sex adoption now outnumber opponents for the first time in ten years. Forty-seven percent think gay couples should be legally permitted to adopt, while slightly fewer, forty-two percent, disagree (Merkle, 2023). However, even though a child living in an orphanage is not the best option, it is argued that it is not appropriate for gay couples to adopt them. There are various ways to help with the orphan crisis beyond adoption, such as donating, raising awareness, and more. Same-sex adoption should not be legalized because children need stability to live a healthy lifestyle, and some believe that God intends parenting to be between a man and a woman.

The Need for Stability

Stability is crucial for a child to be healthy mentally and emotionally. Critics argue that homosexual couples cannot provide the same stability that married heterosexual couples can. Conservatives highlight this point by referencing Robert Oscar Lopez, who attributes his adult social dysfunction to being raised by a lesbian mother. Lopez argues that same-sex parenting inherently constitutes “child abuse,” as do single-parent adoption and divorce (Ford, 2023). He claims that "normalization" demands silence from various parties in a child's life. The child's biological parents must keep a distance, extended family must avoid intrusive questions, and schools may downplay traditional celebrations like Father’s Day and Mother’s Day (Ford, 2023). Children need two role models of different genders, as every child has the right to have a mother and a father. Sam Ov, the author of “Motion for Debate: Adoption by Gay Couples Should be Banned,” argues that homosexual activists prioritize their desires over children's rights to a normal family life with a father and mother (Ov, 2023). According to Ken Connor, president of the Family Research Council, children are not guinea pigs and should not be used as pawns in social experiments (Saletan, 2023). The Family Research Council asserts that families are too important to be subject to research. Therefore, children need stability to live a healthy life.

Impact on Children's Development

If an adopted child is raised by a same-sex couple, critics argue that the child may struggle to grow up in a healthy lifestyle. Susan Golombok and Fiona Tasker, researchers at the Family and Child Psychology Research Center at City University in London, found that children raised by homosexual parents were more likely to experiment with homosexual behavior themselves. This could lead to confusion about their parents and a lack of understanding of traditional family roles. When these children grow up, they may struggle with forming their families or behaving traditionally with their future children (Ov, 2023). Additionally, the child may feel different from peers, leading to potential teasing or bullying. This environment could cause the child to feel insecure and ashamed, potentially leading to emotional issues and trauma.

Religious Perspective

Another argument against same-sex adoption is that it goes against religious beliefs. Many believe that the Lord intended marriage and child-rearing to be between a man and a woman. As Proverbs states, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6, King James Version). Allowing same-sex adoption might encourage same-sex marriage, even among unmarried couples. People need to appreciate the significance of a man and a woman working together in marriage. As Ephesians mentions, “For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church” (Ephesians 5:21-33, King James Version). In the church, everyone has different roles, but all should ultimately submit to the Lord.

Conclusion

Same-sex adoption should not be legalized for several reasons. Many children are accustomed to being raised in traditional families, and introducing same-sex parenting could cause instability. Children raised in this environment might face teasing or bullying, leading to emotional distress. Finally, many believe that God never intended for children to be raised by same-sex couples, and it's crucial to consider religious teachings. Despite the argument against same-sex adoption, there are numerous ways to support the orphan crisis without becoming a parent. Jillian Burden, author of “Ten Ways to Care for Orphans Without Adopting,” suggests connecting churches with orphanages, donating for children with special needs, supporting orphan graduate programs, assisting adopting families, and sending care packages to orphanages (Burden, 2023). The orphan crisis is a significant issue, but same-sex couples can find alternative ways to contribute.

References

Burden, J. (2023). Ten Ways to Care for Orphans Without Adopting.

Ford, Z. (2023). Same-Sex Parenting and Child Welfare.

Merkle, D. (2023). Public Opinion on Same-Sex Adoption. ABC News.

Ov, S. (2023). Motion for Debate: Adoption by Gay Couples Should be Banned.

Saletan, W. (2023). The Family Research Council's Stance on Same-Sex Adoption.