One of the most controversial topics debated in the United States for decades is same-sex marriage. The question of whether same-sex couples should have the right to marry or even whether same-sex couples should have rights has been a contentious debate that has created division and disunity across the country. The United States Supreme Court has ruled that the Constitution guarantees the right to same-sex marriage. Same-sex marriage has been legalized in 17 states. But only 19 countries out of 194 allow same-sex marriage. Statistics show that more than half the country supports same-sex marriage and the right of same-sex couples to be treated equally in the daily endeavors that all other couples engage in. Same-sex marriage should be legal in every state across the country and should have the same benefits as a heterosexual marriage. Without the ability to marry, same-sex couples face constant adversity regarding their financial future, physical/mental health, and practical means. (Gay 3) Many supporters argue that not allowing same-sex marriage is considered unconstitutional discrimination. The right to marry is not just one “thing” among others. Marriage is considered the culmination of the love you have for your spouse. But if a couple does not have the right to marry, this could lead to the relationship becoming “obsolete” or “incomplete”. Marriage provides 1,138 federal benefits, including hundreds more under state laws. In times of danger and crisis, the victim's spouses have the right to visit the hospital as well as the right to decide how to treat their spouse. Employers provide spouses with sick leave, bereavement leave, and access to company health insurance and retirement. If the worst were to happen... middle of paper ... this is exactly what is statistically correct and there is no reason to rely on what makes gay marriage illegal. Works Cited Badgett, MVL “The Economic Benefits of Gay Marriage.” PBS. PBS, March 29, 2013. Web. January 18, 2014. “The Basics.” Courts.ca.gov. Judicial Council of California, nd Web. January 16, 2014 . “Due Process.” LII / Legal Information Institute, Cornell University Law School, August 10, 2006. Web. “Equal Marriage NOW: Civil Marriage vs. Civil Unions.” Civil Unions. National Organization for Women, nd Web. January 17, 2014. “Fact Sheet | Gay and Lesbian Issues.” Public Religion Research Institute. November 1, 2013. Web.06 January 2014. org." ProCon.org Headlines, June 12, 2011. Web. January 6, 2014. “Marriage Equality USA." Factsheets. BeAutomated, and Web. January 12. 2014.