In light of the recent removal of three Iowa Supreme Court justices for declaring the restriction of marriage to a man and a woman unconstitutional, I think it is time we broach a subject matter that certainly does not get enough attention in our state: gay marriage.

Whether it is an issue of ignorance or deeply rooted religious prejudices, the state, as a whole, does not look upon gay marriage favorably. My question is why.

Gays, lesbians, and people of other sexual orientations should, without question, be given the dignity and respect they deserve and allowed to take part in our most sacred social institution: marriage. Civil marriage enhances the community’s well-being, encouraging the stable foundation that the very community itself is built on. And for those who argue that the purpose of marriage is procreation and that gay marriage, being “unnatural,” goes against this, I must vehemently disagree.

Having the ability to conceive is not a binding constraint for marriage; if this standard is upheld, then it must logically be applied to infertile couples as well.

However, since infertile couples are given the right to marry, same sex couples, not being able to conceive via the typical means, should also be allowed this opportunity.

Lastly, to address the intolerant religious people, a simple quote comes to mind: “Do not judge, so that you may not be judged.” Our purpose is not to judge, but simply to love unconditionally and be nonjudgmental while doing so. This is not a question of religion; this is a question of what is right. Let’s progress. Give gay marriage a chance, Alabama.

Caitlin Cartwright is a senior majoring in nursing.