The Supreme Court began hearing arguments concerning same-sex marriage Tuesday, March 26. For some, this is a step closer to equality and others a step further away from tradition.
Joni Swope, senior in German language and literature, is the director of social affairs for Spectrum, which is Auburn University's Gay Straight Alliance.
Swope said Spectrum has not planned anything on campus that coincides with the events going on in the Supreme Court.
Swope did say however, that the group has been talking a lot about it during their weekly meetings and they are doing things on an individual basis to support same-sex marriage.
"There is definitely excitement throughout the group and we are all very hopeful," Swope said. "We are hoping for the best and preparing for the worst."
Swope said that even if the Supreme Court doesn't rule in favor of same-sex marriage, the issue won't just disappear.
"We are not going to drop it," Swope said. "It is not just going to go away if it doesn't get passed this time and we will just work that much harder."
Swope said the struggle isn't just to be able to say, "I do" at an altar.
"It is about all the rights that are attached to the title of marriage," Swope said. "Insurance, inheritance, hospital visitation and decision-making and adoption are all things that go along with marriage."
Swope also said that she understands that marriage is viewed by society as a sacred institution.
"I understand that it is a hot-button issue, and I think marriage in general is a hot button issue," Swope said.
"People are entitled to their opinions, but not entitled to opinions that affect or dictate other peoples' rights."
Caroline Kennemer, senior in biomedical sciences, has different views.
"My faith tells me that marriage was created to be between a man and a woman," Kennemer said. "I have great friends who are gay and I love them and I think they should have the legal rights of marriage, but I believe that it should just be called something else."
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