Gay Marriage Laws in Arkansas

While a large percentage of the population continues to be pro gay marriage, there are still many states that have laws that are anti gay marriage. However, some people believe in equal rights for all, with the exception of being allowed to call a civil union marriage. Many people believe there should be a distinction between marriages and civil unions, and therefore, those people may be anti gay marriage. Yet, many of those people are not biased, they just want a distinction made so that marriage is defined as a union between opposite sex couples.

Arkansas law could be considered to be based on an anti gay marriage sentiment. In fact, an amendment was passed in 2004 that states that marriage consists of a union between a man and a woman. In addition, that amendment strictly forbids the recognition of any union between same sex couples. The state will not recognize the union, and will not grant the individuals any rights associated with marriage.


While many may not be considered to be pro gay marriage, most are not anti gay marriage either. For many, the distinction is in the language used. For some, marriage is defined as a union between a man and a woman. However, those same people may have no problem with civil unions or domestic partnerships. For many people, the words used can make all the difference.

Because of the language used, Arkansas state laws could be considered anti gay marriage. However, there are many in the state that are pro gay marriage, or believe in the right to civil unions, and continue to fight for equal rights. In many cases, people get caught up in the language used, so progress toward equal rights, can be slow.


For many, the distinction between marriage and civil union, is simply based on the gender of those entering into the union. However, for those in the LGBT community, the distinction can impact the availability of benefits and rights for their partner. Many people that are pro gay marriage, believe that the union should entitle partners to benefits such as health care and the ability to collect their partners pension.

However, those that are anti gay marriage believe those type of issues impact the definition of marriage. However, pro gay marriage activists are beginning to impact public sentiment and some progress has been made toward equal rights.