Election Day is not just about the next individuals in power, but about providing citizens with the opportunity to have their voices heard. With gay marriage on the ballot for Maryland, residents are able to become part of history.Voting yes on the Civil Marriage Protection Act, also as Question Six would allow same-sex marriages to be recognized in Maryland. In the eyes of the law this would mean these couples would receive the same rights that come with a heterosexual partnership. Same-sex marriage, unlike civil unions, would allow couples rights such as the ability to visit a significant other in the hospital and legal claim to property and monetary investments.

The legality of marriage was seemingly decided earlier in the year after being passed through the Maryland legislature a�� but with a catch. It would only be enacted in 2013, allowing ample time for a referendum to be used by those who oppose the bill, allowing Marylanders to vote on whether or not the decision should stand. “If it is not passed I would tell [same-sex couples] that it is not over a�� do not give up,” said Ellen Rohan, co-sponsor of the G.S.A (Gay Straight Alliance) at RHS.

Many who oppose Question Six do so for personal reasons. Many organized religions clearly state that marriage should be between one man and one woman, making upbringing a major fork in the road on the issue. Many feel that traditional values are being threatened and that a healthy family dynamic will be sacrificed for children who are raised in same-sex households.

Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, Vermont and New Hampshire currently allow same-sex marriages, but a vote has been presented to Maryland, Minnesota, Maine and Washington. While the vast majority of states remain conservative on the issue, 2012 could be a changing year for the movement as attitudes nationwide seem to be changing regarding the rights of homosexual people. “People should be able to be with the people they love,” said senior Kayla Mancuso.