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Letters | Why Hong Kong should welcome equal rights on same-sex marriage
- Granting marriage rights to gay couples means better health and stability for them and their children, benefits society and boosts the economy. This is a no-brainer
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Marriage is a cherished and prominent institution in human society. Across different cultures and civilisations, marriage is the ultimate expression of love and fidelity. It enriches society and serves as the foundation for a family.
Same-sex marriage is nothing new. Records of same-sex unions can be found in Eastern and Western literature alike. Nineteen years ago, the Netherlands became the first country to legalise same-sex marriage. Today, more than 29 countries and places have said yes to marriage equality, and the list is growing. Society has not crumbled in those places; Armageddon would not happen if Hong Kong were to legalise same-sex marriage today.
Marriage – gay or straight – benefits society. It cultivates and enhances a stable and loving relationship. It is ludicrous to suggest that promoting stable and loving same-sex relationships is bad for society.
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A strong relationship means better mental and physical well-being. Research has shown that a loving relationship translates into better stress management, longer life expectancy, increased self-esteem and a happier life. In fact, many studies have shown that a happy marriage is good for one’s cardiovascular health. As such, it is a no-brainer to extend marriage to same-sex couples.
01:18
Taiwan marks anniversary of Asia's first law legalising gay marriage
Taiwan marks anniversary of Asia's first law legalising gay marriage
Marriage is best for raising children, and gay couples raise children too! A comprehensive study published in the Medical Journal of Australia in 2017 concluded that children raised by same-sex couple households do as well as children raised by straight parents. By recognising same-sex relationships, we are also safeguarding the interests of children raised by same-sex couples.
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