The word 'family' is defined in the dictionary as “a group of individuals living under one roof.” According to the findings of a survey described in this New York Times article, the social definition of 'family' is slowly becoming as inclusive as the dictionary definition. Currently, many Americans recognize gay couples with children as a family, alongside the traditional heterosexual family. In comparison to past views, this is a generally more accepting take on the issue. The article goes further to explain that this "more open social environment" of late isn't due to an increased number of gay people, but rather because of society's growing acceptance of same-sex relationships. In this new environment, people are less afraid of recognizing their differences in sexuality and addressing the issues that arise because of them. Of the 830 people surveyed, half were still opposed to same-sex marriage. Thus, we still have a long way to go before everyone's right to pursue happiness is acknowledged, but acceptance is a step in the right direction towards embracing the idea of same-sex marriage completely. The article ends with a quote from David Blankenhorn, the president of the Institute for American Values, which I feel is important when considering the need for continued improvements in the social climate for LGBT individuals in the U.S. :
"We live in groups, and we need each other. So it's always a good thing, isn't it, when any of us truly loves and is loved by another."
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