On September 16, The Government of Canada endorsed plans to legalize same-sex marriage. This followed an Ontario provincial appeals court ruling in June that declared that denying same-sex couples the right to marry violated their rights and offended the dignity of same-sex relationships.

Politicians and organizations opposed to same-sex marriage, both in Ontario and the rest of Canada, are distributing petitions to stop the legislation. My opinion is to deny this is clearly violates the rights of same-sex couples as outlined in Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

I'm 17 years old, heterosexual, and know I can never fully understand the adversities many gay and lesbian people face. But I do understand that it is an individual's right – not privilege – to marry whomever they choose.

The debate on same-sex marriage has drawn a line down the middle of our country. And it has also sparked controversy in the United States.

Perhaps it should come as no surprise to me that many of those opposed to same-sex marriage are from the over-50 population raised in a time when prejudiced views were tolerated.

In many ways, the outdated views on homosexuality and marriage in today's society can be compared to the misogynist practices restricting women and the racial discrimination seen in the past.

But what the world needs now, more than ever, is love – not hate.

If a man or women decides to marry someone of their own gender then more power to them. Bravo for standing up in the face of intolerance and proclaiming your love!

I hope there comes a day when leaders of cities and countries will be waiting outside the chapel ready to toss fistfuls of rice at the happy newly-weds, even if both of them are wearing a veil.

When it comes right down to it, if a gay couple wishes to marry, it is simply none of anyone's business.