On Nov. 7, Marquette students will have the chance to vote on a constitutional amendment that would prohibit gay marriage and civil unions in the state of Wisconsin. Leaving aside the moral and religious arguments either for or against gay marriage, it is important to recognize the potential impact this amendment could have in our state if it is passed.

The text of the amendment states that "only a marriage between one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in this state." However, in Wisconsin the institution of marriage is already defined as "a legal relationship between 2 equal persons, a husband and wife" (A 765.001 (2)).

The proposed amendment also states that "A legal status identical or substantially similar to that of marriage for unmarried individuals shall not be valid or recognized in this state."A