Both sides continue to speak out as the U.S. Supreme Court considers the arguments concerning gay marriage.
The Supreme Court already heard arguments about the constitutionality of Proposition 8 in California and now they are hearing a case that involves the Defense of Marriage Act.
Supporters on both sides of the issue made their presence known. Inside court, the justices were equally obvious about their hesitation to make sweeping changes. Justice Samuel Alito said the issue of same sex marriage is newer than cell phones and the internet. "I think it was first adopted in The Netherlands in 2000. So there isn't a lot of data about it's effect."
One of the issues the justices discussed was the children of same-sex couples, and how a ruling would affect them. Conservative Justice Antonin Scalia said, "If you redefine marriage to include same-sex couples, you must permit adoption by same-sex couples, and there's considerable disagreement among sociologists as to what the consequences of raising a child in a single-sex family, whether that is harmful to the child or not."
But potential swing vote Anthony Kennedy said the almost 40,000 children of same sex parents in California should have their voices heard.
Meanwhile, supporters and opponents of Prop 8 held gatherings in Fresno on Tuesday.
Dozens of people in favor of same-sex marriage held a rally while church leaders on the other side of the issue held a roundtable discussion.
Supporters of Proposition 8, those against same sex marriage, gathered in North Fresno, eager to share their thoughts on the arguments before the Supreme Court. "Marriage is for the benefit of children. Every child deserves a father and a mother," said Dr. Philip Kell with California Family Council.
The Central Valley Strategic Forum, made up of those in the faith community, held a roundtable discussion on Prop 8. They have worked to stop same-sex marriage. "It should have never left California. We have an attack on the very nature of our freedom," said Steve Williams with Christian Fathers.
Earlier in the day, supporters of same sex marriage rallied in front of the federal courthouse in downtown Fresno. "We believe it's part of the constitution. It says inalienable and the right to the pursuit of happiness and happiness is being able to love the person you choose to love," said gay marriage supporter Randal Stoll.
Cathy Brass is not gay but attended the rally to support her sister who is lesbian and doesn't get benefits for being a partner of someone in the military. Cathy said, "We're all the same and we have one God who loves us all."