Secession seems to be what South Carolina is most famous for, leading the South in the march away from the U.S. when the political climate didn't fit their liking.
This fame, however, has a negative connotation. South Carolina stood on the side for slavery. Times have changed and South Carolina has the opportunity to stand with the states who have paved way for marriage equality for same-sex couples.
This may seem like a long way off. On paper, it doesn't seem that we are headed in such a progressive direction. The only places in the state with laws against discrimination due to sexual orientation in employment are Richland County, Myrtle Beach, Columbia, Charleston and North Charleston. In addition, the majority of South Carolina voters in 2006 decided that marriage should be strictly between a man and a woman.
There's a long way to go in the way of legislation for marriage equality, but in the social sphere we do notice changes. USC is home to a very active BGLSA group, and active hate is not evident from our standpoint.
The tide seems to be turning from opposition to indifference. Indifference is dangerous, as it can lead to apathy and block future opportunities for change, but indifference can also be seen as a stepping stone to acceptance.
As the younger generation steps up to the polls and the older generations step away, the nation is making a very clear move toward marriage equality. After the recent strike-down of the gay marriage ban in the District 4 court, South Carolinians have an opportunity to join that movement sooner rather than later.