Is Marriage a Right?

I know the overwhelming response to that question is 'duh'.  But, where is the proof?

I know there are some who think that marriage is not a right and that gay people are taking it too far.  We should be satisfied with civil unions.

First, Civil unions and domestic partnerships are only valid within a state.  There are federal privileges, protections, and benefits that are  denied to people who are not married.  And thanks to the DOMA, other states do not have to recognize civil unions or domestic partnerships.

Second, to make this first post short, I will be giving evidence supporting marriage as a right and also protected under the fourteenth amendment.

Anyone else who has evidence, please contribute. It's good to have ammunition when talking to those who disagree.

Anyone who disagrees, feel free to dissent.