How to get an arranged marriage in America? Arranged marriages, although less common in Western cultures like America, still exist and can be pursued by individuals who prefer this traditional approach to finding a life partner.
How To Get An Arranged Marriage in America
Arranged marriages, while not as prevalent in American society as in some other cultures, are still pursued by individuals who value tradition and family involvement in the marriage process.
Unlike love marriages, where individuals choose their partners based on personal preferences, arranged marriages involve the participation of families and often rely on matchmakers or matrimonial services to facilitate the process.
In this article, we will explore the steps and considerations involved in getting an arranged marriage in America, highlighting the cultural, familial, and personal aspects that come into play.
How Arranged Marriage Works in The USA?
Arranged marriages in the USA may differ in some aspects from traditional arranged marriages in other parts of the world due to cultural influences and the values of the individuals involved. While arranged marriages are less common in Western societies, including the USA, they still occur among certain communities and individuals who choose to follow this cultural practice. Here is an extensive overview of how arranged marriages work in the USA:
1. Cultural Diversity
The USA is a multicultural country with a wide range of communities and ethnicities, each with its own customs and traditions. Arranged marriages in the USA are primarily prevalent among immigrant communities who have carried on their traditional practices from their countries of origin.
These communities may include individuals from South Asia, the Middle East, certain African countries, and various religious groups.
2. Family and Community Involvement
Arranged marriages involve the active participation and involvement of families and communities. The process typically begins with parents, relatives, or trusted matchmakers who take on the responsibility of finding suitable partners for their children or family members. Family members may network within their social circles, attend community events, or seek assistance from professional matchmakers who specialize in arranging marriages.
3. Matchmaking Process
The matchmaking process in the USA usually starts with an initial inquiry or expression of interest from one family to another. This can be initiated through a mutual acquaintance, family connection, or a matchmaker.
Once there is a potential match, families exchange basic information about their respective candidates, including details such as age, education, profession, family background, and other preferences.
4. Meetings and Compatibility
If both families find the initial information promising, they may arrange a meeting between the prospective couple and their families. These meetings can take various forms, ranging from casual get-togethers to more formal introductions.
The purpose of these meetings is for the individuals to get to know each other, assess compatibility, and determine whether there is potential for a future partnership.
5. Consent and Decision-Making
Consent plays a vital role in the success of an arranged marriage. While families may take the lead in initiating the process, it is ultimately up to the individuals involved to give their consent for the marriage to proceed.
Individuals have the right to express their preferences, voice concerns, and take an active part in the decision-making process. Arranged marriages in the USA emphasize the importance of mutual consent and compatibility between prospective partners.
6. Cultural and Religious Considerations
Arranged marriages in the USA often involve adherence to cultural and religious traditions. Depending on the specific community or religious background, there may be additional customs, ceremonies, or rituals associated with the marriage.
It is essential for both families to understand and respect each other’s cultural practices and work together to ensure a harmonious blending of traditions.
7. Personal Agency and Independence
In modern arranged marriages in the USA, there is an increasing emphasis on personal agency and independence. Individuals have more freedom to express their preferences, voice concerns, and participate in the decision-making process.
While families may play a significant role, individuals have the right to decline potential matches and have the final say in whether they wish to proceed with the marriage.
8. Legal Considerations
Like any marriage in the USA, arranged marriages must comply with legal requirements. This includes obtaining a marriage license, meeting the legal age requirements, and following the necessary procedures.
Understanding the legal aspects and seeking proper documentation is crucial to ensure the marriage is recognized and legally valid.
It is important to note that arranged marriages in the USA are not homogenous and can vary greatly depending on the cultural background and individual circumstances. While some arranged marriages follow a more traditional approach with extensive family involvement, others may adopt a more modernized version where individuals have greater agency in the decision-making process.
Are Arranged Marriages Legal in The USA?
Arranged marriages are legal in the USA, as long as they meet the legal requirements for marriage in the respective state. The legality of arranged marriages stems from the freedom of individuals to choose their partners and the recognition of cultural diversity within the country. Here is an extensive overview of the legality of arranged marriages in the USA:
1. Marriage Laws
The legal requirements for marriage in the USA vary from state to state, as marriage laws are governed at the state level. Generally, to enter into a legal marriage, individuals must meet certain criteria, such as being of a certain age (usually 18 years old or older, although some states allow for younger ages with parental consent), not being closely related, and having the mental capacity to understand the nature of marriage.
2. Consent
One of the fundamental aspects of any legal marriage, including arranged marriages, is the requirement for both parties to provide their free and informed consent to enter into the union. Consent is crucial to ensure that individuals are willingly entering into the marriage without any form of coercion or duress.
It is essential to note that forced marriages, where one or both parties do not provide genuine consent, are illegal in the USA and are considered a violation of human rights.
3. Freedom of Choice
The USA upholds the freedom of individuals to choose their life partners, regardless of cultural or religious backgrounds. Arranged marriages in the USA are typically based on the voluntary agreement of both parties involved.
While families or matchmakers may play a role in introducing potential partners, the ultimate decision to marry rests with the individuals themselves. The right to choose one’s partner is protected by law and ensures that individuals have the freedom to enter into marriages of their own volition.
4. Cultural and Religious Considerations
Arranged marriages often have cultural and religious significance for the communities in which they are practiced. The USA recognizes and respects the diversity of its population, including various cultural practices and traditions.
As long as the arranged marriage adheres to the legal requirements set forth by the state, the cultural and religious elements associated with the marriage are generally acknowledged and protected.
5. Legal Recognition
Once an arranged marriage is conducted in accordance with the legal requirements of the state, it is legally recognized in the USA. The marriage certificate obtained through the proper legal channels provides evidence of the marriage and grants the couple legal rights and responsibilities as spouses.
These rights may include inheritance rights, healthcare decision-making, tax benefits, and the ability to sponsor a spouse for immigration purposes, among others.
6. Marital Rights and Protections
Arranged marriages in the USA are entitled to the same legal protections and benefits as any other legally recognized marriage. Spouses in arranged marriages have rights and responsibilities towards each other, including spousal support, property rights, and the right to seek divorce or separation if the marriage does not work out.
The legal system is designed to provide recourse and protections for individuals within arranged marriages, just as it does for couples in love marriages.
Conclusion
Remember, the pursuit of an arranged marriage in America is a personal choice that should align with your cultural background and values. It is important to seek support from your family, community, and professional networks to navigate the process successfully. Open communication, mutual respect, and compatibility are key factors in building a successful arranged marriage that can thrive in an American context.
FAQs
How is arranged marriage done?
Arranged marriages have been a longstanding tradition in many cultures, with parents and family members taking an active role in selecting a spouse for their child. Contrary to common misconceptions, arranged marriages are not synonymous with forced marriages.
While the term “arranged” may evoke notions of coercion or lack of choice, it is important to understand that arranged marriages can be a consensual and collaborative process between families and individuals.
What country is known for arranged marriages?
Arranged marriages, a traditional practice deeply rooted in various cultures, predominantly thrive in Eastern-based societies, such as India, Japan, and China. These cultures have long embraced the concept of arranged marriages as a means of uniting families, preserving cultural values, and ensuring social stability.
In these societies, the process of finding a life partner typically involves the active involvement of families, who rely on their networks, social connections, and cultural norms to facilitate the matchmaking process.
