Politicians often say they support civil unions but not gay marriage. We sort out the difference.
When politicians say they support civil unions but not marriage for people of the same sex, what do they mean? We find three main differences between the two concepts: (1) The right to federal benefits, (2) Portability, and (3) Terminology.
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After reading this article, I can now clearly differentiate between marriage and a civil union. I can also see quite clearly that civil unions would not be a perfect answer to the needs of those gays who want to have the rights and protections of marriage. And there is one more thing to say: I understand from past rulings, that separate but equal has been shown be the Supreme Court of the United States of America to be inherently unequal. I am a gay male, so gay marriage unequivocally interests me. I can, for instance understand why some gay people would want the responsibilities and the feeling of security that comes with the protections and status of marriage. And, even though, I am not intending to get married, I ... More »
At last! An unbiased description of the issue! From here we can have an intelligent discussion of the issue, pro or con. Bravo to Henig & Robertson!
This is a very helpful tutorial on the somewhat confusing lingo around same-sex marriage and civil unions. From where I sit (working in a church whose denomination doesn't recognize gay marriage located in a state that does) I wish it covered more of the religious aspects, but maybe that's a specialized topic. See the research links for a relevant document.
Having worked with gays in my film and television career, my cognition is that just being gay is exceedingly difficult, even in the most perfect of situations. If civil union gives them rights similar to those of marriagewithout riling those who think marriage is only for man-womanthen on with civil union.
It is good journalism because it fulfills the prime requisit of good journalism in that it is fair and balanced.
I have been enlightened by this story and now understand how much is sacrificed in civil union status compared with married status.
When the whole gay marriage debacle began I couldn't help but think of what a great lead in for gay divorce court...too bad we didn't take it all the way. A piece of paper is, no matter who is holding it, just a piece of paper...I still have images of just another hurdle to hop over all in the name of acceptance.
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