O-mama - Opinionated Moms

I absolutely believe in marriage for same-sex couples. I don't believe the term needs to be reserved for opposite-sex couples, as the definition of marriage has changed over time and throughout cultures. Yes, it has significance to straight couples - it has the same significance to gay couples. If we deny that important term to some couples, then we are still stuck with "separate but equal", which, of course, isn't. It's not just a religious term, as you can get married without a religious ceremony - I did, and so did my parents. It's THE term that we use to define a committed legally bound couple. Using another term is an insult. Gays getting married doesn't hurt anyone else's marriage. Instead, it strengthens the institution of marriage, it provides protection to couples and their children, and it gives value to those couples and their children. With all the suicides of young GLBT people and teens, why would we even consider telling them in any way that they are lesser, unequal, not worthy of one of the most important parts of the life cycle? I know people call it semantics and say what's the difference, but turn it around - what if you were denied the right to call it marriage? What if you had to say partner and not husband? What if you had to carry your license around and constantly prove your relationship? What if you were delayed in rushing to your spouse or child as they were dying in a hospital? It matters.

I agree with Deb - don't use the word "marriage" and I'm fine with gay couples having the same legal rights as anyone else that is legally wed.