"Do You Think We're Ready for That Kind of Commitment?"

Yesterday's vote in the New York Senate was not a step forward for gay and lesbian people, but New York Senator Diane Savino spoke truths yesterday that, I think, could possibly change minds, and help those against gay marriage to understand that this is a human rights issue, plain and simple.

But once again, it comes down the word "marriage." Its simply too ensconced within a religious framework for certain Christians, which is why they constantly object to gay marriage on the grounds that it's "changing the definition of marriage."

If we could receive the exact same rights and privileges with a civil union, would be still be fighting this fight? Probably so. And I think that's a mistake. We're fighting for a word when, I believe, we should be fighting for the same rights. From what I understand, if we simply called it something else, a strong majority of Christians would have no issue with gay people receiving equal protection and privilege under the law. But as it is, "marriage" is holding us back.

Then again, don't listen to me. The marriage I grew up observing crashed and burned not long after I entered into this world. Maybe I think if I call it something else, the result will be different. Who knows.

Here's Senator Savino, a new hero of mine...