It IS a civil contract.I basically agree. But why isn't a civil contract enough.
You first.
I know. But he wants to retain one moniker for straight marriage, and another moniker for gay marriage, so as to fundamentally retain a distinction between them. Telling someone they should be satisfied with "separate but [allegedly, though not really] equal" marriage substitute demonstrates that people really don't want gay couples to receive the same recognition and dignity as heterosexual couples.
What's your problem? Hell, they give gays MORE rights than straights. Same sex partners are welcome in gender exclusive areas while a straight partner could be arrested in some.
LOL......yeah.....well if you decide to marry your best male buddy, even though you are not gay- then you can have your straight partner in the locker room with you.
Meanwhile- gender segregation is based upon gender- not sexual orientation- but you knew that- you just felt like dragging that particularly lumpy straw man out.
Now real rights- Christians are protected by law against discrimination in all 50 states. Gays are protected in a few states.
Christians have more access to public accommodations than Gays.
That is a real discrepancy in rights.