For the Spanish speakers, a friend of mine sent me a great article on Spain being one of very few countries that allows full blown gay marriage:

http://www.correoperu.com.pe/enlinea/colum....asp?idArt=2822

It points out some interesting points. In France where they passed a civil union law the heterosexuals argued that they should have access as well. Many heterosexuals prefer civil unions because separation is so easy.

Another point is that it doesn’t damage the institution of marriage but strengthens it by the simple fact the two people of the same sex recognize the value of marriage:

Que los homosexuales puedan casarse en España no hará daño a nadie y tampoco dañará la institución del matrimonio sino que, irónicamente, la hará más fuerte. El hecho mismo de que dos personas de igual sexo quieran casarse es un reconocimiento al valor del matrimonio.

The author throws in a cute twist saying that it could be a rude awakening for the passionately in love who run to the author because:

el peor enemigo del amor suele ser ese contrato opresivo llamado matrimonio

The oppressive contract called marriage is love’s worst enemy.

Which reminds me of a conversation a gay Latin couple had with a dinner guest in Central America.
The guest asked if it was true that homosexuals in the State’s want the right to marry. My friends told them it was. “Haven’t they suffered enough?” he replied.

[ November 29, 2004, 04:17 PM: Message edited by: Thom ]

Some gay comedians have made similar points about "gay marriage."

So, what nations allow full gay marriage? Doesn't Belgium? (I'm still surprised at Belgium, given that it's predominantly Roman Catholic with somewhat a strong conservative tradition, especially in ethnic terms.) Some right-wingers have tossed up the example of Norway--does Norway allow gay marriage that is politically, legally, and taxwise equal to hetero marriage? What about the Netherlands? In Canada, is gay marriage fully equal to hetero marriage in the provinces that allow it?

[ November 30, 2004, 11:38 AM: Message edited by: fantomas ]

Belgium and the Netherlands have full blown (blush) gay marriage.

In Canada, 6 provinces and 1 territory have gay marriage, and yes, it is equal to str8 marriage. Infact, the laws were changed to say 2 people, from a "man and woman".

Norway has a form of civil unions, but not gay marriage.

If I am wrong, pls correct me.