Tornoe’s Toon: A Civil Union-y New Year!
I’ve drawn my fair share of cartoons on why civil unions are a step-forward, but gay marriage is the way to go if you’re looking for true equity.
But as Delaware prepares to become only the 8th state in the country to allow civil unions on January 1, I thought about all the gay couples that will now be able to endorse their relationships equally under state law, and it softened me up a bit for this cartoon.
The fact that it’s not called “marriage” is secondary to the fact that for the first time in their lives, many Delawareans will now be able to share benefits with their partner, perform a joint adoption, care for their partner when they’re ill and many more of the things married couples take for granted.
Tags: 2012, Civil Union, Jack Markell, New Year
Thank you, Rob. My partner and I are looking forward to next week.
Still missing is the ability to file joint Federal Income Tax, to apply for Spousal Visas, to share in spousal Social Security, as well as to share numerous other Federal Marital Benefits. It is progress, but there is some distance to go.
That’s because Delaware civil unions have no affect on DOMA, William. For state benefits, I’ll take it.
Congratulations to MJ! Civil unions are a great step forward, gay marriage will follow in due time.