Inclusion in Mexico City; Exclusion in Virginia

In Mexico City:
A bill was passed yesterday legalizing same-sex civil unions in the Mexican capital. It doesn't apply only to gay couples:

"[The law] also empowers platonic relationships, such as an elderly person and a care-giver or two roommates, to inherit pensions and property and share financial responsibilities.

Participants sign a legal contract, which either party can dissolve simply by sending a letter to the city government.

'We're creating new rights for new realities,' said legislator Enrique Perez Correa, one of the bill's two sponsors."  Read the Story

In Virginia:
Voters on Tuesday approved the Marshall/Newman Amendment, which will amend the state constitution so no one, not even straight people, can enter into a legal agreement of any kind if it is meant to recognize a relationship not involving a legally married man and wife.

You know that medical power of attorney you and your partner signed? It's not worth the paper it's written on. Learn More at The Commonwealth Coalition


Is Marriage Doomed?
Writer Julie Enszer has a piece in today's Washington Blade where she posits that by exluding gays, the very institution of marriage is destined to die:

"Societal institutions at the height of their power are flexible and inclusive. If others want to join, the institution can easily absorb and 'normalize' people into it. Powerful institutions welcome newcomers; they want people to participate in them to strengthen their influence and impact."

Margarita, anyone?