The Inquirer published a nice piece illustrating why gay marriage is truly a civil rights issue.  Its about child custody, health care decisions, financial stability and so much more.  Of course, its a little middle-classy but that's probably who was available for the interview. 

Same-sex couples in New Jersey say last week's state Supreme Court ruling ordering the Legislature to give them the same rights as heterosexual married couples within 180 days - though they don't necessarily have to call it "marriage" - is an opportunity to remedy many of the inequalities they say exist in their everyday lives.

"It's not the sexy stuff - it's the day-to-day issues," said Betsy Codding, who lives with her partner in Haddonfield. "This brings everything very much into the public eye."

When Heggs, 56, had a heart attack and a stroke, a hospital refused to consult Long. Heggs, who was in intensive care, on a respirator, needed a blood transfusion.

The hospital wanted proof that Heggs and Long were together, Long said.

"They wanted to see our marriage certificate," Long said. "They would never do that to a heterosexual couple."

We all worry about this stuff.  Not everyone can afford to pay an attorney to do all the paperwork necessary to secure some rights, especially those in the community toiling away below median income.  Without health insurance and without the extra $5,000 a year to pay for it out of pocket.  I'm fortunate that Ledcat's employer offers domestic partner benefits.  My employer chooses to only extend coverage to the families of heterosexual employees.  They say its about the money.  End of conversation.

It would be interesting to see the Inquirer or the PG take a look at the lives of working class queers and explore the double whammy of being poor and gay.