Civil Unions are marriage. But the different name is necessary if we are truly going to allow states to go their own way while maintaining a federal norm. It is only a matter of practicality. The harm caused to our culture will be the same. I think we should define marriage uniformly, and that just as Utah was forced to ban polygamy, we should all ban gay marriage. But I can live with state legislatures and their people deciding this issue (not the courts). The different name is only a functional issue. There is no difference.
Really? Then why are gays and lesbians fighting for FULL marriage if you as you maintain there is no functional difference? There is no reason to oppose the FMA if they get the same benefits and recognition in court proceedings if the only difference is in what the relationship is called. I don't think that's quite it. Marriage is an entirely different social animal and gays and lesbians know they will never be a part of it. You can't be something you're not.