The Illinois legislature has passed, and Gov. Quinn has promised to sign, a law creating civil unions. These are state-sanctioned unions, enjoying many but not all (federally offered) benefits of marriage to couples, either same-sex or otherwise. While not marriage equality, it is a HUGE step in the right direction. Furthermore, that the Illinois legislature managed to do this at a time of fiscal and legislative crisis in the state is all the more amazing.
So, my hats off to the ladies and gentlemen in Springfield who proved that it can be done. It isn't perfect, but it is a step in the right direction.
