The New York Times reports on the increased amount of money a same-sex couple will spend as compared to their straight counterparts. The amount can be as high as $400,000 over the course of their relationship.
Having spent an extra $100,000 on health insurance during the first ten years of my relationship, this figure doesn't surprise me. It does sadden me though.
After California stripped marriage rights away from its citizens, Melissa Etheridge vowed to stop paying taxes. At the time I thought she was being a little extreme.
I don't anymore.
I'm not prepared to say that I'm going to stop paying mine. In fact I know I'm not going to stop paying my taxes. Because I'm not really a rule breaker. And it's scary. And I don't want to go to jail. Those are the reasons I'll keep paying every dime of my taxes.
I will not keep paying them, however, Because I think it's right. I do not receive the same benefits as straight married Americans. I am not the same; I am less. Didn't we all learn something in history class about no taxation without representation?
So. You go Melissa!
And if any other queer Americans are joining her, I applaud their courage.
I'm not quite ready to join this new tea party.
I wish I was.
