France Plans to Ban the Words "Mother" and "Father"

France is planning to replace the words “mother” and father” in all official documents with the gender-neutral “parents" in order to normalize the idea of same-sex families. The move comes as the country prepares to legalize gay marriage.

The draft law defines marriage as “a union of two people of different or of the same gender.” While the law will also permit gay couples to adopt children in the same way that straight couples can, it will not give them the right to medically assisted reproduction.

Plus: California Bill Will Allow Children to Have More Than Two Parents

Unsurprisingly, the proposed law has stirred some controversy with the country's Catholics and conservatives. However, France’s Justice Minister pointed out the this isn't the first time there have been dramatic changes to marriage in the country's history—the 1884 introduction of divorce was met with similar outcry and debate.

Plus: Can Kids Be Raised in a Gender-Neutral Environment?

“Who can say that a heterosexual couple will bring a child up better than a homosexual couple, that they will guarantee the best conditions for the child's development?” she told the Telegraph.

Are you supportive of gender-neutral language when it comes to parenting? Leave a comment and let us know!