Reportedly (and midst a flurry of disagreements) France is considering a ban on the words 'mother' and 'father' from various official documents.  Why?  To more fully embrace gay & lesbian households!  -Of course this might also translate to single-parent households as well, which would also be forward-thinking given current statistics.

In my opinion, writing 'parent' instead - a term that obviously leaves out any connotations of gender or gender identity, is an excellent way to build on the momentum toward broader equality for all people.

My compliments to mes amies en le Republique francaise!