JD, no, you were absolutely right in trying to start a (reasonable) discussion.  Not sure this is the forum for it.  A reasonable compromise would be protections in most housing/employment situations, not for nonessentials like wedding cakes or photos, if you follow my meaning.

I think the whole thing is an overreach of the Commerce Clause in the first place, but what other power did the State have to combat entrenched racism such as existed (exists?) in the US?  I've got to believe there is a better basis upon which to legislate that good goal, but I am not sure I have seen it expressed.