(wedding topper by put it out there)
Governor Cuomo signed a bill which will place New York as the 6th state to adopt gay marriage. The signing took place on this day and the law will take effect on July 24, 2011.
Cuomo told reporters "We reached a new level of social justice." Outside the Senate chamber, many opponents sat on the floor and prayed aloud.
The vote was 33 t0 29 and the Senate consists of 62 Republican members. The decisive votes were cast by veteran Sen. Stephen Saland of Poughkeepsie and Marc Grisanti from Buffalo. Both gentleman belong to the Republican side.
Last night at a fundraiser with members of New York City's gay community President Barack Obama encouraged lawmakers to support gay rights. One of the things that greatly bothered me when Obama came into office was his opposing stance on gay marriage. He stated that although he was open to civil unions he maintained his that he believes marriage is between a man and woman. Last Obama night informed America that his views on gay marriage are still evolving and changing.
Per the Los Angeles Times, the New York State Catholic Conference made a statement on their website which read, "We always treat our homosexual brothers and sisters with respect, dignity and love. But we just as strongly affirm that marriage is the joining of one man and one woman."
Even so, the events tonight are considered a victory. I think all of us gay rights supporters are hoping that the bill into law will spark other states to follow suit. Hip hip hooray everyone!
