Same-Sex Marriage Update

[MsTinkerbelly]

Not that I am even thinking of marriage but I am a bit nervous about the SCOTUS decision. I hope they don't rule that we are, somehow, second class citizens.

Even though there have been HUGE strides in marriage equality, i am a bit nervous myself!

So many years of being second class, too many years of mob rule...it's hard to believe we could finally get marriage equality across the country.

[MsTinkerbelly]

The ban on same-sex marriage was overturned by a Federal judge today in Alabama, with the decision not immediately stayed. The AG said the request for a stay will be filed ASAP.

Yayyyyyyy Alabama!

As expected, a stay of 14 days was granted today. The stay will allow the State time to appeal the decision to the Federal appeals court.

[MsTinkerbelly]

Chile's same-sex civil unions bill passed its first hurdle today, and with two more votes to be taken appears scheduled to pass without incident.

Chile, like many countries, takes religion out of legal marriages; all couples marry civially, and then have an additional wedding in whichever church/venue they choose.

Wtg Chile!

[MsTinkerbelly]

As expected, a stay of 14 days was granted today. The stay will allow the State time to appeal the decision to the Federal appeals court.

In a surprising move today, the Federal Judge who put the stay in place after publishing her decision to allow same-sex marriage, went on the record with the news that at the end of the 2 week period she WILL NOT extend the stay while the state appeals.

The State has the option of filing with the appeals court for a stay, and should that be denied, filing with the SCOTUS. The SCOTUS has begun to deny all requests for stays, so it should be a waste of time and tax money.

[MsTinkerbelly]

France's highest court ruled today that a french national and a Moroccan citizen could be married. Prior to this ruling, France would only marry a couple where one was not a citizen, if same-sex marriage was legal in both countries.

What a huge step for love!

[MsTinkerbelly]

In a surprising move today, the Federal Judge who put the stay in place after publishing her decision to allow same-sex marriage, went on the record with the news that at the end of the 2 week period she WILL NOT extend the stay while the state appeals.

The State has the option of filing with the appeals court for a stay, and should that be denied, filing with the SCOTUS. The SCOTUS has begun to deny all requests for stays, so it should be a waste of time and tax money.

The Federal Appeals court refused to extend the stay, and same-sex marriages are set to begin 2/9. The AG of Alabama filed an immediate request for the SCOTUS to impose a stay on the decision, until the state can file an appeal with the SCOTUS. Based on past decisions, the SCOTUS will probably deny the motion.

Stay tuned!

[MsTinkerbelly]

The 8th district court of appeals has agreed to hear appeals from the states of Missouri, Arkansas and South Dakota. The three states have had their same-sex marriage bans overturned, and are appealing the decision.

What a waste of taxpayer dollars.

[MsTinkerbelly]

The Federal Appeals court refused to extend the stay, and same-sex marriages are set to begin 2/9. The AG of Alabama filed an immediate request for the SCOTUS to impose a stay on the decision, until the state can file an appeal with the SCOTUS. Based on past decisions, the SCOTUS will probably deny the motion.

Stay tuned!

The SCOTUS delined to continue the stay, and same-sex marriages began today in Alabama!

The head judge of the Alabama Supreme Court is fighting the ruling by telling judges and clerks not to issue licenses...at this time only 4 counties are issuing licenses against his order. In 2003, the same judge was removed from office for refusing to remove a washing machine size monument to the Ten Commandments from the courthouse.

[MsTinkerbelly]

The SCOTUS delined to continue the stay, and same-sex marriages began today in Alabama!

The head judge of the Alabama Supreme Court is fighting the ruling by telling judges and clerks not to issue licenses...at this time only 4 counties are issuing licenses against his order. In 2003, the same judge was removed from office for refusing to remove a washing machine size monument to the Ten Commandments from the courthouse.

Correction: There are 44 out of 67 counties refusing to issue licenses, 8 counties that cover approx 2 million people ARE issuing licenses, and the other 5 are issuing applications, but are holding off licenses because of the confusion with the state supreme court.

[MsTinkerbelly]

A Travis County probate judge just ruled that the ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional.

The case was brought forth by a woman who lost her long time partner of 7 years just last year, and wanted to have their relationship legitimized as a common-law marriage for survivorship purposes.

The Clerk of the Court has declined to issue same-sex marriage licenses due to the case currently under consideration by the 5th circuit court of appeals.

[TruTexan]

Here's a link to the News About the Texas Judge Ruling Gay Marriage Ban Unconstitutional ............. LINK (http://cw39.com/2015/02/17/texas-judge-rules-gay-marriage-ban-unconstitutional/)

[Cailin]

^^ my sister sent me that link this afternoon... it's a small step, but one in the right direction. Go Austin!

[cricket26]

http://www.dallasnews.com/news/state/headlines/20150217-judge-in-austin-rules-texas-gay-marriage-ban-unconstitutional.ece

[TruTexan]

Travis County clerk issues first legal gay marriage license in Texas
1:07 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015 | Filed in: News
COMMENTS 102


Austin American Statesman Today 02/19/15


Two Austin women were legally married Thursday morning after a Travis County judge ordered the county clerk to issue a marriage license.

Sarah Goodfriend and Suzanne Bryant, together almost 31 years, said their vows before Rabbi Kerry Baker while standing in front of the Travis County Clerk’s Office sign on Airport Boulevard.




LINK to article in newspaper (http://www.statesman.com/news/news/breaking-news/travis-county-clerk-issues-first-same-sex-marriage/nkD63/)

[MsTinkerbelly]

Travis County clerk issues first legal gay marriage license in Texas
1:07 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015 | Filed in: News
COMMENTS 102


Austin American Statesman Today 02/19/15


Two Austin women were legally married Thursday morning after a Travis County judge ordered the county clerk to issue a marriage license.

Sarah Goodfriend and Suzanne Bryant, together almost 31 years, said their vows before Rabbi Kerry Baker while standing in front of the Travis County Clerk’s Office sign on Airport Boulevard

LINK to article in newspaper (http://www.statesman.com/news/news/breaking-news/travis-county-clerk-issues-first-same-sex-marriage/nkD63/)

I just read the story, and i'm having a hard time typing through my tears! One of the couple has Ovarian cancer, which was the reason behind the granting of the license by a Judge.

Some day we will no longer have to beg for equality, and i hope it comes before others are harmed by the bans in place.

[MsTinkerbelly]

The Texas Supreme Court just stepped in and put a stay on all further marriages in Travis county until all appeals have been heard.

The marriage performed earlier today is still valid, but the Attorney General says he is looking for a way to invalidate the marriage.

Asshat

[TruTexan]

The Texas Supreme Court just stepped in and put a stay on all further marriages in Travis county until all appeals have been heard.

The marriage performed earlier today is still valid, but the Attorney General says he is looking for a way to invalidate the marriage.

Asshat

He's an ASS for sure. I didn't vote for his sorry Republican ass either. Figures he'd try to invalidate it somehow, but I don't think that's going to work.

[MsTinkerbelly]

Alabama Supreme Court Judge Murdoch has said, that should the Supreme Court decide to make marriage equality the law of the land, he will try to convince the ASC to end ALL marriages in that state.

Do they lie awake at night thinking this shit up?

The SCOTUS would then need to decide if marriage was a fundamental right under the US Constitution, and if so Alabama would have to comply.

[MsTinkerbelly]

The President of Finland signed marriage equality into law this week! However, due to Legislative changes that need to occur, marriages will not begin until 2017.

Way to go Finland!:hangloose:

[MsTinkerbelly]

An open records request (emails, telephone records, etc...) has been filed against head Supreme Court Justice Roy Moore by the HRC. The premise is that Roy Moore headed up the lawsuit against marriage equality in the state of Alabama, which is a HUGE no-no for a judge.

I can't link, but if you want to read more on this story, go to LGBTQnation.com

[MsTinkerbelly]

The Texas Supreme Court just stepped in and put a stay on all further marriages in Travis county until all appeals have been heard.

The marriage performed earlier today is still valid, but the Attorney General says he is looking for a way to invalidate the marriage.

Asshat

The Attorney General argued before the court yesterday, giving his reason to void the license as due process had not been followed. Apparantly in Texas you must notify the Attorney General when something is declared unconstitutional, and 45 days are required before implementation.

More to come.....

[MsTinkerbelly]

There is a really well written article on LGBTQnation.com, regarding the Navajos and the Dine Marriage act of 2005.

Should marriage equality become the law of the land, it will still be banned on Navajo reservations (as well as Cheroke and some others), as they are sovergin nations and do not follow our Constitution.

Gay people are much more accepted in the Indian nations, but due to employment, mental health, poverty...even electricity, the focus is not put on marriage equality by most of the peope. Like i said before, it was a great article worth a read.

[MsTinkerbelly]

The ban on same-sx marriage was struck down in Nebraska today, but will not take effect for another week. Meanwhile, the asshat brigade will appeal the decision to the 8th District Court of Appeals.

Yay Nebraska!

Prop 8

The California Supreme Court upheld a lower courts ruling that the supporters of Prop h8 must reveal their identities.

This issue will probably be further appealed, as none of the haters wish to be known as haters.

[MsTinkerbelly]

Lawmakers in Slovania passed marriage equality and same-sex parent adoptions!

Whoop, whoop!

[MsTinkerbelly]

The SCOTUS announced the remainder of it's hearing dates today; marriage equality will have a 2-1/2 hour hearing on April the 28th.

The date will be here before we know it, and then finally we will have clarity on this issue.

[Tommi]

Lawmakers in Slovania passed marriage equality and same-sex parent adoptions!

Whoop, whoop!

Thanks...that's big news MsTinkerbelly

Yeah for my friends and family. :bunchflowers:

Czech...:)

[MsTinkerbelly]

The ban on same-sx marriage was struck down in Nebraska today, but will not take effect for another week. Meanwhile, the asshat brigade will appeal the decision to the 8th District Court of Appeals.

.

The 8th District Court of Appeals put a stay on the lower courts decision, and marriage in Nebraska will be on hold until the decision by SCOTUS.

[MsTinkerbelly]

Yesterday, Chile passed a Civil marriage bill giving the rights of married couples to same-sex and domestic partner unions.

The unions can begin in 6 months when the waiting period is over; Chile keeps civil marriages and weddings separate, as do many foreign countries.

Way to go Chile!

[MsTinkerbelly]

Just a reminder that the SCOTUS will hear the marriage equality cases on April 28th!

So exciting!

[Allison W]

Foolish question: do we have a breakdown of how the SCOTUS is likely to vote on marriage equality? I know four of the justices (Scalia, Thomas, Alito, and Roberts) are considered conservative, and I'm pretty damn sure that at the bare minimum Scalia and Thomas will be very against it; and that four of the justices (Ginsburg, Breyer, Sotomayor, and Kagan) are considered liberal and that all four of them are likely to support marriage equality; and that Kennedy is generally regarded as the swing vote on issues frequently divided along conservative/liberal lines. Am I correct to assume that we presumably have five votes between the liberal wing and Kennedy?

[MsTinkerbelly]

Foolish question: do we have a breakdown of how the SCOTUS is likely to vote on marriage equality? I know four of the justices (Scalia, Thomas, Alito, and Roberts) are considered conservative, and I'm pretty damn sure that at the bare minimum Scalia and Thomas will be very against it; and that four of the justices (Ginsburg, Breyer, Sotomayor, and Kagan) are considered liberal and that all four of them are likely to support marriage equality; and that Kennedy is generally regarded as the swing vote on issues frequently divided along conservative/liberal lines. Am I correct to assume that we presumably have five votes between the liberal wing and Kennedy?

My FEELING is that they will continue along the same lines with this decision, as with their other recent decisions allowing equality to move forward.

BUT...Despite all of the recent positive rulings from the SCOTUS, we have to remember that they will be deciding this question for the ENTIRE country, and they ruled against us not that many years ago.


Sorry, that and $1.50 will get you a cup of coffee, but not much else.

[Allison W]

Was the composition of the court different when they ruled against us? Because I know Sotomayor and Kagan were added only within the past few years.

I suppose what's really important is how Kennedy swings on gay rights issues, because that swing vote plus the liberal bloc would get the majority.

...Yep, after poking around on Google, looks like Kennedy will give us the 5-4 majority. Apparently his mentor was gay and he's actually taken it upon himself to write majority opinions supporting pro-gay rulings (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/04/14/justice-anthony-kennedy-gay-mentor_n_7064016.html).

So barring some completely unforeseen upset like a member of the liberal bloc being secretly replaced with a goateed evil twin, marriage equality should be the law of the land once the Supreme Court hears the case.

[MsTinkerbelly]

Was the composition of the court different when they ruled against us? Because I know Sotomayor and Kagan were added only within the past few years.

I suppose what's really important is how Kennedy swings on gay rights issues, because that swing vote plus the liberal bloc would get the majority.

...Yep, after poking around on Google, looks like Kennedy will give us the 5-4 majority. Apparently his mentor was gay and he's actually taken it upon himself to write majority opinions supporting pro-gay rulings (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/04/14/justice-anthony-kennedy-gay-mentor_n_7064016.html).

So barring some completely unforeseen upset like a member of the liberal bloc being secretly

replaced with a goateed evil twin, marriage equality should be
the law of the land once the Supreme Court hears the case.

Excellent point!

The make-up of the SCOTUS was different, and it was a different time when that decision was made.

Unfortunately, the Religious right will step up their efforts to derail equality (as currently seen in Indiana and etc...) and i fear the SCOTUS willl have to once again step in to guarantee our civil rights. Of course, we see what good that has done POC in this country. If they want to discriminate, they will find a way!

[MsTinkerbelly]

The Attorney General of Guam, ordered same-sex marriages available immediately, making it the first US territory to do so.

WTG Guam!

[MsTinkerbelly]

Today it was reported by Hillary Clinton's camp, that she is in favor of nationwide same-sex marriage.

You can read the article on LGBTQnation.com

[MsTinkerbelly]

A Circut Court Judge in Kentucky once again struck down their same-sex marriage ban, but put the decision on hold until the SCOTUS sends down a ruling on the cases (Kentucky is already one of the four states they will hear on April 28th), in order to keep the confusion of one district having the right to marry, while the entire rest of the state would still be banned.

[MsTinkerbelly]

The bad news:

El Salvador moved closer to banning same-sex marriage and adoptions today.

The Good news:

Mexico's Supreme court has ruled that the county's same-sex marriage Ban is unconstitutional in the Sinaloa state. Wtg Mexico!

Edited to add: Mexico has interesting requirements for marriage equality to become the law of the land...there must be 5 cases filed and won in each of the states. A total of 140 rulings in favor of marriage equlity will be needed from the Supreme Court! There are several states that currently allow same-sex marriage, including Mexico City.

[MsTinkerbelly]

Tomorrow is the BIG day!

I am mega excited, :jester: and i wish i could be there!

[MsTinkerbelly]

It wasn't good news today folks, Justice Kennedy seemed to be siding with his more conservative Justices when he stated that "marriage between one man and one woman has been going on a millenia", and said that maybe the 10 years we have been fighting for marriage equality isn't long enough to decide if it will harm marriage.

The response by lawyers for our side, said "wait and see" has never been a way to end discrimination.

You can read the full story i am quoting at LBGTQnation.com

Smh...
:praying:

[Allison W]

OK, time for some better news.

The matter of the Supreme Court's hearings on same-sex marriage happened to come up on the news this morning. Justice Kennedy was now approaching this from the liberal side again--he mentioned, on the subject of whether same-sex parents are bad for children, that we have quite a bit of data on same-sex parents raising children, and that the evidence is that they are not harmful to children.

Oddly, even conservative Chief Justice John Roberts was asking some interesting questions--to paraphrase, if a woman loves a man and he loves her, she can marry him; if a man loves a man and he loves him, he can't marry him. How is this not a straightforward case of sex discrimination? (Yes, this was conservative justice John Roberts.)

I think at least some of this (both Kennedy's probing the issue from both conservative and liberal standpoints and John Roberts' asking questions about whether this falls under sex discrimination) is the justices doing their job and trying to practice at least some semblance of impartiality, and ask any questions with answers that might matter in making a ruling or writing a majority or minority opinion.

[MsTinkerbelly]

Democrats in the Texas House of Representives managed to stall a Bill last night, which would have prohibited State and County officials from issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples, should the SCOTUS rule in favor of marriage equality.

The Republicans (which have majority in the House), had until mid-night last night to have the Bill passed, but the Democrats slowed things down by dragging their feet on 200 other Bills which needed to be voted on first.

Many businesses, including Dell Computers, let it be known that diversity remained a strong part of their culture, and this Law would not be welcome in Texas; making it all that more important for Democrats that the Bill fail.

Alabama recently passed a similar law, and there is another state (i think South Carolina) that has one moving through the process, causing lawsuits and delays should the SCOTUS pass marriage equality.

You can read the entire story on LBGTQnation.com

[MsTinkerbelly]

Today Ireland becomes the first country to vote on marriage equality, and from all reports it appears that same-sex marriage will pass.

I don't like the idea of a popular vote deciding something like that, but I will send up prayers that people are kind and do the right thing.

Results will be announced tomorrow.

[MsTinkerbelly]

Congratulations to the people of Ireland!

The issue wasn't yes or no after the polls opened, but how high the margin of yes would be!

Some areas were registering as much as 70% yes...:hangloose:

[cricket26]

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/05/21/cecil-bell-texas-gay-marriage_n_7351284.html


update on texas law

[MsTinkerbelly]

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/05/21/cecil-bell-texas-gay-marriage_n_7351284.html


update on texas law

I am certain the legal wrangling will go on LONG after the decision by the SCOTUS in several states.

Very sad.

[MsTinkerbelly]

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/05/21/cecil-bell-texas-gay-marriage_n_7351284.html


update on texas law

The Senate tried to attach the bill to an unrelated piece of legislation, but it failed once again to even be debated before the deadline ran out.

[MsTinkerbelly]

North Carolina legislators passed a bill allowing all clergy ( including employees of the state) to refuse to issue same-sex marriage licenses, or perform same-sex ceremonies.

The bill is headed to Governor McCrory, who says he may veto as public employees should not be included in the bill.

[MsTinkerbelly]

North Carolina legislators passed a bill allowing all clergy ( including employees of the state) to refuse to issue same-sex marriage licenses, or perform same-sex ceremonies.

The bill is headed to Governor McCrory, who says he may veto as public employees should not be included in the bill.

He vetoed the bill, but it will return to the grand assembly for a possible veto override.

The Assembly has enough votes to override should they choose to go down on the wrong side of history.

[iamkeri1]

Ok, here we go. Here it starts. Pick, Pick, Pick. While they are waving the flag and holding the constitution in the other hand, the Republicans have done nothing for the last seven years but pick, pick, pick, away at rights that civilians on the streets and soldiers on the battlefield have fought for since the founding of our country. They have chipped away at voting rights, family planning rights, health care rights, and women's rights, Throughout the entire history of the LGBTQ civil rights movement, they have used every means at hand to hold us back including, the Bible, the Koran and the Torah. They have claimed to know clearly what is going on in our minds (we chose to be lgbt or q.) and most astonishingly what is going on in the mind of God. They have used their own arbitrary opinion of what God thinks to encourage intolerance and support religious beliefs that have led to violence and even murder of our people.

So now they are starting it up again, Pick, pick, pick. If you can't win in the courts, and you can't win in the legislature, and you can't win in the polls or in the opinions of the general public, then be sure to drag God back into it. Use religion to give people the right to discriminate. Allow individuals to make decisions that affect our lives if you can't get the law against us directly. Allow pharmacists to refuse birth control if they personally don't believe in it. Allow employers to refuse to cover employees' family planning services under the company plan if they don't believe in it. Allow PUBLIC employees to refuse services to lgbtq people if they personally oppose it.

Just as it is hard to keep a determined individual from breaking in to your house, or to keep a single determined terrorist from blowing up a building, it is difficult to stop a determined individual from refusing service to us even without the support of law. Laws are supposed to protect us from lawless individual, not support the lawless individual.

This sucks big time!!!

[MsTinkerbelly]

After the win for marriage equality in Ireland, the leaders of the Austrailian Opposition Party are pushing a bill through to overturn the ban on same-sex marriage.

The bill is still at the beginning stages, but it is certainly worth watching!:goodluck:

[MsTinkerbelly]

He vetoed the bill, but it will return to the grand assembly for a possible veto override.

The Assembly has enough votes to override should they choose to go down on the wrong side of history.

The Senate voted to override the veto, so the House is next to hear the issue and vote.

A step backwards for North Carolina

[MsTinkerbelly]

Alabama Supreme Court Judge Murdoch has said, that should the Supreme Court decide to make marriage equality the law of the land, he will try to convince the ASC to end ALL marriages in that state.

Do they lie awake at night thinking this shit up?

The SCOTUS would then need to decide if marriage was a fundamental right under the US Constitution, and if so Alabama would have to comply.

The House Panel declined to move a Bill through that would have ended State issued Marriage Licenses yesterday.

I'm sure that someone else will try getting the Bill through in some other way, but for now Alabama is moving in the right direction.

[MsTinkerbelly]

The Senate voted to override the veto, so the House is next to hear the issue and vote.

A step backwards for North Carolina

I had it backward, but none the less....both the House and the Senate voted to override the veto, so public employees may now refuse to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples in North Carolina.

[MsTinkerbelly]

The Oneida nation of Wisconsin, will begin to officially recognize same-sex marriage on June the 10th.

Same-sex marriage has been legal in Wisconsin for a year, but as a soverign nation, the Oneida peoples were not required to do the same.

[MsTinkerbelly]

A Federal Judge struck down Guam's same-sex marriage ban today, making it the first US territory to do so.

Same-sex marriage will begin Monday morning!

Yay Guam!

[MsTinkerbelly]

I had it backward, but none the less....both the House and the Senate voted to override the veto, so public employees may now refuse to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples in North Carolina.

Boy am i confused!

It seems the House adjourned for the weekend WITHOUT voting, and will take the issue up on Monday.:blink:

[iamkeri1]

Every day that we can delay someone's ability to discriminate against someone else is a good day!
Smooches
Keri

[MsTinkerbelly]

A Federal Judge struck down Guam's same-sex marriage ban today, making it the first US territory to do so.

Same-sex marriage will begin Monday morning!

Yay Guam!

On Friday, a Federal Court Judge gave the Island an extra day to prepare documents and such, so marriage licenses can be applied for beginning tomorrow (Tuesday) at 8:am.

The couple bringing the lawsuit to Guam, plan to be there as soon as the doors open. :rrose:

[MsTinkerbelly]

On Friday, a Federal Court Judge gave the Island an extra day to prepare documents and such, so marriage licenses can be applied for beginning tomorrow (Tuesday) at 8:am.

The couple bringing the lawsuit to Guam, plan to be there as soon as the doors open. :rrose:

Same-sex marriages began without a hitch (pun intended) today, making Guam the first US territory to have marriage equality as the law of the land.

Whoop, whoop! :hangloose:

[MsTinkerbelly]

A Federal court ruled today that Arkansas must recognize the 500 marriages performed last year when the same-sex marriage ban was overturned.

Whoop whoop:hangloose:

[MsTinkerbelly]

I read an interesting article this morning...most (51 of 54) Registers of Deeds (the persons issuing marriage licenses) surveyed, have said they are not in favor of Bill 2, and will continue to issue marriage licenses to those legally able to receive them (same-sex included should SCOTUS rule so), without issue.

It appears the passing of the law is an effort to pacify the religious conservatives of the state, but will have no real effect. Well, when i say that i am not taking into account what we as a community feel when laws are passed to attempt to keep us "less than", i just mean in our day to day lives.

The House will attempt to override the veto tonight...they are waiting until they have enough members in attendance to met the number they need.

* interesting note: North Carolina has it as part of proceedure, that an override must be done immediately...but the legislature (republicans) have held a vote off for months before to insure they can achieve their goal.

[MsTinkerbelly]

Point to ponder....

If the SCOTUS rules that states have the right to define marriage, then what does that do to same-sex marriages in the states where the SCOTUS or other Federals courts have ruled that the bans were unconstitutional? Are the marriages ( like mine) already done still valid? Do marriages stop in all but 12 states?

I think the SCOTUS has no choice to make same-sex marriage the law of the land.

Btw...should Rick Santorim become President, he has vowed to stop enforcement of the SCOTUS decision because it violates the 1st ammendment.

Vote people...get out and vote!

[TruTexan]

I second that ........................GET OUT AND VOTE PEEEPS!!

[MsTinkerbelly]

I read an interesting article this morning...most (51 of 54) Registers of Deeds (the persons issuing marriage licenses) surveyed, have said they are not in favor of Bill 2, and will continue to issue marriage licenses to those legally able to receive them (same-sex included should SCOTUS rule so), without issue.

It appears the passing of the law is an effort to pacify the religious conservatives of the state, but will have no real effect. Well, when i say that i am not taking into account what we as a community feel when laws are passed to attempt to keep us "less than", i just mean in our day to day lives.

The House will attempt to override the veto tonight...they are waiting until they have enough members in attendance to met the number they need.

* interesting note: North Carolina has it as part of proceedure, that an override
must be done immediately...but the legislature (republicans) have held a vote off for months before to insure they can achieve their goal.

By waiting, they were able to get enough votes to override the veto...but I'm not sure it will have a huge impact.

Sad day for North Carolina

[MsTinkerbelly]

Point to ponder....

If the SCOTUS rules that states have the right to define marriage, then what does that do to same-sex marriages in the states where the SCOTUS or other Federals courts have ruled that the bans were unconstitutional? Are the marriages ( like mine) already done still valid? Do marriages stop in all but 12 states?

I think the SCOTUS has no choice to make same-sex marriage the law of the land.

Btw...should Rick Santorim become President, he has vowed to stop enforcement of the SCOTUS decision because it violates the 1st ammendment.

Vote people...get out and vote!

FYI...i was just passing along the idiocy of Rick Santorium, as the President cannot veto SCOTUS decisions...i was using him as an example of why we don't want the Republicans in office.

*** Is anyone else on pins and needles waiting for the SCOTUS to announce their decision on marriage equality? I am also interested in their decision on the Affordable Health Care Act....a lot of people will lose health care if there are no subsidies to help pay for it.

[MsTinkerbelly]

On June 2nd, Mexico's Supreme Court issued a Thesis stating that marriage being limited to only one man or one woman is unconstitutional, but it was not announced until late last week.

The thing is, they have no real jurisdiction over the issue! They, and the states of Mexico, may decide case by case if they are petitioned by a same-sex couple for a marriage license, but only two areas in Mexico have true marriage equaility: Mexico City and Cahjilo.

I posted the long process of marriage equality, which is to be done state by state, in a prior post. But, the thesis posted does allow the justices to grant exceptions such as marriage for a dying person, etc...

[MsTinkerbelly]

The Justices normally publish decisions on Monday, with conferences held on Thursday to decide what cases to hear next. According to the SCOTUS blog i follow, decisions will also be announced before all further conferences until the end of the term.

Unfortunately, the decisions that will be announced are not posted ahead of time.....

When the same-sex marriage decision is announced, someone please post ASAP as this is the first place i go when i sign on. Can you tell i really want to know? Lol

***Edited to add: I just checked the blog, and decisions are also scheduled for this Friday.

[MsTinkerbelly]

There were six Opinions (decisions) handed down today, leaving 11 still to be issued.

Same-sex marriage and Health care subsides were NOT among today's rulings. :(

[Dean Thoreau]

It is In My Humble Opinion SCOTUS will release it on a BIG news day.....so it does not get a lot of front page press coverage...and so the religious right can blame the disaster news on Homosexual marriage,,,and the godless supreme court....and of course obama....and hillary....
Remember thomas might have to write something and that takes time....he has not yet spoken a word on the job....A few are prolly pushing ruthie to resign when it goes thru.....and all the kings horses and all the kings men are preparing their soundbites just in case it ends up being front page news....

Considering that the federal government already acknowledges gay marriage..including benefits......this decision is a given.....just wish the churches/temples would pull their heads out of their icons and realize they are all still allowed to discriminate all they want and do not have to marry anyone.....its civil ceremonies that will be nation wide legal....

So not to wish ill on any particular location or group of people....watch the weather..and the wacko's...the sooner front page insanity and catastrophe hits the sooner we will see the decision that says..yup marriage equality is for all .

[MsTinkerbelly]

It is In My Humble Opinion SCOTUS will release it on a BIG news day.....so it does not get a lot of front page press coverage...and so the religious right can blame the disaster news on Homosexual marriage,,,and the godless supreme court....and of course obama....and hillary....
Remember thomas might have to write something and that takes time....he has not yet spoken a word on the job....A few are prolly pushing ruthie to resign when it goes thru.....and all the kings horses and all the kings men are preparing their soundbites just in case it ends up being front page news....

Considering that the federal government already acknowledges gay marriage..including benefits......this decision is a given.....just wish the churches/temples would pull their heads out of their icons and realize they are all still allowed to discriminate all they want and do not have to marry anyone.....its civil ceremonies that will be nation wide legal....

So not to wish ill on any particular location or group of people....watch the weather..and the wacko's...the sooner front page insanity and catastrophe hits the sooner we will see the decision that says..yup marriage equality is for all .

The remaining days scheduled for the releasing of decisions are: 6/22, 6/25 and 6/29... A total of 11 decisions, including the Affordable Health Care subsides and same-sex marriage, are among the 11 left. The Justices have the flexibility to add additional days in July to the schedule should the decisions not be ready to publish...but it is widely believed that won't be the case this year.

Yes, the people opposing marriage equality will probably lose their minds when/if a positive decision is handed down, so everyone should keep their heads-up and stay safe.

[MsTinkerbelly]

July 4th will mark the 50th Anniversary of the Philidelphia march for equality...despite the possible job loss, incarceration, or injury to themselves, people marched and stood up for human dignity.

When people tell you that same-sex marriage or even our civil rights have happened too fast, remind them of the days when people were dying of aids ( of anything really) and their beloved "partner" could be shut out and excluded from all visits and choices by families or medical professionals, and we had no rights. Remind them that in some places in 2015 IT CAN STILL HAPPEN, and ask them if we should wait until everyone is "comfortable" with us having the SAME rights as they enjoy.

The same rights not more, and God dammit it all not LESS!

Anyhow...this waiting for news is killing me...hopefully tomorrow?

[MsTinkerbelly]

I'm not sure how i missed this, but on 6/18 the State of Chihuahua offically began to allow same-sex marriage!


Yay Chihuahua :hangloose:

[MsTinkerbelly]

Omg!

There were four (4) decisions handed down today, but the Affordable Health Care subsidies and same-sex marriage were not among them!

The Court scheduled Thursday to announce more decisions, and it will be their usual conference day.

Seven more decisions to go!

[MsTinkerbelly]

The tiny nation (population 48) of Pitcairn Island, has legalized same-sex marriage.

The Island in the Pacific Ocean, does not have any gay couples, but that shouldn't stop their statement of equality!

Wtg!

[MsTinkerbelly]

Mike Huckabee has vowed that, should he become POTUS he will ignore the SCOTUS ruling allowing gay marriage. If marriage equality then passes in the Legislature, he will veto the bill.

I personally praise God that he will never be POTUS, but there are plenty more just like him, or plenty being incited by his hatred. A positive ruling by the SCOTUS will bring them out of the woodwork!

Be careful out there folks, there are plenty of people just like the South Carolina shooter... full of hate, and ready to kill.

[MsTinkerbelly]

The lower house passed a motion asking the Government to adopt Civil Union requirements for same-sex unions.

Italy ( also several other countries), requires a civil marriage before any religious services (unless you are catholic) may be undertaken. The Civil Union grants rights of inheritance, taxes, health Care decisions, etc...and does NOT require a religious ceremony to follow.

Further news to follow.....

[MsTinkerbelly]

I saw the SCOTUS again posted notice that decisions would be announced tomorrow and Friday...last week they were in error and only Thursday listed decisions.

Sooooo, being the anal retentive person i am, i emailed the blog for clarification, and was told that we will indeed have decisions Thurs, Fri and Monday.

Just an FYI:hangloose:

[MsTinkerbelly]

No announcement on same-sex marriage today, but the ACA is here to stay!

Whoop!

[iamkeri1]

I have long thought that this is the best way of handling marriage in all countries/principalities/states/municipalities, whatever. Marriage is a legal contract between consenting adults. If you want religious sanctions along with the legality, fine, but the marriage authority should come from the state, not any church (whether you are catholic or not, lol)
Smooches,
Keri

Actually, in the best of worlds the authority should come from the individuals engaging in the contract as it does with most other contracts. All legal rights should flow from the signing of this contract with perhaps a small governmental registration fee if the individuals wish to "publish" the contract


The lower house passed a motion asking the Government to adopt Civil Union requirements for same-sex unions.

Italy ( also several other countries), requires a civil marriage before any religious services (unless you are catholic) may be undertaken. The Civil Union grants rights of inheritance, taxes, health Care decisions, etc...and does NOT require a religious ceremony to follow.

Further news to follow.....

[MsTinkerbelly]

Well folks....

Tomorrow, June 26th, marks the anniversary of the decision by the SCOTUS making sections of DOMA unconstitutional, and the Lawerence vs Texas judgement striking down the laws against sodomy.

Wouldn't it be fitting to have same-sex marriage become the law of the land tomorrow as well?!:vigil:

[MsTinkerbelly]

Same-sex marriage is legal throughout the land, and MUST be recognized by every state!!

Details to follow.

Never in my life did i think i'd see it.

*** edited to add...marriages may begin immediately, or if the states want to wait as long as possible, they must begin in two weeks when the SCOTUS mandate is published.

[CherryWine]

Same-sex marriage is legal throughout the land, and MUST be recognized by every state!!

Details to follow.

Never in my life did i think i'd see it.

What an amazing feeling, huh? Congrats, everyone!

[Tierney]

Wooooooooooooooooooohoooooooooooooooooooooooooooo !!!!!

Just got the breaking news thing on my phone !!!!!

[clay]

Was watching Today show when NBC special report came in. Gave me chillbumps...and yes, tears! We have come a very longgggggg and hard journey! Congratulations everyone!:hangloose:

[Jar]

I didn't expect the reaction I had at all. It made me actually cry. I feel a sense of acceptance and freedom like I've never known. What an awesome day to be alive!

[*Anya*]

I am overcome to think that this happened in my lifetime.

I want to thank Ms.Tinkerbelly for all of her work throughout the past few years in keeping us updated with all of the changes. I know it took time, patience and persistence.

This win is for all; regardless of our identity.

*None of us are free, unless all of us are.


*Paraphrasing something said at one time or another by:

Emma Lazarus, Frederick Douglass and most famously Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

[BullDog]

I truly never thought this would happen in my lifetime.

Love, happiness and equality to all, and may we continue to work to make this world a better place.

[clay]

Thank you Ms. Tinkerbelly! You have done a phenomenal job of bringing updates to us as well as explaining them to us! Thank you for your tireless efforts and dedication to this journey!

[MsTinkerbelly]

I am overcome to think that this happened in my lifetime.

I want to thank Ms.Tinkerbelly for all of her work throughout the past few years in keeping us updated with all of the changes. I know it took time, patience and persistence.

This win is for all; regardless of our identity.

None of us are free, unless all of us are.

Very well said! :rrose:

Like Jar, I cried when this decision was posted as i was follwing the SCOTUSblog this morning; i cried with happiness, instead of the tears of sorrow i cried when California's Prop 8 was voted in by our fellow citizens.

This is a day for rejoicing! :rainbowAfro:

[Tierney]

OMG....President Obama is making me cry like a little child...

Victory !!!!! So many years, and now Victory !!!!

[EnchantedNightDweller]

What amazing news to wake up to!

[Orema]

http://i.huffpost.com/gen/3121710/thumbs/o-JUSTICE-ANTHONY-KENNEDY-570.jpg?3

Supreme Court Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Stephen Breyer and Anthony Kennedy. These five justices were in the majority in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide. (Photos: Getty)

[girlin2une]

So I've posted this in the Canada forums as well, but I think it deserves posting here too!

http://www.buzzfeed.com/daves4/its-legal-there#.uvddvdO2jA

[BullDog]

http://i.huffpost.com/gen/3121710/thumbs/o-JUSTICE-ANTHONY-KENNEDY-570.jpg?3

Supreme Court Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Stephen Breyer and Anthony Kennedy. These five justices were in the majority in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide. (Photos: Getty)

Orema, thank you so much for posting the photo of the Supreme Court Justices.

First of all I am struck by- if you want the job done right just find a few good women. :D

Second of all, who is President of the United States (or at least the party they represent) really does make a difference, and the Supreme Court is one of those places- something to always remember when it comes time to vote (see Presidential appointments below).

Third, the vote would have never gone the way it did or even have taken place without all of those small daily actions people take every day, along with the big political efforts.

Majority Opinion

Sonia Sotomayor- Barack Obama
Elena Kagan- Barack Obama
Ruth Bader Ginsberg- Bill Clinton
Stephen Breyer- Bill Clinton
Anthony Kennedy- Ronald Reagan (ha, yes!)

Dissenting Justices

Antonin Scalia- Ronald Reagan
Clarence Thomas- George H. W. Bush (senior)
John Roberts- George W Bush
Samuel Alito Jr- George W Bush

Everything we do from coming out to someone to voting and all the actions we take, they do matter and they do add up. The world can be cruel and unjust, but we also can make a difference!

[MsTinkerbelly]

So I've posted this in the Canada forums as well, but I think it deserves posting here too!

http://www.buzzfeed.com/daves4/its-legal-there#.uvddvdO2jA

I find it so very sad that our uneducated, God loves the USA crowd, has no clue what goes on outside ( and sometimes inside as well) of our borders.

**** note of interest...the losing side of today's decision has 3 weeks to file for a reconsideration of the judgement. I'm fairly certain there would be no reconsideration by the SCOTUS, but that is the reasoning that states are using to hold off on the issuing of marriage licenses. Mississippi (Democratic Governor) said that they must wait until the stay placed by the Federal Court is removed.

[Galahad]

Thank you Ms. Tinkerbelly for keeping this thread going and all the information everyone has posted. Such a happy day.

[CherryWine]

**** note of interest...the losing side of today's decision has 3 weeks to file for a reconsideration of the judgement. I'm fairly certain there would be no reconsideration by the SCOTUS, but that is the reasoning that states are using to hold off on the issuing of marriage licenses. Mississippi (Democratic Governor) said that they must wait until the stay placed by the Federal Court is removed.

Our governor here in Mississippi is actually a Republican. He has a gay son who lives out of state (can you blame him?)

This is not surprising to me at all. The gov. is also against changing our state flag to one that does not include the confederate battle flag. He's a real piece of work.

Also, I want to join everyone else in thanking you, MsTinkerbelly, for keeping us informed and keeping this thread going. I know it must have felt ecstatic for you to finally be able to make that post this morning. :)

[MsTinkerbelly]

Our governor here in Mississippi is actually a Republican. He has a gay son who lives out of state (can you blame him?)

This is not surprising to me at all. The gov. is also against changing our state flag to one that does not include the confederate battle flag. He's a real piece of work.

Also, I want to join everyone else in thanking you, MsTinkerbelly, for keeping us informed and keeping this thread going. I know it must have felt ecstatic for you to finally be able to make that post this morning. :)

Sorry for the confusion on the party of your Governor...i had so much info crammed in my head today! I meant your Attorney General Jim Hood, not the Governor. (f)

To all of you who have expressed gratitude for the same-sex updates...you are very welcome!

I will continue to post updates on the USA issue of marriage equality, as well as updates from the world at large. This is not my thread, although it may have seemed so due to my many, many posts...lol, so please join in with news as it happens.

What a happy, happy day!

[cinnamongrrl]

It's such a momentous day!

I am weepy and gleeful all at the same time...

I have SO MUCH love for those who paved the path that led to this day...it wasn't easy and we all owe them a huge debt of gratitude.

[homoe]

This decision came at the perfect time with Gay Pride weekend and all:hangloose:

[BullDog]

http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc284/bulldog62/rainbowwhitehouse.jpg

[CherryWine]

http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc284/bulldog62/rainbowwhitehouse.jpg

The White House has never been so beautiful. Who woulda thunk?

[BullDog]

It seriously brought tears to my eyes. Unbelievable.

[~SweetCheeks~]

Still feeling pretty damn happy about this.

[jools66]

Just want to say that this is great news.
And I hope that when the 3 weeks is up that the decision stays the same.
I can't see them reversing it.
We in the Uk have been able to marry for some time now, and it really does make you realise how lucky you are to have that choice.
I wish the USA Happy days ahead,.
Long live love and equality.

[cricket26]

Good news! But i live in texas and i know that homophobia will not disappear with a few pen strokes...that being said i hope our nation and individual states will continue to move forward a maybe one day we will all look back and see our own ignorance

[flapdoodle]

since married in 2013 I have had to carry our health care proxy and our marriage license with me, and so has J, to prove we were in fact married in a state that recognized it.

Now I can downsize to a new handbag, I will find any excuse to shop, really!

Congrats to those that helped make this decision possible and Congrats to those who will enjoy the freedom in the future, it's darn good to be equal

my life, now, is actually pure BLISS

[MsTinkerbelly]

I was thinking.....

How do you all feel about petitioning Medusa and Jack, and asking to have this thread renamed "Marriage Equality" ?

The term "same-sex marriage" has bothered me for a very long time, as all we wanted, and what we finally have, is "Marriage Equality"... not something different, just a marriage like anyone else we know.

Anyway...

[Nadeest]

Just remember, y'all, that we ain't done yet with all the fighting for our rights that needs to be done. It is still perfectly legal, in many areas to refuse or throw us out of housing, and jobs, right now. :(

[MsTinkerbelly]

Just remember, y'all, that we ain't done yet with all the fighting for our rights that needs to be done. It is still perfectly legal, in many areas to refuse or throw us out of housing, and jobs, right now. :(

There is much to be done...but for a couple of days i am going to sit here with a huge smile on my face and feel good about the progress we HAVE made.:rrose:

[Kobi]

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) on Sunday advised county clerks, magistrates and others who have religious objections to same-sex marriage that they may opt out of providing services to same-sex couples seeking marriage licenses.

Calling the Supreme Court’s ruling Friday allowing same-sex unions nationally a “lawless decision,” Paxton said that his guidance was necessary to protect the religious liberties of hundreds of local officials whose job it is it issue marriage licenses.

“We find that although it fabricated a new constitutional right in 2015, the Supreme Court did not diminish, overrule, or call into question the First Amendment rights to free exercise of religion that formed the first freedom in the Bill of Rights,” he said in a statement.

The opinion offered a hint of the resistance that is likely to delay or otherwise hamper same-sex marriages in many of the 14 states that before Friday’s ruling did not permit gay couples to wed.

In particular, opponents have stressed the necessity to protect people of faith from being forced to condone or participate in a same-sex ceremony. Gay rights groups have called these efforts discrimination under the guise of religious liberties.

The opinion immediately drew criticism from gay rights groups, which said it was not legally sound. They also plan to press their case in Mississippi and Louisiana, which have held back broadly on providing marriage licenses to same-sex couples.

“Public officials have no constitutional or statutory right to discriminate in providing public services,” said Shannon Minter, legal director for the National Center for Lesbian Rights. “This opinion is wrong on the law, and it does a disservice to officials who need clear, reliable guidance about their duty to follow the law and to provide marriage licenses to all qualified couples.”

In his opinion, Paxton acknowledges the legal vulnerability for local officials who decline to help gay couples. He suggests that clerks and others who do not want to issue same-sex marriage licenses because of “sincerely held” religious beliefs delegate that responsibility to others. But in cases where no official is available to assist gay couples, they could face lawsuits.

“But, numerous lawyers stand ready to assist clerks defending their religious beliefs, in many cases on a pro-bono basis, and I will do everything I can from this office to be a public voice for those standing in defense of their rights,” he said.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/post-nation/wp/2015/06/28/texas-ag-county-workers-can-opt-out-of-same-sex-marriage/?wprss=rss_national

------------------------

Legal victory. Implementation hurdles.

[MsTinkerbelly]

Louisianna and Mississippi began issuing marriage licenses today...they were the only hold-outs on Friday, saying they would wait until their stays from the lower courts were lifted, or in the case of Louisianna, they were waiting until the 3 weeks were exhausted.

After the ruling Friday, Puerto Rico also said they will change their law and comply, but I'm not certain as to when marriages can take place.

There will be areas where we meet resistance, and more than a few lawsuits, but today we have marriages in all 50 states!

[MsTinkerbelly]

A top Cabinet Minister in Colombia has opened a petition to allow marriage equality and same-sex adoption in his country.

It is widely believed that the SCOTUS decision will push additional countries to grant marriage rights for all citizens. And...maybe in others they will be held accountable for the killings of their people for being gay.

We can dream, right?

[CherryWine]

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) on Sunday advised county clerks, magistrates and others who have religious objections to same-sex marriage that they may opt out of providing services to same-sex couples seeking marriage licenses.



How about...don't be in the business of issuing marriage licenses if you have this prejudice.

Ya think drinking is a sin? Don't be a bartender.

[Kobi]

How about...don't be in the business of issuing marriage licenses if you have this prejudice.

Ya think drinking is a sin? Don't be a bartender.



I hear ya.

When I first read it my thought was....can he do that?

My second thought was the Jim Crow laws and how they were used to perpetuate segregation and discrimination up til the mid 60's, and the way the powers that be have been working to circumvent Roe vs Wade over the past few years.

Differing opinions, especially those couch under the guise of "sincerely held" religious beliefs makes for bumpy roads in freedom and progress.

[jools66]

hi everyone,
was totally shocked to see about this business in texas.
they should be ashamed of themselves.
if its the law, its the law.
i know they say its not law binding there.
i wouldnt like to live in texas right now.
there must be so many disappointed ppl, who just wanna get married but fear that onesome will say "no you cant" just because they believe otherwise.
the sooner they get this clause out the better

[Nadeest]

Let's hope that the Supreme Court finds the Texas Attorney General to be in contempt of court and sends him to a federal jail for a while. I especially enjoy his use of the term 'we' in writing his opinion. Since when is he of royal blood, much less a king or a queen. Those are the only two types of people that it is appropriate for them to use the term 'we', when speaking.

On another matter, even after we stop all the legal discrimination against us, we still need to find a way to overcome the prejudice against being GLBT. If I recall the statistics correctly, only about 10% of the population is GLBT, yet about 40% of the children living on the streets are GLBT. They have been thrown out, or forced out of their homes,. due to the bigotry and hatred that we face. Perhaps, one day, this will end. I truly hope that, preferably soon, a child that has been thrown out of their home, due to this, files a lawsuit against their parents seeking child support.

[MsTinkerbelly]

The US Angican Church (episcopalians) will be voting today on whether to sation same-sex marriages in the Church.

The Church i attend has been allowed to do so for several years...it was up to the area Bischop.

[MsTinkerbelly]

The US Angican Church (episcopalians) will be voting today on whether to sation same-sex marriages in the Church.

The Church i attend has been allowed to do so for several years...it was up to the area Bischop.

Just when you think you have edited all you can...sanction is the word.

And...i am not completely, okay I'm wrong...it's been a tough morning.

Same-sex marriage or the blessing of same-sex unions, has been available in the Episcopal Church for approx 20 years! What is being votedon today is the language used during the Litany...in reference to he/she, he/he, she/she. The vote will be to make the language all the same and remove references to gender, or to make several variations available as a couple chooses.

[Nadeest]

Hey, that is ok. Hang in there! Besides, this proves beyond a shadow of a doubt that you are not simply another computer. After all, computers don't make mistakes! :P I hope that the rest of your day goes better. Hugs

[Kobi]

Some officials stop holding weddings (http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-33352734)

--------------------


The religious objections were not unexpected.

The freedom of speech argument seems irrelevant to me.

The refusal to issue any marriage licenses is innovative.

[MsTinkerbelly]

I, as well as a lot of others, predicted the push back on same-sex marriage, as well as other forms of discrimination being used against us. I can't remember what page, but i think it was back in April or May.

In any case, we have a long road to travel, but marriage equality is a fact, and it can't be taken away. Yes they can make us go to other counties, but the fact remains that in EVERY SINGLE STATE in the US we can be married.

Like i said before, there is a lot of hate out there, be careful!(f)

[MsTinkerbelly]

Just when you think you have edited all you can...sanction is the word.

And...i am not completely, okay I'm wrong...it's been a tough morning.

Same-sex marriage or the blessing of same-sex unions, has been available in the Episcopal Church for approx 20 years! What is being votedon today is the language used during the Litany...in reference to he/she, he/he, she/she. The vote will be to make the language all the same and remove references to gender, or to make several variations available as a couple chooses.

The vote was a win for marriage equality in the Episcopal Church! Just an fyi, we also elected the first gay Bishop (Robinson, who has a male partner) more than a decade ago.

Whoop!

[Rockinonahigh]

To day Shreveport Louisiana had it's first gay wedding at the festival plaza down town. It was the first thing on the evening news report at 5 and 6 pm, it was a well done segment .Our last mayor put in a strong glbt policy for the city and the new mayor is up holding it. In the report the clerk said they had to add a few correct boxes to check before issuing the paper work but now it's in order. I am glad my home town did this, way to go Shreveport.

[JDeere]

Texas sucks, it still has a long way to go, due to our so wonderful Governor. So if I decide to get married, not anytime soon and if Texas has not changed, I will be headed to another state that will marry me and my partner.

[MsTinkerbelly]

Opponents of marriage equality are working to get two inititives on the ballot:

1. Rename same-sex marriages "civil unions"
2. Allow wedding suppliers to hire outside contractors to provide services for a same-sex wedding if they are opposed.

It will be a long time beore this crap ends.:readfineprint:

[MsTinkerbelly]

I read an interesting article this morning...most (51 of 54) Registers of Deeds (the persons issuing marriage licenses) surveyed, have said they are not in favor of Bill 2, and will continue to issue marriage licenses to those legally able to receive them (same-sex included should SCOTUS rule so), without issue.

It appears the passing of the law is an effort to pacify the religious conservatives of the state, but will have no real effect. Well, when i say that i am not taking into account what we as a community feel when laws are passed to attempt to keep us "less than", i just mean in our day to day lives.

The House will attempt to override the veto tonight...they are waiting until they have enough members in attendance to met the number they need.

* interesting note: North Carolina has it as part of proceedure, that an override
must be done immediately...but the legislature (republicans) have held a vote off for months before to insure they can achieve their goal.

14 of 54 registers of deeds have claimed the religious exemptiom recently passed, and have written a letter to the Governor asking to be excused from issuing licenses or performing marriages for same-sex couples.

Asshats:fastdraq:

[MsTinkerbelly]

From the pages of jeez they are asshats.....

The Dent County commission has voted to officially "mourn" the passing of same-sex marriage. On the 26th of each month (July-June) for a year, the county flags will be lowered to half-staff.

[iamkeri1]

I have not posted since the SCOTUS decision. I cried happy tears all day and ran to the television every time the subject came up. I was stuck on MSNBC, because they have so many LGBTQ folk on staff and on camera. It was a day of great joy.

The next day I was in St Pete for the Pride Parade. I thought it started at 7pm so I was way early, and so glad that I was. It was one big love fest. I It was like a family reunion with thousands of family members, every one of which you loved. People were hugging and kissing and congratulating each other.

Thanks to you Ms. T for your faithful and important work on this thread and everywhere. Thanks to all of you who have worked, really throughout history, to make this possible, and most of all, thank you god, fate, the universe, the force, or whatever brought us here, that I am alive to see this happen. I am still floating on the euphoria of that day. As Tiny Tim (the Dickens character) would say "God bless us, every one!!!"

Smooches,
Keri

[MsTinkerbelly]

Tomorrow marks the 1 year Anniversarry of Marriage Equality throughout our land! :hangloose:

For those of you who married after the decision, how has your life changed? For those of you married longer same question, except now that it's legal nationwide, is there any change in how you are treated?

And finally, how bad has it gotten for you in other areas since legally they can't stop us from marrying?

I'll come back later with my own experiences.

[MsTinkerbelly]

Orema, thank you so much for posting the photo of the Supreme Court Justices.

First of all I am struck by- if you want the job done right just find a few good women. :D

Second of all, who is President of the United States (or at least the party they represent) really does make a difference, and the Supreme Court is one of those places- something to always remember when it comes time to vote (see Presidential appointments below).

Third, the vote would have never gone the way it did or even have taken place without all of those small daily actions people take every day, along with the big political efforts.

Majority Opinion

Sonia Sotomayor- Barack Obama
Elena Kagan- Barack Obama
Ruth Bader Ginsberg- Bill Clinton
Stephen Breyer- Bill Clinton
Anthony Kennedy- Ronald Reagan (ha, yes!)

Dissenting Justices

Antonin Scalia- Ronald Reagan
Clarence Thomas- George H. W. Bush (senior)
John Roberts- George W Bush
Samuel Alito Jr- George W Bush

Everything we do from coming out to someone to voting and all the actions we take, they do matter and they do add up. The world can be cruel and unjust, but we also can make a difference!

Just a reminder of how important it is that the White House remains with the Democrats!

[iamkeri1]

The Presidency, the Senate, the House ... all Democrat. We especially need some old time anti-war Democrats to balance off the Hawks. Two or three more Liberal Supreme Court Justices. My vision for a good 20 to 30 years of progress. And maybe we'll save the planet at the same time.
Smooches,
Keri

[MsTinkerbelly]

Well gee, I hear crickets!

Since the ruling on nationwide marriage equality, I have had mixed feelings about the progress made by our community toward equal civil rights.

The haters seem motivated to make sure we hear their hate: the wacko who went to jail because she wouldn't issue marriage licenses, the states that have passed "freedom of religion/discrimination" laws etc etc....

I find most people are embracing us as a married couple...the Church has a married couples group that meets for dinner and events, and it has been opened to same-sex married couples. I try not to cringe when we are introduced by people as "our friends Kasey and Cindy, they
are in a same-sex marriage" :|

My Kasey has faced a lot of nasty comments when alone. I can see that people are itching to say something when we are out together, but I am a formidable presence and they are fortunate to reconsider. Same-sex marriage has received greater acceptance, but in my opinion we as individuals are resented for changes most people did not want to occur.

I will always be grateful to the people who have worked so hard through the years to make marriage equality a reality, I never thought it would happen in my lifetime. I wish I could stand up on top of a mountain and yell, "well it's been a year, how has this decision affected your marriage."

The silence would be deafening.

[iamkeri1]

More change will come with time. As you said, we have experienced an enormous amount of progress in our lifetimes. Take that progress and run with it. So sorry Kasey gets treated badly. I hate that. African Americans still fight for there freedoms every day, and I think our people will as well. For a long time. Hell we are fighting again for birth control. Who woulda thunk?

You ARE a formidable woman MsT. You are one of the fighters that moves us forward. Thank you so much for that. We need you badly as a people.

What I want most for you, though, is happiness. You are one of those lucky folk who have found the right person to go through life with. I know you know what a blessing that is.

At the last two pride events I attended, Tampa in March and St Pete this past week-end there were especially virulent "Christians" spewing their hatred. With megaphones.

Before the killings in Orlando, I pretty much just let it roll off. But now I want it stopped. I want the police to make them leave. I do not see their speech as being constitutionally protected speech. I see it as hate speech, even as inciting to riot. Hate speech leads to hate acts. My heart is too raw to listen to these haters misquote Jesus and use the bible as justification for their acts. Where is their joy? Do they actually take joy in attacking us? If they would work to bring a little joy into their own lives, perhaps there would be less room for their self righteous anger.

Joy is what I wish for you and Kasey. One of my favorite old sayings is "Living well is the best revenge." You and Kasey are living well. There is probably way more joy in your lives that in the lives of those who stand against you.

Many Blessings
Smooches,
Keri

[MsTinkerbelly]

More change will come with time. As you said, we have experienced an enormous amount of progress in our lifetimes. Take that progress and run with it. So sorry Kasey gets treated badly. I hate that. African Americans still fight for there freedoms every day, and I think our people will as well. For a long time. Hell we are fighting again for birth control. Who woulda thunk?

You ARE a formidable woman MsT. You are one of the fighters that moves us forward. Thank you so much for that. We need you badly as a people.

What I want most for you, though, is happiness. You are one of those lucky folk who have found the right person to go through life with. I know you know what a blessing that is.


At the last two pride events I attended, Tampa in March and St Pete this past week-end there were especially virulent "Christians" spewing their hatred. With megaphones.

Before the killings in Orlando, I pretty much just let it roll off. But now I want it stopped. I want the police to make them leave. I do not see their speech as being constitutionally protected speech. I see it as hate speech, even as inciting to riot. Hate speech
leads to hate acts. My heart is too raw to listen to these haters misquote Jesus and use the bible as justification for their acts. Where is their joy? Do they actually take joy in attacking us? If they would work to bring a little joy into their own lives, perhaps there would be less room for their self righteous anger.

Joy is what I wish for you and Kasey. One of my favorite old sayings is "Living well is the best revenge." You and Kasey are living well. There is probably way more joy in your lives that in the lives of those who stand against you.

Many
Blessings
Smooches,
Keri

I am sorry that the haters tried to spoil Pride for our community...as a Christian I find it so hard to understand why they feel the need to act the way they do.

The "laws" of the old testament were put in place to show the believers of God the way to heaven. But....things don't work out so well when people have to follow laws. Human beings then chose people (Priests) to tell them how to be better with God than their neighbors...and thus Priests added MORE rules and regulations until everything was so bad God sent Jesus.

Jesus said to his followers I have two commandments for you:

Love your God above all others with your whole heart.
Love your neighbor as yourself.

In Matthew 7 (new testament) God then says "Judge not" (ok so I paraphrased that one lol). Meaning that God will be our only Judge upon our death, and if you need any guidelines look to the two things Jesus left us with.

We believers are saved by Gods grace, there is nothing else we have to do, no acts, no rules, not even religion.

That's it. Simple, or at least it should be.......

Because people are human beings, there will always be an urge in us all to be the best, to do it better than our neighbor, to be more righteous....well you get the picture. Every day I pray to be kinder, to not be quick to anger, to let the hatred of others roll off of my back.

[cathexis]

Just wanted to let those who are unaware of these rulings of Judaic Law.
1) Marriage between 2 people of the same sex is legal in Reform Judaism

2) Marriage between 2 Jews is legal in Conservative and Reconstruction Judaism. If one is a convert s/he must have had instruction, mikveh (ritual bath), Bet Dien (Jewish Court), and Shema (in front of open ark). Also, a male must be circumcised.

Unfortunately, marriage between 2 men or 2 women is still not permitted in Orthodox and Ultraorthodox denominations.

[cathexis]

Partner and I have been unable to get married due to financial reasons.

She receives EBT cash and food stamps. I receive SSDI. If we were to get married, we would lose $500/mo. with no chance for Her to get Medicaid or us to apply for HUD.

If the finances matter to you, do a little math before making the leap. We did.

[MsTinkerbelly]

In a postal survey, the Australian population has voted to allow marriage equality! The Prime Minister has agreed to abide by the non-binding survey, and marriages should be happening by Christmas.

I am a firm believer that no one gets to vote on whether another person gets equal rights, but in this case I am very happy for the people of Australia.:rrose:

[iamkeri1]

In a postal survey, the Australian population has voted to allow marriage equality! The Prime Minister has agreed to abide by the non-binding survey, and marriages should be happening by Christmas.

I am a firm believer that no one gets to vote on whether another person gets equal rights, but in this case I am very happy for the people of Australia.:rrose:

That is an astonishing thing. That people, given an opportunity to vote in the privacy of their own homes, where they were perfectly free to express whatever awful dark feelings might lurk in their souls and minds, chose to express support and acceptance instead.

And then the Prime Minister's take on it is: "OK then, Well, let's just move on with it then, shall we?

I am surprised and humbled that they made it look so easy.

Blessings to the people of Australia.
Smooches,
Keri