Yes, it really happened. the New York State Senate has finally finally stepped away from a long history of passive discrimination. (the Marriage Equality Bill passed by a vote of 33-29) What we just witnessed through television, twitter or whatever method you chose, is nothing short of revolutionary.
Because of it's population, New York's leap into the light will actually double the number of people eligible to marry their long time partner. Partners who were prohibited through legally supported discrimination.
To my friends who still harbor the damaging ill will toward equality, I forgive you. Your religious and family upbringing are what shape you and for most, there is no shaking what has been instilled in your psyche. However, those of us who challenge those notions are gaining in strength and numbers.
Four Republican State Senators joined the Civil Rights Movement this Friday evening. Roy McDonald, Steve Saland, Mark Grisanti and Jim Ales, But let me tell you this was no easy victory.
In 2009, right-wing groups helped derail marriage equality at the last minute. And just a few weeks ago, the extremist National Organization for Marriage (NOM) committed $1.5 million to stop us from passing this law. As you can see, their efforts fell short.
Currently, the District of Columbia and five states -- Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, Vermont and New Hampshire -- grant same-sex marriage licenses.
Governor Andrew Cuomo was anxious to sign what he has long championed, into law. He noted during his comments following the vote that once the bill was printed in it's long form, he would sign it so there would be less of a delay in implementation. The first scheduled nuptials begin 30 days after the Governor signs the bill.
What is curious about the new law, is the lack of residential restriction. Other states require that you live there for a year or so. New York will welcome couples from across the country. Considering the influx of new weddings and the financial impact we will experience, should we label this act as a step toward job growth in New York? Hmmm
5 comments:
Amen! It's time to move on and face the real challenges we face like the rising cost of living and health care.
Do you really think that same sex couples will live here after they have flocked here to get married? They cannot afford to live here like a lot of New Yorkers who are stuck here with a house to sell. Couples will use that benefit and move on.
If you are looking for revenue out of the new legislation then you will need to require a residency regulation of some type before they can marry in NY. At least a year????
I think this will be a shot in the arm for New York's economy. Sure, the wedding industry will benefit tremendously, but the rest of the business community will see the positive effects as well.
As for those churches who continue to discriminate, I say let them continue to do so. It has no impact on me. The denominations that embrace all people will see their coffers and attendance rise as nuptial ceremonies fill their calendars. They're no fools.
To our State Senators...Thank you for making New York resemble a 21st century state. Equality has eluded us for much too long.
Thomas
We have a guy Democratic nominee for Mayor in Hayes Clement, it's histric he may be the first gay mayor. Im voting for one of his opponents though. Maybe someday you will be Kingston's fist gay mayor.
All very good points. I don't see the harm is this. My question is for the politicans. If the Independence supports this and the Conservatives oppose this how do you take and they give endorsements to the same person. Did Gaddy and Bernardo sell their souls? Are our legislators hippocrits?
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