The Empire State Building draped in Rainbow colours as LGBTs worldwide celebrated this historical victory
As the New York Senate passed a historic vote legalizing same-sex marriage, LGBTs in and outside New York- the birthplace of the gay liberation movement- burst out in spontaneous celebrations. Here is what gay and straight Americans felt as they shared their views on the New York Times website:
Already legally married in NY and still sobbing. I am so happy and proud that we have finally joined this century and decided bigotry and discrimination was passe.
Jennifer, Bronx, NY
As a native New Yorker I can’t express how delighted and proud I am of the New York State Senate this evening. I know that some of you had to wrestle with this vote, but you came down on the side of the angels. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
M. Paquin, Savannah, GA
My joy at this moment of civil rights victory for gays and lesbians is indescribable. I will always remember this day. As a 58 y/o gay man, why did it take me so long to understand that our struggle is about civil rights?
We have no Martin Luther King – just millions of courageous men and women like me, who knew in their souls that all that they were was indeed, sacred and blessed by our creator.
DMS, San Jose, CA
16 years together with my partner. Married 2+ years ago in CT. Still a wonderful day for us! About time, New York, but at least we got there! Thanks to everyone who worked for this!
Jess, New York
I have never been more proud to call myself a New Yorker. I congratulate both sides of the aisle for the civilized and dignified manner in which they conducted themselves on a highly charged issue. What a shining example for the rest of the country.
I especially congratulate the brave votes by the last two Republicans to decide in favor of the bill. They undoubtedly will be “charged” as the cause for passage, and, proudly, they are “credited” as the cause. To both of you I say, if it costs you your seat, you can stand proud of what you did tonight. I doubt you will forget it the rest of your lives, nor should you as it may be your finest professional hour.
I also thank the Governor. This article makes clear what true leadership is and the commitmment and determination needed to pass this kind of legislation. I rarely feel better about a vote for a politician after they have served in office, but tonight I am prouder than ever that I voted for you Governor.
Craig, New York, NY
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo signing the bill into law
There are tears in my eyes as I type this. Tears of joy to know New York now is the home of marriage equality. But sadly, tears of sadness as well knowing I can never celebrate with my partner of 23 years, the great love of my life, lost to cancer three years ago. If Don were here now, we’d be among the first to apply for an official license. But still, I’m thrilled for all my gay and lesbian brothers and sisters who have earned the right to marry. “All of my wishes are with you tonight. I’ve had a love of my own, like you. I’ve had a love of my own.”
Kofender, New York City
Happy to pay my fair share of taxes now in this truly great state.
Senator Grisanti – we have your back my friend.
Bill, New York
Massachusetts – the first in the nation to legalize gay marriage – congratulates New York on this momentous and moving day in history and warmly welcomes you to the club of fair-minded states.
L Molnar, Provincetown, Massachusetts
A memory from about fifteen years ago: my sister and I sitting at our kitchen table, passionately and self-righteously condemning those who would oppose same-sex relationships (we were young, and I don’t think either of us even knew anyone who was openly gay). We asked our mother her thoughts, fully expecting her to join our tirade; and I recall our shock and irritation when she instead expressed mixed emotions before raising the unfortunate “sanctity of marriage” argument. But then, just a few months later, a college-aged friend of my sister’s came out. When she was subsequently disowned by her parents, my mother was the first to say, “Please come live in my home.”
People can and do and will continue to change. When I showed this headline to my mom tonight, she cheered.
TR, NJ
To be honest, I worried about whether it was really healthy for a child to be brought up by two parents of the same sex. And then I just read the comments of many of the readers of Fox News, remarks filled with hatred and bigotry and ignorance. What kind of environment will their kids have? Our kids are much better brought up by people with compassion than people with hate…..what their genders are seems comparatively inconsequential.
Ralph H., Cortland
New Yorkers celebrate at the historic Stonewall Inn
I was making telephone calls a couple of years ago when my state was debating the issue and one lady said to me, “I certainly do not. I’m a Christian!” And I responded, “Well, ma’am, I’m not a Christian, but I’m still a better Christian than you are.”
No, actually, I said, “Thank you” and hung up.
Congratulations, NY. Congratulations, Andrew Cuomo. Congratulations, all who believe that we are created equal and entitled to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
On Wisconsin, dammit!
Walt, Wisconsin
