Rights activists hail decision to legalise same-sex marriage
Thursday 06 December 2012
Printable
EmailGay rights activists celebrated in Washington state today as a law allowing same-sex couples to wed came into force.
The measure was approved by 54 per cent of voters in a referendum and was signed in by Governor Chris Gregoire on Wednesday.
Gay and lesbian couples began picking up wedding licences today and the first marriages are expected to take place on Sunday.
"For many years we've said 'one more step'," Ms Gregoire said.
"And this is our last step for marriage equality in the state of Washington."
Heather Kawmoto and Kay Lancaster, a couple who have been together for 14 years and have a nine-year-old daughter, said marriage was "something we've hoped and dreamed of.
"We never knew we'd be able to say those things to each other."
- Cannabis possession also became legal under Washington state law today, though it remains illegal under federal law.
If you appreciated this article then please consider donating to the Morning Star's Fighting Fund to ensure we can keep developing your paper.
Editorial
It doesn't have to be like this
Official inflation figures understate the real extent of rising costs, but even the government's own CPI scheme lays bare the ongoing misery for working people and those dependent on benefits.
Features
A strategy for our victory
The Con-Dems have had it their way too long. We have to turn this country around
Education for all: let's make it a reality
How high-quality primary schooling could help solve global poverty