One Year of Marriage in NY: What Does it Mean?
July 24, 2012 by Eric Cameron, Digital Media Associate
One year ago today, marriage equality took effect in New York. It was a momentous day for the state and the LGBT movement, providing hope and inspiration to millions of LGBT Americans and fair-minded allies across the country.
For HRC members and supporters, it was also a day to celebrate the success of the largest field effort in the organization’s history.
New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Council Speaker Christine Quinn announced earlier today that same-sex marriage has provided $259 million in economic benefits to the city of New York. Speaker Quinn, who played a leading role in drumming up support for last year’s historic victory, had this to say about the anniversary:
With the dedicated efforts of HRC, Governor Cuomo and other fierce champions of equality, thousands of New Yorkers- including myself- have been able to marry the person they love, regardless of gender. In just one year, federal courts have overturned DOMA, President Obama has publicly announced his support of marriage equality, and courts around the country have issued historic decisions to make our nation a more just and equal place. I’m proud of all we have accomplished in the name of equality and will not stop fighting until all people can marry the person they love.
In the past year, we’ve seen the momentum from our victory in New York continue in the direction of love, fairness and equality for all Americans. Yet the fight is far from over, and with key marriage equality battles in Maryland, Minnesota, Maine and Washington state this fall, HRC remains focused on the ongoing, nationwide fight for full LGBT equality.
Photos (c) David Jacobs/HRC
