–Scott

This Week’s Woody Award:

This week’s Woody award honors goes to the proponents of Proposition 8, who are running an ad this week that makes all kinds of false claims about lawsuits against churches and how we’re coming for the children. See it here, and marvel at how low these sad folks will go. Enjoy your collective woody, Yes on 8!

Runner up goes to the student council at American River College in Sacramento, who, led by a group of Slavic Christian students, voted in support of Prop 8, claming their vote was “to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., who … said ‘It’s God’s plan that every child shall have a good father and good mother.” Just like most right wingers – twist things around so the straight white christian male is the oppressed victim. Sorry guys, but our woody already went to the Prop 8 folks – you’ll have to find one of your own.

Oh, and enjoy this fun tidbit from a Lake County (CA) screed against gay marriage: “Our public policy should encourage that freedom to pursue a lifestyle specifically pleasing to God where sex, like fire in a fireplace, is a part of a marriage between one man and on woman.” Another place to cross off the vacation list.

Events of the Last Week:

9/28/08:

Savage Garden’s Darren Hayes: “I would love to see my marriage recognised here [in Australia], more than anything as a sign of reciprocal respect for Richard,” Hayes said. Source

Ecuador: Ecuador approved a new constitution with a 64 percent “yes” vote, in the process legalizing civil unions. Source

Greece: Dozens of gays and lesbians protested outside parliament on Monday against the conservative government’s attempt to overturn Greece’s first same-sex marriages. Source

USA: Christian fundamentalists are suggesting gays and lesbians are to blame for Wall Street’s woes, a frequently made charge in the wake of national calamities. Source

USA, California: Chino’s School District voted unanimously to support Prop 8. Source

USA, California: Bishop Jamie Soto of Sacramento spoke at the National Association of Catholic Diocesan Lesbian and Gay Ministries, surprising attendees by calling them deviants and urging a yes vote on Prop 8. Source

USA, Connecticut: Roughly 2,800 people converged on the steps of the state Capitol in Hartford on Sunday, Sept. 28 for a Family Institute of Connecticut (FIC) rally to raise support for a constitutional convention to block gay marriage efforts there. Source

USA, New Hampshire: Lawmakers will be debating at least two bills dealing with gay marriage when they return to Concord in January, one that would legalize gay marriage, and another that would repeal recognition of civil unions/gay weddings performed in other states. Source

USA, Washington: The agency that regulates the state’s lawyers has come out in favor of equal marriage rights for same-sex couples. Source

9/29/08:

Morocco: An international congress on gay rights in Muslim countries has been told that the north African nation of Morocco may grant rights to homosexuals “within fifty years.” Source

USA, California: The group of Republicans, including Governor Schwarzenegger, who oppose California’s ballot measure to ban gay marriage, have released an ad, titled “Freedom Is a Republican Value.” Source

USA, Florida: Opponents of a proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution protested against Orlando Magic owner Rich DeVos on the day season-ticket holders were selecting their seats. DeVos contributed $100,000 to Florida4Marriage, a group that supports Amendment 2. Source

USA, Utah: Laura Milliken Gray, a woman who fought for gay marriage rights in Utah, is leaving the country to be with her partner in England because she is not allowed to come to the US. Source

Ecuador: Ecuadorian citizens voted to pass a revised version of the Ecuadorian Constitution that, amongst other things, guarantees civil rights (including civil unions affording all the rights of marriage) for gays and lesbians. Source

9/30/08:

India: A high court in Dehli is considering arguments for and against legalizing homosexuality there. Source

USA, Florida: Latino Faith “Leaders” come out in support of Amendment 2. Source

10/1/08:

John McCain trys to win over the gay vote by hinting in an interview with the Washington Blade that he’d support a review of the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. Source

Right-wing radio host Michael Savage blamed the financial meltdown on Wall Street on gay people. Source

Sarah Palin believes being gay is a choice, she says in her interview with Katie Couric. Source

Bulgaria: According to a new poll, 80% of all Bulgarians have negative attitudes towards gay people, whereas 59% are extremely homophobic. Source

Canada: Police are investigating whether a federal candidate running as an Independent committed a hate crime by telling high school students in northern Ontario that homosexuals should be “executed.” Source

USA, Arizona: A new survey by KAET-TV, the Phoenix PBS affiliate, shows that 49% say they’ll vote for Prop 102, while 42% are opposed and 9% are undecided. Source

USA, California: Gay Ohio entrepreneur and political activist Jonathan Lewis issued a challenge of sorts to Los Angeles’s entertainment industry… raise $500,000 for No on Prop. 8, and he and his family will match the contributions dollar for dollar. Source

USA, California: A supposed “liberal against gay marriage” being used by supporters of Prop 8 has been unmasked as a right-wing conservative. Source

USA, California: A new poll by SurveyUSA shows Prop 8 trailing by 44 to 49%, a narrower margin than in other polls. Source

USA, Kentucky: Two “experts” will discuss gay marriage at a forum at Northern Kentucky University on 10/7/08. Source

USA, Montana: A judge ruled in favor of a woman who sought parental rights to a boy and girl adopted by her former same-sex partner, a decision described as a first for Montana. Source

USA, Utah: The number of same sex couples living together in Utah has increased from just over 3,300 in 2000 to more than 5,500 in 2007, according to the American Community Survey, an extension of the U.S. Census. Source

10/2/08:

Melissa Etheridge plans to marry her girlfriend before Californians vote next month on the gay marriage law. Source

Senator Joe Biden and Governor Sarah Palin discussed gay marriage at the VP debate in St. Louis. Source

Chargers second-stringer Jacques Cesaire and former San Diego State/Oakland Raider linebacker Akbar Gbaja-Biamila appeared on a Christian radio show to argue against gay marriage. Source

USA, Arizona: A new survey by KAET-TV, the Phoenix PBS affiliate, shows that 49% say they’ll vote for Prop 102, while 42% are opposed and 9% are undecided. Source

USA, California: The American River College Student Council, five of whom are slavic christians, voted to back Proposition 8. A recall petition is already being circulated. Source

USA, California: A hearing on Proposition 8 today by a joint panel of the state Senate and Assembly judiciary commit
tees became heated when proponents of both sides of the issue spoke on the issue. Source

USA, California: Supporters of Prop 8 have raised $19.2 million so far, while opponents have raised $13.6 million. Source

USA, California: Pepperdine University distances itself from a pro Proposition 8 ad featuring a professor from the university. Source

USA, California: A gay advocacy law firm that helped win the fight for gay marriage in San Francisco has dissolved. Source

USA, Connecticut: Boaz ItsHaky, the Republican candidate for Greater New Haven’s U.S. Congress seat, is distancing himself from his state party boss’s remarks about gay rights, saying he supports legislation to upgrade civil unions to include all the benefits of marriage. Source

USA, Connecticut: Love Makes a Family, a Connecticut GLBT equality organization, is initiating a new program to advocate for marriage equality. FaithAction offers a series of training sessions for people of all faiths. Source

USA, Massachusetts: The board of the statewide gay political group MassEquality voted unanimously Sept. 29 to endorse Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama’s bid for the White House. Source

10/3/08:

Fall Out Boy has donated $50,000 to efforts to defeat California’s Proposition 8. Source

Portugal: The governing Socialist Party will block an attempt by smaller parties to pass legislation allowing same-sex marriages in Portugal, a senior official said. Source

USA: the Uniting American Families Act, a bill that would grant equal immigration rights to same-sex couples in bi-national relationships, made strides forward when four more senators and 16 more representatives joined in co-sponsoring the legislation. Source

USA, Arizona: Supporters of Prop 102 have raised $6.9 million, 17 times more than opponents have raised, according to figures released Thursday. Source

USA, California: Supporters of Prop 8 had their plan to plant a million signs against the measure at the same time foiled by “production delays”. Source

USA, California: The State of California caved after a Roseville couple sued over gender-neutral marriage licenses. The state added bride and groom back to the form with checkboxes. saying gay and lesbian coupkles can just leave the boxes blank. Source

USA, Colorado: Anti-gay-marriage Representative Marilyn Musgrave (R-CO) is losing her race against democratic challenger Betsy Markey by 43% to 50%, according to a new survey. Source

USA, Florida: Mayor Buddy Dyer announced plans Thursday to offer domestic-partner benefits to gay city employees when the City Council approves changes to its employee health-care policy Monday. Source

USA, Iowa: The Iowa Supreme Court says it will hear arguments in a case challenging the state’s law banning gay marriage on December 9th. Source

USA, Oregon: Republican U.S. Sen. Gordon Smith is airing a new TV ad touting his support for a law to protect gays from hate crimes. But he opposes gay marriage, according to Basic Rights Oregon. Source

USA, Pennsylvania: A Presbyterian minister did not violate church law when she officiated at the wedding of two
women because in the eyes of the state and the church, no marriage occurred, a church panel ruled Thursday. Source

Great Articles/Columns Last Week:

^ Hollywood urged to give more to save gay marriage, by Jill Serjeant
^ Lack of same-sex equality a sign of U.S. lagging behind the world in social issues, by Andrew Swan
^ Prop. 8 and teaching to the marriage test, by Meghan Daum

^ Book Review: ‘Homo Domesticus: Notes from a Same-Sex Marriage’, by Neil Placky
^ Mourning the Maverick, by Maggie Mertens
^ Campaign Q&A: Sam and Julia Thoron, by Malcolm Maclachlan
^ Prop. 102 another cause for concern, by Matt Wavrin
^ More Than Just the Gay Thing… Why I’m Voting for Barack Obama, by Matt Bell
^ I don’t want to be liked…just to get a little respect, says Doctor Who star John Barrowman, by Jenny Johnston
^ The Game is Changing, by Andrea Boyarsky
^ Confessions of a Recovering Republican, by Andrea Boyarsky

History by Region (Last Four Months):

ARGENTINA
Legal Status: Civil Unions (some areas)
The Story So Far: On 8/18, Argentina extended its pension system to cover same-sex couples.

AUSTRALIA
Legal Status: No Federal Recognition; Some Local Domestic Partner
Australia Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far:

July: On 7/1, The Tasmanian Greens called for a conscience vote on a bill to allow gay marriage in Tasmania. On 7/4, Matthew Mitcham, a gay 20-year-old diver set to represent Australia at the 2008 Olympic Games in August has said that the country’s Prime Minister is “narrow-a Victorian country town was been divided over a lesbian “wedding” carried out in a public square dedicated to fallen Diggers.

August: 8/3 marked the 4th annual National Day of Action for same-sex marriage in Australia – hundreds of people took to the streets in Sydney and Melbourne calling on the federal government to repeal its ban on same-sex marriage. On 8/14, the ACT Government has done a U-turn on the issue of same-sex unions and says it will not support a Greens push to reinstate its original legislation. On 8/20, Kogarah Council, in Sydney, moved to recognise same-sex marriages and unions in deciding benefits for council employees and residents. On 8/28, General Robert McClelland said changes to family law will make life easier for de facto couples – straight or gay – who are breaking up. A bill before parliament would allow de facto couples to sort out their finances and arrangements for children in the one court, in the one proceeding. On 8/29, Labor’s new gay senator Louise Pratt, the first member of parliament with a transgendered partner, used her maiden speech to break from ALP policy and call for gay marriage to be legalised.

September: On 9/4, The Same-Sex Entitlements Bill was introduced in the Federal Parliament – the bill aims to ensure equal treatment for gay and lesbian couples. As of 9/13, Three progressive rabbis agreed to conduct a wedding ceremony in Sydney for bookshop owner Scott Whitmont, 47, and nurse Christopher Whitmont-Stein, 38. As of 9/14, a bill to start reforming over 100 Australian laws discriminating against same sex couples was working its way through the legislature, but may again be delayed by the Liberal Party. As of 9/17, lobby group Australian Marriage Equality (AME) launched a new push for gay and lesbian marriage rights, drawing the ire of Federal Labor ministers in the process. A same-sex commitment ceremony was held in a synagogue in Sydney, an Australian first. On 9/26, a new bill was been passed by the Australian lower house aimed at ensuring equal treatment for gay and lesbian couples. Now through Federal Parliament, the Same-Sex Entitlements Bill moves to the Senate. And Senator Brandis said the Coalition would support the changes — including the bill that passed the House of Representatives, that would alter 68 pieces of Commonwealth law.

AUSTRIA
Legal Status: Limited Civil Union Rights
The Story So Far: On 7/12, About 120,000 people in colourful and often scanty dress took part in Vienna’s annual Rainbow Parade on Saturday to call for equal rights for gays and lesbians

BRAZIL
Legal Status: Civil Unions (some areas)
Brazil Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: “Gay couples exist and we must give them legal recognition”, the President of Brazil said on 9/18.

BULGARIA
Legal Status: n/a
The Story So Far: As of 9/27, a proposed revision of the country’s Family Code left out gay marriage entirely.

CANADA
Legal Status: Gay Marriage
Canada Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: 7/9 was the 5 year anniversary of legal gay marriage in British Columbia. On 7/17, it was reported that same-sex unions are growing at five times the rate of opposite-sex ones according to census numbers.

CAYMAN ISLANDS
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
The Story So Far: As of 7/10, an amendment to legislation in the Cayman Islands defining marriage as between a man and a woman was expected to get support from the government and opposition. On 9/7, Cayman Islands lawmakers voted in favour of a ban on same sex marriages following a debate Friday in the Legislative Assembly. Passage still requires the formality of a third vote. On 9/8, the anti-gay-marriage amendment here received its final, formal passage in the Legislative Assembly.

COSTA RICA
Legal Status: N/A
The Story So Far: On 7/14, bishops of Costa Rica warn that rights for gay unions undermine family. On 7/26, some 20,000 people from around Costa Rica dressed in white t-shirts paraded down a main street in San José to express their opposition to a legislative proposal to make gay marriage legal. On 8/9, the nation’s highest court ruled that gay inmates in Costa Rica do not have the right to conjugal visits. The decision may be revisited if Costa Rica allows gay marriage.

ESTONIA
Legal Status: n/a
The Story So Far: As of 7/30, the Ministry of Justice in Estonia is preparing a draft law which would allow same-sex partners to register their cohabitation.

EUROPE
The Story So Far: On 7/3, the International Gay and Lesbian Association broadly welcomed the new discrimination directive announced by the European Commission yesterday, but said that gay and lesbian people who want to get married will still face discrimination.

FIJI
Legal Status: n/a
The Story So Far: On 9/10, Members of a local choir were freaked out after a mock-wedding featuring two women was held at a local resort where the choir was asked to sing.

FRANCE
Legal Status: Civil Unions
France Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: On 7/25, Fashion designer Marc Jacobs reportedly will wed his Brazilian boyfriend Lorenzo Martone in Paris, France, this weekend. As of 8/28, Bertrard Delanoe, mayor of Paris and one of Europe’s most high-profile gay politicians, planned to run for leader of France’s Parti Socialiste.

GERMANY
Legal Status: Civil Unions
The Story So Far: As of 8/22, in the first five years after the introduction of registered partnerships, about 12,000 (about 20 percent) same-sex couples in Germany have entered into this lifetime bond.

HUNGARY
Legal Status: Civil Unions
The Story So Far: On 7/5, Forty-five people were taken into custody and 10 others were injured in clashes between police and homophobes during a gay rights march in the Hungarian capital Saturday, reports said. As of 9/3, the Constitutional Court placed the issue of registered partnerships for same-sex couples on its docket for its autumn session, and may declare a new domestic partner registration law unconstitutional before it is due to take effect ehre in January.

INDIA
Legal Status: n/a
The Story So Far: As of 9/19, gay activists were seeking the repeal of a decades-old law governing sexual behavior.

IRELAND
Legal Status: n/a
The Story So Far:

July: On 7/5, Church of Ireland Primate Alan Harper reignited the controversy after suggesting that scientific breakthroughs may mean homosexual relationships are sanctioned by the Church. On 7/9, An Anglican Archbishop who made a speech that appeared to give the go-ahead for same-sex marriage has clarified his position today, basically saying he only meant to call for a dialoge, not to change church policy on same sex marriage. On 7/10, A gay couple living on the Northside called on the Government to treat them as fully equal citizens by extending full marriage rights to them. On 7/28, A forum that advises the Irish government on equality and social inclusion said that there has been progress on gay rights in the past five years.

MEXICO
Legal Status: Civil Unions (some areas)
Mexico Gay Wedding Vendors

NETHERLANDS
Legal Status: Gay Marriage
The Story So Far: As of 7/18, The Dutch civil service has developed a new name for “maiden name” so married gay men won’t feel awkward. “Geboortenaam” translates to “birth name”. It will replace maiden name on official forms. On 8/12, the Justice Ministry proposed a new Dutch law would make it easier for the partner of a lesbian mother to become the legal parent of a child born into the relationship.

NETHERLANDS ANTILLES
Legal Status: Gay Marriage
The Story So Far: On 7/24, the Court of First Instance in Willemstad ruled that married gay couples in the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba have the same rights as in the Netherlands, and the colony plans to appeal the ruling. On 8/4, the Dutch Minister of Education, Culture and Science Ronald Plasterk said the Netherlands Antilles wil ultimately have to recognize gay marriages performed in the Netherlands, even if they do not allow such weddings to be peformed in the islands.

NEW ZEALAND
Legal Status: Civil Unions
New Zealand Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: As of 7/2, Green MP Metiria Turei’s private member’s bill aiming to legalise adoption by same-sex couples has been taken out of the parliamentary ballot. On 8/25, the retiring MP who spearheaded the successful campaign to legally acknowledge same sex relationships in New Zealand, via the controversial Civil Unions legislation, has thrown doubt on whether legal same-sex marriage will become available to glbt Kiwis any time soon, or ever.

NORWAY
Legal Status: Gay Marriage

PANAMA
Legal Status: n/a
The Story So Far: On 7/29, Panamanian President Martín Torrijos Espino signed a decree repealing a 1949 law that criminalized sodomy under penalty of a $500 fine or jail time.

PHILIPPINES
Legal Status: n/a
The Story So Far: On 8/29, the country’s Supreme Court ruled that being gay is not a valid ground to have one’s marriage annulled; hiding such a fact is.

PORTUGAL
Legal Status: n/a
The Story So Far: As of 9/20, a conference for parliamentary leaders was been scheduled for October 10th on legal gay unions between two people of the same sex. As of 9/24, Portugese politicians differed on what rights to allow gay and lesbian couples.

SAUDI ARABIA
Legal Status: n/a
The Story So Far: On 7/30, 50 men were arrested for allegedly participating in a “homosexual wedding.”

SENEGAL
Legal Status: n/a
The Story So Far: On 8/29, a court in sentenced a same-sex couple to two years in prison for marrying in Belgium.

SOUTH AFRICA
Legal Status: Gay Marriage
The Story So Far: On 7/8, A lesbian couple was turned away from an East London resort where they had planned to marry, because the owner disapproved on religious grounds. On8/29, what is believed to be the first lesbian divorce in South Africa since gay marriages were legalised in 2006 was finalised in the Cape High Court on Friday.

SPAIN
Legal Status: Gay Marriage
Spain Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: On 7/3, a National Court judge said gay marriage should not be declared unconstitutional. On 7/22, with strong support from the Spanish government led by Socialist Prime Minister José Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, the nation’s federation of queer activist groups, La Federación Estatal de Lesbianas, Gays, Transexuales y Bisexuales (FELGTB), on July 22 won official consultative status to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). On 7/29, a “pro-family” activist group in Spain filed charges against the organisers of the 2008 Madrid Gay Pride march, accusing them of hate speech. On 8/14, Laura Alabau, who has persistently refused to marry gay couples, stood down from her post. On 9/18, the disciplinary committe of the General Council of Judicial Power (CGPJ) delivered another controversial ruling by lifting a 305 euro fine imposed in May last year on Dénia judge, Laura Alabau, for publicly questioning the constitutionality of homosexual marriages and for refusing to officiate at them.

UGANDA
Legal Status: n/a
The Story So Far: On 7/28, a leading gay rights organisation said that a Ugandan human rights activist was tortured by police. On 9/14, a pastor at Makerere Community Church received an award for his fight against homosexuality and gay marriage.

UNITED KINGDOM
Legal Status: Civil Unions
England Gay Wedding Vendors
Wales Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far:

July: On 7/5, London Mayor Boris Johnson, once a foe of gay rights, marched in the gay pride parade here wearing a pink cowboy hat. And the two gay vicars whose church marriage blessing plunged the Anglican communion into fresh turmoil over homosexuality have triggered a new controversy which threatens to embroil the Queen. On 7/12, the Christian registrar won her case against the Islington city council, and will not have to officiate for gay/lesbian couples. On 7/15, it was reported that the registrar in Islington who claimed her Christian belief wass so fundamental that she could not conduct civil partnerships is an unmarried single mother. On 7/22, The British Soap Coronation Street is planning on introducing its first lesbian character. On 7/26, Top Tory Alan Duncan and his partner James Dunseath were married.

August: On 8/4, it was reported that the Reverend Canon Rodney Bomford, 65, and gardener Paddy O’Neil were given approval by a Bishop to enter into a civil union because their relationship is not sexual. On 8/7, it was revealed that the Archbishop of Canterbury wrote letters in 2000 & 2001 disclosing his personal position supporting a sort of moral equivalency between homosexual paramours sexual activity and marital love. As of 8/8, it was reported that only about one percent of marriages between same-sex couples in the UK have so far ended in divorce.

September: On 9/4, Sir Cliff Richard called on church to bless gay marriage. As of 9/11, it was announced that UK Treasury Minister Angela Eagle plans to marry her long-term partner, Maria Exall. On 9/22 in Wales, a vicar carried out a church blessing of a lesbian “wedding”, in defiance of Anglican rules.

UNITED STATES (see individual states below)
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
The Story So Far:

July: On 7/1, Feit Publishing Ventures has announced plans to move ahead with a magazine devoted to marriages of every sort: interracial, inter-denominational, so-called destination weddings… and same-sex weddings, too. As of 7/4, a group that opposes same-sex marriage has called for a boycott of McDonald’s, saying the fast-food giant has refused “to stay neutral in the cultural war over homosexuality.” On 7/11, McDonald’s returned fire, saying family advocates opposed to their affiliation with pro-homosexual organizations are guilty of “hate.” On 7/12, it’s reported that same-sex couples won’t be counted as married in the 2010 census, despite what their California marriage license says because the Bureau is playing strictly by the federal rule book on this one. On 6/16, a new study showed that 65% of African Americans are against gay marriage in the US, as opposed to 53% of Whites. As of 7/17, 52% of respondents to a new Pew poll oppose allowing gay and lesbian couples to marry legally, while 40% are in favor. In 2006, it was 56% against and 35% in favor. On 7/29, it was reported that Monica M. Goodling, an aide in the Justice Department, exercised what amounted to veto power over a wide range of critical jobs, asking candidates for their views on abortion and same-sex marriage. As of 7/30, a new study showed that fay and lesbian couples with children and strong religious beliefs were more likely than their peers to hold commitment ceremonies. On 7/31, a new study by UCLA’s Williams Institute found that more than 85,000 couples have already signed up for legal recognition in eleven states – 40% of all same-sex couples in these states. On

August: 8/4, a new study was published by UCLA’s Williams Institute that found that same-sex couples eagerly take advantage of the ability to marry or form civil unions when presented with the opportunity.. On 8/7, gay activists pushed the U.S. Census Bureau to reconsider its decision to ignore same-sex marriages. On 8/14, an all-but-final draft of the 2008 Democratic Party platform, approved by the full 186-member Platform Committee at an August 9 meeting in Pittsburgh, put the party on record in opposition to the federal Defense of Marriage Act, in support of a “comprehensive” Employment Non-Discrimination Act, and more generally in favor of the fight to end discrimination against numerous categories of Americans, including those who are gay, lesbian, and transgendered. As of 8/18, American voters oppose same-sex marriage 55 – 36 percent, but they don’t want government to get involved in banning the practice, according to a Quinnipiac University national poll released today. As of 8/20, a new poll shows that among LGBT registered voters Democrat Barack Obama has a clear lead – with 68 percent favoring the Illinois Senator. On 8/21, Hallmark came out with same-sex wedding cards – featuring two tuxedos, overlapping hearts or intertwined flowers, with best wishes inside. “Two hearts. One promise,” one says. And it was reported that the Employment Non Discrimination Act contains a clause that would allow companies to continue to treat legally married gay couples differently than straight couples when providing benefits. As of 8/22, a new survey showed that more Americans now believe that religious institutions should stay out of politics, after a decade of support for church involvement in social and political issues. On 8/23, it’s reported that 1,049 US newspapers now accept same sex wedding announcements.

September: On 9/2, a recently released CBS/New York Times poll showed a slight increase, compared to 2004, in the number of Republican delegates that support some form of legal recognition for same-sex couples. And the Log Cabin Republicans officially threw their support behind Sen. John McCain in the GOP candidate’s bid for the White House this week amid festivities at the Republican National Convention. A new study release on 9/19 found that people who are frightened of spiders are more likely to support capital punishment and hate gay marriage. Recently published, Uncle Bobby’s Wedding, a new picture book on gay marriage, adds to the ever-growing diversity in today’s children’s literature.

ALABAMA
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act & Constitutional Amendment
Alabama Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: On 7/21, the DNC funded an anti-gay “Faith & Voters Guide” here in 2006 that included a plan to “defeat any efforts to redefine marriage or provide the benefits of marriage to a same-sex union”.

ARIZONA
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
Arizona Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far:

July: On 7/5, retired AZ Rep. Jim Kolbe, the only gay republican to serve in the AZ house, withdrew his support of Senate President Tim Bee’s campaign after Bee voted to put the anti-same-sex-marriage referendum on the ballot. As of 7/22, the dust-up in the Senate debate over gay marriage on the last night of the legislative session had one lawmaker seeking to have another one formally reprimanded: Sen. Ken Cheuvront, D-Phoenix, said Sen. Jack Harper, R-Surprise, used his position to illegally interrupt debate, and then purposely ignored legal protests. As of 7/23, Out the Vote, a voter registration drive geared toward gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transgender voters is ramping up in the face of an electric presidential contest and a statewide ballot measure to ban gay marriage. On 7/30, Ariz. Senate ethics panel OK’d probe of referendum to prohibit same-sex marriage. On 7/31, the gay and lesbian community and its local and national allieslaunched a campaign to defeat Prop 102, the anti-gay constitutional amendment on the November ballot.

August: On 8/5, a Senate panel voted to hear from Sen. Jack Harper, R-Surprise, and the senator who filed an ethics complaint against him, but not anyone else for now if ever. On 8/12, a legislative committee dismissed an ethics complaint Tuesday against a lawmaker accused of breaking rules to force a vote to put a same-sex marriage ban on the ballot. On 8/23, Secretary of State Jan Brewer went to court to avoid having to tell Arizona voters that state law already bars same-sex marriage, because that might cause voters to vote against the measure. And eight gay, lesbian and bisexual young people aged 19 to 28 walked 96 miles through the metro area to the state Capitol to raise awareness about gay rights and the fall referendum that would add a gay-marriage ban to the state constitution. On 8/27, Attorney Peter Gentala quietly dropped the lawsuit he had filed the day before to limit what information voters are given on the ballot of Proposition 102 – the description will still tell voters that gay marriage is already illegal in the state.

September: On 9/4, Wingspan, Southern Arizona’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community center, hosted an event that was the first step in a group effort to oppose Proposition 102. And Arizona’s two Catholic bishops are urging the faithful to vote for Prop 102 to constitutionally ban gays from marrying in the state. On 9/18, more than 800 pastors, mostly evangelical Christian clergy, gathered at the Arizona Biltmore Resort in Phoenix to hear how important they will be in getting their parishioners and the state’s voters to make marriage limited to one man and one woman.

ARKANSAS
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
Arkansas Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: On 7/3, an organization collecting signatures to place an initiative on the November ballot to ban unmarried couples from adopting or fostering children in Arkansas said Thursday it will submit its petitions by the 7/7 deadline but will likely need more time to get the number required. On 7/24, it was reported that supporters of a proposal that would ban unmarried couples living together from adopting or fostering children in Arkansas did not gather enough signatures to secure a place on the November ballot, but were given a 30 day extension. On 9/23, anti-gay Tony Alamo Christian Ministries was raided by Arkansas and federal authorities Saturday, in search of child pornography.

CALIFORNIA
Legal Status: Gay Marriage as of 6/15/08; Possible Constitutional Amendment in Nov 08 Ballot
California Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far:

July: On 7/1, Westminister College Professor Jeffrey Nielsen, an LDS member, wrote his own open letter to California’s Mormons, encouraging them not to support the anti-gay-marriage amendment. On 7/8, Kern County supervisors shot down a proposal to define marriage between a man and woman in Kern County, saying to do so would be illegal. On 7/9, Gay rights supporters and their union allies launched a boycott of the Manchester Grand Hyatt because its owner, Doug Manchester, contributed $125,000 to Proposition 8, an amendment to ban same-sex marriage on the November ballot. One United Methodist Church legislative body in California has gone on record supporting those who enter into same-sex marriage and another has commended pastors who agree to perform same-sex marriage ceremonies. In San Diego, a series of e-mails from county employees who objected to performing same-sex marriage ceremonies was released this week under the California Public Records Act. And a boycott was called to protest the conservative leanings of William J. Bolthouse, who used to own part of Wm. Bolthouse Farms Inc., which makes juices, dressings, and other products sold in San Francisco and elsewhere. In March, Bolthouse contributed $100,000 to ProtectMarriage.com, a group behind Proposition 8. On 7/10, a new study by the University of California, conducted by four retired U.S. military officers, concluded “evidence shows that allowing gays and lesbians to serve openly is unlikely to pose any significant risk to morale, good order, discipline, or cohesion.” As of 7/18, a new nonpartisan Field Poll found that 51 percent of likely voters oppose Prop. 8, while 42 percent are in favor, and just 7% are undecided. On 7/20, The San Francisco Convention and Visitor’s Bureau added a new feature to its website that helps guide same-sex visitors through the process of getting married. On 7/23, a California labor group that represents 1,200 union locals and 2.1 million union members in that state voted unanimously on July 23 to oppose Proposition 8. And the majority Republican City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to oppose Proposition 8, intended to define marriage in California as between a man and a woman. On 7/25, it was reported that San Diego’s official tourism and convention bureau is staging a “Here Comes the Pride” give away aimed at same sex couples. And the Secretary of State’s Office changed the ballot title and summary of Prop 8 to describe the initiative as a constitutional change to eliminate the right of same sex couples to marry, and to say the state could lose several tens of millions of dollars in sales taxes if same-sex marriage were banned. Opponents of same sex marriage planned to falsely claim that Prop 8 would protect children as young as kindergarten age from being taught in school about the virtues of gay and lesbian matrimony. And LAPD Chief Bratton backed gay marriage with checkbook. On 7/26, Bruce Bastian, co-founder of WordPerfect from Utah, wrote a $1 million check for the campaign against Proposition 8. And the ballot title and summary for Prop 8, now describes the initiative as a constitutional change to eliminate the right of same sex couples to marry. On 7/29, Supporters of Proposition 8 said they would file suit to block the description change. On 7/30, the owner of a San Diego-based storage company whose family has donated nearly $300,000 to end California same-sex marriage, became the latest target of the Californians Against Hate awareness campaign. And Pacific Gas and Electric Co., California’s largest investor-owned utility, has contributed $250,000 to defeat a ballot measure that would ban same-sex marriage in the state. As of 7/31, a Mercury News analysis of campaign fundraising reports filed Thursday shows gay marriage supporters raised about $1.6 million since the May 15 court ruling – almost three times more than the lead groups supporting a constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage raised in late May and June. And a second Field Poll has found that Californians do not plan to amend the state constitution Nov. 4 to re-ban same-sex marriage.

August: On 8/1, the Grossmont Union High School District in San Diego went on record supporting Prop 8. As of 8/3, The San Leandro school board was considering a resolution to oppose Prop 8, and The American Family Association has given $500K to Protect Marriage Prop 8 group. As of 8/4, opponents of gay marriage raised about $3.7 million from Jan. 1 through June 30 in support of the ballot initiative that would ban same-sex marriage in California, some $1.2 million more than the $2.5 million raised by gay-rights activists who oppose the measure, As of 8/5, California’s Roman Catholic bishops were urging parishioners to support Prop 8. And if voters approve a November ballot measure banning same-sex marriages in California, thousands of gay and lesbian weddings conducted since the state Supreme Court legalized the unions on May 15 will probably remain valid, Attorney General Jerry Brown said. As of 8/8, the San Diego county pension board planned to go ahead with a conference at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in downtown San Diego despite a plea yesterday from a board member offended by the hotel owner’s opposition to same-sex marriage, and a Superior Court judge Friday rejected a suit filed by Prop 8 proponents against the ballot title proposed by Attorney General Jerry Brown: “Eliminates the Right of Same-Sex Couples to Marry.” Judge Timothy M. Frawley said Brown’s language was neither false nor misleading. Frawley also said Prop 8 supporters would have to tweak their statement that teachers “will be required” to teach young children about gay marriage if the measure fails. The argument should read that teachers “may” or “could” be required to teach about gay marriage, Frawley ordered. On 8/9, a lesbian couple in Fresno has filed for a divorce just three days after getting married. On 8/10, A new Action News/SurveyUSA poll showed that 65% of central valley residents oppose gay marriage. On 8/11, The sponsors of Prop 8 said they won’t ask the state’s highest court to throw out the revised title and summary Attorney General Jerry Brown prepared for the initiative.On 8/12, it was reported that the Los Angeles Equality Awards last weekend raised $2 million to fight Prop 8, including $500k frin The Service Employees International Union (SEIU-California), $250K from the California Teacher s Association, and $25K from AT&T. And the Democratic National Committee gave $25,000 to help defeat Prop 8. On 8/13, Attorneys Shannon Minter and Therese Stewart, who fought successfully to overturn California s ban on same-sex marriage, were named the recipients of the National Lesbian and Gay Law Association s 2008 Dan Bradley Award.On 8/14, And Marriage for All, a newly formed same-sex marriage education campaign created to provide outreach primarily to African American communities throughout Northern California, was looking for dozens of newly married, engaged, or committed same-sex African American, or African American bicultural couples to act as media and community spokespeople. On 8/16, Let California Ring was airing its “What if you couldn’t marry the person you love” ad in Los Angeles, Sacramento and San Diego. On 8/19, the California Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the constitutional rights of religious freedom and free speech do not exempt doctors from state anti-discrimination laws. On 8/20, The Knights of Columbus, a Roman Catholic men’s group, donated 1 million dollars to support a November ballot measure that would constitutionally ban same-sex marriage in California. On 8/22, A Yes on 8 rally drew several hundred people in Fresno, California. Some Mormons are voicing opposition to the proposed ban on the Internet saying in cyberspace what they might not be able to express in church buildings. It was reported that the Manchester Grand Hyatt has lost its second major conference in a week in large part because of owner Doug Manchester’s stance against same-sex marriage. And after trailing in fundraising by $3 million, supporters of a proposed California marriage amendment have taken the lead over opponents, thanks in part to a series of gifts totaling nearly $2 million. As of 8/24, Religious organizers hoped to get 1 million Catholics, Mormons, Jews, Muslims, evangelical Christians, Sikhs and Hindus to post lawn signs supporting Prop. 8 in unison next month. And a new poll showed Latinos favor Prop 8 by 49% to 38% against. As of 8/28, a new poll showed that 54% of likely voters are against Prop. 8, with 40% supporting the measure. On the question of whether gay and lesbian couples should be aloowed to marry, respondents split 47% in favor and 47% against. It was also announced that gay inmates in state prisons and county jails would soon be able to marry their partners, as long as their spouse is not also incarcerated. The most powerful Orthodox Jewish umbrella group threw its support behind Prop 8. The Association of American Law Schools said Aug. 18 it will move the events of its January 2009 annual meeting from San Diego s Manchester Grand Hyatt to the Marriott hotel next door, honoring a gay rights boycott. Backers of Prop 8 have made a multimillion dollar television ad buy in eight media markets, while Prop 8 opponents said they have also made a substantial media buy.

September: As of 9/1, A new Log Cabin Republicans website aimed to highlight Republicans who are against Proposition 8 California’s constitutional amendment which would once again ban gay marriage in the State. As of 9/3, Californians Against Hate was calling attention to companies whose employees have donated $5,000 or more in support of a November ballot initiative that would ban gay marriage in the state. As of 9/4, Prop 8 supporters had raised at least $11.9 million, while opponents have raised at least $11.6 million. And engaged couple Heather Matarazzo and Caroline Murphy, actors Tyne Daly, Christine Lahti, Camryn Mannheim and Wilson Cruz, Air America comediennes Frangela, labor organizer Dolores Huerta and Rev. Neil G. Thomas are among those who also contributed their time and voices to a new campaign for No on 8, against the same sex marriage ban. As of 9/7, Orange County donors had contributed $1.6 million for Proposition 8. On 9/8, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newson helped launch a pro-gay marriage campaign in San Francisco, spearheaded by a coalition of nearly sixty gay, civil rights, faith and labor groups called No on 8, Equality for All. On 9/10, Sacramento mayoral candidate Kevin Johnson announced that he opposes a Nov. 4 ballot measure that would ban same-sex marriage even though his personal belief is that marriage is “between a man and a woman.” On 9/10, LAUSD, the largest school district in the state (and second largest in the country) voted to oppose Proposition 8. And San Diego City Councilwoman Toni Atkins married her longtime partner, Jennifer LeSar, in a small, private wedding ceremony over the weekend. On 9/14, two groups supporting marriage equality for same-sex couples held simultaneous walks across the Golden Gate Bridge and the Brooklyn Bridge for the fifth year in a row. On 9/15, San Mateo County officials formally voted to oppose Prop 8. As of 9/16, Mormon church members, mostly from California, have made individual donations close to $5 million in support of Proposition 8, counting only donations of more than $1,000 – nearly a third of all donations to support the amendment. And a Sacramento couple was challenging the new gender neutral state marriage license forms that list Partner A and Partner B instead of Bride and Groom. On 9/17, The “Pacific Justice Institute” filed a complaint against the California gas and electric utility provider PG&E for giving over a quarter of a million dollars toward efforts against Proposition 8. As of 9/18, a new Field Poll found that support for Prop 8 had dropped from 42% to 38%, while opposition has risen from 51% to 55% since July. And the Palm Springs City Council voted 3-0-2 to oppose a ballot initiative that would outlaw same-sex marriage in California, saying it’s a civil rights issue that is making an economic impact in the city. On 9/21, a church group from El Dorado County and a controversial minister from Los Angeles on Sunday protested outside mayoral candidate Kevin Johnson’s church, saying he should be cast out of his congregation for opposing Proposition 8. And the Hayward (Bay Area) city council passed a resolution that urged Hayward residents to vote down the constitutional amendment come November. On 9/22, the first No on 8 TV ad aired. And as of 9/23, supporters of Prop 8 had raised $16.2 million, with $4.1 million of it coming from outside the state. Opponents donated $10.8 million, with close to half of that coming from outside the state. In 9/26, Levi Strauss donated $25K to Equality for All to fight Prop 8. On 9/27, Google took a public stand against Proposition 8, an anti-gay marriage measure on the November ballot in California.

COLORADO
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act & Constitutional Ban
Colorado Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: On 7/14, it was reported that a library patron asked for the book “Uncle Bobby’s Wedding”, a children’s book about gay marriage, to be banned from a state library. The librarian’s reply is amazing. As of 7/17, A voter initiative to reinstate a ban on same-sex marriage will remain on the November ballot, the California Supreme Court decided unanimously Wednesday. On 8/11, A lesbian couple getting married in California published their announcement in the Durango Herald – the first same sex wedding announcement in the paper’s history. On 8/21, 360 openly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender delegates from the Stonewall Democrats descended on Denver, four days before the Democratic National Convention.

CONNECTICUT
Legal Status: Civil Unions
Connecticut Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: As of 7/3, Far right groups in the state were trying to rally the voters to hold a Constitutional Convention, in hopes of enshrining a ban on abortion, gay marriage, and high taxes in the state’s constitution. On 8/13, six pro-marriage equality candidates in Connecticut scored important victories in Tuesday s party primary elections. On 8/20, The Connecticut Constitution Convention Campaign has raised only $1,110 to convince voters to approve a constitutional convention in November. The state’s largest teachers union, the Connecticut Education Association, has contributed $40,000 to the group “Vote No: Protect Our Constitution.” Planned Parenthood of Connecticut has given $5,000 to the same cause. On 8/28, rumors surfaced that the state Supreme Court is deadlocked or closely fivided on the gay marriage case that’s been before the court since May 2007. On 9/17, two of the state’s top elected officials urged voters Wednesday to reject a proposal on the November ballot for a convention to consider changing the Connecticut Constitution.

DELAWARE:
Legal Status: n/a
Delaware Gay Wedding Vendors

FLORIDA
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
Florida Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far:

July: As of 7/10, The latest Quinnipiac poll found that the Florida amendment was supported by 58 percent of voters, two percent shy of the 60 percent needed for passage. On 7/28, Republican Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen of Miami came out against anti-gay marriage proposal Amendment 2 on the November ballot in Florida. On 7/30, a high school principal who suspended several students and declared that no one could have any message on anything in the school that was pro-gay rights lost the case in court.

August: As of 8/8, in the face of rampant rumors about his own sexuality and a potential shot at being named Sen. John McCain s running mate in the fall elections, Florida governor, Charlie Crist has simultaneously announced plans for a December wedding to his fiancee and reversed his position of support for same-sex marriage and domestic partnerships. On 8/13, the pastor of one of the largest Southern Baptist churches in Florida was been named to lead a new effort to rally pastors to pass the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment in November. As of 8/21, opponents of Amendment 2, the anti-gay-marriage amendment on the November ballot, have raised more than $2 million, four times what amendment proponents have raised. On 8/28, a new poll showed that 57% of Florida voters favored writing a same-sex marriage ban into the Florida constitution – passage requires 60%.

September: On 9/8, A new Quinnipac poll found that a proposed state constitutional amendment banning gay marriage is supported by 55 percent of voters, down from 58% 3 months ago. And Miami Mayor Manny Diaz on Monday announced his opposition to Florida’s Amendment 2. On 9/9, Broward School Board members on Tuesday unanimously approved a resolution to oppose a proposed constitutional amendment that would ban gay marriage in Florida. On 9/10, Charlie Crist says he won’t campaign for gay marriage ban in Florida. On 9/24, a group of Tampa Bay black leaders planned to announce support Wednesday for Amendment 2. On 9/25, Miami Mayor Manny Diaz joined the fight against Amendment 2.

GEORGIA
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act & Constitutional Ban
Georgia Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: On 7/5, 56 same sex couples pledged their commitment to one another at Atlanta Pride to show the importance of their relationships to their friends, family and community. As of 7/11, the Democratic primary for Georgia’s District 5 seat in the U.S. House of Representatives had two challengers promise to be stronger gay advocates than a long-standing ally, with both challengers being in favor of same sex marriage. On 7/25, A transgender woman filed a federal lawsuit against the leaders of the Georgia General Assembly and Sewell Brumby, legislative council, in an effort to get her job back. On 8/15, by more than a two-to-one margin, the Medical College of Georgia faculty endorsed a resolution calling for the ability to give employees domestic partnership benefits.

HAWAII
Legal Status: Civil Unions; Defense of Marriage Act
Hawaii Gay Wedding Vendors

ILLINOIS
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
Illinois Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: On 7/1, Cook County’s Board of Commissioners voted to revise the county’s domestic partnership registry ordinance to preserve rights and benefits for LGBT couples who may choose to marry out of state where same-sex marriage is now legal.

INDIANA
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
Indiana Gay Wedding Vendors

IOWA
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
The Story So Far: In 2009, the Iowa Supreme Court is expected to rule on the issue of same sex marriage when deliberations begin in Varnum v. Brien. As of 8/29, a gay Iowa couple marked first year of marriage as the state’s only legally married same sex couple.

KANSAS
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
The Story So Far: 8/19 was the 1 year anniversary of domestic partnerships in Lawrence, Kansas.

KENTUCKY
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act; Constitutional Amendment
Kentucky Gay Wedding Vendors

The Story So Far: On 9/16, Kentucky Court of Appeals handed down a harshly-worded, 3-0 judgment against a lower court’s ruling that allowed a lesbian to adopt her partner’s child.

LOUISIANA
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act; Constitutional Amendment
Louisiana Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: As of 5/24, The American Political Science Association was considering relocating its 2012 annual conference from New Orleans because of a state law banning gay marriage and same-sex partner recognition.

MAINE
Legal Status: Domestic Partnership; Defense of Marriage Act
Maine Gay Wedding Vendors

MARYLAND
Legal Status: n/a
Maryland Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: On 9/9, the state’s highest court ruled that signatures were overcounted in a drive to roll back transgender protections passed last year by the Montgomery County Council, throwing out the referendum petition that had threatened to roll back the civil rights law.

MASSACHUSETTS
Legal Status: Gay Marriage
Massachusetts Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far:

July: As of 7/10, state lawmakers were expected to vote next week on repealing a 1913 law that prevents out-of-state gay and lesbian couples from getting married in Massachusetts. On 7/11, the state Supreme Judicial Court ruled that marriage benefits for same-sex couples do not extend back to a time before the justices legalized gay marriage in Massachusetts. On 7/17, The State Senate voted to repeal a 1913 law that prevents Massachusetts from marrying out-of-state couples if their marriages would not be legal in their home states. It was expected to pass the House later in the week and be signed into law by Gov. Deval Patrick. On 7/22, disgruntled Democratic lawmakers facing tough challengers in the fall elections lashed out at House Speaker Salvatore F. DiMasi for forcing a vote on a hot-button bill to allow out-of-state gay couples to wed in Massachusetts. On 7/29, the Massachusetts House voted to repeal the 1913 law that had been used to block gay marriages involving out-of-state couples. On 7/31, Gov. Deval Patrick signed the bill into law.

August: On 8/13, a new survey showed that 59% of Massachusetts voters feel out-of-state same-sex couples should be allowed to legally marry in the state according to a new poll from Suffolk University. On 8/16, gay marriage opponents in Massachusetts began gathering signatures to try to repeal the new law overturning the 1913 law banning out of state same sex couples from marrying in Massachusetts – the group will need 32K signatures to get the measure on the ballot. On 8/25, Attorney General Martha Coakley gave the go-ahead to a group that wants to overturn the Legislature s repeal of a law barring marriages in Massachusetts by out-of-state same-sex couples.

MICHIGAN
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act; Constitutional Amendment
Michigan Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: On 7/17, it was reported that Detroit radio station WRIF offered a gay wedding in San Diego as a contest prize to listeners. As of 7/28, the lesbian couple who were lectured about gay marriage by their physician received an apology, but were concerned it might happen again. On 8/14, the wedding annoucement for a gay couple in Jackson was rejected by the Jackson Citizen-Patriot, the local paper – the paper said the couple were “asking us to venture into uncharted waters”.

MINNESOTA
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
Minnesota Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: On 7/24, Minnesota couples filed a lawsuit challenging the state s ban on gay marriage.

MONTANA
Legal Status: n/a
The Story So Far: As of 8/1, A hearing before a federal appeals court was scheduled for 8/4 in a case involving an East Helena church accused of breaking state campaign laws by not reporting its activity in support of a constitutional initiative to ban gay marriage.

NEBRASKA
Legal Status: n/a
The Story So Far: As of 9/23, an LDS member who has spoken out against the church’s support of California’s Prop 8 was in danger of being excommunicated.

NEVADA
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act; Constitutional Amendment
Nevada Gay Wedding Vendors

NEW HAMPSHIRE
Legal Status: Civil Unions
New Hampshire Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: On 8/16, Democrat Katy Forry, who is challenging current Gov. John Lynch (D) in the Sept. 9 primary, she would sign a gay marriage law and believes federal law eventually will recognize gay unions. As of 9/16, a newly released study finds that same-sex couples in New Hampshire are more eager to be married than enter into a civil union.

NEW JERSEY
Legal Status: Civil Unions
New Jersey Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: As of 8/3, The New Jersey Family Policy Council claims to have collected 70,000 signatures so far to put an anti-gay-marriage amendment on the ballot at some point in the future. As of 8/19, by a 50%-42% margin, likely New Jersey voters support allowing same sex couples to marry, according to a new Zogby poll. On 9/26, religious fundamentalists accused a state Civil Unions panel of pushing for gay marriage.

NEW MEXICO
Legal Status: n/a
New Mexico Gay Wedding Vendors

NEW YORK
Legal Status: Does not Recognize Same Sex Marriage
New York Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far:

July: As of 7/3, unmarried residents of Putnam County, regardless of sexual orientation, will have an opportunity to enroll in the county’s Domestic Partner Registry now that County Executive Robert Bondi has signed the bill into law. On 7/9, the Rite Aid in Greenwich Village posted a note that prohibited “same sex kissing, hugging, touching, or anything that would make our custoemrs uncomfortable” and set off a firestorm of controversy. On 7/10, a Buffalo, New York lesbian couple sued Blue Cross & Blue Shield, accusing the insurer of contravening state policy in denying spousal benefits. On 7/28, Blue Cross & Blue Shield announced they would provide spousal benefits to married same-sex couples.

August: On 8/7, North Country Assemblywoman Dede Scozzafava said voting for gay marriage may be the risky thing to do, but it is what she believes in. And Assembly Republicans who bucked party leaders and voted to legalize same-sex marriage in New York have been rewarded with an outpouring of donations from gay rights advocates across the nation. On 8/8, the New York Supreme Court heard arguments from the Alliance Defense Fund carpet baggers who are trying to overturn Governor Paterson’s executive order recognizing gay marriages performed out of state. The Court appears poised to rule against the ADF – a ruling is expected after labor day. On 8/10, A gay father kidnapped his son from his ex-partner, taking him to Israel. On 8/13, Otsego County Treasurer Myrna Thayne amended the county’s health care plan to specifically exclude same-sex couples, regardless of their legal status, ostsnsibly to save money. On 8/15, a distraught gay father was reunited with his abducted son after Israeli officials tracked down the man s ex-husband and retrieved the boy. As of 8/22, Christians claiming their First Amendment rights were violated at a gay Pride event in June have brought suit against New York city.

September: On 9/2, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled NY Gov David Paterson’s memo ordering state agencies to recognize gay and lesbian marriages performed in other states and countries is legal. On 9/8, the state Department of Civil Service said it was aware of only 33 same-sex married couples who have signed up for the state’s health insurance since it extended the benefits to them on May 1, 2007. On 9/14, two groups supporting marriage equality for same-sex couples held simultaneous walks across the Golden Gate Bridge and the Brooklyn Bridge for the fifth year in a row. On 9/18, Senate Minority Leader Malcolm Smith (D) declined to say definitively how or when he might address the pending gay marriage bill in the state if he becomes majority leader. And Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos (R) appeared at his first LGBT function this week, a fundraiser at a private East Village residence organized by the Log Cabin Republicans, a gay GOP group. On 9/24, Gov. Paterson appeared as a “special guest” at a $5k per person pro-gay marriage fund-raiser on the East Side on Thursday night, to raise money to fight Prop 8 in California.

NORTH CAROLINA
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
North Carolina Gay Wedding Vendors

NORTH DAKOTA
Legal Status: n/a
The Story So Far: On 7/31, it was reported that some North Dakota attorneys were outraged over the latest North Dakota Law Review, saying a scholarly publication was simply hijacked by national religious right activists bent on stopping gay marriage.

OHIO
Legal Status: n/a
Ohio Gay Wedding Vendors

OKLAHOMA
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
On 7/3, in a case involving a trial judge who granted a divorce to a couple he did not know included two women, the Oklahoma Supreme Court unanimously upheld that judge’s decision to vacate his order granting the divorce. On 7/21, An Oklahoma County Commissioner, running for re-election, published a 16-page comic book to highlight his commitment to destroying the queers. As of 9/18, Senator James Inhofe, a Republican of Oklahoma, was running a new ad that clearly has gay undertones and basically abuses his opponent Democrat Andrew Rice.

OREGON
Legal Status: Domestic Partnership; Defense of Marriage Act; Constitutional Ban
Oregon Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far:

July: On 7/1, A three judge panel of the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals said they would hear oral arguments the next week in a lawsuit brought by conservative groups seeking to revive last year’s failed referendum on Oregon’s domestic partnership law. On 7/8, a three judge panel of the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals heard oral arguments on the merits of a lawsuit brought by conservative groups seeking to revive last year’s failed referendum on Oregon’s domestic partnership law. As of 7/31, A nationwide auto organization, The Better World Club, is offering free one-year memberships to same-sex couples who officially tie the knot between now and Sept. 20.

August: On 8/14, a three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals rejected a challenge to Oregon’s domestic partnership law after a sampling count of signatures showed the opponents of gay rights in Oregon had fallen just 96 signatures short of the 55,179 needed to get a measure to repeal the state’s new domestic partnership law on the ballot. On 8/21, the Coquille Indian Tribe, based on the southern Oregon coast, recently adopted a law recognizing same-sex marriage, and its first such wedding is set for next spring.

PENNSYLVANIA
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
Pennsylvania Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: As of 8/21, a Presbyterian minister who officiated at a lesbian wedding in 2005 is heading for church court again, two years after charges against her were dismissed on a technicality.

PUERTO RICO
Legal Status: n/a
Puerto Rico Gay Wedding Vendors

RHODE ISLAND
Legal Status: Does not recognize same sex marriage
Rhode Island Gay Wedding Vendors

TENNESSEE
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act; Constitutional Ban
The Story So Far: As of 7/27, A man accused of fatally shooting two adults and wounding seven others at a Knoxville church told police the church’s liberal teachings prompted him to attack, according to court papers. The church supports gay marriage and welcomes gay men and lesbians.

TEXAS
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act; Constitutional Ban
Texas Gay Wedding Vendors

UTAH
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act; Constitutional Ban; Domestic Partner Registry in Salt Lake City
Utah Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: As of 8/1, an August meeting between a gay Mormon support group and a social service agency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been indefinitely delayed. And a Utah paper published their first lesbian wedding announcement. On 8/4, conservative readers freaked out when a local paper ran an annoucement of a lesbian wedding.

VERMONT
Legal Status: Civil Unions; Defense of Marriage Act
Vermont Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: On 7/12, gay and lesbian couples called for full marriage rights at VT Pride after reporting problems with Vermont’s civil union law that passed eight years ago. On 8/3, A woman who married one woman in Canada and then left her for another in a civil union ceremony in Vermont was accused of bigamy by her ex partner.

VIRGINIA
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
Virginia Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: As reported on 7/1, without the aid of lawyers, advocates or lawmakers, a Virginia couple almost succeeded in getting around the state’s same-sex marriage ban. Authorities say charges will not be filed against the couple.

WASHINGTON DC
Legal Status: Domestic Partnership
Washington DC Gay Wedding Vendors

On 7/10, Leaders of the anti-gay right wing gathered at the Family Research Council to discuss the results of their latest poll on the political impact of anti-gay amendments on the November ballot. As of 8/22, A decision by House Democrats to allow a vote next month on a proposal to gut the city s handgun law stunned local home rule advocates and could foretell a congressional overturn of a future same-sex marriage bill. As of 9/8, A Williams Institute Study estimated that 1,600 gay couples in DC would marry if gay marriage was legalized. According to activists and City Hall insiders on 9/17, If Democrats expand their majority in Congress and California voters uphold same-sex marriage, a gay marriage bill is likely to be approved by the D.C. City Council as early as April 2009.

WASHINGTON STATE
Legal Status: Domestic Partnership; Defense of Marriage Act
Washington State Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: On 7/22, some 300 couples around the state celebrated their first anniversary as domestic partners.

WEST VIRGINIA
Legal Status: Defense of Marriage Act
West Virginia Gay Wedding Vendors

WISCONSIN
Legal Status: Constitutional Ban
Wisconsin Gay Wedding Vendors
The Story So Far: As of 7/3, gay couples in Wisconsin have been warned that they could face jail time and fines if they marry outside the state. On 9/18, the Dane County Board (Madison area) voted to add a domestic partner registry and to require companies that offer spousal benefits to married couples to also offer them to domestic partners.

People

9/14/08: Unofficial girlfriends Lindsay Lohan and Samantha Ronson jointly eviscerated Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin on her anti-gay rights and anti-abortion views on Ronson’s official blog. Source

9/12/08: Mary Cheney has jumped on board to help defeat Proposition 8 in California. Source

9/10/08: Susan Sarandon on gay marriage: “You know, I think so much of [ the controversy over gay marriage ] has to do with language. The word “marriage” does trigger things in a lot of people, and it’s a shame we can’t find a way to get around that because what it does is really polarize people and make it about something it really doesn’t need to be about. But I think separate from the legal aspects of being able to share with your partner and own a house and have rights to your kids and insurance and all that, if you ask most Americans “Does everyone have a right to be happy?” they’ll say “Yes.” I’m not married so I’m probably the wrong person to talk to about how significant it is to be married. I’ve created a life that isn’t about a traditional marriage, but I understand why some people want that kind of a metaphor, a symbol.” Source

8/27/08: Lesbian activist Del Martin died on Wednesday, just two months after marrying her partner of 55 years in one of the first legally recognized California same-sex weddings. Source

8/22/08: Ellen & Portia’s wedding appears on the cover of the latest issue of People Magazine. Source

8/16/08: Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi were scheduled to marry in Los Angeles today. Source

7/27/08: San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom married again over the weekend, this time to actress Jennifer Siebel.

7/23/08: Cybill Shepard says in an interview “…I’m thrilled to see [gay] couples getting married in California, and I’m gonna do what I can to keep it that way. Because if you’re voting against gay marriage, you need to get a life.” Source

7/23/08: Neil Patrick Harris, is on the fence about tying the knot himself. When it comes to gay marriage in California, Neil told OK!, “Oh I’m all for it! Big fan!” But when asked if he saw himself as a married man, he said, “I don’t know. If I did, no one would know about it ’til after I got married.” Source

7/17/08: Former Grey’s Anatomy star Isaiah Washington just made a big donation to the Equality California fund that’s working to stop the anti-marriage amendment on the November California ballot. Source

7/11/08: San Jose, California Mayor Chuck Reed came out against gay marriage. Source

7/11/08: U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), one of two openly gay members of Congress, was among 20 people appointed this week to the Democratic National Convention’s Platform Drafting Committee. Source

7/10/08: Kate and Pat of ‘The Amazing Race 12′ married in California. Source

7/8/08: TV news and gossip column Ask Ausiello reports that the Julia Louis-Dreyfus sitcom The New Adventures of Old Christine (CBS) will have a gay wedding sometime in the near future. Source

7/6/08: Charlize Theron said in a recent interview: “I thought it was unfair that different sex couples could marry but same-sex ones could not. That’s unfair and was certainly a reason I didn’t want to get married. Everyone should have equal rights, especially when it comes to love. But it broke my heart that my friends couldn’t do it. I have two girlfriends who are getting married today: I always felt like I wish I could give them my right to marry. And today they get to have that.” Source

7/4/08: Florida Governor Charlie Crist, would-be presidential running mate for John McCain, is getting married after being dogged for years by gay rumors. Source

7/3/08: Republican Wade Connerly came out against the same sex marriage ban “Proposition 8″ on the November ballot in California. Source

7/2/08: Barack Obama says he opposes a ban on same sex marriage in California after the State’s Supreme Court ruled that it is unconstitution to ban gay marriage. Source

7/1/08: San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom formed an exploratory committee to look at a possible gubenatorial bid in 2010. Source

6/26/08: Michelle Obama won a standing ovation on Thursday when she paid a campaign visit to gay and lesbian Democratic activists to promote her husband Barack Obama’s presidential quest. Source

6/21/08: Christine Chavez, granddaughter of Cesar Chavez, says her grandfather would have supported marriage equality for gay couples. Source

6/20/08: George Michael, who kicked off his North American tour in San Diego on Tuesday, calls California’s legalization of gay marriage “fantastic.” Source

6/19/08: TR Knight and his partner do not plan to marry… yet – the couple has only been together 6 months. Source

6/18/08: Kmart Senior VP-Chief Marketing Officer Bill Stewart is leaving the company to become a full-time volunteer on a campaign to protect gay marriage in California, the company said. Source

6/17/08: USA, California: Donald Pile and Ray Williams, who many know as the “Gay Travelers” and for their syndicated column, “Traveling in Our Fabulous World” were legally married in Palm Springs on June 17. Source

6/17/08: USA, California: Star Trek actor George Takei got a marriage license Tuesday to wed his gay partner in California. Source

6/13/08: Ellen DeGeneres, in an attempt to raise awareness and acceptance of gay marriage, will distribute a single photo of her wedding to 35 year-old actress Portia DeRossi, to any media outlet who asks. Source

6/12/08: Bisexual temptress Tila Tequila is claiming she was at least partially responsible for the California Supreme Court s decision to overturn a ban on same-sex marriage in the state. Source

6/5/08: Rosie O’Donnell plans to wait to marry her partner until all 50 states recognize gay marriage. Source

6/4/08: In a letter to the LGBT community, Barack Obama promised to get rid of anti gay legislation in America, including DOMA. Source

6/3/08: Jay Leno was among the boldfaced names at a gay marriage celebration and rally tomorrow night at the Abbey in West Hollywood. Source

6/2/08: TR Knight says he doesn’t plan to marry his boyfriend at this time, but is thrilled that the CA Supreme Court has legalized gay marriage. Source