Freedom to Marry Week Events
At Mombian.com
Freedom to Marry Blog Carnival
A compilation of blog posts about marriage equality
Are you a blogger? Want to support Freedom to Marry? LGBT-parenting blog Mombian will be hosting a "Freedom to Marry Blog Carnival" on February 14. Any blogger who writes in support of marriage equality between now and then is invited to submit a post by leaving a comment at: http://mombian.com/2007/01/04/freedom-to-marry-week-and-blog-carnival/ or sending e-mail to freedomtomarry@mombian.com. Entries will be compiled and showcased at http://www.mombian.com on February 14.
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Blogging for Freedom to Marry Week
Freedom to Marry loves our blogger pals
Daily blog posting for Freedom to Marry Week on marriage equality and encouraging friends and readers to do the same.
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California
Counter Demonstration
Two years ago, County Clerk Warren Slocum apologetically but firmly turned down a lesbian couple seeking a marriage license on Valentine's Day.
Last year, Slocum stood outside his office with the San Carlos couple to voice his support but uphold the law.
This year, Slocum will still join Ramona, Arzu and Marina Gatto at the annual equality rally but is asking his peers statewide to help make it legal for him to marry the women.
Prior to 1977, the state recognized marriage as a civil contract between "two persons," according to Slocum. In 1977, the County Clerks Association of California sponsored legislation to change the wording to "a man and a woman."
"I intend the next times a bill comes up to call on all 57 other marriage commissioners in the state and ask them to join us in this fight for equal rights," Slocum said last year.
On Jan. 11, with his stack of letters, Slocum kept his word.
"On the 30th anniversary of this law, I believe a replacement of this law is in order," Slocum wrote.
The marriage equality gathering will be 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Feb. 14 on the front steps of 555 County Government Center.
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California
Counter Demonstrations
Alameda County Noon-1:00 pm
County Clerk's Office, 1221 Oak Street, Room 249, Oakland, CA 94612
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to local contact persons: Moe Perez and Ryan James : ca-alameda@marriageequality.org or 510-387-9398.
Contra Costa County 2:00-3:00 pm
County Clerk's Office, 823 Marina Vista, Martinez, CA 94553
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to local contact persons: Pamela Brown and Shauna Rajkowski at ca-policy@marriageequality.org or 510-384-3655.
Fresno County 2:30-3:30 pm
County Clerk's Office, 2221 Kern Street, Fresno, CA 93722
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to ca-fresno@marriageequality.org or contact chapter leader Jason Scott at 559-307-0807.
Humboldt County 12:00 pm
County Clerk's Office, 825 5th Street, Room 108, Eureka, CA 95501
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to MEUSA leaders Jamila Tharp and Michele Hastings at ca-humboldt@marriageequality.org or 707-445-3435.
Lake County 12:00 pm
County Clerk's Office, 220 South Lassen Street, Susanville, CA 96130
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to chapter leaders Laura Lamonico ca-lake@marriageequality.org or (707)367-1557.
Los Angeles County 10:00 11:00 am
Beverly Hills Courthouse, 9355 Burton Way, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Join Robin Tyler and Diane Olson, the Los Angeles lead couple in the upcoming CA Supreme Court Marriage Case, and their attorney, Gloria Allred. Please direct all questions and press inquiries to Robin Tyler at robintyler@aol.com or (818)893-4075.
Marin County 8:45-9:45 am
County Clerk's Office, 3501 Civic Center Drive, Room 247, San Rafael, CA 94913
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to Spectrum LGBT Center and Love Savers member Paula Pilecki at pilecki@spectrummaring.org or 415-457-1115 ext 209.
Mendocino County 12:00 pm
County Clerk's Office, 501 Low Gap Road, Ukiah, CA 95482
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to chapter leaders Theresa and Jennifer Sookne-Mizell at ca-mendocino@marriageequality.org or 707-354-4219.
Nevada County 2:15 pm
The Rood Center, 950 Maidu Ave., Nevada City, CA 95959
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to chapter leader Christine Allen at nevada@marriageequalityca.org or (530)575-6195.
Orange County 10:00 am
County Clerk's Office, 211 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Room 201, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to Stephanie Wells at slwells2@verizon.net or 562-481-2140.
Sacramento County 12:00 pm
County Clerk's Office, 600 8th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to chapter leaders Lisa Twardosz and Kinna Patel Crocker at ca-sacramento@marriageequality.org or 916-284-3680 or 916-284-3680.
San Diego County 10:00-11:00 am
County Clerk's Office, 1600 Pacific Highway #103, San Diego, CA 92101
Couples asking for licenses include Jamie Leno Zimron, Assemblymember Mark Leno's sister and her fiancée Jennifer Schumaker. Please direct all questions and press inquiries to local contact person: Fernando Lopez at fzljr@cox.net or 619-861-7939.
San Francisco County 10:30 am
County Clerk-Office, City Hall, Suite 168, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, San Francisco, CA 94102
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to local MEUSA leaders Stuart Gaffney and John Lewis at stuartjohn@marriageequality.org or 415-386-6710.
San Joaquin County 3:30-4:30 pm
Pacific State Bank Building, 6 South El Dorado Street, Second Floor, Stockton, CA 95202
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to chapter leaders Judy Deane, Stormie Filpula, & Martina Virrey at ca-sanjoaquin@marriageequality.org or (209)518-9102.
San Luis Obispo County 12:00 pm
County Clerk's Office, 1144 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to local contact person: David Kilburn at dkilburn@charter.net or (805)440-6487.
San Mateo County 9:00-10:00 am
County Clerk's Office, 555 County Center, Redwood City, CA 94063
Description: Bay Area kick-off rally with Marina Gatto, Senator Leland Yee, County Clerk Warren Slocum and other elected officials. Please direct all questions and press inquiries to local contact persons: Marina and Ramona Gatto and Arzu Akus at marina@marriageequality.org or 650-740-1475.
Santa Cruz County Noon-1:00 pm
County Clerk's Office, 701 Ocean Street, Room 230, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to MEUSA Youth Director Matt Palm ca-youth@marriageequality.org or (858)472-5439.
Solano County 3:30-4:00 pm
County Clerk's Office, 675 Texas Street, Suite 1900, Fairfield, CA 94533
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to chapter leaders Jeff and David Janis-Kitzmiller at ca-solano@marriageequality.org or 707-428-6684.
Stanislaus County Noon-1:00 pm
County Clerk's Office, 1021 I Street, Suite 101, Modesto, CA 95354
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to chapter leaders Beth Holden and Cynthia Soto at ca-stanislaus@marriageequality.org or (209) 575-2771.
Yolo County Noon-1:00 pm
County Clerk-Recorder, 625 Court Street, Room 105, Woodland, CA 95695
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to local contact persons: Ellen Pontac at ep@dcn.org and Shelly Bailes at shelly@dcn.org or 530-753-8283.
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California
The Wedding Banquet
Dinner and a movie
Enjoy a full course Mandarin meal for $12.00 and FREE movie "Wedding Wars", starring John Stamos
Ping's Mandarin Restaurant
817 W Francisco Boulevard
San Rafael, CA
2/20/2007 6:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M.
Sponsored by Love Savers of Marin
For more information, email d_lorlor@yahoo.com or call (415) 456-9010
Price: $12.00
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California
Freedom to Marry Rally
To celebrate the Tenth Anniversary of Freedom to Marry week our monthly rally for equality for all will be a rally for the freedom to marry.
Location of Event: Progressive Corner San Rafael; Third & Irwin; San Rafael
02/09/2007 4:00 P.M. — 6:00 P.M.
Event Sponsor: Love Savers of Marin
For more information, email d_lorlor@yahoo.com or call (415) 456-9010
Price: FREE
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California
Freedom to Marry Panel & Community Discussion
Panel, Photo Exhibit, & Social Time
Panelists from various CA organizations discuss marriage equality including nine riders from National Marriage Caravan of 2004
Location of Event: Unitarian Universalist Church of Fresno, 4144 N. Millbrook Ave, Fresno
02/10/2007 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Event URL: www.ccafresno.org
Event Sponsor: Central California Alliance (CCA)
Email for more information: b_senkowski@yahoo.com
Phone # for more information: (559) 433-0543
Price: Free
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California
Marin Marriage Counter Demonstration
Six couples will attempt to apply for marriage licenses at the Marin County Clerk's office
Location of Event: Room 247, Marin County Civic Center, 3501 Civic Center Drive, San Rafael CA
2/14/2007
Start Time: 8:45 AM
End Time: 10:00 AM
For more information, go to www.spectrummarin.org, email pilecki@spectrummarin.org, or call 415-457-1115 ext. 209.
Event Sponsor: Spectrum LGBT Resource Center and Love Savers of Marin
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California
Yolo County Demonstration
For the past ten years, on National Freedom to Marry Day (Feb 14), same sex couples have approached county clerks/recorders in California asking for marriage licenses. They have routinely been turned away. This year Yolo County Recorder Freddie Oakley has announced that she will offer a "Certificate of Inequality" to members of the gay community on February 14, National Freedom to Marry Day, at her Woodland office. Oakley states, "It pains me more than I can express that I am the arm of the government that is forced to deny marriage licenses to loving and committed same sex couples. This certificate is one way I can ease my soul."
We welcome all who support fairness and equality to join us.
WHAT: Tenth Annual Freedom to Marry Day
WHERE: Yolo County Recorder's Office 625 Court Street, Room B01, Woodland
WHEN: Noon, Wed, Feb 14
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Connecticut
Butternut Farm
Don Reid & Irving Hopkins host a benefit in their 18th Century home: Butternut Farm
Butternut Farm
1654 Main St
576 Farmington Ave
Glastonbury, CT
2/11/2007 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Event Sponsor: Love Makes a Family
For more information email dave@lmfct.org or call 860-525-7777
Price: Suggested donation $150
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Connecticut
Yoga with Peg Oliveira and the Acoustic Guitar of Leith Sharp
CT Gay Straight Alliances sign postcards to Governor Rell in support of Marriage Equality and Present Them
Location: Fresh Yoga; 319 Peck St; New Haven CT
2/10/2007 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Event Sponsor: Love Makes a Family
Email for more information: vinyasa@aol.com
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Connecticut
Youth Action Day for Marriage Equality
CT Gay Straight Alliances sign postcards to Governor Rell in support of Marriage Equality and Present Them Statewide
Love Makes a Family
576 Farmington Ave
Hartford, CT
2/14/2007 All Day until 4:00 pm
For more information email carol@lmfct.org or call (860) 525-7777
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Florida
MCC Courthouse Rally
Group of folks gathering in the courthouse to apply for marriage licenses.
Location: St. Johns County Courthouse; Lewis Speedway; St. Augustine FL
2/14/2007 Noon - 1:00pm
Sponsor: FirstCoast Metropolitan Community Church
For more information, email PeaceLiz@aol.com or call 904-635-6923
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Florida
Freedom to Marry Rally
MCC, St. John's of the Apostle, in Ft. Myers, is organizing a Marriage Equality rally consisting of application for marriage license by anyone who chooses and a support group presence. We are hoping to get other organizations to join us at Cape Coral City Hall, Marriage License office, on Valentines Day at 11 am. Wear Red and join us.
Email for more info.: mgnva@aol.com
Phone: 240-538-5613
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Florida
Ocala Florida Annual Valentine's Dinner
An annual dinner to honor committed couples and performance by Marcus Logan
Location: MCC Ocala, 4273 Rt. 40 West, Ocala FL 34482
2/14/2007, 6:30pm
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Florida
Ocala Florida Political Rally for Freedom to Marry
MCC is inviting area pastors, community members, politicians, professionals to discuss the political environment.
Location: MCC Ocala, 4273 Rt. 40 West, Ocala FL 34482
2/11/2007 7:30pm
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Illinois
Marriage Equality Day Protest
Protest at Cook County building, march north on Michigan Avenue, end at Holy Name Cathedral for rally .
Location: Chicago City/County Building; 118 N. Clark St.; Chicago IL
2/14/2007 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Sponsor: Gay Liberation Network
For more information, email lgbtliberation@aol.com or call 312-543-7552
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Illinois
Get Enagaged! Make Illinois a State of Equality
The 6th annual Freedom to Marry Reception
Location of Event: Aragon Ballroom, 1106 W. Lawrence Ave, Chicago IL
2/15/2007
6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
For more information, go to www.lambdalegal.org/cgi-bin/iowa/action/calendar.html, email clowery@lambdalegal.org, or phone 312.663.4413 ext. 27
Price: Free
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Michigan
Affirmations
Affirmations hosts a number of Freedom to Marry Week events.
Valentine's Day Domestic Partnership Registry
Couples — start your Valentine's Day celebration at Affirmations. Celebrate the holiday and your relationship by officially becoming part of the Domestic Partnership Registry and join the couples that have signed up to date. All registering couples will receive authentic, notarized certificates. Cost is $25.00 per couple. Please RSVP. Light refreshments will also be served. Takes place Wednesday, February 14th from 5:00pm-7:00pm.
The Importance of Marriage Forum
Monday, February 12th, 6:30pm - 8:30pm. Why does marriage matter? It's not just the 1,049 benefits the United States government provides to couples that are legally married. Ask similar questions and learn more at this forum. Held at Affirmations.
Rally on the Nine
Saturday, February 17th, 4:30pm 6:30pm. Now more than ever, people need to know how important it is that all people are allowed to marry. Demonstrate your first amendment right by rallying on Nine and Woodward for Marriage Equality. Sign-making begins at 3:30pm at Affirmations. Bring your own supplies. Please RSVP and arrive at least 30 minutes prior for training and information on the rally.
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Michigan
GSA Info Distribution
GSA club meeting; Okemos, MI
2800 Jolly Rd; Okemos MI
2/11-2/17 8 am - 2 pm
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Missouri
Joplin Gay and Lesbian Center
The Joplin Gay and Lesbian Center is having a public forum on marriage equality. They plan to show video or clips of LGBT couples etc. They will have a discussion moderated by the Center's President and Founder (Lee McDaniel). Tentative date 2/15 from 6-9pm.
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Missouri
Freedom to Marry: The Journey to Justice
2/13/2007 7:00 pm-9:00 pm
All Souls Documentary Film Series
7 pm Tuesday, February 13 — Freedom to Marry: The Journey to Justice
This documentary highlights an historical milestone when San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom engaged in ground-breaking civil disobedience as he allowed same-sex couples to marry at San Francisco City Hall. With rousing speeches from comic Margaret Cho, top marriage equality leaders, and interviews with seven long-term same sex couples, Freedom To Marry brings a joyful, personal face to marriage equality at the height of this burgeoning, world-wide civil rights movement.
This screening is cosponsored by the All Souls chapter of Interweave. There will be an opportunity to write letters to legislators in support of same-sex marriage.
Admission is free, but donations are encouraged.
All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church
4501 Walnut St
Kansas City, MO 64111
816-531-2131
http://allsoulskc.org/
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Missouri
"My Lawfully Wedded Spouse"
A Freedom To Marry Week Event In Support of Equal Civil Marriage For Gays and Lesbians
Who:
Me, You, & All Our Friends
What:
Dance, Show, & Reception
With DJ, Wedding Cake, and Wine & Beer
Fundraiser for Joplin Gay & Lesbian Center
When:
Saturday Night
February 17th, 2007
7pm 11pm
Where:
UCCFF Building
204 North Jackson Ave, Joplin, MO
(At Jackson Ave and "A" Street)
Why:
To raise money for Joplin Gay & Lesbian Center
To have fun, to socialize, and to meet new people
Cost:
$15 Donation Per Person
Give in Advance or at the Door
Make Checks Payable to "Joplin Gay & Lesbian Center"
RSVP
gaylesbiancenter@yahoo.com
leemcd@alumni.brown.edu
Lee McDaniel @ 417/622-7821
More Info:
Yahoo 360Ú - http://360.yahoo.com/gaylesbiancenter
MySpace - http://www.myspace.com/gaylesbiancenter
JoplinGays on Yahoo - http://tv.groups.yahoo.com/group/JoplinGays/
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New Hampshire
Engagement Party
Press conference, leafleting, telling our stories
Location: State House; Main St.; Concord NH
2/14/2007 8:30am - 10:00am
Sponsor: New Hampshire Freedom to Marry
For more information email info@nhftm.org or call 603-223-0309
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New York
Statewide events from Empire State Pride Agenda
Join local efforts to build support for marriage equality in New York State. From Long Island to Buffalo there will be a series of events, including: Marriage Action Team meetings, community forums, family photo album creation nights, Valentine's Day rallies and more—all throughout February!
Pride Agenda Marriage Ambassadors, local sponsoring organizations, and dedicated volunteers are teaming up to do outreach and education, both locally and statewide. Everyone is welcome!
For more information, contact Nora Yates at nyates@prideagenda.org or (518) 472-3330, ext 303.
Upcoming events include:
Albany
Marriage Action Team Meeting
Monday, February 5 at 6:00 pm
Capital District Gay and Lesbian Community Council, 332 Hudson Ave Albany
RSVP: Nora Yates at (518) 472-3330 or nyates@prideagenda.org
Community Forum on Marriage
Thursday, February 8 at 7:00 pm
First Unitarian Society of Schenectady, 1221 Wendell Ave
RSVP: Nora Yates at (518) 472-3330 or nyates@prideagenda.org
Marriage Ambassador Training
Saturday, February 10, 2007 10:00 am-5:00 pm
First Unitarian Society of Schenectady, 1221 Wendell Ave
The training is free, but we need you to register!
Contact Nora Yates at (518) 472-3330 or nyates@prideagenda.org
Buffalo
Buffalo Marriage Action Team
Wednesday, February 7 at 7:00 pm
Unity Church of Christ, 1243 Delaware Ave Buffalo 14209
RSVP: Todd Plank at (585) 244-8640 or toddp@gagv.us
Valentine’s Day Rally
Niagara Square (in front of Buffalo City Hall)
Wednesday, February 14 from 4:45 to 5:45pm
Contact: Kitty Lambert at outspokenformarriage@hotmail.com
John Curr from the NYCLU Western Regional office will be speaking, and numerous couples will be on hand to celebrate their years of commitment and share their stories with the press. There will be large pink paper hearts passed out and couples will be able to use them to proudly display the number of years that they have been together. Singles will be able to write their own personalized messages on their hearts. There will also be a representation of local faith leaders turning out to champion marriage equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender families. Folks are encouraged to bring their cameras to help us capture photos. Have someone take your picture and use it to create your page for our Buffalo Family Album.
Hudson Valley
Hudson Valley Marriage Action Team
Wednesday, February 21 at 7:30pm
The LOFT, 180 E Post Rd White Plains
RSVP: Diana Wilkins at (914) 948-2932 or loftfieldorganizer@yahoo.com
Long Island
Long Island Marriage Action Team
Saturday, February 3 at 12:00 noon
LIGALY, 34 Park Ave, Bay Shore
RSVP: Rachel West at (631) 665-2300 or rachel@ligaly.org
New York City
Freedom to Marry Forum
Sunday, February 11 at 1:00 pm
The Riverside Church, 490 Riverside Drive, Room 411
Contact: Mo George at (212) 627-0305 or mgeorge@prideagenda.org
Special guest panelists are: Minister Kiyana Horton from Freedom to Marry; Monique George, Lead Program Organizer at the Empire State Pride Agenda; Cathy Marino-Thomas, Co-Executive Director of Marriage Equality New York; and Tom Henning, Maranatha: Riversiders for LGBT Concerns.
LGBT Photo Album Creation Night
Monday, February 12 at 6:00 pm
The LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St NYC
RSVP: Mo George at (212) 627-0305 or mgeorge@prideagenda.org
Marriage Equality New York Valentine's Day Event
Wednesday, February 14 at 8:00 am-10:00 am
New York City Marriage Bureau, 1 Centre Street (across from City Hall)
Contact: Marriage Equality New York's Tim Dubitsky at tedubitsky@marriageequalityny.org
Marriage Equality New York will be highlighting the inability of same-sex couples to legally marry.
A prep meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 7 at 7:00 pm
The LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St. NYC
New York City Marriage Action Team
Thursday, February 15 at 6:00 pm
LGBT Community Center, 208 W 13th, Room 110
RSVP: Mo George at (212) 627-0305 or mgeorge@prideagenda.org
Rochester
Valentine's Day Event
Wednesday, February 14
Contact: Todd Plank at (585) 244-8640 ext. 24 or toddp@gagv.us
The Rochester Marriage Action Team will be organizing an event on Valentine's Day to celebrate the love of LGBT couples and decry the discrimination and hardships suffered because they are barred from legalizing their relationships through civil marriage.
Rochester Marriage Action Team
Tuesday, February 20 at 6:00 pm
GAGV Youth Center, 875 E. Main St. Rochester
RSVP: Todd Plank at (585) 244-8640 or toddp@gagv.us
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New York
'Big Voice' Celebrates V-Day with Commitment Ceremonies
An interfaith commitment ceremony hosted by the Actors Temple, The Actors Temple Theatre, and the hit off-Broadway musical, The Big Voice: God or Merman? will take place on February 14th at 8pm at The Actors Temple Theater (339 W. 47th Street).
All tickets for the special performance of The Big Voice on February 14th are $35. The evening includes the show, the ceremony, a commitment certificate and cake.
Tickets can be purchased by calling Telecharge (212) 239-6200 or going to www.Telecharge.com. For more information, please visit: www.TheBigVoice.com
For those who are interested in taking part in the commitment ceremony at The Big Voice on February 14th, please register by email to: TBVEvent@gmail.com or just show up. All couples are welcome in this open ceremony of love.
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New York
Freedom to Marry Forum
A Forum with Special Guest Panelists
Location of Event: The Riverside Church; 490 Riverside Drive, Room 20T; New York, NY
Date of Event: 02/11/2007
Start Time of Event: 1:00 p.m.
End Time of Event: 3:00 p.m.
Event URL: http://www.theriversidechurchny.org/getinvolved/?maranatha
Event Sponsor: Maranatha: Riversiders for LGBT Concerns
Email for more information: MaranathaTRC@hotmail.com
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New York
New York City Counter Demonstration
New York City 8:00-10:00 am
County Clerk-Recorder, 1 Centre St # 265, New York, NY 10007
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to Marriage Equality New York contact persons: Tim Dubitsky at tim@marriageequalityny.org and Cathy Marino-Thomas at cathy@marriageequalityny.org
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Oklahoma
Love: The Higher Law
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
In support of the 10th anniversary of Freedom to Marry Week, Oklahomans for Equality (OkEq) is sponsoring Love: The Higher Law, a Valentine's Day demonstration calling for marriage equality for same-gender Oklahomans. A coalition of same-gender couples, pro-LGBT ministers, and activists will go to the Tulsa County Courthouse and attempt to register for marriage licenses. If you are interested in participating in this historic event, please contact OkEq President Laura Belmonte at labelmonte@hotmail.com or 918.906.2134. There will be a mandatory training session for all participants prior to the demonstration. Following the Valentines Day action, a wedding reception will be held in the Great Hall of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center from 5:00 7:00 PM. Free and open to the public, the wedding reception honors those who attempted to register for marriage licenses earlier in the day and all same-sex couples denied the 1,049 federal benefits of marriage equality.
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Pennsylvania
PA Diversity Network
PA Diversity Network will be taking photos of local same sex couples and displaying them in public venues on 2/10/2007.
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Pennsylvania
The Wedding Consultant
Come see an original play celebrating marriage equality
L2 Restaurant and Bar, 2201 South Street, Philadelphia
2/14/ - 2/17/2007 8 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Sponsor: Vagabond Acting Troupe
Email for more information: douggreeneactor@yahoo.com
Phone # for more information: 215.272.4942
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Pennsylvania
Harrisburg Unitarian Church
The Unitarian Church of Harrisburg has scheduled three events this week to create awareness of the issues.
A lesbian from Lancaster County will talk about "Secrets and Promises" at 7 2/11 at the church, at 1280 Clover Lane. She will talk about what can happen when a same-sex partner gets sick. Families can take the decision-making away from the sick person's partner.
For the third year, supporters of civil rights for same-sex couples will hold a "freedom to marry" rally at Market and Front streets in Harrisburg from 4 to 6 p.m. Valentine's Day. Valentines will be sent to state legislators asking for their support for same-sex marriage.
"We started as straight allies who believe that gays and lesbians should be entitled to the same civil rights that are accorded to heterosexual couples," Berger said.
More than 100 people participated in last year's rally. "The rally is open to anybody who would like to participate," Berger said.
Gay couples and their families will be celebrated during a service at 5 p.m. Saturday at the Unitarian Church of Harrisburg.
"Some will speak from the pulpit about what it is to love someone of the same sex," Kirkchaney said. "The service will be a very positive, upbeat service, but not a political or affirmation. It's wonderful to see in our church how many nongay and lesbian people come for these things to show how much they care for these people and their families."
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Pennsylvania
Counter Demonstration
Pittsburgh 12:00 pm
County Clerk's Recorder, First Floor of the City-County Building, 414 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Please direct all questions and press inquiries to local contact person: Dana Elmendorf at pennsylvania@marriageequality.org
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Rhode Island
Rally for marriage equality
February 14, 2007
Location: Smith Street State House, Providence, RI
Join with other Rhode Islanders to raise your voice in support of equal marriage!
E-mail jsteinfeld@marriageequalityri.org or call 401.463.5368 x344 or x345 for more information.
Sponsor: Marriage Equality RI
URL: www.MarriageEqualityRI.org
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South Carolina
South Carolina Freedom to Marry Events & Activities
Direct Action:
On Monday, Feb 12, same-gender couples will apply for marriage licenses, an annual action designed to raise awareness about marriage equality. Those interested in applying and supporters should meet at 9:30 am outside the Richland County Courthouse, 1701 Main Street. At 10:00 am, participants will enter the courthouse and apply for licenses.
Informational Forum:
"Protecting Your Family: Legal Rights for Gay and Lesbian Couples and Their Children."
Monday evening will be a Forum on "Protecting Your Family: Legal Rights for Gay and Lesbian Couples and Their Children." It will be held at the Garden of Grace United Church of Christ, 1020 Atlas Road, in Columbia, starting at 7:30 pm. Guest speakers will include The Honorable Amy McColloch, Judge for the Richland Country Probate Court, as well as Harriet Hancock and other local attorneys. Admission is free, and the forum is sponsored by SCGLPM, South Carolina Equality Coalition, Freedom to Marry, and Garden of Grace Church.
Freedom through Conscious Art & Poetry:
"Church" welcomes next week's featured artist, Taylored Poet (a.k.a. A. J. Taylor of Sumter, SC)
"Whispers from the Womb"
Monday, February 12, 2007
Natural Relaxer Salon and Spa
1693 JOE S JEFFORDS HWY
ORANGEBURG,SC 29115-7472 US
*Artists, Wonder, a.k.a. John Thomas, and Lady (owner of Natural Relaxer Salon and Spa) feature socially conscious artists, poets, and musicians Monday nights at the Natural Relaxer Salon & Spa. People travel from all around the state to attend this event. For more information, contact John Thomas at leopoet817@yahoo.com or info@scequality.org or 803.318.6900.
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Texas
Freedom To Marry Week Celebration
A Celebration and Wedding for Marriage Equality. Cake included!
Bring your partner and join in as gay and straight couples from all over Austin take identical vows of commitment in a mass wedding ceremony at City Hall. The party starts at 2pm and the ceremony will commence at 3pm. Whether taking vows for the first time or renewing them once again, you won't want to miss this exciting event!
Single? Well, bring your friends and show your support for the 10th annual Freedom to Marry Week! Featuring:
- Live Music
- Wedding Cake
- Sparkling Cider, and
- Updates from activists at the forefront of the marriage equality movement
~Wedding attire encouraged, but not required~
Location: Austin City Hall, 301 W. 2nd Street, Austin TX
2/17/2007 2pm-4pm
For more information go to http://eqfed.org/eqtx/events/freedomtomarrycelebration/details.tcl
Event Sponsors: Atticus Circle, Equality Texas, The Right To Marry
Price: free!
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Texas
A full week of Freedom to Marry events from Family Equality
Sun., Feb. 11, 7pm-10pm--National Freedom to Marry Week Kick-Off Party. Come meet the Foundation's board members, volunteers, speakers, clergy, and-of course-the wedding couples at an informal gathering.
info@FamilyEquality.org or call 713-227-1717
Location : The home of Tony Carroll and Bruce Smith, 3606 Woodhead, Houston, 77006
Catering provided by John McCarthy and Roy Mendoza.
Mon, Feb 12, 7pm-8:30pm--Discussion Series--The Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. Dr. Vannice will explore the history in psychology of sexual orientation and gender identity, as well as whether therapy designed to changes one's sexual orientation or gender identity (called "reparative therapy" )is a harmful practice. Open to the public.
Speaker: Dr. Jeffrey Vannice, Ph.D.
Location: University of Houston Law Center, Krost Hall (Entrance 19)
Tue, Feb 13, 7:00-8:30pm--Discussion Series- Religion and Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. Clergy from various faiths will discuss religious support for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people, and same-sex marriage.
Location: Grace Lutheran Church, 2515 Waugh Dr., Houston 77006
Wed, Feb 14, 12:00pm--Demonstration for the Right to Marry at the Harris County Clerk's Office. Demonstrators are advised to register and receive training in advance.
Email info@FamilyEquality.org or call 713-227-1717 for more information.
Location: Harris County Civil Justice Center, 201 Caroline, Houston, 77002
Thu, Feb. 15, 7pm-8:30pm--Discussion Series--The Biology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. Dr. Chappell will present scientific evidence that shows there is a biological explanation for sexual orientation and gender identity. Open to the general public
Speaker: Dr. Cynthia Chappell, Ph.D.
Location: University of Houston Law Center, Hendricks Heritage Room, (Entrance 19)
Fri., Feb. 16, 8:00pm-?--Bachelor / Bachelorette party for wedding participants and guests. Open to the general public. Join us for a wild night of fun and traditional pre-wedding party games.
Location: Blurr--710 Pacific Street, Houston, 77006
Sat, Feb 17, 7:00 pm-10:00pm--Rehearsal dinner for wedding participants and their guests. Open to the general public. Special menu prices per person.
RSVP requested: info@FamilyEquality.org or call 713-227-1717.
Location: Hollywood Restaurant, 2409 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006
Sun, Feb 18, 12:30-2:00 p.m.--Pre-Wedding Brunch. Open to the general public.
Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church, 2025 W. 11th Street, Houston, 77008
Sun, Feb 18, 2:00-3:30pm--Texas's Largest Same-Sex Wedding Celebration and Demonstration for the Right to Marry! Over 20 clergy members from many various faiths will preside. Open to the general public. Participants must register in advance or at the church. To register, fill out a sign up form (CLICK HERE FOR THE FORM), and fax it to 713-522-2610, or call 713-227-1717 or email your information to info@FamilyEquality.org
Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church, 2025 W. 11th Street, Houston, 77008
Sun, Feb 18, 3:30pm-6:00pm-- Wedding Reception. Cake, punch, dancing, and live entertainment. Open to the general public.
Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church, 2025 W. 11th Street, Houston, 77008
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Washington
Vow to Take a Stand
Attend Vow To Take A Stand, an event for coalition building, education, advocacy,and getting people excited about GLBT Rights and the upcoming Equality Day on February 26th in Olympia.
Special Guest Speaker State Representative Jim Moeller
For information on registration or to learn more about the Vancouver Workshops, please go to www.gayvancouverwa.org
When: Sunday, February 11, 2007
Where: Vancouver Heights Methodist Church
5701 McArthur Blvd., Vancouver, WA 98661
Legal Family Matters Workshop: 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Vow To Take A Stand: 4:30 p.m.-6 p.m.
For more information and to register for Equality Day in Olympia on February 26, 2007, visit ERW's website at www.equalrightswashington.org
or call 206-324-2570.
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Wyoming
Lovers and Gamblers
From Wyoming Equality
casino - auction - dance
"I DO"
February 24, 2007
Cheyenne Holiday Inn
(204 W. Fox farm Road)
- Casino Night -
- Prize Auction -
- Dance -
Gaming 6:30 until 10:30 pm
followed by
Prize Auction
and then
Dancing until 2 am
Why Marriage Matters America, Equality, and Gay People's Right to Marry.
By Evan Wolfson
Read reviews! Purchase the book or receive a signed copy as a thank you for your donation!
Read families’ stories about how marriage discrimination affects everyday life. These stories communicate, in concrete ways, how the exclusion of same-sex couples from marriage hurts families and helps no one.
Start in The Marriage Basics to get short answers to your big questions about the freedom to marry, and learn more about the protections and responsibilities of marriage, the historical background for this civil rights movement, why separate is not equal, and so much more.
