By Jamie Thilman, Freedom to Marry's Communications Intern

 

An estimated 1200 New Yorkers gathered at the statehouse in Albany on Monday to lobby their elected officials to pass marriage legislation this session. Among those addressing the crowd were members of the Assembly Daniel O'Donnell and Teresa Sayward. O'Donnell spoke to the difficulties of passing such legislation. "You cannot pass anything with only gay or lesbian votes. You cannot get bills passed that are only supported by one party," he said. Fortunately, a large majority of New Yorkers support the freedom to marry and are making the effort to let their elected officials know where they stand. 

Also speaking before the cheering crowd was Ross Levi, Executive Director of Empire State Pride Agenda. "The good news is that not only LGBT people are the people who want these basic, fundamental fairness issues," he said. 

A bill failed in 2009, lacking the support of a single Republican Senator and several Democrats. Cuomo noted that rising poll numbers --nearly 60% of New Yorkers support the freedom to marry-- will make the 32 votes needed from the Republican controlled Senate easier to come by. Despite the governor's optimism, the bill is still short 6 votes, with 26 Democrats and no Republicans signed on as of today.

Republican Assemblywoman Teresa Sayward has heard the call to bring fairness to New York State, emphasizing that she does not believe the freedom to marry is a partisan issue. "This is the year for it," she said, "Marriage now!"

Freedom to Marry staff is on the ground in New York as a part of the New Yorkers United for Marriage Coalition to ensure the passage of a marriage bill this year. Click here to find out how you can help win the freedom to marry in NY.