By Katie Garcia, Freedom to Marry's Communications Intern 

 

Over 500 New Yorkers gathered today in West Capitol Park in Albany to voice their support for the marriage bill currently being decided upon in the New York State Senate today. 

In a rally organized by New Yorkers United for Marriage, hundreds gathered outside the capitol to make sure that the Senate passes the bill to give same-sex couples the freedom to marry. 

One of the most popular speakers at this rally was Republican New York State Senator Jim Alesi. Senator Alesi spoke to his “new friends” about how proud he will be to be the first Republican voter for the vote for the freedom to marry in New York. The crowd screamed “Thank you Jim” as Senator Alesi spoke about what this vote means to him. 

“Passing marriage equality is the most important thing I think I can do in my 20 year history as a legislator,” said Alesi. “This is the land where freedom is supposed to prevail. And for those who talk about freedom and being free, I can tell you this— you will never be free unless you give freedom to al the people who want freedom.” 

Senator Alesi ended his remarks by stating, “For those who want to be in a committed, loving, marital relationship—I give you my vote.”   

The New York State Senate is still scrambling to bring this vote to the floor and decide whether New York will become the sixth state to give same-sex couples the freedom to marry. There is still time to contact you legislators and tell them why the freedom to marry matters to you. To contact your legislator, click here.