It was a daunting task but finally it is a done deal ladies and gentleman. NY has legalized same sex marriage. It becomes the largest state to date to do this. NY joins five other states in giving its citizens its inalienable rights. Now gay folks can marry and be afforded the same rights that there heterosexual counter parts have had since the beginning of time. It is a pretty remarkable testament to the divided politics that republicans and democrats are known for that they reached a consensus on this issue.
It wasn't long ago in 2009 that the republican conservatives blocked the bill. Ironically one of the senators that voted no in 2009, Senator Stephan Saland voted yes this time. He said he could not deny anyone's basic rights anymore. Along with the senator a freshman GOP Mark Grisanti talked about his decision may not be popular with his peers but it was the right one. The effects of this bill will most likely be felt well beyond the geographical constraints of NY. Due to the fact that any US citizen will be welcome to come to the Big Apple to tie the knot with their loved one. In 30 days folks will flock to the state where the gay rights movement started in the Stonewall riots in Greenwhich Village.
The only sticking point seems to be in regards to religious institutions. Republicans are demanding stronger legal protections for religious institutions who fear that they will be hit with lawsuits involving discrimination should they refuse to allow a wedding. A lot of people think NY came late to the game but when they came they sure hit a home run. Expect lots of love birds wedding all over NY. It couldn't have come at a better time considering the Gay Pride Festivities that are going on this weekend. Good Job Republicans! Ooops did I say that?
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