As Gays in California languish in the political arena and continue to worm their way through the judicial system over the controversial issue of same-sex marriage, their counter-parts in other states celebrate joyous news!
For example, New Hampshire just became the sixth State in the Union to legalize gay marriage!
It was a tough row to hoe, nonetheless, as activists scrambled to get all their chicks in a row in the final stretch of the "I do!" game.
In spite of the fact Governor John Lynch opposed the move towards same-sex unions in New Hampshire originally, he was inclined to sign the legislation into law once the Senate and the House passed key language on religious rights (hear that, California?).
In a surprise political turn, Lynch stated for the record:
"Today, we are standing up for the liberties of same-sex couples by making clear that they will receive the same rights, responsibilities - and respect - under New Hampshire law."
Analysts on the sidelines speculated that the nod from the State reflected a changing demographic from one that was once Republican and conservative in stance to that of a more liberal view held by younger constituents.
The forward-thinking States of Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, Vermont, and Iowa now allow same-sex marriages recognized by law.
On the heels of the affixing his John Henry to the historical documents, Lynch opined for the record that it was time for the Federal Government to extend full equal rights to same-sex couples around the Nation.
The New Hampshire law goes into effect January 1st (2010).
Happy New Year!
