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A wedding or commitment ceremony is a special occasion for a loving couple. Making a donation in honor of their declaration of love is a great way to celebrate their special day, but also a great way to support HRC's work.
All of these couples are now happily married! If you would like to make a contribution on behalf of these new unions and marriage equality for all couples, please click here.
Each donation made in honor of a couple's wedding or commitment ceremony will be recognized as a symbol of their family and friends' love and celebration of their union, as well as, a recognition of your commitment to equality.
If you know the wedding date of the couple, please use the following shortcuts to navigate the wedding registry archives:
March 2008; May 2008; June 2008; July 2008; August 2008; September 2008; October 2008; November 2008
For questions or to add your ceremony to HRC's wedding registry, please send your name and ceremony date to Weddings@hrc.org. | |
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George Takei and Brad Altman
September 2008
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George and Brad have been lifelong partners for more than 21 years and are thrilled to be married in September at the Democracy Forum of the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles, where George is one of the founders. George and Brad obtained their marriage license along with other couples in West Hollywood on June 17.
George came out publicly in 2005 and serves as HRC's National Coming Out spokesperson. As strong advocates for equality, George and Brad feel that at long last, the barrier to full marriage rights for same-sex couples has been torn down. In the words of George, "May equality live long and prosper!"
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Jennifer and Adam
March 29, 2008
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Jennifer and Adam were married March 29, 2008, in Jennifer's hometown of Knoxville, TN and reside in Chicago, IL. They feel lucky to have legal recognition of their lifelong dedication to each other, and they strongly advocate for this right to be extended to all people.
Jennifer and Adam know they do not need the legal recognition in order to love each other forever, and even considered not marrying at all. But legal marriage adds a layer of security and confidence to their lives, and allows certain rights and privileges that they would not have if unmarried. "It is preposterous that those rights and privileges are not available to all people," say Jennifer and Adam.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Chris and Adam
May 16, 2008
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Chris and Adam met July of 2004 in San Antonio, TX. They were attending a tourism trade show when they found out they were both from Orlando and lived only a few miles apart. They even shopped at the same Super Target. They began dating soon after they returned from Texas.
"It was thrilling to wake up on the day of our wedding in Canada and hear the news of the California Supreme Court ruling. Knowing that we could have traveled to California for our wedding was just amazing! The world is changing!" say Chris and Adam.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Karen and Gwen
June 16, 2008
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Karen and Gwen were married June 16th by the Mayor of Oakland, Ron Dellums, with Congresswoman Barbara Lee and City Councilmember Jean Quan as witnesses. Karen and Gwen met in 1985 and became quick friends as they learned of their mutual interests and community concerns. In 1991, Karen and Gwen made a commitment to one another to share their lives together.
"We are pleased to share our commitment to each other with the community. This ceremony is an acknowledgement of a promise already made," say Karen and Gwen.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Thomas and Robert
June 17, 2008
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Thomas and Robert met in 1968 and celebrated their union of 40 years on April 13, 2008. They will now legally marry on Tuesday, June 17, 2008 at the Old Court House in Indio, California at 10:45 a.m. Thomas and Robert are retired IBM employees of 30 years, having moved to Palm Springs in 2000 after their retirement in 1999 in San Francisco.
They never thought they would live to see this day. Thomas and Robert are so happy to be able to join other committed lesbian and gay people who will marry in California on or after June 17th. This is a groundbreaking human right in California and they are excited to be part of this history.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Clark and Geoff
June 17, 2008
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Clark and Geoff met in California in 1993. Clark was hosting an Academy Awards party and Geoff was invited through a friend of a friend. It was love at first sight. Six years later, Geoff proposed to Clark at Mont Morency Falls in Quebec and they exchanged vows at Balboa Park in San Diego on August 1, 1998. They had approximately 80 guests and it was a beautiful outdoor celebration.
Geoff is a Clinical Psychologist and Clark is a Business Administrator for a law firm in Fresno. On Tuesday, June 17th, they both plan to honor their 10-year wedding anniversary by getting married and renewing their vows.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Aurora and Jackie
June 17, 2008
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Jackie, an English professor, and Aurora, a French professor, met at a reception at CSU San Bernardino. They registered as domestic partners in 2002 and exchanged vows and rings under the moonlight on Ponte Vecchio, Florence, Italy the same year. In February 2004, Aurora and Jackie were in San Francisco for a conference when they read about the marriages at City Hall. They were married on Feb. 15, 2004.
"We have all of our material needs met. We can't imagine asking our family and friends for any more 'stuff' since they've been so generous to us over the last seven years. Instead, we'd like to encourage them to donate--as we have--to HRC to keep our marriage protected," say Aurora and Jackie.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Gail and Meredith
June 17, 2008
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Gail and Meredith met in September of 1985 while working at the same publishing company in San Rafael, CA. In March of 1986, they officially became a couple and have been together ever since.
Meredith, a psychotherapist in Elk Grove, never thought she'd see same-sex marriage legalized in her lifetime and is so thankful for the opportunity to have her love and commitment to Gail recognized and validated. Gail, a grandmother and life coach, is honored to be able to publicly express her love for Meredith on this historic day.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Mike and Jeremy
June 17, 2008
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Mike and Jeremy met online six years ago and it only took one minute "before both knew the other was the one." After dating for a year, they bought a home together in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Mike and Jeremy celebrated their love with a beautiful wedding in 2005. They traveled to Los Angeles to celebrate their love again on June 17, 2008, a most historic day.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Becky and Rhonda
June 17, 2008
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Becky and Rhonda met in 1995 and have been together ever since. In 2000, they went on vacation to Palm Springs. By the third day they were looking for property together, and on the seventh day, they purchased their first property.
Becky and Rhonda received their marriage license on the morning of June 17 and were married by the Mayor of Palm Springs later that same afternoon.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Ted and Ray
June 17, 2008
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Ted and Ray met in Fresno, CA 25 years ago. Ted stopped by a party at Ray's house to say hello to friends. Ted, dressed in a suit, was on his way to an employee's retirement party when he was accidently pushed into the swimming pool. Ray fished him out, and Ted knew in a flash that Ray was a keeper.
Ted and Ray raised a daughter from the age of five years old until they walked her down the aisle in 2000. On June 17, their daughter returned the gesture by giving them away in marriage while their grandson was the ring bearer.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Kat and Suzanne
June 17, 2008
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Kat and Suzanne met in 1995 in Commerce, TX after talking on the phone with each other for a week. On December 27, 1995, they had a commitment ceremony with their friends and family. On June 17, 2008, they were legally wed in San Diego, CA.
Kat and Suzanne have raised two boys together, who are now 18 and 21, and also adopted a daughter from Guatemala in 2002. They currently reside in Royse City, TX where they are restoring their 100-year old home. Kat is a high school theatre arts teacher and Suzanne teaches music in an elementary school.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Will and Gene
June 17, 2008
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Will and Gene were married on June 17, 2008 in Santa Rosa, CA, after being partners for 33 years.
After retiring from the gift and import business, Gene went into real estate in Sonoma County. Once Will retired from United Airlines, he joined Gene in the real estate business. They operate out of the Prudential CA Realty office in Sebastopol. Will and Gene lived in Occidental from 1984 until this past year when they moved to Sebastopol.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Jeffrey and Craig
June 17, 2008
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Jeffrey and Craig met 18 years ago, introduced by a mutual friend. It was love at first sight and they moved in with each other after two months. They own their own event florist business in Menlo Park, CA and live in Redwood City. Jeffrey and Craig were one of the first marriage licenses issued in San Mateo County and one of the first couples to be married in the County Building. They were married by the only openly gay, elected official in San Mateo County, County Supervisor Rich Gordon. One month later, being florists, Jeffrey and Craig did the decor for Rich's wedding to his partner of 26 years, Denny.
The most heartwarming part of the day was when Jeffrey's father got up in front of everyone there and told them, "I love Craig and Jeffrey, and my wife and are fully supportive of what they are creating together. They make us very proud."
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Carol and Jo
June 18, 2008
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Carol and Jo have been together for almost 32 years and will be celebrating their love on June 18 with a wedding in San Francisco's City Hall. A mutual friend introduced them in 1976 in Austin, TX. Carol and Jo fell in love and spent the next few years finishing their graduate and professional degrees and sending Jo's daughter off to college.
Carol is an economist and writer, Jo is a retired trial lawyer. Jo has two now-grown children from her previous marriage, and both share Jo's two wonderful grandchildren, one of whom will be a witness at their wedding.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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April and Kristi
June 18, 2008
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Six months into their professional relationship, Kristi had two epiphanies: she is a lesbian and April is the love of her life. Shortly after sharing the 'news', they began dating. A year after their first meeting, Kristi took April's surname and bought a house together. April and Kristi are now parents of a young daughter.
April and Kristi marvel every day at the gift of each other. April is very glad that Kristi had such clarity of knowing that they were meant for one another. The two wed, in the presence of close friends, in Grass Valley, CA, on June 18th (the anniversary of Kristi's name change).
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Rand and John
June 19, 2008
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Rand and John met 30 years ago in Indianapolis. A mutual friend invited John to Rand's "divorce" celebration on the day it was final. Things started off slowly, but they eventually became a pair. Their first commitment ceremony was December 13, 1986 in Nashville, Indiana.
Rand and John both work for a large financial organization based in London and Costa Mesa. Rand is a programmer and John is a strategic alliances manager. They both love to travel, and with large families based in the Midwest, they tend to have frequent visitors in the cooler months. They have visited most of the historic and scenic locations in southern California.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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David and Juan
June 19, 2008
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David and Juan met in San Francisco on September 12, 1999. They were registered as domestic partners in 2002 and later married at City Hall in San Francisco on February 13, 2004. As history records, those marriages were voided. David is a Program Manager for a non-profit agency and Juan is a Sales Associate for Gap, Inc.
In the fall of 2004, David and Juan became foster parents of their first son, Caiden Miguel. The following year, his brother, Ethan Gabriel, was born and joined their family. Their adoptions were finalized in 2006. Caiden is now 4 years old and Ethan is two and a half years old.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Anthony and Brian
June 19, 2008
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Anthony and Brian met in Anchorage, AK in 1997 and have been attached at the hip ever since. Anthony and Brian were one of the thousands of couples who were married in San Francisco during 2004.
Brian is a Senior Business Leader with Visa, Inc., and Anthony is an Information Technology Consultant. They currently reside in Oakland with their two dogs, Payasa and Kodi.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Tiffany and Angela
June 19, 2008
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Tiffany and Angela met when they were students at the University of Pittsburgh in 1998 and have been inseparable ever since. In July of 2005, they moved cross-country to California and found themselves surrounded by openness and acceptance.
On March 17, 2006, Tiffany and Angela exchanged vows in a commitment ceremony at South Lake Tahoe. When they heard about the victory for marriage equality, they registered for their marriage license and civil ceremony as soon as the ruling became official. They will be celebrating their union on June 19, just a few months shy of their 10-year anniversary.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Ted and Dwayne
June 19, 2008
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Ted never thought that Dwayne, his partner of 9 years, would have any interest in getting married. While attending a conference in San Diego in June, Dwayne surprised Ted with a very public marriage proposal in front of 300 people. "There were tears and shock, and when I said 'yes,' mayhem ensued," said Ted.
With the encouragement of everyone present, Ted and Dwayne obtained a marriage license and headed off to the beach at La Jolla. They were married at sunset before a small gathering of friends. Luckily, Dwayne's mother had come along for the trip and was able to witness the ceremony.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Phil and Rich
June 19, 2008
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Phil and Rich met in San Francisco, CA over 30 years ago and have been together for more than 27 years. They lived in Colorado and then Missouri for 13 years, before moving back to California in 2003.
Phil and Rich registered as domestic partners in 2003, and on June 19, 2008, they were married at the Sacramento County Clerk's office, along with their neighbors, who acted as witnesses to their marriage.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Barbara and Kerry
June 20, 2008
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Barbara and Kerry met in a thoroughly modern fashion on MySpace. While only looking to expand their circle of friends, instead they each found love and a best friend too. At the time they met, Kerry lived in South Lake Tahoe and Barbara in Sacramento. After six months and many miles on their cars, Kerry moved to Sacramento. Soon after, Barbara and Kerry were engaged.
Their first wedding was in front of their friends, family and god on December 2, 2006. During this time, Barbara and Kerry went through many changes – and yet their love keeps going and growing strong.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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John and Shawn
June 20, 2008
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John and Shawn have been together for seven years. John proposed to Shawn on their anniversary in New York City three years ago. They walked down Broadway singing, "life is more beautiful with you on my arm...", when John got down on one knee and pulled a ring from his sock. Shawn was so surprised!
They currently live in West Hollywood, but happened to be working in San Francisco on the day that the Supreme Court ruling legalized same-sex marriages. John and Shawn went to City Hall and registered that day. They are set to have their civil marriage ceremony on June 20th, at 10:30 AM, with a reception and celebration to follow!
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Michael and Garth
June 20, 2008
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Michael and Garth met on a blind date in January 1999. They were first married in a beautiful ceremony at our San Diego home in April 2000. Michael is a Salesperson for a major brand specialty store and Garth is the Business Administrator for an Episcopal Church. Garth has a daughter from a previous marriage and they both celebrate the joy of their granddaughter. They are blessed with a supportive family and wonderful friends.
Although in their hearts and in the eyes of God, they have been married since 2000, Michael and Garth are thrilled to have this opportunity to demonstrate their commitment in a way that other couples have been able to.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Adam and Leigh
June 20, 2008
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Adam and Leigh were married on June 20 at the Orange County Courthouse in California. They met in November of 2003 as students at the University of Iowa. They currently reside in Baltimore, MD, where Leigh is a pharmacist and Adam a baker.
"We are very excited to be a part of this historic moment. We have had the blessing of family and friends for many years, but now are thrilled to celebrate a legal recognition that we know is only the beginning. We are now also committed to sharing our story with family and friends, reminding them of the importance of this cause."
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Dietrich and David
June 20, 2008
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Dietrich and David met 26 years ago in Memphis, TN and have been committed to each other ever since. They were legally married in a civil ceremony at the Beverly Hills Courthouse on June 20, 2008.
They were fortunate to have the support and love of family, friends, and business associates.
"We have been active with HRC for over a decade and David currently serves on the Board of Directors. We stand for those of us who suffer from family rejection, loss of employment, violence and worse -- simply for being the way they were born," says Dietrich.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Larry and Jo'se
June 20, 2008
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Larry and Jo'se were married in Indio, CA on June 20, with their closest friends in attendance, including their "Best Man and Best Lady."
They were fortunate to have the support and love of family, friends, and business associates.
"We are thrilled that we are finally able to get our marriage certificate. We never thought we would see this day and are elated that we have," say Larry and Jo'se.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Tony and Andrew
June 20, 2008
Tony and Andrew have been partners for 25 years and were legally married on June 20th, 2008. Their commitment to each other now joins their families together, and they are thrilled to be a part of this landmark moment for human rights!
"Because life has been so generous to us, we have decided to place our registry with the Human Rights Campaign and encourage friends and family to contribute to HRC instead of traditional gifts," say Tony and Andrew.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Scott and Jim
June 21, 2008
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Scott and Jim have been together for almost six years and will be celebrating their love on June 21 with a wedding in San Diego at Marston House Formal Gardens in Balboa Park.
Introduced by a mutual friend in 2002, Scott and Jim fell in love and spent the next few years working towards starting up a staffing agency. Scott and Jim became domestic partners in 2005 at the San Diego Gay Pride Festival.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Karen and Vickie
June 21, 2008
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On June 7th, Karen and Vickie celebrated ten years together with a commitment celebration in Cincinnati. With friends and family in attendance, Karen and Vickie exchanged vows and rings. Dan Gardner, a singer from Atlanta, performed songs of love from his latest release.
Karen and Vickie are traveling to Laguna, California, to be legally wed on June 21. They are so excited to finally have this opportunity to marry legally.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Tom and Larry
June 21, 2008
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Tom and Larry were married on June 21, 2008 by the Mayor of Palm Springs. They met 39 years ago on a blind date in New York City.
Tom and Larry have been through quite a journey in 39 years. They were at the Stonewall Riots and marched on Washington, DC during the Vietnam War. Tom and Larry were also at the first decade of Gay Pride Marches in New York City. They moved to Los Angeles in 1980, were in the Granada Hills fire of 1988, and lost their house during the Northridge earthquake of 1994. They also lost many dear friends to AIDS during the '80s and '90s. "But our love is strong and sustains us," say Tom and Larry.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Mark and Rex
June 23, 2008
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Mark and Rex were legally wed the beautiful afternoon of June 23, 2008 in Orange County, CA. They previously registered as domestic partners with the City of Long Beach in August 1997 and the State of California in January 2002. "While the historical aspects are quite monumental, our civil marriage was very simple and private, a small affair," say Mark and Rex. "After all, we've been 'shacking up' for over 22 years."
Mark and Rex currently own a home and reside in Laguna Beach. Mark works in an art gallery, and Rex continues to work in the computer industry as a software support engineer.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Chris and Pedro
June 24, 2008
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Chris and Pedro met three-and-a-half years ago and just celebrated their relationship with a commitment ceremony on February 23, 2008.
"Though we are truly married in our hearts and the hearts of those we love, we realize that this is an important landmark for not only the state, but possibly the whole nation, as they may just follow suit," say Chris and Pedro. They plan on reaffirming their commitment and relationship with a wedding on June 24.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Fred and Archie
June 24, 2008
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Fred and Archie met in June 2004. Both are originally from the Los Angeles area and have made Palm Springs, CA their new home. They held a commitment ceremony on June 24, 2005 in Palm Springs and were the first couple to hold a commitment ceremony at the Palm Springs Pride Center. They were united by the Reverend Judith Doyle and they registered as domestic partners the same day.
"We quickly applied for a marriage license, called Judy, and had a private ceremony in our home the same day, which happened to also be our anniversary," say Fred and Archie. "We never in a million years would have believed that this day would come."
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Jim and Tim
June 25, 2008
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After 39 years together, Jim and Tim are happy to announce that they have exchanged vows of matrimony. They met two months before the Stonewall Riots and have lived together in love ever since.
Jim and Tim both consider this opportunity to formalize their union in the eyes of the State to be the greatest social change that they have witnessed in their years together. "Like so many others that can finally marry, we are working hard to ensure that California voters do the right thing in November and preserve the right for people to marry the one they love, regardless of gender," say Jim and Tim.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Mike and Paul
Joanne and Ellen
June 27, 2008
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Paul, Mike, Joanne and Ellen have been friends for more than twenty years. In 1996, they became a family in a more traditional sense when they decided to all share in the parenting of a child. The result is their now 11-year old son, Danny, whose magic is filling their lives and those of his many grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and teachers with great delight.
It was important for Paul & Mike and Joanne & Ellen to be married in a double ceremony with Danny as the ring bearer for both. In 2004, both couples scheduled their wedding ceremony for March 15. Unfortunately, it was 4 days too late; the state of California put a halt to same-sex marriage on March 11. On June 27, 2008, Paul & Mike and Joanne & Ellen got their second chance.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Paul and Jim
June 27, 2008
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Paul and Jim were introduced fifteen years ago by a mutual friend, who happens to be a Catholic priest. Paul was asked to accompany the priest to dinner with one of the priest's friends. That friend turned out to be Jim, and neither Paul nor Jim have left each other's side since.
"HRC brings every one of our stories to the sources of political power locally and nationally," say Paul and Jim. "Not because we're LGBT, but because we're people and the fact that we too must be recognized and celebrated for all of our contributions to our communities and our nation. There is no gift as precious or as priceless as our freedom."
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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J. Alan and David
June 28, 2008
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J. Alan proposed to David on Valentine's Day 2007. They planned on having a good-sized Holy Union on June 28, 2008, not realizing that the law was going to change. The invitations had been mailed and the RSVPs were coming in. Then, marriage licenses became available on June 17th.
J. Alan and David were tenth in line at the marriage license bureau and began quickly changing everything to a wedding/marriage ceremony. They held their wedding at St. Columba's Episcopal Church, with the Rev. Kathy Patrick of Metropolitan Community Church presiding and Father Joseph Frazier of St. Columba's presenting the communion.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Tracy and Shannon
June 30, 2008
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Tracy and Shannon will be married in Contra Costa County on June 30, 2008. The couple will reside in Tarzana, California where Shannon works in the legal field and Tracy works in computer science.
Tracy proposed to Shannon on Easter morning. She left an engagement ring in Shannon's Easter basket so Shannon's family could witness the engagement. At that time, the California Supreme Court had not yet ruled on The Marriage Cases.
To make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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William and Bill
July 1, 2008
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William and Bill met in Atlanta in 1996. Their first date was at a quiet French restaurant and according to William and Bill, "we both seemed to know that first night, we would always be together."
Twelve years later, they are more in love than the day they met. In 2003, they registered as domestic partners in California. William and Bill considered moving to Canada in order to have the right to marry and be treated equally, but instead they hoped and dreamed that they could someday be married in California.
On July 1, 2008, their dream will be realized.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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James and Lee
July 1, 2008
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James and Lee were married on July 1, 2008, in a civil ceremony at the Old County Courthouse in Santa Ana, CA. They have been a couple since 2001 and became registered Domestic Partners in 2005. James is a coach operator for the Orange County Transportation Authority and Lee works part-time for AMC 30 Theatres at The Block in Orange.
Lee is also a long-time gay rights activist and recently received notice from Marquis Who's Who that his biography was selected for publication in the 63rd edition of Who's Who in America.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Denis and Peter
July 2, 2008
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Denis and Peter met 23 years ago on an arranged date and have been a couple ever since. Though there have been tough times, "we managed to pull through and are excited and proud to have the opportunity to legally marry," say Denis and Peter.
"We want to register with HRC to do our part to ensure our rights, and the rights of others, are maintained," say Denis and Peter.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Peter and Michael
July 3, 2008
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Peter and Michael will be getting married on Thursday, July 3rd, 2008 at their home in Vallejo. They are honored to have State Senator Patricia Wiggins (D-Santa Rosa) as the officiant for their wedding ceremony.
On February 15, 2004, when Mayor Gavin Newsom made it legal for same sex couples to marry in San Francisco, the two were married for the second time at City Hall in San Francisco and received a State of California marriage license. That license was later voided in state court.
On July 3rd, the couple will be wed for the third time, and after many years of waiting, will be recognized as a married couple by the State of California.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Michael and John
July 3, 2008
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Michael and John have been together for almost 30 years. Being natives of Colorado and believing that the West has always been their home, they found it appropriate to be married in South Lake Tahoe. Michael and John have survived just about all of the trials and tribulations that come along with a long-term relationship. "It's been great so far and we look forward to being together for the rest of our lives," say Michael and John.
"We were honored to have been able to make our relationship official and we feel that HRC and our donations can help ensure that marriage will be a part of our lives from now on," say Michael and John.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Kirk and George
July 3, 2008
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Kirk and George were married on July 3rd at the San Diego County Courthouse. Kirk and George have been together for seven years, with the last four as registered domestic partners in the state of California. They met in Milwaukee, WI in 2001 and moved to San Diego in 2002.
A formal ceremony followed by a reception will be held at their home in San Diego on September 27th, 2008. "In lieu of wedding gifts, we are asking friends and relations to make a gift in our names to the Human Rights Campaign," say Kirk and George. "We both support the work that HRC does on the state and national levels. The struggle for LGBT equality is especially important to us because we are both honest about our sexuality in both our personal and professional lives. This would not be possible without the existence of organizations such as HRC."
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Lynn and David
July 4, 2008
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Lynn and David were married on July 4, 2008 in the garden of the home they have shared in Riverside, CA for 26 years. They have been able to travel extensively for those many years, having been to the United Kingdom several times, as well as France, Spain, New Zealand, Australia. Lynn and David's most recent trip was this past spring to Brazil to visit Lynn's nephew and wife. For their 25th anniversary, Lynn and David sailed on RSVP's cruise on the Queen Mary 2 from New York City to London.
Lynn is a retired teacher from the California School for the Deaf and David continues to make all of his 'girls' look pretty as a hair stylist.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Kevin and Don
July 7, 2008
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Kevin and Don, of Hollywood, were high school sweethearts and have been together since June of 1978.
The couple registered as California Domestic Partners in 2004. They decided to take one last name for the both of them. The couple, however, never purchased rings nor had a commitment ceremony because they always wanted a real wedding. On May 15, 2008, the day the California Supreme Court ruled in favor of same-gender couples, Kevin and Don went to Tiffany's for wedding rings. Then they went to the Bel Air hotel to celebrate and begin planning for a Cape Cod Wedding on July 7th.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Cindy and Christina
July 7, 2008
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Cindy and Christina were married on July 7, 2008, in San Diego, California. "Our families had known each other for many years but somehow we always missed the opportunity to get to know each other on a personal level," say Cindy and Christina.
Cindy and Christina had a wedding ceremony in Kansas and so far, have been the only lesbian couple to have their wedding picture published in the wedding section of their local newspaper amongst all the other wedding announcements. They have two wonderful children together "and we'll continue to live a lifestyle that portrays a positive image for our children."
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Kate and Pat
July 9, 2008
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Kate and Pat met while at a religious retreat during their ordination process for the Episcopal Church. Kate is currently a priest serving as the Vicar of a parish in Hawaii and Pat is completing a year as the Chaplain at an Episcopal Day school.
On July 9, Kate and Pat will have a civil ceremony at the Ventura County Courthouse. "We already are married in the eyes of God; on July 9, we are claiming our civil rights," say Kate and Pat.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Jerry and Ray
July 12, 2008
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Jerry and Ray met in Atlanta, GA during the 1996 Olympics. Jerry, originally from Laredo, TX, was in Atlanta working on an engineering project. Ray was practicing medicine in a local ER.
Jerry and Ray had a marriage ceremony in 1998, a civil union in 2000, and will be glad to finally get a marriage license in 2008!
Jerry and Ray will also celebrate their 10 year anniversary on September 19, 2008.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Charles and Scott
July 12, 2008
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Charles and Scott had their commitment ceremony on October 10, 2004. It was held at Maggianos Restaurant at the Grove in Los Angeles. Charles and Scott met online and chatted for a couple weeks. They decided to take a chance and meet in person for dinner. As they say, the rest is history.
Charles and Scott were "officially" married on July 12, 2008. The most memorable part of their commitment ceremony, besides having 111 of their closet friends and family witness their vows of love toward each other, was the fact that Scott's dad was able to be there shortly before he passed away from cancer.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Julie and Lynda
July 16, 2008
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Julie and Lynda have been together for ten years. They were introduced by mutual friends in 1998. They have a two-year old son and live in Pacifica, California. Julie and Lynda had a wedding in 2001 and got married again at San Francisco City Hall in 2004 when they started issuing marriage licenses to same sex couples.
This time, "we were on the steps of the California Supreme Court when the ruling came out and were thrilled that we would finally be able to get married legally." Julie and Lynda got their license in San Francisco on June 17th and were married by Mayor Gavin Newsom on July 16, 2008 in his office. It was the most amazing day; their parents and immediate family were there, as well as their son.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Steve and Ted
July 18, 2008
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Steve and Ted have been together for 19 years and have been in love and best friends since the beginning. They currently live in Dallas, TX, where Steve is a National Co-Chair of the HRC Board of Governors and a longtime activist and leader in the LGBT community. Ted is a high school art teacher and artist.
Steve and Ted would like their friends and family to make a contribution to the Human Rights Campaign instead of a traditional gift "because we are firmly committed to the mission and work of HRC to protect and advance our rights and the rights of all LGBT Americans."
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Erin and Mitzie
July 18, 2008
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Erin and Mitzie met not long after Erin moved to Tennessee to attend grad school. After dating for about a month, they went their separate ways until God brought them back together six years later. They were engaged in Central Park in November 2005 and had a Holy Union at their church in Nashville on December 16, 2006.
Erin and Mitzie planned a trip to Las Vegas to celebrate both of their birthdays about a month after the California Supreme Court granted marriage equality for same sex couple. After flying into Las Vegas, they rented a car and drove to San Bernadino, California, where they were married on July 18, 2008.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Kevin and Mike
July 22, 2008
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Kevin and Mike met in Orange County in April of 1997 and have been together ever since. To date, they have lived in eight houses (extensively remodeling seven of them), raised two cats, two dogs, a teenage son and daughter.
Kevin and Mike have been domestic partners since the first opportunity provided by Long Beach in 1997 and will renew their commitment to each other by legally marrying in the Rotunda of San Francisco City Hall on July 22nd. Kevin and Mike are excited to marry in the same location where they witnessed many other happy couples unite several years ago.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Whitney and Jan
July 23, 2008
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In perfect fashion, Jan and Whitney met through a mutual friend. They both feel this relationship has been waiting for them and are blessed to have found each other. They, along with their three children, are excited to be part of this amazing change in California law. While same-sex marriage is not legal in Utah, it will be exciting to say, "Yes, we are married... in California."
On July 23, 2008 Jan, Whitney and Whitney's extended family will be vacationing in Oxnard, California. They are excited to take everyone on a "surprise outing" where they will be married in the Ventura County Court House. For their family, having married parents is important. Jan and Whitney take this step knowing that they are walking a path that has been painfully laid, over many years, by those who have fought for equal rights. As they say, "I do," they will honor the right of marriage with a deep sense of thankfulness.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Michael and Chris
July 23, 2008
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Michael and Chris celebrated their 38th anniversary with a wedding under the dome of San Francisco City Hall on Wednesday, July 23rd. Their oldest mutual friend, Peter, honored them by serving as Best Man, and their friend, Kyle, also joined a signatory witness and official photographer for the event. Michael and Chris' first ceremony was held on their 25th anniversary in front of friends and family in their San Francisco home with their cocker spaniel, Andrew, wearing a rosebud boutonniere and acting as Best Man.
Michael serves as Vice President at Wells Fargo Bank. Chris is retired from the business he owned in design and architectural product and services. Their 'children' are English Springer spaniels Zack (8), and Nikki (6), and cat Max, The Red Menace.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Tim and Paul
July 24, 2008
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Tim and Paul have been together for almost 28 years and both work for community non-profit organizations in East Bay, California. They are avid backpackers, travelers, antique collectors, botanists, and photographers. "We pack a lot into every 24 hours," say Tim and Paul.
Tim and Paul were married on July 24, 2008, marking their 7th ceremony to each other. "Although we've had fun creating our own wedding ceremonies over the last 28 years," say Tim and Paul, "we turned to these alternative ceremonies because a legal marriage hasn't been an option for us until now."
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Shelly and Jill
July 26, 2008
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Shelly and Jill met online in 2006. They bonded quickly and found that they compliment each other fantastically, each brings a rare combination of peace and laughter to the relationship.
Shelly and Jill sealed their commitment to each other with a fun, loving commitment ceremony in Huntington Beach, CA on March 15, 2008, with friends and family in attendance. "Everyone should be so lucky as to feel such a concentrated amount of support and love as we felt on that day," say Shelly and Jill. Shelly and Jill will legally seal their marriage on July 26, 2008.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Carla and Marcia
July 26, 2008
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Carla and Marcia met in 1994 through mutual friends. They discovered that they were from the same small town in Kansas and that their mothers had attended high school together. They began dating in March 2003 and in 2006, Carla proposed to Marcia. Carla asked Marcia to marry her as soon as it became legal. They never thought legal recognition of their love for one another would become a reality during their lifetime.
Many believe a psychologist and an engineer is a strange mix, but it works for Carla and Marcia because they both have the same sense of humor and love of family.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Jim and Frank
July 28, 2008
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Jim and Frank met over eleven years ago in San Francisco's Castro District while walking down the street. They stopped to talk to each other, felt an instant connection, and have been together ever since.
Jim and Frank recently adopted Sofia, their 7-month-old daughter. "We're so excited to get legally married to protect our new family," say Jim and Frank. "Since we have every material possession we need and have been the recipients of so much generosity from our families and friends over the years, we instead would like our friends and families to join us in donating to HRC to help protect our marriage."
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Laurie and Alexis
August 1, 2008
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Laurie and Alexis met at an audition. Laurie was making a short film (which ultimately won several awards, including the Audience Choice Award at Frameline's San Francisco International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival in 1998) and Alexis played the lead role. Laurie says that she knew as soon as Alexis walked in that she was going to be a big part of her film and a big part of her life.
They were friends for the next two years and on an unseasonably warm evening (April 28, 1999 to be exact). Laurie and Alexis kissed for the first time on a balcony at El Rio in San Francisco. And of course, they have been together ever since.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Laura and Rachel
August 1, 2008
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Laura and Rachel met in graduate school at the University of Vermont in 1994. After numerous moves and career changes, they are still together and celebrating their 10th wedding anniversary on August 1st. They have decided to celebrate the occassion with friends and family with a backyard barbecue, along with a civil ceremony to provide them the rights and responsibilities of a legal marriage.
"We are also aware of how limited our marriage rights are should we decide to move or travel out of state," say Laura and Rachel. "We are asking our friends and family to support efforts to secure these rights for us and others throughout California and the nation."
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Sandy and Danielle
August 2, 2008
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Sandy and Danielle currently live in San Francisco, Calif. and will be married on August 2nd. Currently HRC's efforts are dedicated to stopping the November ballot initiative in California, which would legislate discrimination into the state Constitution by ensuring that the state only recognize marriages between a man and a woman.
Sandy and Danielle hope you will consider making a donation in their honor as a way to commemorate their wedding and make a much bigger difference in the world than one could ever imagine.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Pat and Maggie
August 4, 2008
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Pat and Maggie met on Valentine's Day in 1985 at an impromptu gathering of mutual single friends. Who would have guessed they would have made it this long? Pat helped raise one of Maggie's two children from a former marriage. This child acted as witness to his parents' legal marriage ceremony in Los Angeles County on August 4th, 2008. Having had a simple, but meaningful, Holy Union ceremony in 1993, they agreed to forego yet another ceremony and decided to throw a big backyard reception on August 30th.
What is Pat and Maggie’s secret? “Keep working at it! Love, patience and understanding...and a little excitement every once in a while,” say Pat and Maggie.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Ric and Michael-Paul
August 4, 2008
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Ric and Michael-Paul met in 1996 at a friend's house on Maui, where Ric had lived for 14 years. After a few months, and lots of phone calls and letters, Michael-Paul moved to Maui. A year later, they registered as reciprocal beneficiaries in the state of Hawai'i. After eight more years of living on Maui, Ric and Michael-Paul moved to California to be closer to their parents and families.
In January 2005, Ric and Michael-Paul registered as domestic partners in California. Although they knew they were married in God's eyes, they didn't want to have a ceremony until it was legal. When the Supreme Court ruled that same-sex couples should be allowed to marry, they knew they would make their relationship official.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Patrick and Kevin
August 7, 2008
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Patrick and Kevin met in 1999 while living in New Jersey and will be celebrating nine years together on December 3, 2008. In 2003, Patrick took a job in the Bay Area and they relocated to San Francisco, CA. They currently reside there with their two dachshunds, Bob and Scooter.
"We want to do everything we can to support the right of all to marry the person they love, to protect our right to be married in the state of California, and to support groups such as HRC that are working toward the day all marriages will be recognized by the federal government," say Patrick and Kevin.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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John and Malcolm
August 8, 2008
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John and Malcolm met 37 years ago in the town of Woodstock. They are now retired in San Francisco and will be married in a private ceremony on August 8th. John and Malcolm's long time friend, Allan, has been deputized to officiate the ceremony, and their dear friends, William and Lance, will act as witnesses.
"Should you wish to show your support of our marriage, please make a generous donation through the Human Rights Campaign," say John and Malcolm.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Char and Ellen
August 8, 2008
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Char and Ellen were married on August 8, 2008, in San Francisco, CA. They have been committed partners for over four years and jumped at the chance to make their union a legal marriage.
Char and Ellen have asked friends and family to donate to HRC in lieu of gifts because it is of great importance to them that one day their relationship be recognized for what it is: a marriage.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Ken and Mack
August 9, 2008
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Ken and Mack met in Long Beach, CA nine years ago through an online chat room. They met face-to-face a few days later and a whirlwind romance began and has continued to this day. Ken and Mack share a love for soccer and dancing.
Ken is a high school teacher and Mack is a grade school and both enjoy the rich, rewarding relationships they have with thier students. "As California residents, we are both proud that our State Supreme Court has the wisdom and courage to allow us to recommit to each other and ask that others work to that day when all gay and lesbian couples can be so honored," say Ken and Mack.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Travis and Allan
August 9, 2008
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Travis and Allan met about a year ago while out on the town. They talked for a while and then Allan asked Travis if he would accompany him to the San Diego Coronation Ball. Allan was a perfect gentleman the whole evening. He picked Travis up in a limousine and swept him off his feet just like "Prince Charming". Travis and Allan have filled each other's lives ever since.
"We are both honored to be apart of this historical movement in California and honored to support HRC so that many other couples after us may celebrate the same union," say Travis and Allan.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Renee and Mara
August 9, 2008
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Renee and Mara met over nine years ago and have been inseparable ever since. Together they raise their daughter, travel, and enjoy life. They are each other's best friend, lover, and supporter.
Renee and Mara were among those who got married in San Francisco in 2004. Although that marriage was voided, they believed someday they would marry again. They were right! Thanks to the California Supreme Court, Renee and Mara wed again on August 9, 2008 in the woods where Renee first proposed, six years ago.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Allison and Ruth
August 14, 2008
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Allison and Ruth graduated high school together and reconnected ten years later at their high school reunion. Ruth proposed on a cruise ship a year later, and they had a commitment ceremony in Orlando, Florida on March 22, 2008, marking their second anniversary.
They, ironically, had a California wedding reception the day after the Supreme Court decision came out to celebrate with all their West Coast friends.
The morning after Ruth returns from her fellowship with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia, they will be having a ceremony at City Hall in Simi Valley.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Jay and Mark
August 15, 2008
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Jay and Mark met in 1995 in Jupiter, CA. After meeting Mark, Jay immediately realized he was attracted to him and wasted no time asking Mark on a date right away.
Jay and Mark have families that have been very supportive of their relationship and have treated each of them as members of the other's family. They became domestic partners in 1997 and are currently in the process of finalizing the adoption of their son, David. Jay also has a son, Michael, from a previous marriage, and Michael could not be happier to be a big brother.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Ray and Bob
August 15, 2008
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Ray and Bob met at a party on October 7, 1992 and started to see each other exclusively within a couple of weeks. "One of the most remarkable ways I learned about Bob was by watching him care for Emmet, his best friend, who was dying of AIDS," says Ray. "Over those long, hard months, Bob's loyalty, patience, and love convinced me that I'd be a fool to let him out of my sight."
Ray and Bob would like their loved ones to support HRC as they have because "we believe that everyone, including LGBT people deserve equal rights and we hope other states will follow California's example in recognizing all families."
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Frank and Bill
August 15, 2008
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To honor their committed and enduring love for each other, Frank and Bill married on August 15th, 2008 in San Francisco, CA. The ceremony was on their ten year anniversary. Frank and Bill met in a small bar in the Manhattan neighborhood of Chelsea and dated one year before sharing an apartment in Greenwich Village. A couple of years later, they relocated to South Beach for a slower pace of life. After buying and then selling an investment property in Key West, Frank and Bill established a home together on Miami's mainland still only minutes from the beach.
Frank and Bill's love and friendship for each other has lasted through good times and bad. Knowing that one of their home states (New York) will now recognize their union as a legal marriage, they felt that it was important to exercise that right by marrying in California.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Carin and Teresa
August 16, 2008
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Carin and Teresa met 4 years ago at an outdoor live stage performance that Carin was costuming. The crowd was so large that they almost missed each other, but caught each other's eye in the parking lot on the way out. Ever since that fated night in 2004, Carin and Teresa have been best friends and have, together with Carin's two teenage daughters, created the family that they have both dreamed of. They will be married in Long Beach, Ca. on the warm summer night of August 16th on a gondola with their wedding guests looking on from their duffy boats...toasting with champagne!
"We, as a community, would not have the respect, the exposure or the political clout if it were not for the efforts of all the employees and volunteers of HRC," say Carin and Teresa.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Wilson and Tom
August 17, 2008
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Wilson and Tom were married on their 30th anniversary by longtime friend, Pat, in Quail Botanical Gardens overlooking the sea near San Diego. The couple resides in Atlanta and met in 1978 on a double date when each was invited by an acquaintance who had been friends since childhood. Wilson directs a litigation forensic consultancy, and his interests include cars, films, and travel. Tom served in Vietnam as a U.S. Army captain and is senior editor of Veranda magazine and an avid gardener.
Family and friends helped the couple celebrate: John, of Houston, hosted the rehearsal dinner, and Cliff, of Chicago, sang during the marriage ceremony. In lieu of wedding gifts, the couple requests a donation to HRC supporting marriage equality.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Jenny and Em
August 22, 2008
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Jenny and Em were married on their 10 year wedding anniversary, Friday, August 22nd. They have two kids, a 6 year old son and a 2 year old daughter. Both were carried by Jenny and adopted by Em in order to insure that their family is recognized.
They've been together for 12 years and met through friends. Jenny and Em are a match of opposites with shared values.
They understand that marriage is a partnership and negotiation supported by the community of family and friends and by legal rights to care for one another without discrimination.
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Sal and Jim
August 22, 2008
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Sal and Jim met almost five years ago and they both knew what they shared was special. They moved in together and got engaged one year after meeting. Sal and Jim had a long engagement as they prepared for their wedding. On April 22, 2006, Sal and Jim exchanged vows and celebrated with a big ceremony including a photographer, videographers, flowers, cake, DJs, and dancing.
"We would like people to donate to HRC if they'd like to give a gift," say Sal and Jim, who encouraged donations in lieu of gifts in 2006 as well. "It's important to support equal rights for similar marriages."
To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here. |
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Darrell and Gerry
August 22, 2008
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Darrell and Gerry of New York City (though both are originally Midwesterners), were married on August 22, 2008 in Great Barrington, Massachusetts in a private civil | | |
