GLBT Democrats of Suffolk County

June 24, 2011

Dear Friends and Supporters of Marriage Equality,

This evening, the passage of Marriage Equality in New York State, was one of the most monumental events that has ever happened in our community's history. As my partner John and I watched the live stream coverage, we sat with knots in our stomachs wondering if one more State Senator, (the one vote needed), would have the courage and conviction to do the right thing and vote "YES" and join the other 31 Senators who were standing up for Marriage Equality.                           

As the final tally was read and we saw that the bill indeed had passed, the phone started ringing off the hook with friends calling to share in the joyous news.            It reminded me of New Year's Eve when just after the stroke of midnight we would call our dearest friends and loved ones who were not physically there with us celebrating but to wish them well and to share our joy of the moment with them.     

I started to cry, (as did many of us), tears of joy, but for me, also tears of sadness that this took so long to happen. I thought of all my immediate family and many of our friends, (including one of our dearest friends, Jeffrey Glayzer, who we wanted to be one of our Best Men), but who did not live long enough to see this day.

I thought of how at 55 going on 56 years of age, I could finally have the day I waited for my entire life but as I would walk down that aisle to marry the person I love most in this world, that my Beloved Father and my Beloved Aunt Betty, (who raised me since I was 2 years old after my mother, her sister, died), would not be there to share in the most joyous day of my life. I was overcome with emotion.

Had this bill passed just a few short years ago I would have had them here to celebrate with me, however, I know they will be with me in spirit and  CELEBRATE  we will!!

FINALLY, our relationship will be given the same respect, dignity and most importantly, legal recognition in New York State that everyone else has and we will have extended to us all the protections and benefits that marriage brings, (at least on a state level).

Our entire community and supporters worked tirelessly to help pass this bill. I know for many it felt like we had just climbed Mount Everest. We helped to achieve what at times seemed to be the impossible but we did it.   

I must say though that our work is not over. On the Federal level we must overturn D.O.M.A, (the Defense Of Marriage Act), we must pass E.N.D.A., (the Employment Non Discrimination Act), and on a State level we must pass G.E.N.D.A, (the Gender Expression Non Discrimination Act), but for today and the very near future I know we will all savor this moment in history.

So CONGRATULATIONS to all of us. We came together as one community, one strong voice, united for a cause that was right and just... and WE WON!!!!! 

Our "motto" has always been "Together We Will Make A Difference" but today it will read, Together we MADE a Difference"!!!!!!!!

Sincerely and with much love,

Steve Henaghan - Chairperson                                                                                 Gay & Lesbian Democrats of Suffolk County