Howdy...I'll readily admit this isn't much of a diary, but I just made a call to the Executive offices in Albany to register my support for Governor Patterson's recent marriage decision regarding recognition of same-sex marriages that have been performed in other states.
His decision, as I understand it, was based on a New York law that basically says New York recognizes any marriage from other states. The governor should be commended on his stand.
As can be predicted, the religious right is fighting back with lawsuits. If you're a New Yorker, take a minute to read the following action alert and make a quick phone call registering your support (and your zip code). My phone time was about 15 seconds. The alert (with phone #) is below. Also, this appears to be only for NY'ers. If you're outside of NY tell your friends that are in state.
GET INVOLVED- Gov. Patterson is polling support for his marriage decision as opposition takes legal action!
Gov. David Paterson told state agencies on May 14 that New York must recognize same-sex marriages performed in Massachusetts, Canada and other places where they are legal. The directive should provide gay couples with as many as 1,300 rights afforded to married heterosexuals, including the ability to collect health and pension benefits, being admitted as "close family" in a hospital room and transferring a business license.
On June 3rd, a Christian legal organization says it has sued to stop New York from recognizing same-sex marriages legally performed in other states. The Alliance Defense Fund says it filed its lawsuit Tuesday in a court in the Bronx. Several Republican state senators are named as party to the suit. The Arizona-based legal group filing the lawsuit has intervened elsewhere in gay marriage and religious freedom cases.
WE MUST STAND UP FOR OUR RIGHTS NOW!
Governor Patterson is doing a poll on whether people support his decision. Take 5 seconds to lodge your support, just call 1-518-474-8390. You will talk to a live person from the Governor's office during business hours.
Just say "I support the Governor's position on same sex marriage," then give them your 5 digit (New York) zip code.
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