in the news archive

Apart from creating legal uncertainty about the thousands of same-sex marriages that have been performed in California and giving rise to lawsuits challenging whether the rules governing ballot measures were properly followed, the immediate impact of Tuesday’s rights-shredding exercise is to underscore the danger of allowing the ballot box to be used to take away people’s fundamental rights. more..

Note: MGLPC endorses only in contested elections. There are many more courageous, pro-LGBT incumbents who aren't listed, simply because they do not have a contested race. more..

New York Gay Couples Head to Massachusetts With Marriage in Mind, NY Times, Aug 02, 2008

While some New Yorkers have flown across the country to marry in California since May, when that state became the nation’s second to approve same-sex marriage, gay-rights advocates expect many more to do the same in Massachusetts, since it is so much closer. more..

Governor signs law allowing out-of-state gays to wed, Boston Globe, Jul 31, 2008

The repeal took effect immediately, making Massachusetts the second state after California to allow same-sex couples to marry, regardless of residence. It opened the borders for potentially thousands of nonresident same-sex couples. more..

State sets table for gay nuptials, Springfield's "The Repblican" Newsp, Jul 31, 2008

As Arline Isaacson, co-chairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, points out, gay couples who come here to marry will "bring their families and their friends and all those people will stay at the hotels, eat at the restaurants, shop at the stores and hire caterers and florists and musicians." more..

The move will clear the way for out-of-state couples to marry in Massachusetts, making it the second state to allow gay and lesbian couples to marry regardless of their place of residence. more..

You would think that with the Senate's vote to allow same-sex couples from out of state to get married and with the House poised to do the same, the self-righteous family values crowd would just fold up tent and move their circus elsewhere. more..

Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, predicted that the House would pass the measure but that some lawmakers would vote against it there. more..

"The 1913 law was born of racial prejudice, yet its implementation these last 5 years was motivated by anti-gay animus,” said Arline Isaacson, MGLPC co-chair. “We welcome the end to this vile and antiquated remnant of prejudice and bigotry." more..

Mass. Transgender Political Coalition Names Gunner Scott Director, MTPC, Jan 10, 2008

Holly Ryan Named MTPC Chair, urges supporters to contribute and work toward passage of legislation providing full equality for all in Massachusetts more..

Mass. Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus celebrates at annual fund-raiser, In Newsweekly, Aug 02, 2007

Attorney General Martha Coakley, this year's marquee special guest, struck a highly celebratory chord in her brief remarks. The first woman to be elected to the state's top lawyer job, Coakley is widely seen as an unequivocal supporter of civil rights for all, including civil and constitutional rights for GLBT Massachusetts residents. more..

For three decades, the Caucus has fought the good fight on everything from battling foster care inequality to advocating confidentiality in HIV testing, from fighting for safe schools funding to thwarting anti-gay legislation, from pressing for repeal of anti-gay sodomy laws to proposing domestic partnership legislation. more..

MGLPC's years of lobbying the legislature and our work with coalition partners has produced a super-majority of legislators opposed to banning same-sex marriage. "We acknowledge that our support in the current Legislature is weak ..." said Kris Mineau, spokesman for VoteOnMarriage.org more..

Of lawmakers who voted to defeat the measure, including nine legislators who changed their minds since the last vote on Jan. 2, MGLPC Co-chair Arline Isaacson said, "They are profiles in courage," having stood up to "intolerance and prejudice," adding, "We will love these people for the rest of our lives." more..

Legislators' eyes also opened to an even more politically potent fact, Isaacson said: that most of their constituents weren't losing sleep over gay marriage. "They care more about healthcare and the economy," she said. "This wasn't a high priority, so how they voted wasn't going to hurt them." more..

Fate of gay marriage: Mark down this date, Springfield "Republican", Jun 15, 2007

This newspaper respects and defends the right of any religious organization to decide who can or cannot marry in its place of worship, but marriage is a civil contract. No single religion gets to impose its definition of marriage on those both inside and outside its faith. more..

Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus and its chief legislative lobbyist, said the amendment's defeat is a "monumental and historic moment" that not only marks a crushing setback to gay-marriage opponents in Massachusetts but also to conservative forces across the nation. more..

Legislators vote to defeat same-sex marriage ban, Boston Globe, Jun 14, 2007

"In Massachusetts today, the freedom to marry is secure," Patrick told reporters after the results were official. more..

Voting tally of the legislature's vote on the anti-gay constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage more..

Rev. Anne C. Fowler, RCFM board president and Episcopal priest took strong exception to the bishops. "The Roman Catholic Bishops of Massachusetts so often, and so unfortunately, seem to forget that in their own tradition the dictates of conscience trump the dictates of dogma. And many faithful Roman Catholics, as well as hundreds of thousands of people of other faith traditions in our Commonwealth, having consulted conscience in the context of our religious teachings, have concluded that marriage equality represents a human expression of God's divine love and justice." more..

What happens when the political process allows the people to vote on minority rights? Fear and ignorance often reign. Time and again the people will just say no. more..

Anti-gay lobby day success, say organizers, www.innewsweekly.com, Apr 26, 2007

Only one lawmaker spoke in favor of the marriage ban. State Rep. Jeffrey D. Perry (R- Sandwich) told supporters that victory is within reach and that there are more than enough votes. more..

Legislators debate reforming Mass. Constitutional amendment process, innewsweekly, Apr 12, 2007

"If these bills are enacted," said Arline Isaacson, chairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus, they would make a "huge difference" in blocking any future amendments banning gay marriage. "It's simply unfair for a minority of legislators to put the rights of minorities on the ballot." more..

"This is huge politically," said Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. "It's very significant, and it is yet one more example of the huge difference between Patrick and Romney. Patrick is dedicated to equalizing the playing field for the gay community and ending all forms of discrimination." more..

Gay boomers, who fought discrimination and confronted AIDS, face a new fight as, Baltimore Sun, Apr 01, 2007

In a 2006 study of gay and lesbian boomers, more than a quarter of those surveyed were concerned about discrimination as they age, while less than half expressed strong confidence that health care professionals will treat them "with dignity and respect." more..

"We are fighting with everything we've got to preserve our marriage rights," MGLPC Co-chair Arline Isaacson said, although she acknowledged that gay marriage supporters do not currently have enough votes to prevent the amendment's passage. more..

In a day of tense reversals, gay marriage advocates saw all-but-assured victory wrested from their hands; prospects for next legislative bout unclear with a vote count that will still fall short by 4 or 5 votes, according to best estimates. more..

Votes opposing placing the anti-gay constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage on the Nov. 2008 ballot. more..

Votes in favor of putting the anti-gay constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage on the Nov. 2008 ballot. more..

After second vote, gay marriage ban still advances, BostonGlobe.com, Jan 02, 2007

Lawmakers will have to revisit the issue again next legislative session. If the ban again gets the support of at least 50 lawmakers, the proposed amendment will be put to the voters as a referendum on the 2008 ballot. more..

Patrick urges Legislature to defeat gay marriage ban, Boston Globe.com, Jan 02, 2007

"I favor ending this petition initiative promptly," Patrick said in the statement. more..

Court dismisses Romney suit, Springfield News "The Republican", Dec 28, 2006

"I do not believe in discrimination of any kind," said Senate Minority Leader Brian P. Lees, R-E. Longmeadow, who voted to recess on Nov. 9. "I will not vote for it." ....... Rep. Mary Rogeness, R-Longmeadow: "I will vote at every opportunity that we move forward with the issue" more..

Romney budget cuts could be overturned by Patrick, innewsweekly, Dec 13, 2006

Romney's red ink struck out at all things pink, including gay youth and seniors, AIDS/HIV funding and domestic violence. more..

Here's the roll call for the November 9th Constitutional Convention vote to Recess the convention until January 2, 2007. more..

Through procedural tactics the Massachusetts legislature recessed the Constitutional Convention, effectively keeping measure off the ballot. Referring to a 1990 pro-choice initiative petition on the ballot, Arline Isaacson said, "Pro-lifers did the exact same thing we're doing now. And now they are accusing us of trickery." more..

State lawmakers today again delayed a contentious vote on a proposed gay-marriage ban geared for the 2008 ballot, a move that could kill its chances of ever going to the voters. more..

Once again, Massachusetts voters re-elected every marriage equality incumbent to the Legislature! The only incumbent to lose a seat was an opponent of marriage equality. Two of the most vocal anti-gay representatives who are retiring at the end of this session will be replaced with pro-marriage equality candidates. more..

MGLPC's endorsements for the critical November 7 General Election to the state Legislature. Listed by City/Town. more..

MGLPC Endorsements for State Senate and House of Representatives more..

MGLPC Endorsements for Governor/Lt. Governor, Attorney General, Governor's Council, U.S. Senate and Congress more..

No one should cut the governor any slack in view of the findings about bullying and its prevalence, especially evidence from a joint project of agencies within his own executive office. If the governor really cares about children, then he ought to put some leadership where his mouth is. more..

Domestic violence commission member resigns after veto of gay services funding more..

We said Our Votes Matter - and they did! more..

Patrick, marriage equality candidates victorious, innewsweekly.com, Sep 20, 2006

Deval Patrick sails to Democratic gubernatorial candidate victory with pro-gay Tim Murray as running mate; anti-marriage equality incumbent unseated in Milford more..

VOTE Tuesday, September 19th more..

Lively meeting endorses slate of equality-minded incumbents and open seats for this year's Massachusetts elections. more..

MGLPC Co-chair Gary Daffin appreciated Julian Bond's words on AIDS. He now waits to see if they reverberate throughout black America. more..

The Religious Coalition for the Freedom to Marry (RCFM) has been a significant presence in lobbying for same-sex marriage rights. To the Boston Globe's credit, the newspaper wrote a significant story about the group and the work it was doing to defeat the anti-gay marriage constitutional amendment several days before the July 12 Constitutional Convention (ConCon). more..

For DiMasi, there was no question of his attendance. "I wanted to make sure that I came here tonight," he said, "even though we are still in session overriding more of the governor's vetoes." more..

"Time is our friend," Isaacson said after the vote. "The more time that passes, the more people see the only ones affected by gay marriage are the gay people who get protections and benefits, with happy, wonderful things happening in their lives," Isaacson explained, adding, "Straight friends and allies get to enjoy all of that with them." more..

"He's been a hero, and this is our chance to honor him," MGLPC Co-chair Arline Isaacson said. more..

Vote on Same-Sex Marriage Is Delayed in Massachusetts, NY Times, Jul 13, 2006

Arline Isaacson, chairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, said, “We do feel like we dodged a bullet, because had there been a vote today we would have lost.” more..

Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, said the ad reflects concern among the business community that an emotionally charged debate would hurt the state's business climate. She said that concern will resonate on Beacon Hill. more..

Lobbying intensifies on gay marriage - Romney, O'Malley press for vote on a ban, Boston Globe, Jun 29, 2006

Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, said the constitution gives the Legislature the power to decide what should be on the ballot. ``Romney doesn't seem to get it," Isaacson said. ``He doesn't seem to get that in this country it's inappropriate to force everyone else to follow your religious views." more..

The gay-marriage supporters plan to call on O'Malley and the other three Catholic bishops of Massachusetts to stop campaigning for a repeal of same-sex marriage more..

Sen. Ted Kennedy, a Massachusetts Democrat, denounced the proposed amendment Tuesday as "an instrument of bigotry and prejudice," which he said was designed by the GOP leadership "to try to bring Republican senators out of the ditch of disapproval." more..

Government should be concerned about children. But the big threat they face is poverty, not gay marriage. Any serious defense of children has to include better physical and mental health care, stronger schools, increasing family incomes ... more..

Senate lawmakers move to take gay youth commission from Romney, Boston Globe, May 22, 2006

Romney angered many gay rights activists and lawmakers when he flirted with the idea earlier this month of abolishing the 14-year-old commission, the first of its kind in the nation... more..

Commission backers insisted that Romney's ban on use of taxpayer money for parades was hollow because private money pays for those events. more..

Romney takes action against commission on gay and lesbian youth, BostonGlobe.com, May 11, 2006

Sen. Jarrett Barrios, D-Cambridge, criticized Romney's actions and said he would push lawmakers to create a state commission for gay and lesbian youth out of the political reach of the governor's office. more..

SJC upholds law barring out-of-state gay couples from marriage, Boston Globe, Mar 30, 2006

The Supreme Judicial Court upheld the 1913 law when it was used to block same sex-couples from Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, because gay marriage is prohibited in those states. more..

SJC upholds law barring out-of-state gay couples from marriage, Boston Globe, Mar 30, 2006

''It's reprehensible that Romney is putting ideology and his political aspirations ahead of the best interests of these children," said Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. more..

Romney files 'religious freedom' bill on church and gay adoption, Springfield "Republican", Mar 16, 2006

Lt. Gov. Kerry Healey, a fellow Republican hoping to succeed Romney as governor, recently said she disagreed with the governor's position. more..

Gov. Mitt Romney, moving ever rightward, must have been disappointed to learn that he couldn’t simply issue an executive order... more..

MGLPC Opposes Attempt to Discriminate Against LGBT Parents, MGLPC, Mar 02, 2006

“As a life-long Catholic, I have always held Catholic Charities in very high regard. The organization does extremely good work for people in great need,” said Gary Daffin, MGLPC co-chair. more..

The bishops need to know that members of the church will not quietly acquiesce in unjust policies promulgated by the hierarchy. more..

The United Parish of Auburndale was named an Outstanding Congregation by the Religious Coalition for the Freedom to Marry. http://www.rcfm.org/ more..

If the church fails to get an exemption, it may face the choice of living with the current situation or directing Catholic Charities to bar gay or lesbian couples as prospective parents, which might well stop the agency from helping children in the custody of the Department of Social Services. more..

Goguen has been a vocal opponent of same-sex marriage. He supported an amendment to ban gay marriage but allow civil unions in Massachusetts, which the Legislature struck down, and also filed a bill to remove the Supreme Judicial Court justices who voted to legalize gay marriage in 2003. more..

Annual Awards Ceremony: Wednesday, February 15, 2006 more..

U Mass Boston will host “Same-Sex Marriage: A Symposium” on Friday, February 3rd in the ballroom of the Campus Center from 9:30 am until 1 pm. more..

Sen. Lees not seeking re-election, MassLive.com - Spfld Republican, Jan 12, 2006

Last year, Lees switched his vote and voted against a proposed constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage and create civil unions for same-sex couples. The amendment, approved by the state Legislature in 2004 and cosponsored by Lees, was killed last year during a second vote by lawmakers that Lees helped engineer. more..

Bill to provide benefits to same-sex couples, others announced, Boston Globe, Jan 11, 2006

Gay marriage opponent, in a cynical effort to appear "fair," offers a miniscule, watered-down "benefits" bill that applies to anyone who can't get married. more..

Gay marriage backers file lawsuit to block repeal effort, Boston Globe, Jan 03, 2006

Gary Buseck, GLAD's legal director, said the state Constitution specifically bars any citizen-initiated amendment that "relates to the reversal of a judicial decision." Only the Legislature can propose that kind of amendment, he said. more..

Gay marriage backers file lawsuit to block repeal effort, Boston Globe, Jan 03, 2006

Few priests sign name to ban gay marriage, Springfield "Republican", Dec 30, 2005

Several Springfield diocesan priests who didn't sign the petition refused to go on record with public comments, citing fear of retribution by superiors. more..

2005 PEOPLE OF THE YEAR: Arline Isaacson & Marty Rouse, InNewsweekly, Dec 29, 2005

Ellen Zucker, current Vice Chair of the MassEquality Board and Boston attorney, offered her observations: "In her work, Arline Isaacson consistently shows a powerful mix of smarts and passion. She has the ability to make shrewd decisions for the moment while always thinking five steps ahead to whatever we will need in the next fight." more..

''This is a groundswell of fraud and deceit, not of voter insistence," said Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. more..

Gay marriage opponents collect 170,000 signatures for petition, Springfield Republican, Dec 08, 2005

Critics accused supporters of the petition of deceiving people into signing, in some cases having them first sign a petition proposing to allow wine sales in grocery stores before flipping over their clip boards and having them sign a second petition without specifying that it was for the gay marriage ban. more..

Senator Augustus detailed testimony to the committee concerning tactics used by paid signature collectors. The committee heard numerous examples of signature gatherers who allegedly advised people that they were signing a petition to permit beer and wine sales in grocery stores and were instead given the gay-marriage ban papers to sign. more..

Lawmakers urge Medicaid benefits for same-sex couples, Boston Globe, Nov 25, 2005

MGLPC is lobbying for the MassHealth Equality bill to promote fairness for lesbian and gay married seniors. more..

Battle intensifies over gay marriage in Massachusetts, Boston Globe, Nov 23, 2005

If the signatures on the petition are approved by December 7, the proposed constitutional amendment would then need further approval by 25 percent of the 200-member state Legislature over two straight sittings -- one in 2006 and the other in 2007 -- before the issue could be put to voters in 2008. more..

Gay marriage foes tout signatures for 2008 ballot question, Boston Globe, Nov 22, 2005

It must by approved by only 25% of the legislature in two successive sessions to be placed before voters as a constitutional amendment in November 2008. more..

Gay marriage foes tout signatures for 2008 ballot question, Boston Globe, Nov 22, 2005

It must by approved by only 25% of the legislature in two successive sessions to be placed before voters as a constitutional amendment in November 2008. more..

''President Bush's campaign employed this strategy in battleground states such as Ohio, Florida, and Pennsylvania in '04 and was highly successful. Duplicating this effort here in Massachusetts is critical if we are to elect Republican candidates in '06 and beyond." more..

Vocal critic of gay marriage will not seek re-election, Boston Globe, Nov 17, 2005

Rep. Philip Travis, D-Rehoboth, told The Boston Globe he wants to spend more time with his family and pursue other interests... more..

''If a judge substitutes his or her values for those values that were placed in the Constitution," Romney said, ''they do so at great peril to the culture of our entire land." more..

O'Flaherty: It's time to move beyond marriage debate, BayWindows, Nov 10, 2005

The Chelsea Democrat had been a leading opponent of same-sex marriage rights - now says he will not back effort to amend state constitution more..

Court passes on transsexual discrimination, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Nov 07, 2005

The court's refusal to intervene leaves in place a victory for Cincinnati Officer Philecia Barnes, who was born Phillip Barnes. more..

Paid petition worker alleges to joint Mass. legislative committee how signature gatherers were trained in bait and switch techniques; co-workers joked how gay citizens unwittingly signed to oppose their marriage rights. more..

Supermarket says complaints led to a charge of trespassing. more..

The lines are drawn more starkly with a petition circulating in Massachusetts communities for a different amendment that would define marriage as between one man and one woman without the compromise civil union option. more..

Churches playing key role in newest anti-gay marriage push, Boston Globe, Sep 24, 2005

While the Catholic Church officially opposes same sex marriage, many individual Catholics find themselves torn. Kathy and John Shea are devout Catholics from the Boston suburb of Needham. They say their views were forever changed when one of their sons told them he was gay. more..

For the moment, savor the victory. But the battle - by no means over - continues as marriage equality detractors gear up a signature drive for a citizens-initiated ballot petition. The ultimate goal is an outright gay marriage ban. more..

Supporters of the stricter ban say they're determined to finally give voters the chance to cast a ballot on gay marriage. more..

Massachusetts Legislature Rejects Gay Marriage Ban, New York Times, Sep 14, 2005

But today's vote also reflected a change in strategy of gay marriage opponents, who continue to try to outlaw same-sex matrimony. more..

Romney urges attorney general to certify gay marriage petition, Boston Globe, Aug 31, 2005

Arline Isaacson, co-chair of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, said Romney is asking Reilly to ignore the law. more..

Lawmakers set Sept. 14 for gay marriage Constitutional Convention, Boston Globe, Aug 24, 2005

Members of the House and Senate have already given initial approval to the amendment, but the state constitution requires them to approve identical language in two successive sessions before the amendment can be put before state voters. more..

The attorney general's office must certify all state ballot questions, but Reilly gave no clue yesterday as to whether he will certify the same-sex marriage ballot question. more..

Arline Isaacson, co-leader of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, said supporters of the proposed amendment "are showing themselves to be extremists. This measure would ban our marriages, deny us even civil unions. It's mean-spirited. There are so many other issues they should be working on, like helping the poor and the needy," she said. more..

Same-sex marriage opponents file new ballot initiative, Boston Globe, Aug 02, 2005

The initiative would define marriage as between a man and a woman. It is part of the effort to overturn the state's legalization of same-sex marriage, which the Supreme Judicial Court legalized in 2003. more..

"There is general unhappiness and disdain with the governor's vetoes, particularly when he targets anti-violence and anti-suicide programs for gay youth ... " said Bill Conley, lobbyist for the Massachusetts Lesbian and Gay Political Caucus more..

The House and Senate restored $43 million for state Medicaid funding for nursing homes, $4 million for a new Office of Travel and Tourism, and a $100,000 funding increase for the Gov.'s Commission on Gay and Lesbian Youth, all of which Romney had vetoed. more..

David O'Brien is Loyola Professor of Roman Catholic Studies at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester. more..

United Church of Christ backs gay marriage, Springfield "Republican", Jul 05, 2005

"This is a significant moment," said the Rev. Rebecca Voelkel, of Cleveland, coordinator of a church coalition addressing gay and lesbian issues. She said the decision emphasizes that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people are "spiritual people who love and are loved by God." more..

Marriage has been in a constant state of evolution since the dawn of the Stone Age. In the process it has become more flexible, but also more optional. Many people may not like the direction these changes have taken in recent years. But it is simply magical thinking to believe that by banning gay and lesbian marriage, we will turn back the clock. more..

Governor's vetoes raise more questions on national run, Boston Globe, Jul 01, 2005

Gov. Romney's veto message congratulated the legislature on its $9.3 million suicide prevention program for the general population then vetoed $175,000 from the Safe Schools program which works directly in the high schools to reduce the high rates of LGBT teen suicides. What's the message Governor? more..

The 1.3 million-member United Church of Christ has a history of supporting gays in its denomination, dating to 1972, when it ordained the first openly gay minister and established a gay caucus. more..

''Same-sex couples should be afforded equal rights, and that's what I have always believed," Hill said. ''I believe that we need to do this somehow by changing the general laws dealing with marriage, not through the constitution." more..

Attorney General defends state's 1913 marriage law, Boston Globe, Jun 24, 2005

Gay-rights advocates have argued that the 1913 law is unconstitutional and has been unfairly applied to out-of-state same-sex couples since Massachusetts began allowing gay couples to marry here. more..

Lawmakers approve compromise version of $24 billion budget plan, Boston Globe, Jun 23, 2005

Mass. Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus led the lobbying for a $175,000 increase in the budget for the Governor's Commission for Gay & Lesbian Youth. The Legislature's budget passed today includes the increase - a significant win for LGBT youth throughout Massachusetts. more..

(MGLPC Co-chair Arline) Isaacson said that the new petition virtually ensures that there will be an amendment showdown at the ballot box in 2008. more..

Romney backs new effort to prohibit gay marriages, Boston Globe, Jun 17, 2005

''I lived outside Montgomery, Ala., in 1963, and the people there were convinced that government was forcing its agenda on them to enfranchise blacks," said the Rev. Jep Streit, dean of St. Paul's Episcopal Cathedral in Boston. ''They said it was outrageous that the will of the people was opposed. The rhetoric sounds the same to me." more..

New ballot same-sex marriage initiative expected to change dynamics of debate, Boston Globe, Jun 17, 2005

The new campaign announced Thursday, backed by deep-pocketed national organizations, seeks to scuttle an existing ballot initiative that lawmakers passed last year that would ban same sex marriage while legalizing Vermont-style civil unions. more..

Gay marriage opponents shoot for 2008 statewide vote, Springfield Republican, Jun 16, 2005

"We are shocked that they would undermine their ability to win in '05 by pursuing an '08 ballot question," said Arline Isaacson, co-chair of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. Allowing two more years of same-sex marriages may fire up opponents, she said. "We suspect their rank-and-file members will rebel against this crazy decision they've made," she said. more..

Romney said he will support new gay marriage ballot initiative, Boston Globe, Jun 16, 2005

A spokesman for Gov. Mitt Romney said he will support a citizen-driven initiative to put on the ballot a proposed constitutional amendment that would ban same-sex marriages and not allow civil unions. more..

Gay marriage rivals may seek to ban unions as well, Lowell Sun, Jun 16, 2005

Arline Isaacson, co-chair of the Massachusetts Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus, said gay marriage opponents will hurt their cause by pursuing a strict Defense of Marriage amendment, since she believes lawmakers are poised to approve the amendment now pending in the Legislature. more..

''We think they're crazy," said Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. ''We're amazed that they are writing off this year's [constitutional convention] when we know they have a very good chance of winning this year and therefore banning same-sex marriages starting in 2006. We're amazed they are considering letting us get married for two more years through 2008. It will virtually guarantee that many thousands more gay people will get married." more..

Legislators vote to defeat same-sex marriage ban, Bosron Globe, Jun 14, 2005

The Legislature defeated the ballot initiative by a vote of 151 to 44. more..

Pro-Marriage Equality Candidates WIN in Special Elections, Boston Globe, Mar 16, 2005

The elections for the two House seats, plus the outcome of a third Democratic primary last night in Pittsfield, added at least two supporters of same-sex marriage to the Legislature, which is expected to take up a proposed constitutional amendment this fall more..

Being a parent is an awesome responsibility, one that heterosexuals take on with little or no planning, not much training and a seemingly casual attitude about dumping the whole relationship when the movie refuses to rewind. Gays, on the other hand, have to go to a great deal of trouble to become parents. more..

Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, said that she found it disturbing that Reilly would not oppose an effort to place what she says is a civil rights issue on the ballot. ''If he is now saying that he doesn't believe our rights should be taken away, we welcome that, but we need someone who would play a leadership role in this debate and stand up and say . . . that a civil rights question should not be placed on the ballot," she said. more..

Walsh, St. Fleur back gay marriageWalsh, St. Fleur back gay marriage, Boston Globe, Feb 11, 2005

Senator Walsh and Representative St.Fleur were recognized "for their outstanding leadership in upholding the religious freedom of every citizen in the Commonwealth by supporting marriage equality as a civil right." more..

''We still don't have the votes and we are still far from having the votes," Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, said yesterday. ''We also have not geared up fully. We fully expect a huge battle from the other side. It won't be an easy vote at all." more..

Contrary to the threats hurled by anti-gay zealots, state lawmakers who stood up to prejudice were overwhelmingly re-elected. more..

Report: Gay marriage backers got re-elected, Daily News Tribune, Jan 19, 2005

Warnings to anti-amendment legislators proved unfounded: None of the senators or state representatives who voted against the amendment and ran for re-election lost their seats last year. more..

"There is no question we do not have the votes right now," said Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. Isaacson said advocates are just gearing up to work the new Legislature. "We don't doubt we have a shot at winning but we are far from it right now," she said. more..

The Jewish Alliance for Law and Social Justice (JALSA) recently honored two lesbians for their leadership in protecting the civil rights of gay and lesbian citizens. more..

The Pentagon's "don't ask, don't tell" policy is being challenged by 12 former service members more..

Small joys, political obstacles, one year after landmark decision, Boston Globe, Nov 17, 2004

A year after the Goodridge decision, both sides acknowledge that the battle has just begun. more..

Gay marriage ruling reverberates in churches around the country, Boston Globe, Nov 16, 2004

"I was shocked at the arrogance of the decision," said Maria Parker of the Massachusetts Catholic Conference. "We had to oppose." more..

Results for MGLPC-endorsed and supported candidates as of November 3, 1:00am more..

You've heard it before and it's never been truer --- this is the most important election EVER for the LGBT community of Massachusetts! VOTE as if Your Rights and the Rights of your loved ones depend on it... Because they do! more..

MGLPC's endorsements are on their way to your mailboxes - if we have your email and residence addresses - and will be posted here immediately after. In the meantime, here're some Globe endorsements. more..

Anti-gay House leader replaced by pro-marriage DiMasi, Bay Windows, Sep 30, 2004

DiMasi's election as speaker is, said MGLPC Co-chair Gary Daffin, "the strongest, most public symbol yet that gay marriage is not going to divide people to the point that they would vote against a candidate just because they support [same-sex] marriage." more..

Gay rights advocates who want to preserve gay marriage in Massachusetts said they were ecstatic with DiMasi's rise to power. Arline Isaacson, a leading gay rights lobbyist, says he has been an effective voice in the fraternity-like confines of the House since 1983, when he first spoke in favor of gay rights during a floor debate. ''It was a very gutsy thing for him to do,'' Isaacson said.... more..

As Finneran says his goodbyes, DiMasi prepares to take reins in House, Boston Globe, Sep 28, 2004

"We're ecstatic," said Arline Isaacson, co-leader of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. "While this certainly does not guarantee a change in the outcome, it sure as heck helps." more..

Prospects shift as DiMasi takes over for Finneran, Boston Globe, Sep 28, 2004

"Now we don't have an opponent in the speaker's office pushing for the worse scenario in each legislative moment," said Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. more..

Gay and lesbian voters, who have usually stayed away from local races, also mobilized around Cabral's candidacy. She won an endorsement from the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, which normally does not back candidates in such races. Tuesday, when early turnout figures suggested that Cabral needed help, caucus members sent mass e-mails to constituents urging them to vote. more..

All MGLPC-endorsed incumbents won their Primary races. Two anti-marriage incumbents were defeated! more..

Ciampa, representing an increasingly liberal and gentrified district, voted in favor of a constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage in the recently ended session and opposed establishment of Vermont-style civil unions... more..

State Rep race: officials, residents oppose anti-gay groups, Salem News, Sep 11, 2004

PEABODY — Two representatives of anti-gay organizations came here yesterday to throw their support behind state Rep. Joyce Spiliotis... more..

See which candidates have been endorsed by MGLPC in your city/town. more..

MGLPC endorsements in key Primary races indicative of importance of this year's elections. more..

Editorial: No place for hate in Peabody campaign, The Salem News, Sep 10, 2004

While some snickered, many were appalled when state Rep. Joyce Spiliotis challenged one of her opponents in the Democratic primary, Anne Manning, by declaring, "Why don't you tell them that you're on gay and lesbian Web sites?" ... But Spiliotis didn't stop there. "You're on the School Committee," Spiliotis continued, addressing Manning. "In this city you are an elected official. The children of this city ... I don't care what your sexual preference is or anybody else's." more..

Mass. gay group eyes anti-gay marriage amendment with endorsements, in-Newsweekly, Sep 09, 2004

Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus backs candidates supportive of marriage equality more..

Gay rights groups have targeted the race as a chance to unseat an opponent of gay marriage. more..

"The elections this year are going to hugely ... determine the outcome of the constitutional convention next year," MGLPC Co-Chair Arline Isaacson told about 30 MGLPC members who had gathered for the meeting. "There has never been an election more important to the GLBT community than this one that we're about to enter into." more..

From afar, fund boosts supporters of gay marriage, Boston Globe, Aug 22, 2004

SupportEquality.org, a new website, is funneling donations to the campaign coffers of hand-picked lawmakers in tight races. more..

Race for House heats up - Ashland, Framingham, MetroWest Daily News, Aug 19, 2004

The three candidates vying for the 7th Middlesex District seat, Selectman Ginger Esty and Chesley Oriel, both of Framingham, and Ashland's Tom Sannicandro, were most divided last night on gay marriage. more..

Debate - 9th Hampden race for Rep. Asselin's seat, Springfield Republican, Aug 19, 2004

With regard to legalization of gay marriage, Mazza-Moriarty said she supported the state Supreme Judicial Court's decision saying that banning gay marriages is unconstitutional. Curran said he supports civil unions, but not gay marriage. more..

Goguen, 71, doesn't believe his stance against same-sex marriage will hurt him in the election. ... Asked if his opposition would effect the race, Goguen said, "I don't think so. I have nothing against gay people." more..

Gay rights advocates bittersweet over Governor McGreevey's speech more..

California Supreme Court voids gay marriages in San Francisco, says mayor overst, Boston Globe online, Aug 12, 2004

The court did not resolve whether the California Constitution would permit a same-sex marriage, ruling instead on the limits of authority regarding local government officials. more..

Judge in Seattle rules in favor of same-sex marriage in Washington state, Boston Globe online, Aug 04, 2004

In his ruling, Downing criticized arguments that a ban on same-sex marriage would protect children from harm that may be caused by being raised in a nontraditional family. more..

Missouri voters approve constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage by resounding margin of 70% - 30% more..

O'Malley's stock was not improved by last week's news report that Catholic leaders are considering new employment policies that would call for the firing of workers who marry their same-sex partner. more..

Romney urges federal ban on gay-marriage 'experiment', Boston Globe, Jun 23, 2004

"Are we really ready to usher in a society that is indifferent as to whether children have a mother and a father?" Romney said. "This is far too important a topic to be left to social experimentation." more..

More than a month since the first gay marriages, and after thousands of same-sex couples have committed their lives to one another, Romney couldn't point to any concrete damage to the Commonwealth or its institutions, and he was honest enough to tell the committee that "same-sex marriage doesn't hurt my marriage, or yours." more..

Mitts message to the nation on gay marriage: Dont Mass. it up, Boston Herald, Jun 22, 2004

Romney's testimony stokes the Republicans' national political agenda to embarrass Kerry in the crucial days leading up to the Democratic National Convention in Boston. more..

The ferocity with which the church in Massachusetts is gunning for gay marriage makes one wonder if this is a diversion. more..

Romney said he will support new gay marriage ballot initiative, Boston Globe, Jun 16, 2004

Since the Salem debacle there are relatively few blights on the honor of the state of Massachusetts in the area of civil rights. The 1913 statute is one of them. more..

The son of a trailblazing lesbian couple talks of growing up, fitting in, and, finally, speaking out more..

CONGRATULATIONS MASSACHUSETTS!, SAME SEX MARRIAGE IS NOW LEGAL, May 17, 2004

Our day has arrived! This is a joyous day. For the first time, committed, loving gay and lesbian couples can receive critical rights and protections that come only through Marriage. more..

Amy Hunt is on the board of directors of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus more..

The stitching of this new patch in the nation's fabric exceeded by decades the pace of advancement for many religious minorities and people of color, and left even its opponents scrambling for new ways to unravel it. more..

Couples line up in Cambridge as Massachusetts prepares for gay weddings, Boston Globe, May 16, 2004

COUNTDOWN - SUNDAY EVENING - 10:52pm - CAMBRIDGE READIES FOR GAY MARRIAGE! more..

NEWS FLASH: U.S. Supreme Court refuses to block gay marriages in Massachusetts, Associated Press, May 15, 2004

"Couples who aren't tied in to the recent legal and legislative actions have been nervous wrecks about whether they could marry starting Monday," said Arline Isaacson, co-chair of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. "Now they can all breathe a sigh of relief." more..

Amy Hunt is on the Board of the Massachusetts Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus. more..

NEWS FLASH: Federal Judge denies bid to stop gay marriages, Boston Globe, May 14, 2004

The plaintiffs immediately announced they would take their case to the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, and to the U.S. Supreme Court if necessary. more..

"I have to keep pinching myself and saying this is real, this is real, this is real," more..

SAM IS 73 YEARS OLD and I get to go to his wedding., Boston Globe - blog, May 13, 2004

Amy Hunt is a Board member of the Mass. Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus. (And we're very proud to claim her.) more..

Judge Tauro didn't immediately rule on the request, saying he would issue a decision Thursday afternoon or Friday morning. more..

The city will accept marriage applications “from everyone except partners who do not reside in Massachusetts, and neither one of which intends to reside in Massachusetts” more..

Martel said many signers despaired at the tactics of gay-marriage foes. ``The tone and tenor of many of these groups have been vicious and very insulting,'' he said. more..

Although the scholars were divided over how such challenges will fare, they generally agreed that only a handful of states, at most, will follow Massachusetts' cue and legalize same-sex marriage in the next few years more..

Judge Tauro yesterday heard arguments from conservative groups seeking to block gay marriage in Massachusetts. more..

Governors routinely grant one-day waivers to those unlicensed to perform marriages more..

US District Judge Joseph L. Tauro will hear arguments today on whether to issue a permanent injunction barring state officials from issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples as planned, beginning Monday. more..

In Northampton last night, nearly 200 people got some sobering news about limitations they will face even when same-sex marriage becomes the law. more..

Ray Flynn of Boston says the judge refused to hear his bid to reverse the SJC ruling because it was similar to a previous appeal. more..

Town's legal view rejects Romney's on gay marriage more..

Tom Barbera, vice president of the Massachusetts AFL-CIO and a steering committee member of the Gay and Lesbian Labor Activists Network, expressed outrage at the Local 103's definition of dependent spouse, saying it threatened all the work done so far to assure equal rights and benefits for gay and lesbian union members. more..

"We're responding to the acts of a judicial oligarchy," said attorney Chester Darling, who is seeking an injunction along with several conservative groups. more..

"We look with dismay at bishops who openly criticize the homosexual community and criticize gay rights," James E. Post, the organization's president, told about 150 people at a Voice of the Faithful meeting at St. Eulalia Church in Winchester. more..

The Provincetown board said gay couples who live outside Massachusetts and have no intention of moving here will still be issued marriage licenses starting Monday, as long as they attest that they know of no legal impediment to their union. more..

Amy Hunt is on the board of directors of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus more..

Cape town votes to issue marriage licenses to gay out-of-staters, Boston Globe, May 10, 2004

Romney immediately issued a statement Monday, threatening legal action against clerks who defy his interpretation of the law. more..

Amy Hunt is on the board of directors of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, an advocacy group working to protect the rights of gays and lesbians. The opinions expressed here are her own and not necessarily those of the caucus. more..

NEWS FLASH: Marriage opponents take case to federal court to stop May 17 wedding, Springfield Republican, May 10, 2004

After unsuccessful attempts to overturn the case in state court, this marks the first time the Massachusetts gay marriage case has been brought into federal court. more..

Other politicians are less at ease, said Gary Daffin, co-chairman of the Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus: They are too earnest, less willing to joke around. Their body language gives it away, he said. "He's just not uptight at the idea of gay people," Daffin said of Menino. more..

"It's an extremely historic day," Bailey said. "And you know what? We've waited 33 years for this day, and we can't wait a moment longer." more..

As a person who is not gay, this was an issue that I ignored for my first 70 or so years. Then I married a woman with a gay son ... more..

Romney vows veto of any attempt to repeal 1913 law, Boston Globe, May 07, 2004

Because no other state affirmatively allows gay marriage, Romney has said, this means that no out-of-state gay couples can marry here. more..

NEWS FLASH: SJC rules AGAINST Pat Robertson's ACLJ & 13 Legislators, Boston Globe, May 07, 2004

"It was within the court's jurisdiction to resolve an adversary case requiring interpretation of the Constitution and a determination of the validity or our laws," the court wrote. more..

"If [the repeal of the 1913 law] is included in the budget, without going through the circuitous hearing process, we will be able to act on this," Barrios said, adding that a repeal of the law could be won "if it is the will of both branches." more..

Romney aide says clerks have discretion on residency proof more..

AS A ROMAN CATHOLIC pastor in the Diocese of Worcester, I offer my apologies to the gay and lesbian members of our society, as well as to their families and friends, for the hurt caused by recent videos, press releases, and interviews associated with and distributed by the Massachusetts Catholic Conference. more..

The biggest victory was to be found in the activists themselves. Hundreds of people on both sides of the debate showed up at the State House beginning at 7:30 a.m. Those who stayed to the bitter end – once again – were the pro-gay forces. If this debate were to be decided on passion alone, the pro-gay forces would easily win. They parked themselves outside the House chamber and sang, some of them for 16 hours. They must have belted out "God Bless America" and "My Country Tis of Thee" 100 times throughout the day. Yet they never lost their fervor. On the contrary, their voices just got louder and louder. more..

Events leading up to the Con-Con: Mar 9, 10, 11, MassEquality.org, Mar 07, 2004

Join us for important events leading up to the Constitutional Convention and then come to the Convention! more..

Opponents of gay marriage have been loudly calling for a constitutional amendment prohibiting any state from recognizing gay marriages. Despite the parade of horribles they haul out, their greatest fear appears to be that giving gay men and women the right to join legally and permanently with the ones they love will work out just fine, and that the American people will see that the fears being foisted on them are unfounded. more..

You can't claim you're the party of smaller government, and then clamor to make laws about love... ...If the government forbids gay men from tying the knot, what's their alternative? They can't all marry Liza Minnelli. more..

Follow this internet link to the Globe's outstanding summary of recent events as well as the historical perspective. http://www.boston.com/news/specials/gay_marriage/ more..

Forum: Is Same-Sex Marriage Good for the Nation?, Feb 5, 7:30pm, Smith College, Feb 04, 2004

YES: Arline Isaacson, Co-Chair, Mass. Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus NO: Rev. John C. Rankin, President, Theological Education Institute more..

Supreme Judicial Court same-sex couples entitled to marriage, AP, Feb 04, 2004

The Massachusetts high court ruled Wednesday that only full, equal marriage rights for gay couples -- rather than civil unions -- would meet the edict of its November decision. more..

Both sides intensify whirlwind gay marriage efforts, Patriot Ledger, Feb 03, 2004

MassEquality originally planned a one-day ‘‘Lobby Day'' today, but the parade for the Super Bowl champion New England Patriots prompted the group to encourage supporters to also flood Beacon Hill on Thursday. ‘‘We have hundreds of people coming in, and they're not going to be able to make it into town,'' Arline Isaacson, co-chairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, said. more..

On unions, a division - Same-sex marriage issue tests faith, fairness, Boston Globe, Feb 01, 2004

For these people, who consider themselves in favor of gay rights, there is surprise at how torn they feel, and at how rapidly the gay-marriage issue has moved into the legal and political forefront. They will admit to confusion and uncertainty. They will even utter three words seldom heard on Beacon Hill or on talk shows: "I don't know." more..

''I compare this to moments in history of civil rights being denied to a class of citizens - civil rights, the emancipation of slaves, women's suffrage,'' said Welles, an Episcopal minister and the rector of the Church of Our Savior in East Milton. ''It's very dangerous to put in our Constitution something that would diminish the rights of a single citizen.'' more..

''It's very significant that they are saying that Democrats don't discriminate,'' said Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. ''Democrats shouldn't discriminate. That doesn't mean that all Democrats have to personally like gay marriage, but they should not discriminate. more..

In Massachusetts, in 8.5 percent of all gay couples, at least one of the partners is 65 years old or older, and in 19.5 percent of same-sex couples, one or both of the partners are 55 years old or older. more..

In church halls across Massachusetts this week, Roman Catholic priests and lay leaders are beginning the most intense phase of a campaign to prevent the redefinition of marriage in the state to include same-sex couples. more..

Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus and a lobbyist for the teachers' union, said: "It's important because it takes this very volatile, hot-button issue out of the emotional realm, the religious realm, and the moral realm, and reminds legislators that we're talking about significant and important employment benefits that all workers need, whether they are gay or straight." more..

Catholic groups plan more than 20 meetings at local parishes in the next two weeks to build support for a change in the state Constitution that would ban same-sex marriage. more..

Clerics lead rally against gay marriage, Springfield Republican, Jan 26, 2004

Rev. John C. Rankin, president of the Theological Education Institute in Hartford, said the solution lies in accepting that all people are made in God's likeness, but some, like those who are gay and lesbian, are "broken." more..

The church is out of line in defining citizens' rights, Springfield Republican, Jan 26, 2004

The state is not forcing any church to perform sacramental rites of holy matrimony for any couple, same-sex or otherwise. The state is recognizing the need to allow 'civil marriage' for all couples. Same-sex couples want equality, not special rights. more..

It seems to me, viewing marriage as more than a means to reproduce and instead as an expression of love and commitment would do much more to support marriage. more..

Anti-gay marriage rallies to push constitutional ban, Boston Herald, Jan 25, 2004

The Archdiocese of Boston has scheduled a series of regional meetings for the coming week to mobilize Catholics against gay marriage. more..

Opponents of the gay marriage ruling see the passage of the bill under discussion by Romney's aides and House lawmakers as a key strategy to delay gay marriages until the voters get a chance to decide on the constitutional amendment. more..

If judges insist on forcing their arbitrary will upon the people, the only alternative left to the people would be the constitutional process. more..

At a crossroads on gay unions (originally published 10/25/2003), Boston Globe, Jan 20, 2004

We cannot keep turning our backs on gay and lesbian Americans. I have fought too hard and too long against discrimination based on race and color not to stand up against discrimination based on sexual orientation. I've heard the reasons for opposing civil marriage for same-sex couples. Cut through the distractions, and they stink of the same fear, hatred, and intolerance I have known in racism and in bigotry. more..

With the right to marry in the balance, gay teens dream of a wedding day, Boston Globe, Jan 19, 2004

''The main thing for young gay people,'' he says of the court's decision, ''is that it gives kids, like, you know -- wow! -- there's hope for the future. I mean, I can live a normal life.'' more..

The prelates' assault on the state Supreme Judicial Court's ruling in support of gay marriage is premised on the dubious assertion that ''a redefinition of marriage in the long run is going to be harmful,'' in the words of O'Malley. In the four-page pamphlets being sent by the bishops to 1 million of the state's 3 million Catholics, they fail to specify the exact threat posed by couples, many with children, who want nothing more than to legalize their status as a family. How such a plea for stability undermines the rearing of children remains a mystery. more..

Steiner has gotten power of attorney to tend to Anthony's financial affairs, but says he worries about other problems that might arise due to their lack of marital status, such as whether he'll be allowed to accompany Anthony on his next trip to the emergency room. He was last spring when Anthony had chest pains -- ''In my case they were grateful to have someone, because they recognized that Alzheimer's people needed special interpretation,'' he says -- but Steiner says that decision is up to the discretion of the hospital. more..

Pols seeking `rational' way around gay marriage ruling, Boston Herald, Jan 14, 2004

``There is no rational basis that any legislator can come up with other than prejudice,'' said Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus Co-Chair Arline Isaacson. more..

Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, predicted that lawmakers will end up confronting the constitutional amendment. "This issue is going to be debated and voted on this year regardless of when the SJC renders its decision." she said. more..

"We have seen in the last few weeks an influx of anti-gay groups into Massachusetts - groups such as Family Research Council - that are interested in denying marriage protection rights for gay couples," said Springfield resident William G. Conley, a lobbyist for the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. more..

Gay marriage supporters, who filed their own brief arguing civil unions would create an unconstitutional ``separate but equal'' system, decried the attempt to delay the original ruling. ``It's playing dirty,'' said Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus Co-chairwoman Arline Isaacson. ``It's sort of like trying to tie up the constitution in nonsensical paperwork.'' more..

Marriage needn't be sacred to be legal, Springfield Republican, Jan 13, 2004

Maybe the whole matter of same-sex marriage would be less contentious if we didn't conflate the sacred and the secular. If we remembered that the Massachusetts Supreme Court was talking about civil marriage. If we remembered that no court can force a church to marry gay couples. more..

Boston's archbishop urges church lawyers to oppose gay marriage, The Springfield Republican, Jan 12, 2004

Hillary Goodridge, 47, a lead plaintiff with partner Julie Goodridge in the lawsuit that resulted in the recent ruling, said by phone that the issue at the core of the lawsuit was not morality, but "licenses handed out by the government." "It's impossible for me to understand how Julie and I being married contributes to the breakdown of anything. It contributes to our economic and social well-being, it certainly contributes to the strength of our family and our enduring love for each other," she said. more..

The Massachusetts Catholic Conference, the church's lobbying arm, handed out fliers at the luncheon urging lawyers to call their state senators and representatives to support the Marriage Affirmation and Protection Amendment, a constitutional measure that proponents say would reverse the Goodridge decision and define marriage as the union of one man and one woman. more..

"We're here in this building to say something very, very simple, which is this: Separate but equal does not work," said Gary Daffin, co-chairman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. more..

``All people should be treated equally and fairly under the law,'' says the resolution, which was obtained by the Herald. more..

Lines snaked out the door of the Statehouse and into the freezing temperatures as gay rights advocates lined up to attend the rally, which filled one of the building's major halls and overflowed to the staircases and balconies above. more..

"To be here, in this building, at this time," Representative Elizabeth Malia, a Democrat, told the rally yesterday, "is an incredibly overwhelming experience." more..

Group opposed to gay marriage assailed for hiding poll results, Boston Herald, Jan 09, 2004

``It's disturbing that they didn't want legislators to know the truth - that the public does not want to see these marriage rights repealed,'' said Arline Isaacson, co-chair of the Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. more..

"They are dressing up their bigotry with arguments about democracy, and they pretend that the courts should not have made this decision, but they would not have objected to the court making the decision if the court had decided their way," said Arline Isaacson, (Co-Chair of the Massachusetts Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus) a member of the executive committee of MassEquality, a coaltion of gay rights groups that also was formed recently. more..

Under the banner of "Vote No on Anti-Gay Amendments," State Senator Robert Havem, the assistant majority whip, led a press conference that included clergy, fellow legislators, the Boston Bar Association and couples who have faced hardship because they have not had the rights of marriage to protect them. more..

Opponents rally at Statehouse as session, debate begins, Boston Herald, Jan 07, 2004

``We want to tell the Legislature that civil unions are not an adequate solution, that discrimination should not be written into the constitution, and that many religions do support our right to civil marriage,'' said Arline Isaacson, co-chairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. more..

State's high court upholds special election date for Jacques Senate seat, Boston Herald, Jan 07, 2004

The Senate had scheduled the special election for March 2, the same day as the state's presidential primary, when Democratic voters are likely to turn out in high numbers. more..

Former officials lobby lawmakers on gay marriage, Berkshire Eagle, Jan 06, 2004

"We see the SJC's ruling as unequivocal: the existing ban on marriage for gay people is unconstitutional," reads the letter, which was also signed by Harvard Law Professor Laurence Tribe and Boston Bar Association President Renee Landers. more..

While same-sex marriage may upset some folks' sense of propriety, it does not pose even the slightest threat to the legal benefits that heterosexual couples now enjoy. more..

Saying the "rule of law and the legitimacy of the courts" are at stake, former governor William Weld, two former state attorneys general, and two top lawyers will deliver a letter to all 200 legislators today, urging them to enact into law the Supreme Judicial Court's ruling allowing gays to marry. more..

House veteran leading bid to ban same-sex weddings, Boston Globe, Jan 04, 2004

''(The amendment's sponsor is) positioning himself as the great compromiser and not such a bad guy, which I completely disagree with,'' said Gary K. Daffin, cochairman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. ''This is not about whether he is a nice guy or not, or whether he is openly a bigot or prejudiced, but those biases are clearly driving what he is doing, and his track record in the Legislature shows that.'' more..

Divisive efforts to amend the state Constitution should be opposed by Republican and Democratic public officials. The Massachusetts Constitution, like the United States Constitution, should be used to protect liberty and ensure fairness. It should never be used to marginalize a segment of the American family. more..

Budget woes, gay marriage issue will keep Legislature's plate full, Berkshire Eagle, Jan 02, 2004

And while it may not be an issue lawmakers want to tackle, the Legislature will take up the gay marriage issue in one form or another. Lawmakers are expected to vote on a Constitutional amendment in February to define marriage as the union between a man and a woman, which would make gay marriage illegal. more..

Rep. Galvin says of his district: "It's about 50-50. Whichever way I come down and vote, I am going to upset 50 percent of my district." more..

Supreme Judicial Court upholds 2002 Legislature, Berkshire Eagle, Dec 31, 2003

Last year's anti-gay constitutional amendment, H.48480, is finally dead. Unfortunately, this year's, H.3190, is still very much alive. more..

Pope John Paul II pressed his campaign against gay unions yesterday . . . more..

The arguments to ban interracial marriage in many ways are similar to the arguments now being cast to ban same-sex marriages, observers said. Some see both as part of a larger struggle for civil rights. more..

In my opinion, the civil recognition of marriages between people of the same sex, actually helps to stabilize society, by permitting loving people to pledge fidelity, to the exclusion of all others, within a structure that will provide for their well-being, legally, financially and emotionally. more..

1993 slaying spurred rights demands, laws, The Republican (Springfield), Dec 28, 2003

Although they were at the forefront of New York City's 1969 Stonewall Riots, which led to the homosexual rights movement, the relationship between the transgendered and gay communities has not always been easy. more..

Like the "white moderates" who told Martin Luther King, Jr. to be patient, "heterosexual moderates" can counsel slow progress because they themselves have nothing personally at stake. These straight men of good will seem to believe that they can set the timetable for marriage equality, as white moderates believed when it came to segregation. But justice won't wait - and shouldn't have to. more..

"We are very confident the court meant what it said, that only civil marriage is equality and the civil unions are clearly a second-class status," said Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. more..

``While I totally respect their right to hold religious beliefs against gay marriage, that is no excuse to try and impose their religious views on civil laws,'' said Arline Isaacson, co-chairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. more..

Some say let's choose another route and give gay folks some legal rights but call it something other than marriage. We have been down that road before in this country. Separate is not equal. The rights to liberty and happiness belong to each of us and on the same terms, without regard to either skin color or sexual orientation more..

"...when people ask the question, well, 'what’s marriage?' most people think they know what the answer is. They hopefully know it and view it as loving, caring, committed relationships, making a lifetime commitment to take care of each other, but what a lot of folks don’t realize is that marriage is also the gateway to 1,400 or more rights, benefits, responsibilities and protections, the kinds of protections you need, particularly in times of emergency, crisis, stress..." more..

It's an idea so abundantly fair and reasonable that if it succeeds here, Massachusetts could shine in history for leading the way. more..

Seven same-sex couples have petitioned the SJC for the right to marry under civil law. Their stories of courtship and commitment are so ordinary, and their claim to equal benefits so compelling, that it seems inevitable the circle of rights will eventually widen to enfold them as well. We think the SJC should say that day has come. more..

Gay and lesbian advocates are waging this landmark battle with the same Constitutional principles employed in 1967 to fight bans on interracial marriage: liberty, equality, due process and non-discrimination of minorities. more..

A decision in favor of the seven couples would make Massachusetts the first state in the nation to recognize that same-sex couples have a constitutional right to marry. Massachusetts has a long and proud tradition as a state that recognizes basic fairness and equality. The state's highest court should make this another first for Massachusetts. more..

We believe the court should rule in favor of the plaintiffs and grant all gay and lesbian couples in the state the right to marry under civil law. more..

This month, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court is expected to rule in the case of Goodridge et al. v. Department of Public Health. If decided for the plaintiffs, the case would give same-sex couples in Massachusetts the right to marry. This would be the right and just thing to do. more..

These are developments that should be welcomed, not decried. Society as a whole is made stronger when couples -- whether opposite-sex or same-sex -- cement their love and their commitment in legally sanctioned unions. more..

British Columbia approves gay, lesbian marriages, Boston Globe, Jul 09, 2003

Canadian courts in Ontario, Quebec, and now British Columbia have ruled that limiting marriage to heterosexual partners is ''an offense to the dignity of lesbians and gays'' and a violation of the country's Charter of Rights and Freedoms. more..

Adversaries on Gay Rights Vow State-by-State Fight, New York Times, Jul 05, 2003

"We are in a Brown v. Board of Education moment right now," Mr. Wolfson said. "The Supreme Court has said in the strongest possible terms that love and intimacy and family have deep constitutional protection for all Americans and that gay people have an equal right to participate. This gives us a tremendous tool for moving forward to end the discrimination." more..

The former Catholic education teacher at St. Anthony of Padua Church said she is embarrassed to be a Catholic after reading of the bishop’s statement. more..

Clergy coalition offers support for same-sex marriages, Boston Globe, Jun 06, 2003

''Everyone on this list is in agreement that the right of gay and lesbian couples is a matter of civil, and not religious, law,'' said Rabbi Devon Lerner more..

Calif. Assembly extends rights to same-sex partners, Boston Globe, Jun 04, 2003

The California Assembly approved sweeping legislation Wednesday that would grant same-sex partners most of the same spousal rights and responsibilities as married couples. more..

Taylor wrote: ''What the bishops fail to recognize is that families come in every size and configuration: extended, nuclear, patriarchal, matriarchal, single mom, single dad, adoptive, foster, childless, broken, mended, and blended. Among these configurations of family there are many gay and lesbian people who, living in committed relationships with life-partners, are gifted parents. more..

Local delegates weigh in on same-sex marriage, New Bedford Standard Times, Jun 03, 2003

Rep. Haddad ... "I cannot support something that would ultimately hurt a lot of people and potentially hurt children," she said more..

Editorial: Bishops lack credibility, arguments, MetroWest Daily News, Jun 03, 2003

In trying to impose their definition of marriage on the state of Massachusetts, the bishops are handicapped not just by a shortage of credibility, but by a shortage of good arguments. more..

"The church has a mandate to work for social justice, and civil marriage that protects our families is very much a civil justice issue," said Jeffrey Morgan, 23, of Arlington. more..

Bishops push for gay union opposition, New Bedford Standard Times, May 29, 2003

"I respect their right to hold a different opinion," said Arline Isaacson of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. "But it's unfortunate, because the bill prohibits not only marriage, but domestic partner benefits, like health insurance, pension and bereavement leave." more..

Should the Massachusetts lawmakers uphold the ban on "gay" marriages, it will become the 38th state to do so. Enough states to pass an amendment to the U.S. Constitution banning homosexual marriages once and for all. more..

''The argument that same-sex marriage somehow threatens or weakens the institution of marriage or society is vapid and baseless,'' Josoma [Rev. Stephen S. Josoma, the pastor of St. Susanna Church in Dedham] said. ''Remove prejudices, stereotypes, biases, and fear, and there would be no argument.'' more..

According to a recent University of New Hampshire poll, a majority of New Hampshire residents favor allowing same-sex marriages, Foster's Daily Democrat reported May 24. more..

Amy Hunt is on the MGLPC Board. Her pro-marriage blog ends with, what else, Tracey & Hepburn. You gotta read it for yourself more..

And regardless of the manner in which Travis packages his DoMA proposal, like Hyde, Arline Isaacson of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, says any form of DoMA is bad for the GLBT community more..

In Pennsylvania, a political battleground state with a large bloc of conservative blue-collar Democrats, the Quinnipiac poll found that 30 percent of voters viewed Santorum ''less favorably'' after the flap, while 27 percent were less likely to vote for him. more..

"She says anyone would have done this," Werth added. "In fact, no one else did." more..

The number of U.S. employers offering health insurance benefits to same-sex domestic partners rose by 16 percent last year more..

Joint Session Would Keep Same-Sex Marriage Ban Afloat, Boston Globe, May 13, 2003

Those who support the amendment say it merely restricts marriage to a union between a man and a woman. Those who oppose it say it does much more than that, threatening domestic partnership benefits already granted to gays and lesbians. more..

Unitarian to seek support for marriage protest, Hampshire Gazette, May 08, 2003

The Rev. F. Jay Deacon of the Unitarian Society of Northampton and Florence plans to ask other city religious leaders to follow his lead at their monthly interfaith meeting today. more..

Smizik testifies in support of the same sex couples, Brookline Tab, May 08, 2003

"In Brookline there are many individuals who have same-sex partners who work on town committees, who send their children to Brookline Schools and who help us become a better town. We should not treat these families differently." more..

Shocking results in gay marriage poll [NJ], New Jersey Journal, May 05, 2003

Legalizing gay marriages is favored by more than one-half of Hudson County residents ... They said even more surprising than the overall numbers were those among Catholics, with 60.4 percent in favor more..

"Civil marriage should adapt to contemporary notions of marriage as an institution in a society which recognizes the rights of homosexual persons to non-discriminatory treatment," more..

''We have a hell of a lot of work on our hands,'' said Arline Isaacson, cochairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. ''Victory is by no means certain.'' more..

Scott Gortikov of Jamaica Plain, who arrived to testify against H.3190 with his 11-month-old son, Sam, said he hopes the April 28 testimony makes a difference. "I've got this naïve notion that if I can share my story that some ambivalent legislator will see the commonality in our lives and humanity and they'll be moved enough to say 'gosh this sounds like myself ... and this family's no different than mine,'" said Gortikov. "If folks just knew gay families how could they possibly vote for discriminatory legislation?" more..

And why do people keep showing up year after year, for 22 years and counting? Because a great deal has changed in two decades. And because participants hold out hope that things will change still more. more..

"No one would choose to be discriminated against, no one would choose to be hated, no one would choose to be treated differently," Edmondson said. "And someday, I believe the city of Covington [in Northern Kentucky] will have a small piece in that understanding, of creating tolerance, bridging the gap, and more importantly, allowing people to know that yes, a small city like Covington can show the entire region: Yes, we can." more..

''That last line prohibits legal equivalents of marriage. Well, guess what domestic partnership is,'' said Isaacson [co-chair, Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus]. ''It is unequivocally clear that the bill would make domestic partner benefits unconstitutional.'' more..

But the full transcript of his interview shows him making even more disturbing parallels. After saying that no society's definition of marriage has ever included homosexuality, he added, ''That's not to pick on homosexuality. It's not, you know, man on child, man on dog, or whatever the case may be.'' He also said that the abuse of teenage boys by priests was ''a basic homosexual relationship,'' and that those who believed in the right to privacy would presumably see nothing wrong with it if it was consensual. (Santorum apparently forgot about the ''adults'' part in ''consenting adults.'') more..

Hearing on Mass. bill to ban gay marriage scheduled, Bay Windows, Apr 24, 2003

"This is a very difficult committee for us," said Arline Isaacson, co-chair of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. "While most members of the committee ... seek to be fair, many of them are social conservatives. So this is not an easy hurdle for us. We believe that if the judiciary committee understands that this constitutional amendment would ban not only marriage but civil unions and ... domestic partnership benefits, that they will not want to support it, even though they oppose gay marriage, which many of them do." more..

Senator, under fire, defends his remarks on gays, Boston Globe, Apr 23, 2003

Senator Rick Santorum of Pennsylvania yesterday ignored calls that he apologize and resign from his Senate leadership post as he defended comments he made comparing homosexuality to bigamy, polygamy, incest, and adultery. more..

SANTORUM: We have laws in states, like the one at the Supreme Court right now, that has sodomy laws and they were there for a purpose. because, again, I would argue, they undermine the basic tenets of our society and the family. And if the Supreme Court says that you have the right to consensual sex within your home, then you have the right to bigamy, you have the right to polygamy, you have the right to incest, you have the right to adultery. ... AP: I'm sorry, I didn't think I was going to talk about "man on dog" with a United States senator, it's sort of freaking me out. more..

Despite gains, gay teens still targets of violence, Boston Globe, Apr 20, 2003

In a 2001 national survey, more than 80 percent of gay and lesbian students at high schools around the country reported hearing homophobic slurs, such as ''faggot'' or ''dyke,'' according Jennings' group GLSEN, which did the research. more..

Vt. panel's new Medicaid rules said to violate civil unions law, Boston Globe, Apr 19, 2003

A legislative committee has approved new Medicaid rules over the objections of a top state health care official who said they would violate Vermont's civil unions law. more..

Mass. Citizens for Marriage sues Globe, New York Times, Bay Windows, Apr 17, 2003

Massachusetts Citizens for Marriage (MCM), sponsor of the Protection of Marriage Amendment (PMA), filed a libel lawsuit April 15 against The New York Times Company, owner of the Boston Globe and The New York Times, according to the Massachusetts News. more..

Gay marriage: Will the SJC follow the law or cave in to politics?, Boston Pheonix, Apr 17, 2003

FOR MONTHS NOW, gay-rights advocates — along with lawyers, judges, and general court enthusiasts — have kept a close eye on the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court. The state’s highest judicial body — the oldest state supreme court in the nation — is currently weighing a landmark lawsuit with the potential to reshape family law as we know it. more..

New York court lets gay man sue in his partner's death, Boston Globe, Apr 16, 2003

NEW YORK - A judge ruled that a gay man can sue a hospital as the spouse of another man who died a year ago, in what a gay rights group called an unprecedented decision. more..

Christian group to protest at civil rights conference, Portland Press Herald, Apr 15, 2003

But Heath wrote back to him: "Some ideas ought to be 'chilled.' The idea that transgenderism and bisexuality (promiscuity by definition) are protected class designations is definitely chilling. It sends shivers up my back." more..

CONCORD -- Friends and neighbors of a 16-year-old Concord girl beaten severely about the head and face said yesterday that she had a heated exchange the day before the attack with a schoolmate who shouted antigay epithets as the girl participated in a gay rights demonstration. more..

Says Pepper-Cunningham, "We want this day to help Newton North students begin to become more aware of the experiences of their fellow students. more..

The issue is particularly salient to the gay community, according to Fred O. Smith '04, one of the students who met with administrators last year to try to change the policy. more..

Breaking with public opinion nationally, Massachusetts residents, by a slim majority, say they favor allowing gays to marry, a new Boston Globe/WBZ-TV poll shows. more..

Despite these challenges, Arvidson remains hopeful the LGBTQ movement eventually will engender the same respect as the 1960s civil rights movements. more..

On March 26, the Supreme Court is getting another chance to root out one of our own Taliban moments. They're getting another chance to excise one of the last sleeper cells in our civil rights law. more..

Like any couple in a long-term commitment, Balmelli and Horgan marvel it's already been five years since they bought their first house together. more..

Gay Rights Shock Finneran More Than Church Scandal, Boston Herald, Mar 09, 2003

[Tom Finneran's] current opposition to gay marriage will make little difference. It will only delay the inevitable. Gay marriage is nothing if not a civil rights struggle. And this is America, where sooner or later we always find our way to that profound, original truth. All men (and women) are created equal: black, white, straight or gay. Then history is written. more..

Gay rights groups are vowing to vigorously fight the Travis amendment at every step of the process. Gary Buseck, executive director of Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders, said lawmakers' talk of the constitutional amendment seems designed to influence the pending case before the SJC, which heard arguments on Tuesday. more..

"The plaintiffs stand before this court seeking nothing more and nothing less than the same respect under our laws and Constitution as all other people enjoy, the same liberty right to marry the person of their choice," Bonauto told the SJC. "They work; they raise children; they volunteer in their communities. Everyone is aging; everyone is older, but some are also facing illness and the pressures of retirement but because they can not get married, they have added burdens. They are locked out of a precious right." more..

Gay marriage challenge sparks spirited high-court debate, Associated Press, Mar 04, 2003

''The plaintiffs stand before this court seeking nothing more and nothing less than the same respect under our laws and Constitution as all other people enjoy the same liberty right to marry the person of their choice and the same equal right to marry on the same terms applied to other people,'' she [Mary Bonauto] said. more..

High court justices inquisitive at same-sex marriage question hearing, State House News Service, Mar 04, 2003

"Why should we do something that no other state has done?" asked Justice Judith Cowin. Mary Bonauto, attorney for the Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders, said "because it's the right thing to do." more..

''March 4 will be a very important day for lots of families across this commonwealth who right now are excluded from many protections that they need, for themselves and for their children.'' more..

Northampton minister won't sign marriage licenses, Bay Windows, Feb 28, 2003

A second Bay State minister announced his refusal to sign marriage licenses until Massachusetts extends the full range of marital rights and responsibilities to same-sex couples. [ added note from webmaster: Is this the begining of a trend? ] more..

He's just like everyone else, and that's how he wants to be treated. Tomorrow he will testify for three minutes before the legislature's Judiciary Committee in favor of civil unions between partners of the same sex. The committee is considering three bills: a change in the statutes that would broaden the definition of marriage; a measure that would establish civil unions between same-sex couples; and a proposal by two Republicans to ban the entire enterprise. more..

"I fully understand his obligation to defend the state; however, that is not an excuse to borrow from the most mean-spirited and bigoted arguments of the radical Right, and lie and distort facts and opinions about marriage," Isaacson said. more..

Excerpts from Attorney General Tom Reilly's Goodridge brief:, Bay Windows, Feb 20, 2003

"In addition to their primary purpose of linking marriage and procreation per se, the marriage statutes were originally intended to ensure that children would not only be born in wedlock but also reared by their mothers and fathers in one self-sufficient family unit with specialized roles for wives and husbands." more..

Rev. Fred Small wasn't sure how it would go when he announced to his congregation at Sunday services a few weeks ago that he wouldn't be signing Massachusetts marriage licenses anymore - at least not until the state lets him sign them for same-sex couples as well. more..

Anti-gay effort funded largely by one Mass. family, In News Weekly, Feb 05, 2003

According to campaign finance reports filed by Massachusetts Citizens for Marriage, there were a number of donors who made small contributions to the campaign to prohibit legal recogntion of gay and lesbian couples, but the bulk of funding, including many contributions in excess of $20,000 each, were made by Pawlick. more..

Belgium second country to approve gay marriage, Associated Press, Jan 30, 2003

Belgium became the second country in the world to officially recognize gay marriages more..

"The amount of money national radical right groups like TVC spent in Massachusetts should serve as a wake up call to our community. Gay haters will spare no expense to take our rights away. We defeated them this time. Next time, we might not be so lucky," she [MGLPC Co-Chair Arline Isaacson] said. more..

``Overall, I don't think there will be a significant shift, to the extent that most of Travaglini's leadership team are somewhat supportive or even very supportive of equality for GLBTs. However, what remains untested is the intensity of feelings some key people have," said Arline Isaacson, co-chair of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. more..

Traditional Values helps bankroll Mass. marriage foes, Bay Windows, Jan 23, 2003

"Several people have suggested to me that there is a connection between MCM closing its doors and the problem they are facing at MOCPF. Several knowledgeable people have suggested this is a similar MO to the one they used about a year ago. At that time, when serious legal questions were being raised about unethical and illegal techniques used to obtain signatures on their initiative petitions, their then executive director, Brian Rudnick, suddenly stepped down from his position," said Arline Isaacson, lobbyist for the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. more..

If "Out" magazine can publish its annual Out 100 list, this newspaper could certainly come up with a list of 20 New Englanders...ARLINE ISAACSON, co-chair of the MASSACHUSETTS GAY & LESBIAN POLITICAL CAUCUS, was the lead activist fighting the right wing’s attempt to ban all forms of legal recognition of same-sex couples. more..

Former Mass. gov. lets time run out on anti-gay amendment, InNewWeekly, Jan 13, 2003

In a statement claiming “Anti-Gay Amendment H.4840 is dead,” the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus (MGLPC) said: “Thanks to the leadership of Gov. Swift and Senate President Thomas Birmingham, we begin 2003 without the threat of our civil rights put up for a popular vote in 2004. This is an extraordinary gift and one MGLPC worked hard for. And given the new civil unions and civil marriage legislations MGLPC has sponsored for 2003, it makes for an extraordinary moment.” more..

Arline Isaacson, a longtime lobbyist for the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus (MGLPC), took no chances waiting for Swift or the Legislature to act while she was on a planned vacation out of state. She was busy lobbying legislators by phone every day, reminding officials the SJC left them with a choice. more..

"With the DoMA bill, it's going to be harder in the Legislature for them not to take up the DoMA legislation because of what happened in the past year. So we have to lobby the legislators in preparation for a vote," said Arline Isaacson, a lobbyist for the Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus of Massachusetts. more..

Lawmakers Propose State's First-Ever Civil Union Bill, Associated Press, Jan 03, 2003

"It's time, maybe overtime," said Rep. Alice Wolf, D-Cambridge, who is sponsoring one of the bills. "Increasingly people are recognizing and honoring the fact that there are gay couples with families in our community. It's very important to recognize that." more..

Full SJC rejects bid to sue Birmingham over gay marriage issue, Associated Press, Dec 30, 2002

A group called Massachusetts Citizens for Marriage sued Birmingham as a private citizen... more..

It was a hot June day when Massachusetts state Senate President Tom Birmingham had an epiphany inside the Massachusetts Statehouse. "When I recessed the Convention, there was a thundercloud of boos coming from the gallery of the [anti-gay] crowd. It was the voice of hatred. ... From that moment on, nothing surprised me. But at that moment, it did," Birmingham recalls. more..

Ban on same-sex marriage anti-family and anti-gay, Springfield Union-News, Dec 26, 2002

It appears the self-appointed marriage police won't make it past first base in their efforts to amend the state constitution to ban gay marriages. more..

SJC declines to weigh in on gay marriage ballot debate, Boston Globe, Dec 21, 2002

''The SJC has ruled that the constitutional convention has not taken final action on the proposed constitutional amendments,'' Birmingham said through spokesman Paul Wingle. ''The opinion appears to grant the governor discretion regarding the next steps in this process. I await the governor's decision.'' more..

California church lobby group aids Mass. anti-gay campaign, Bay Windows, Dec 12, 2002

Massachusetts Citizens for Marriage (MCM), the group behind a proposed anti-gay marriage constitutional amendment, received at least $100,000 in November of 2001 from an unspecified source located in Anaheim, Calif. more..

Arline Isaacson, co-chair of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus (MGLPC) ... "MGLPC is in contact with the governor's office and Tom Birmingham's office. We are trying to effectuate the same goals, although we appear to have some differences of opinion about how to achieve those goals," Isaacson said. "We are all unanimous that it would be wrong to bring the Legislature back into session for a Constitutional Convention when they already voted on July 17 to adjourn. The Legislature clearly took a stand on the issue. There is no reason for them to revisit this issue." more..

City legislators step up for civil unions, Cambridge Chronicle, Dec 11, 2002

"We thought it important to put it out there what ought to be, what true equality in this area of the law would look like - should look like. Whatever the legislature chooses to do would then be measured against that," said Arline Isaacson, co-chair of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, which is sponsoring both the civil unions and civil marriage bills. more..

Arline Isaacson, the Caucus co-chair, sees the filing of the bills as a continuation of the dialogue about legal protections for same-sex couples that began during intense lobbying to defeat the "Protection of Marriage" ballot initiative. more..

Swift seeks guidance on proposed anti-gay amendment, Bay Windows, Dec 05, 2002

"I genuinely don't understand what motivated the governor's office to revisit this issue, to awaken the sleeping dog. But we do know that the radical Right has been continuing to try and bully and intimidate legislators and the governor into doing their bidding," said Arline Isaacson, co-chair of the Massachusetts Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus. more..

Reviving a debate squelched by Senate President Thomas F. Birmingham last summer, Acting Governor Jane Swift will today seek an opinion more..

Swift seeks opinion on forcing legislative amendment vote, Associated Press, Dec 02, 2002

Sen. Harriette L. Chandler, D-Worcester, an opponent of the amendment, argues that the Legislature did take action on the amendment by voting to adjourn. ''I think that the Legislature voted and it's pretty clear what the vote was,'' Chandler said. ''It wasn't even close.'' more..

Call me old-fashioned. But I don’t support gay marriage.... It’s just my belief that marriage should be preserved for a husband and a wife of opposite genders more..

A timeline of gay culture since One in Ten’s 1992 premiere more..

"Sen. Stanley C. Rosenberg, D-Amherst, who attended yesterday's Statehouse rally, called on lawmakers to vote against the ballot question. Rosenberg said it's an issue of civil rights. "This clearly will make a lot of people's lives worse," Rosenberg said. " more..

"We have come together to say that hate and bigotry will never have a home in Massachusetts, said Stacy Roth, a member of the steering committee for the MassEquality.org coalition of civil rights, religious and political groups." more..

Congressional delegation weighs in against ..., Associated Press, Jul 15, 2002

"Massachusetts' all-Democratic congressional delegation urged state lawmakers Monday to reject a proposed amendment that would make same-sex marriages unconstitutional. We believe it would be a terrible mistake to write into our constitution so sweeping a proposal..." more..

'Light the Pride Within' is this year's theme, Worcester Telegram & Gazette, Jul 14, 2002

"State Rep. Robert P. Spellane said legislators have to recognize that homosexuals and lesbians constitute family groups. The Worcester Democrat said yesterday's event was about pride and family." more..

David Breen, a Democratic activist and openly gay man from South Boston who sits on the MGLPC board of directors, sees Hart’s movement on the issue as part of a trend among South Boston pols. more..

Drive to Ban Gay Marriage Is Accused of Duping Signers, New York Times, Apr 07, 2002

"After the petition drives started in Massachusetts last September, people complained to the secretary of state's office about switched petitions. "We found that there were some irregularities and that people may have signed a petition they didn't want to sign," said Ann Donlan, a spokeswoman for the attorney general's office." more..

"Religious leaders called on Massachusetts lawmakers yesterday to reject a proposed amendment to the state's constitution that would ban same-sex marriages." more..

"....petitioners told potential ballot signers that they were collecting signatures for an initiative that would outlaw the slaughter of horses for human consumption. In fact, any signatures collected were really going onto anti-gay-marriage ballot sheets. Last November, Attorney General Tom Reilly issued a public warning about such deceptive practices...." more..

"[Attorney General Thomas] Reilly's spokeswoman said he would review any additional evidence of fraudulent tactics. But Reilly's office would only be interested in evidence that should be considered for criminal prosecution - not whether a question should be on the ballot." more..

Activists say voters were tricked into signing petition, Springfield Union News, Dec 19, 2001

"Backers of the marriage question, which would define marriage as a union between one man and one woman, deny the allegations. 'We at no time used a bait and switch tactic,' said Bryan Rudnick, chairman of Massachusetts Citizens for Marriage." more..

Ballot question in jeopardy as signature-gatherer questioned, Metro West Daily News, Dec 19, 2001

"Susan Wagner, chairwoman of Save our Horses, said thousands of people may have unwittingly signed the marriage petition when they were told they were supporting the horse-meat ban. Wagner said she didn't know that the Arizona-based Ballot Access Co. represented both ballot initiatives until she started receiving angry calls and letters from voters." more..

"...Save Our Horses claimed that its initiative may not qualify for the 2002 Massachusetts ballot because Derrick Lee, head of Ballot Access Company LLC, tricked intended signatories into signing the anti-gay petition without their knowledge." more..

"...Some of the people supporting a ban against gay marriages are the same people who want big government to get out of the lives of ordinary people. They can't have their wedding cake and eat it, too." more..

"With a petition drive marked by fraud and deception, on top of the repugnance of its cause, an anti-gay group called the Massachusetts Citizens for Marriage is now a step closer to amending the state constitution in a way that would deny all the commonwealth's citizens equality under the law. Defeating this cruel piece of legal clap trap will be a struggle. But fair-minded people, homosexual or heterosexual, have no choice but to stand up against this moral embarrassment." more..

Kids have better handle on tolerance than adults, The Boston Herald, Dec 06, 2001

"...we'll be back to where we were a decade ago when state legislators, prior to passing the Gay Rights Bill, distinguished themselves by passing around dog-eared, well-worn and exceedingly well-studied pamphlets depicting homosexuals in action. We'll be told, again, that everyone's primary concern is protecting . . . the children." more..

"...and as he handed [the petition] to me, I saw the E. I said, `You just switched pages.' I told him I wanted to sign the A petition, and then the woman spoke up and said, `This is the protection of marriage between one man and one woman, the way it should be.' I told them [the E petition] was harmful, and they said, 'This is the way God wanted it to be.'" more..

"The attorney general issued a warning last Friday, prompting the proponents [of the Protection of Marriage Act] to temporarily suspend their work with Ballot Access Co. of Phoenix. 'Some petitioners are kind of tricky; they slip the [horse brochure] over the other petition,' acknowledged David Brass, the petitioner outside Target." more..

Supporters and critics yesterday jammed into a Statehouse hearing to fight over legislation that would define marriage as a union between a man and woman. more..

Gay marriage foes step up pressure on lawmakers, StateHouse News Service, May 09, 2001

Nature, God, Darwin, political correctness, and radical feminism: those themes and more were invoked as 40 opponents of gay marriage and domestic partnerships lobbied legislators ... more..

Domestic Partnership Advocates Make
Push For Insurance Bills, StateHouse News Service, Jun 24, 1998

About 60 activists hit the State House halls today to push bills they say will end discrimination by extending health insurance benefits to the domestic partners and children of gay and lesbian couples and unmarried heterosexual couples. more..

As court officers and protesters nursed wounds suffered in yesterday's gay rights protest at the State House more..

PROPONENTS OF DOMESTIC-PARTNER BENEFITS SAY THE ISSUE IS FAIRNESS, StateHouse News Service, Mar 11, 1997

Imagine a sign outside state offices reading, "We pay heterosexuals $20 an hour and homosexuals $15 an hour." more..

"I wouldn't want you to think the Christian community has only one voice. I speak in favor of the bills. My domestic partner is a city employee and I would be one of the people affected." more..

Arguing that gay and lesbian state workers are being discriminated against, both activists and legislators told the Public Service Committee this afternoon they support two bills allowing domestic partners of gay state employees to be covered by state insurance. more..

Sen. Edward Kirby to a quasi-judicial position, StateHouse News Service, Jan 12, 1994

With Gov. William Weld presiding and Lt. Gov. Paul Cellucci breaking a tie vote, Democratic members of the Governor's Council today voted 5-4 confirming the controversial nomination of former Sen. Edward Kirby to a quasi-judicial position, prompting outrage from gay rights activists who had fought against it. more..

The campaign against the campaign to repeal the gay rights law heated up today as members of a gay-rights group accused repeal proponents of running a referendum drive based on fear, lies, and hatred. more..

The movement to repeal the gay rights law by referendum gained momentum today as leaders of a three-week petition drive announced they have gathered 60,000 certified signatures more..

Campaign to repeal gay rights launched, StateHouse News Service, Nov 16, 1989

A campaign to repeal the gay rights law was launched this morning, less than 24 hours after the law was signed by the governor." more..

Passage of the gay rights bill, the topic of furious debate on Beacon Hill for years, is being met with yawns by representatives of the industries targeted by the legislation. more..

Battered, fired, evicted and undaunted, activists pushing for passage of a controversial gay rights bill gathered in Nurses Hall today to tell their horror stories. more..

Fourteen gay rights activists were dragged out of the state Senate gallery this evening and arrested during a demonstration in support of a gay rights bill that brought hundreds of protesters to the State House. more..

Members of the Boston area gay and lesbian community held a press conference today to encourage participation in a national gay rights march in Washington planned for October and to announce a month-long MBTA advertising campaign. more..

They are in a struggle for their lives and they have waited too long. (Rep. Roosevelt was applauded for his maiden speech) more..

Gay rights activists and elected officials today called for the passage of legislation that would prohibit discriminiation on the basis of sexual orientiation. more..