Also marriage conveys immediate tax benefits that domestic partnerships do not. As domestic partners (which we were) if I died tomorrow my partner of 21 years would have to pay inheritance tax on the home we bought together six years ago. However, as a legally married couple (which we now are) he will automatically be granted full title without having to pay a cent.
David and I got married at San Francisco City Hall on June 25, then celebrated the blessing of our vows July 24 in a deeply moving religious ceremony at St. Timothy's Episcopal Church where I both worship and work. This ceremony was attended by 200 friends and members of our parish, many of whom said it was one of the most wonderful expressions of love they had seen in years. I find it ironic that the cover of the issue with Andersen's letter had a bold red headline, "Love of a Life."
If the mayor believes her statement, "I do not believe that anyone in our community should be discriminated against based upon his or her sexual orientation," then she should VOTE NO on Proposition 8.
Pat Parr, Associate for Music Ministry, St. Timothy's Episcopal Church