Benjamin Spence
Staff Writer
“I Peter, take you David to be my lawful wedded husband.”
The law permitting same sex marriage ceremonies came into force in England and Wales last night. Peter McGraith and David Cabreza timed their ceremony in London perfectly to exchange their vows at the stroke of midnight, the exact moment the law came into effect. Their wedding attracted hundreds of supporters who sang and cheered outside of Islington Hall throughout the historical moment.
Prime Minister David Cameron took to Twitter this morning to congratulate today’s newlyweds: “Congratulations to the gay couples who have already been married – and my best wishes to those about to be on this historic day.”
Writing for Pink News yesterday, he spoke of the positive effect equal marriage will have on the country. “This weekend is an important moment for our country. It sends a powerful message to young people growing up who are uncertain about their sexuality. It clearly says ‘you are equal’ whether straight or gay.”
He added, “I hope we can also be a country that is growing stronger socially because we value love and commitment equally. Let us raise a toast to that – and all those getting married this weekend.”
Celebrations took place throughout the night at London’s G-A-Y nightclub, with the support of Stonewall, Ben and Jerry’s and Gay Star News. As the message “We now pronounce you equal” boomed, there was a lesbian proposal on stage in front of the entire crowd. (Luckily she said yes!) No such luck for G-A-Y owner Jeremy Joseph though who jokingly tweeted today, “Nearly 11 hours into Marriage Equality & still no proposal.”
Comedienne Sandi Toksvig and her partner Debbie also renewed their vows today after their civil partnership seven years ago. The celebrations took place during a mass sing-along at London’s Royal Festival Hall at the event, I Do To Equal Marriage. Celebrity attendees included King of the Jungle Christopher Biggins and retail expert Mary Portas.
A similar law passed in Scotland will allow gay marriages to take place from October. Let’s hope the UK’s fine example will soon be echoed worldwide. Today we’re joining David Cameron in toasting to equal law, equal love and to equal marriage.
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