As of this writing, State Senators still haven't voted on the Marriage Equality Act. To all those who say lawmakers should be focused on more important things, note this is the last piece of legislation being considered before summer recess. And the session was supposed to end Monday. Lawmakers have put same-sex marriage on the backburner for years, months, days and now hours. Vote. If nothing else, New Yorkers deserve to know where their representatives stand. That's why we pay them.

State lawmakers are vowing to work through the night to settle unresolved issues, including the Marriage Equality Act. Senate Republicans are meeting now to decide whether to bring the bill to the floor for a vote. 31 Senators currently support same-sex marriage, 28 are opposed, three remain undecided.

The bill gained support from some Republicans this week after Governor Cuomo and Democrats agreed to strengthen protections for religious groups. The proposed amendments are aimed at saving religious groups from discrimination lawsuits if they refuse to recognize gay marriages.

Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Iowa and the District of Columbia allow gay marriage. Should New York be next? Do the proposed religious protections make you more likely to support the bill? Will your Senator's vote on the bill affect yours in the future?

Send your thoughts using the link above.

Freedom of religion includes the freedom to hate. I think that anti-gay churches should be protected in the state law. There are plenty of pro-gay churches who will joyfully help two loving people commit to one another.

Rick

Those who don't vote to guarantee the vote for equal rights and equality must understand that, friends,families and NYERS who believe and affirm the vote foe equality will hold them accountable if the vote does not pass come election day, and may God have mercy on their souls!

David

What is the big deal? People should be able to marry the person he or she loves. Period. If your particular religion is against it? hey, don't do it. BUT, leave everyone else alone, please. I am paraphrasing but "why shouldn't gay couples be as miserable as the rest of us?" Get married.

MLS

Religious exemptions? I was under the impression that there is a separation of church and state in the good old USA. Yeah right... Religion is the problem not the solution. Tax ALL religions. Time for them to get off of the government gravy train.

Peace, Nick
Hell's K.

please pass this thing so i can get back to my life!!!

Ad

Dear New York,

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Vermont, Connecticut, Massachusetts

Why is the New York State Senate and Assembly at a log jam on this issue? The DOMA is the federal law of the land and the first Amendment protects religious institutions and freedom to practice religion (whether we agree with some of the beliefs or not - think celebacy for priests, female bishops, gay marriage).

Illinois passed a Civil Unions bill which protects religious institutions and ensures, until repeal that there is no Conflict with the Defense of Marriage Act, authored and passed in 1996 by the Clinton Administration. While I realize the president has an important fundraiser with a key constituency, and the Republicans are also hosting numerous lucrative fundraisers outside the Island Manhattan, can we all save the charade, which we know, tomorrow, the second the prez. walks onto the plane, the State Senate will declare this an unreasonable bill, that serves to attack both federal law and religious conservatives...

Let them return in the fall with a carbon copy of Illinois' Civil Union Law and the Companion Bill, and use the issue as California Did on Prop 8, to raise funds all through the summer.

Anna
New York Republican

Not only should the bill come to a vote, but the bill should pass. Those who say God had defined marriage fail to understand the history of the institution. There was a time that marriage and love did not go hand in hand, when women were considered property and the goal of marriage transactional, usually to appease the monetary goals of families. Man, evolving as we do, redefined marriage as a caring relationship where love is the primary bond. Even still, the races were not allowed to marry because of God’s supposed command that the races not mix. Again, man redefined marriage to permit these loving relationships.

All that this bill does is reinforce the absolute ideal that marriage is the commitment of two loving adults to each other. What’s so wrong with that?

Andy, Jackson Heights

John,

Why should there be special laws to protect churches from lawsuits pertaining to homosexual couplings? The US Constitution guarantees us the right of association and thereby the right of disassociation. No one can rightfully force anyone to associate with another or to disassociate with another.

If politicians and the public in general would read the constitution now and then and observe the principles delineated therein, 99% of which are right, we'd be far better off and wouldn't need so many lawsuits and legislative action.

Joe
Port Richmond, SI

Its 1st and goal to goal; such suspense. I grew up in republicannot Nassau County under Joe Margiotta's machine now under Mondello. The party's over unless these cretins can derive benefit from it. Theyre a self-serving lot and Skelos and our small d-democratic guv are made for one another.

JS
Flushing

Never has so much been done for so few. There are many more renters and tax payers and jobless than gay people. I still fail to see why the Governor and the media think that this is of the upmost importance. I know of two people who have lost my vote and one is on the verge if he takes part in this debacle. Gay marriage is impossible by its very definition by the One who instituted marriage in the first place. These people can leave, but they cannot cleave, nor can they be fruitful. Personally I don’t care about them but I am totally disgruntled about the media circus that it has turned into. Has any proponent of the marriage bill considered what a big turnoff it is to see these people kissing? In case nobody noticed, there are a lot of people who would rather not see this circus-like behavior and I have turned the channel each time. The sponsors that bring news are next on my drop list.

Julie
Staten Island

Should the Senate vote? Of Course. That is what they are paid to do. If they can vote on sweet corn, they can vote on this. Whether it passes or fails, it is more important that New Yorkers get to witness a transparent and open vote. That is Democracy at work. No more hiding behind closed doors.

John
Brooklyn, New York

SECTION 3 OF THE DEFENSE OF MARRIAGE ACT WHICH BARS THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT FROM RECOGNIZING THE LEGAL MARRIAGES OF SAME SEX COUPLES IS UNCONSTITUTIONAL. D.O.M.A. FAILS TO MEET THE LEGAL STANDARD "HEIGHTENED SCRUTINY" THAT APPLIES WHEN THE GOVERNMENT TREATS GAY PEOPLE AND STRAIGHT PEOPLE DIFFERENTLY.

ONE CASE THAT WOULD BE ABLE TO SHED LIGHT ON THIS WOULD BE WINDSOR V UNITED STATES BROUGHT ON BY NYCLU, ACLU ATTORNEYS AND PAUL WEISS RIFKIND WHARTON AND GARRISON ON BEHALF OF 81 YEAR OLD EDITH WINDSOR, THE SURVIVING SPOUSE OF THEA SPEYER, HER PARTNER FOR 44 YEARS.

D.O.M.A. IS CLEARLY UNJUST IN IT TREATS PEOPLE AS SECOND CLASS CITIZENS. LOVE SHOULDN'T BE DENIED, LET SAME SEX COUPLES MARRY. CLEARLY, IT IS TIME.

JOE, BAY TERRACE

The government should protect gay and lesbian New Yorkers from all the religious fanatics that are railing against marriage equality and who want to impose their limited personal beliefs on society, not the other way around. Marriage equality is clearly a civil rights issue, not a religious freedom issue. If a religion's dogma conflicts with society's anti-discrimination laws, then that religion's institutions should not receive public tax dollars from the government. Carving out exceptions in these laws that permit religious institutions to discriminate against any group in this country is the height of legislative absurdity. Whether or not the marriage equality bill passes, those Senate Republicans that are delaying the vote should be held accountable for their obstructionist behavior and voted out of office in the next election.

Hank
Brooklyn

Hi John,

This is not the way to do it. We taxpayers have the right to get a vote on it. No way are we going to continue to accept these retread politicians coming to our state like dictators. Where’s the phantom governor?

maxxiee
mp

If it's voted in, anyone who doesn't like it should just move to a state where it's not permitted. Period. We all have waited quite long enough for marriage equality.

Liz in Sunnyside

The Marriage Equality bill now before the Senate gives religious institutions more legal protections than they currently have. Should the bill not pass, same-sex couples who get married in other states and choose to have their receptions or exercise their other rights in New York would be be even better protected by anti-discrimination laws already on the books.

Even if the proposed exemptions are later challenged in the courts, unless the exemptions are found to be unconstitutional, a New York same-sex marriage law will establish a legislative intent that might help guide the courts in rendering their decisions.

Considering the alternatives, those who oppose the bill for religious reasons would be crazy not to support it.

BIG ANDY
Manhattan Beach, Brooklyn

I really thought it was Andrew's plan to have all this hoopla on same sex marriage while landlords (who are among the Governor's biggest supporters) sneak out with no more regulations leaving one huge problem for low income people. He dealt with landlords fairly. Then there was the other more important issue of thousands getting laid off. This seems to be adequately addressed. These two issues were way more important than the same sex marriage issue. These people fighting about this issue had no concerns about the first two issues. However, at this point I withdraw my objections to same sex marriage. I also have become very cautiously optimistic about Mr Cuomo.

RICHARD - Kensington, Brooklyn

I wonder what would happen if we could rewrite history, go back and vote on other people's civil rights? How many people would be left out in the cold? Especially with religious magical thinking that flies in the face of common sense and human decency.

If we are choosing the lesser of two "evils" next year - when it comes to this President he'll get my vote, but only because he is a bit less deceitful than the others in the race, so far.

Bill
Manhattan

The issue is not whether religious organizations are going to be exempted. The issue is whether our state is willing (on the basis of a vote or two at a time when the Senate is rushing to close business) to jettison thousands of years of moral tradition. The same source that tells us that killing is wrong and that stealing is wrong also tells us that homosexuality is wrong. Our society does not go into people's bedrooms to see what they are doing. But it is wrong to give certain moral behaviors the imprimatur of law. Moreover, why stop here? How about legalizing incestuous marriages and marriages between people and animals? And how about three-person marriages? Once we tamper with the definition of marriage, everything should be legalized.

Avi

Sadly, not only this country but many in the world have selectively chosen to "accept" what is "same sex marriage." Many are going along, to get along - including our elected officials!

Someone displayed a sign while advocating for "gay rights" that "God created gays." For the record, if you believe in God at all: God created Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve, or Patrice and Latrice!

Liz
Rosedale

Yes, the legislature should pass a gay marriage bill now.

NY used to be ahead of the rest of the country, now we're obviously not.

But let's try not to be ridiculously behind in terms of human rights and stand up for what is right.

Manhattan
10024

As a Lesbian woman who has been with their Partner for over 8 years and “Partnered” for about 5 of those years says...There should be a YES vote on Same Sex Marriage. Do not continue to play with our future. It is unjust and it is my human right to be Equal.

Adrienne, St. Albans

I believe that in this country church and state need to be separate. This country is based in so many different cultures and beliefs. We pay taxes like everyone else in this country. If this bill does not pass it will feel like we are going backwards in time with civil rights. We should not be looked at as second class citizens. We all need to be equal.

Diane
Astoria NY

The homosexual agenda is not to “live and let live” as they claim. If this would be the case, religious organizations would not be sued across this great nation for practicing their religion. With unpredictable liberal judges running our judicial system, they can easily strike out any religious exemption from the marriage bill as a violation of public policy based on the existing civil rights laws. Therefore, we must encourage all legislators to vote NO on the gay marriage bill.

Joseph
Brooklyn

The reasons to pass the marriage equality legislation in New York are innumerable. Its passage will benefit all of us New Yorkers, not any special interest group, all of us. To paraphrase, if some of us are not free, none of us are free. Besides, New York is the greatest state in the Union so we should be leading the way in making our country even more tolerant and equitable.

Liza

We as Human Beings deserve the same rights as any other American. The right too Marry whom we choose . Government dose not tell me who i can love. Ive been with my partner for 10 yrs and i plan on being with him until i die. Hes been there for me through a heart Attach and my fight with cancer. Ill be with him forever. Hes my life. Elizabeth Taylor had 8 husbands. I only want 1. Give me my rights.Vote yes on same sex marriage.

Masc

Good evening John & NY1.

I'm heterosexual, and I say, live and let live. Enough with the judgements. Let's move forward and give those who don't have the same marital rights as everyone else.

IMO, I BELIEVE THE TRUE MEANING OF "EQUALITY" IS WHEN EVERYONE STANDING UNDER THE SAME UMBRELLA, IS TREATED WITH UTMOST RESPECT REGARDLESS OF RACE, ORIGIN, GENDER, ETC. IF ONLY!!!

ENOUGH! PASS THE BILL AND CELEBRATE YOUR LIFE! YOU ONLY HAVE ONE.

Nowal..
Tribeca

What in God's name has happened to us. How do you stop a race? By abortion and same sex marriage that's how. The white race is the one most heavily impacted here, I cannot call them Christians because they are not if they practice this promiscuity, oh yes promiscuity is by choice, but we don't care we want to be popular, we want more than anything in this world than to be liked by those who destroy us. We don't even fight for what we believe, this country went down in unfounded guilt and arrogance and every other mortal sin there is. But who believes in God? We are all smarter than he is aren't we. I am so disgusted with the finish of my race, and their smiling on their way down.

Eileen

I am a supporter of Governor Cuomo but I DON'T agree with him on this topic. I believe in marriage between a man and women and I will ALWAYS stick to that. I feel, instead of focusing on this, politicians should concentrate on creating JOBS.

Ruthann
Ozone Park

Willy and I have been together for almost thirty two years and married in Mass two years ago. It is and always has been a matter of civil rights irrespective of all of the religious arguments. If places like Iowa, Catholic Argentina and other countries can do it, then NY should be able to do so as well. It has been too long already.

Kenn from Bayside

I believe that the NYS Senate should vote for (and pass!) the same-sex marriage legislation.

Jenn
Orange County, NY

The should pass the bill because gay people deserve it ny is the state of hope gay people hope to get married.

Lil

this is NY not the bible belt. people here should live free of judgement. we should all be so lucky to find life long love, gay or not.

tj
ft grn.

I believe that marriage is between a Man and a Woman. This is ridiculous.

Theresa
UpperWestSide

Of course it should be brought to a vote! It would be incredibly insensitive for our government to not vote on this issue especially during pride weekend. I realize that not everyone supports this issue, but democracy can only function if the government acknowledges the important issues of the day. Gay marriage may not happen tonight, but I believe it will happen soon. Everyone deserves equal rights. My partner of ten years and I deserve the same as any other New Yorker. New York, please be a leader in this civil rights issue!

Gretchen

I believe we should pass the bill for gay marriage. Who are we to tell someone they are not allowed to marry the one they love just because of their sexual orientation. No one not even the government has to right to judge anyone! Marriage Equality NOW!!!!

Xox
Nisha :)

I think people should be able to marry who they LOVE. The government shouldn't deny people rights based on their ignorance. If the bill is passed their wouldn't be as much hate crimes against homosexuals. Society would see them as a part of the community not a mistake.

Denise, brooklyn

What is really wrong with it? Come on let us be happy just like everyone else. Do we not deserve to be happy. We are different everyone is different. Remember when black people could not marry and how everyone was against that. Come on now people this is NY State we are big and proud so get over this whole religious thing. We want rights like the person next to us.

Jerry

Mr. Obama says that marriage equality should be dealt with state by state and according to a democratic process. He should be pressed for a real answer about whether he thinks that school segregation and anti-miscegenation laws should have been ended by legislation and state by state. The first real advances in these areas were in the courts. Was that wrong? Does he think that the civil rights of other minorities, including his own, should be determined state by state and according to a democratic process? His lack of leadership, especially here and especially tonight, is appalling.

Marc
Chelsea

I'm straight my wife shops all the time and argues with me constantly are you sure this is what you want?

I'm against gay marriage.

Bronx Dave

How is it fair that gay people pay the same taxes as heterosexuals, yet don't have the same rights? Marriage equality is the right thing for New York State.

Jim T
Washington Heights

Religious organizations enjoy a tax exempt status. Tax paying gay & lesbians don't. Provide these citizens with the legal and economic rights they deserve. Pass marriage equality now.

Alison
Jackson Heights

I love my fiancee more than anything and plan to spend the reat of my life with her, come what may. We are two people committed as much to each other as we are to leaving the world a better place than the one we inherited. All we are asking is for the opportunity to live and love freely. In light of the REAL challenges facing this state and this country, we'd like to see gov't officials spending their time on protecting our rights, not denying them.

-Heather, Chelsea NY

John,

One thing that the religious conservatives need to understand is that this is NOT a theocracy. The main idea behind separation of church and state is that government is to have no role in enforcing the beliefs or practices of any religion. Marriage Equality is about giving same-sex committed partners the same legal rights which come with marriage; to allow same-sex couples to be married in the eyes of the law. Faye from Brooklyn

Faye

Hi, John

Is does not matter what the president or congress says. Marriage is between a man and woman. God created man and woman to be on earth. It is not in God's law for same sex to be married. People needs to Measure the consequences.

Kevin
Sheephead Bay

i have been with my husband for almost 15 years we got married in 2008 in mass because we did not think it would ever happen in new york love is love and if people are confident in their own marraiges our marriage does not affect yours if new passes the law we will renew our vows but it is a shame since most so called straight marraiges end in divorce maybe the oppenents should focus on that instead.

Rob

Hi ny1- huge fan of the show and ny1. I support the same sex marriage bill. This is a human rights issue. Let them get married. I am a 30 year old straight male who was in a 5 relationship with a girl. 2 years ago she told me she was a lesbian. I was hurt, upset and developed some homophobic feelings. But after calming down I support her sexual Orientation and fully support her right to get married. And fully support the right of all gay and lesbian people to get married. This is new York, we have pride events, gay bars and even have a gay St. We accept all lifestyles, so let's make this official. And to quote Chris Rock "let them get married, if they want to be miserable like us, let em get married"

Thank you,
Ny1 24/7!

Ezra from Soho

I don't believe in Gay marriage, but so long as it does not empower gay couples to FORCE ANY CHURCH THAT DOESN'T BELIEVE IN HOMOSEXUALITY AS A LIFESTYLE to marry them, I would not be AGAINST it. I don't believe any church should be PENALIZED IN ANY WAY for not being willing to marry them.

Diane

NOOOOOOOOOOOO AND I WILL REMEMBER WHEN I GO INTO THE VOTING BOOTH CUOMO AND MALCOLM SMITH. MY SENATOR AND GOV.

ANONYMOUS

Just want to add that gay marriage can be like reform jewish weddings: more relaxed but legally valid&no one is forced to perform them.

tj
ft grn

I don't practice my religion but I believe in God and I know he listens to my prayers. God sees us equally and doesn't discriminate like other people do. I will vote for the Bill and not because am gay but because gays are also human just like everybody else. Those who don't say no to the bill need to wake up and smell the coffee, and respect us like we respect you.

Eric, Bronx, NY webster ave

I would hope for the the good of the state and it's citizens our legislature votes YES for Marriage Equality and allow same sex couples the right to marry. It's just the right thing to do, even if you don't personally If the hold up from the conservatives to vote FOR Marriage Equality is allowing church organizations to turn away same sex couples who wish to marry at their respective churches, I don't fear this will be a problem. I wouldn't want to marry my partner in a church that doesn't want me there. I would marry in a church that respects my choice and honors God by loving everyone.

C H R I S T O P H E R
Briarwood, NY

It would be refreshing to hear an argument opposing Gay Marriage that didn't involve religious views. What ever happened to separation of Church and State? It is disheartening to live in a society where a certain group of people are legally treated like second class citizens. We've come so far to still be still living in the 50's.

Jody
Washington Heights

I hope the gay community would respect the rights of straight people and their opinions like David Tyree who expressed that because of his Christian Faith he's opposed to gay marriage.

Davidx

If the government wasn’t in the business of determining and keeping record of who is and who isn’t married, we wouldn’t be in this mess. Why should the government have any say on who is allowed to sign a contract or not? Leave the contract to the private sector, just as every other contract.

Frank, Sunset Park, Brooklyn

No! Gay marriage is abomination of human beings... It is abnormal!!!!!

Jennifer

Judge not lest ye be judged.

Jeremy
Forest Hills

EQUAL RIGHTS FOR ALL!!! there was a time not so long ago when women couldn't vote and blacks went to the back of the bus. the time for equal rights is now! as for religious groups, they dont need "protection", that's just a red hearring, no one is going to force a church to perform a marriage if they don't want to. I say HUMAN EQUALITY! it's the right thing to do.

Meryl from manhattan

How would I be seen as a white male if I said "I don't think civil rights should be a priority"? Equality is supposed to be a right in this country. If you can worship as you wish, why should love any different?

Mark
Rego Park

I am against same sex marriage. I am just an old fashion guy when it comes to certain things. I am tired of the same sex marriage issue being compared to the Civil Rights Movement. It is an insult to every minority who marched on Washington, who were attacked by Police dogs, who were beaten to death for the color of their skin, & who had to use separate facilities for drinking water, eating, & in some cases of city workers, sleeping areas. The gay people have not had to deal with such a issue like blacks in the south & around the world. The gays have no idea how easy they have it.

Jason Of Harlem

Marriage equality is a no-brainer. It's beyond ridiculous that consenting adults shouldn't be able to marry whomever they choose. No one is forcing anyone to marry someone else. If the marriage is not happening in my bed, then it's none of my business.

Roberta, Upper West Side, Manhattan

I want Rachel who called from Crown Heights, who said that two women cannot have a child together in a natural way, to answer, if that's the case and it is unable to happen naturally, why straight couples who are infertile are allowed to take measures to have children together? Or why single, heterosexuals are allowed to adopt?

Brian

I believe that the Gay marriage act should be passed. The gay population pay taxes and should be granted all of the same benefits as the rest of the community. Regarding the church, who cares what they think, they have been responsible for some of the most outrageous atrocities over the past 1000 years. I am gay and my truly straight male friends have no issues with the passage of same sex marriage. The closeted males seem to. Think about it. The church had the most publicized cases of male abuse by respected adults. Why should that church have a voice in this..

Andy

Yes! Vote for gay rights. I have gay friends. Wonderful great people who deserve the same civil rights. They are not criminals. We love who we love, there is no rhyme or reason! State and church are separate and They should have the same rights and priviliges as all. I vote YES.

Patricia in Brooklyn

The argument Marriage is holy is bogus, strait people divorce rate is over 50% this is not a Democratic or republican issue neither is it a religious issue, apposes to gay marriage don't realize that undermining the rights of one minority undermines the rights of all minorities.

MANY countries across the world in Europe and Canada have legal gay marriage and there's no "anarchy" there as NFL David Tyree thinks this would lead to... (this coming from a black man who was raised by a single mom and tow sisters is ridicules claim!!! )... if anything they have a much more calm society and better moral values then America!

The point is the government should not make any discrimination to its citizens according to RELIGION there are hundreds of religions and the government should have minimal say in ur privet life and allow any of her citizens the same rights under law regardless of religious beliefs or what some presumes GOD wants, All man are created equal and all citizens should have same rights and privileges/protections under law regardless of religion. Gays are not asking the church to embrace gay marriage they are asking for the government to allow them to be equal and recognized as married under law. Opposers are saying same things people said 45 years ago about black and whites marriage.

Maya
Morningside
Manhattan NY

I said no, this world is coming to an end. God created man & woman. If he wanted two men or two women it would have been so. Why should our children be put through this mess. It will only produce more gays & lesbians. How would children be created!! It's enough sin going around, time to focus on Bible!!

Anonymous

Nobody is asking for the sacrament of matrimony or any kind of religious ceremony. We want the same rights as everyone else- from the government to which we pay taxes. By not passing the Marriage Equality Act the state will be reinforcing the types of beliefs that causes gay teens to commit suicide.

Megan
from Inwood, Manhattan

I would vote yes on the same sex marriage equality act they are voting on in my state. I think that religious groups should continue to argue amongst themselves, as they have done for years, and decide for themselves if they want to marry gays or not. I am a conservative, but its easy to see who is on the right side of history. This is about legality and happiness, not about destroying what makes America great.

Thai from Harlem New york

If people would educate themselves about the true history of marriage instead of the idealized versions perpetuated by religious sects, same-sex marriage wouldn't even register in the public's consciousness. This is a civil issue pure and simple.

Raymond,
Hell's Kitchen

Of course it should be legal for same sex marriage to be legal. We are no one to judge anyone. That NFL player is so ignorant for saying what he said because as a minority that he is he should know how hard it is for people to look at you and not treat you with respect because of your race, ethnicty, sex, age or sexual oriention. I have no idea where religious people get this idea that God or Jesus do not approve. If you are truly a religious person you will have let it be the people who want to get married be their choice.

Sally, Bay Ridge

I hear people constantly saying God created man and women....the correct term is GOD CREATED ALL..that includes GAY PEOPLE...and they should have just as much right as anyone else to live life..people get over it...GAY'S are people too.

Mike from brooklyn

Hey John,

SSM is not Priority!
The Governor has it all WRONG!
Let New Yorkers decide!
Education is Priority!
Jobs is Priority!
Foreclosures are Priority!

Peter, Albany

Im a lesbian and i really hope they do past the bill... It's time! ;)

Tiffany

No Way!!! These individuals have become stronger through the years to make homosexual behavior acceptable in society. Our Lord God established society by the marriage of man and woman. To create a natural order of doing things in society. It is totally unnatural to go against Gods law, Gods creation.

Rasul

I'm just curious...when has any church or any religious leader been forced to perform any marriage? I thought this service was already performed at the will of the church? (ex: a church not marrying someone who has been previously divorced, or isn't of the same faith, etc) This seems pointless and nothing but an excuse to delay equality.

- Allison, Morningside Heights

This is a watershed moment for New York State. This is not a Democratic or Republican issue. This is a human race issue. And the whole world is watching. The whole world is waiting for US to take the lead here. It's time to set an example. You don't have to be gay to support equality. If you believe in equal rights for all, then you support marriage equality.

Legalizing same-sex marriage would be a recognition of basic American principles, and would represent the culmination of our nation's commitment to equal rights. It is the last major civil-rights milestone yet to be surpassed in our 200+ year struggle to attain the goals we set for this nation at its formation.

Justin from Bay Ridge

I am not against it but I think it should not be called marriage let it be called gayrriage with the same rights as marriage.

Mr. C.

I'm so sick to death of hearing about God in these same-sex marraige discussions. Religious organizations should not be obliged to perform same-sex marriages, but civil same-sex marriages should definitely be legal. Civil marriage is NOT a "holy" institution.

Jose

People choose to procreate or not irrespective of their marital status. Using that as an excuse to deny gay couples is irrational. As a gay man, I do not consider it to be chic or trendy to willingly adopt a minority culture that is so heavily discriminated.

Kenn from Bayside

Religiously I feel G-d created Adam and Eve not Adam and Steve.

Thaat said However, if a couple wants to be together gay or straight they should have equal rights. The main reason gay couples do not have equal rights is primarily money factor and secondary a homophobic issue. Allowing gay couples to marry would cost companies more dollars in benefits... etc. However, equal rights for gay or straight should be the way to go.

Jesse in Manhattan

Bigotry disguised as righteousness is the worst kind of bigotry. Civil rights shouldn't have to be voted on. Gay people are more than an issue, we are real people with real lives. How dare anyone try and oppose us.

Steven in Hells Kitchen.

I fully support it and this would affect my vote should my senator would vote no, and I would actively campaign and fundraise for their opponent. I am heterosexual, Christian and appauled by those who use religion to cover bigotry. The bible mentions divorce many more times then homosexuality.

My name is Siobhan and I am from Greenwich Village

Go to the states that have same sex marriage NOT NEW YORK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jennifer

JUST want to remind some callers that it was not long ago that it was not legal for a white to marry a black.

Michael

Of course it should be legal! God & the church have nothing to do with marriage. This is a human rights issue. Anybody that wants to be married, should be free to do so!

I'm shocked as a native NYer to hear so many ignorant people calling in.

~ Eileen

I am not bothered by gay people becouse I have two gay brothers and a bi-sexual sister, but I dont feel it is necessary to get married in church or have a civil marrige its ridicuous. Be together and buy a ring and have a private ceremony type a marraige. It really doesnt make sense to get married.

Brunilka

I am not in agreement with homosexual marriage. I wonder why they use the words same sex instead of homosexual.

Blessings, GJR

i feel same sex marriage should be allowed as for n.y.s shouldn't be allow to say who we can and can't marry. And yes we as tax payers should be able to vote for what it is we want to make us happy in life. Churches should not be able to stop this from being past as look how many priest turn out to be child molesters and we don't abandon churches. SAME SEX MARRIAGE IS A RIGHT NOT A QUESTION ON HOW ONE FEELS WE LOVE WHO WE LOVE AND LOVE AND WE SHOULD BE TREATED EQUAL TO MEN AND WOMENS RIGHTS

Runnin

This is exactly why education rankings are so poor in this country and in this state. If people knew their history and the constitution they would then know that there is something called, "separation of church and state."

Shanua - Bronx

I dont believe in same-sex, but @ the same time nobody is god so they shouldn't judge nobody. People need to remember thats them who wanna get married not u so worry about yall self. I really think they should stop stressing they self and let it pass for the people they are human. Just because they gay dont mean they not human i respect them like everybody else. I really think they should be treated equal. I hope it pass for them....united states is the only that haven;t pass gay marriage law yet i think they should...

Niaisha

There should be a clear separation between Church and State. The arguments against marriage equality are based on religious convictions. They have no place in a government that is supposed to serve all people. With a divorce rate well over 50% might i question the notion that gays are the biggest threat to the institution of marriage.

Jacob

If I asked right now "do WOMEN deserve equal rights under the law?" what would everyone say? Many religious groups still believe that women are not equal to men and some still believe that women do not deserve equal rights. Gay marriage should not even be a debate at this point in history. We have had so many civil rights movements in this country that by now it should not be taking this long to decide if groups of people deserve equal rights.

This is a clear cut case of separation of church and state, and regardless of your beliefs, we are NOT government by the church. It seems many religious people are forgetting this. This is a clear violation of the American constitution. Everyone, including the Senators should go back to their history books. Even the founding fathers would agree.

Anna

shame on all people who want this to pass. equal right is fine just dont call it marraige. if our children arent enough confused wait another 20 years and see how mixed up they will be. Maybe people should read the bible. Our politicians are wimps. They try to please everyone for the vote.

Johanna

SHAME ON OUR PRESIDENT

The issue is civil rights not religious rights. Agree that we should all be treated equally and you agree with the NYS Assembly and tell your senator to pass the marriage equality bill now.

We don't want to be in a place where we are not welcome. Gay people do not want to get married in your church and can not if they are not active members of that church.

It's our marriage not yours. I believe that NYS should abolish marriage licenses and issue civil union for everyone - gay or straight.

Everyone deserves the same legal rights or how about giving gay couples a substantial tax refund - 20 to 25%.

Taxation without representation is the foundation of the creation of the United State of America.

Gerard
Staten Island

People should have the right to self determination. For the religionists I say that even God gave us free will therefore don't impose your will on others. To Ruben Diaz I say if you can't seperae Church from State you should not be a representative in the assembly, so resign now! or respect the will of the people who sent you to be their voice. Marriage has been accepted as a legal contract outside of religion for decades. It is hypocritical for people to argue against marriage equality from the stand-point of religion. The only desecrators of religion at the present time are the so-called religious heterosexuals who engage in multiple marriages and divorces; many of whom defile marriage with adultery, deceit, and disrespect for their spouses.

Richard
Queens
New york

What ever happened to separation of church and state? This is not about religion, this is about legal rights. Vote yes on gay marriage.

Cheryl

Marriage is not the only right that same-sex couples are being denied: Same-sex couples do not have 1,127 rights that heterosexual couples enjoy without question, like not allowed to file taxes jointly, not being allowed to make medical decisions for their partners during a crisis, being denied joint social security benefits. For those who do not believe marriage equality is a priority, I ask you what YOUR priorities would be if you were denied or taken away these basic rights, rights which you have never had to question. If two people of the same sex and/or gender getting married makes your marriage fail, maybe you and your spouse should seek help.

Rebecca, Brooklyn

I am a lesbian and have been with my partner for ten years. I believe that marriage should be between two people who love each other and choose to be together. I am asking for the civil recognition. I do not need any church to marry my partner and I. We are members of a church already and have their full support so we will not be bothering to ask any other church to bless something they are choosing not too. This is a civil issue. Separate religion from politics - as Jesus said to Ceasear what is Ceasear and to God what is to God. What are heterosexuals afraid of....and their churches? If you want to protect the so called "santity of marriage" outlaw divorce! We will not bother any busines that will be unwilling to sell us flowers, halls, gowns, etc. We will keep our money in our pockets and go to those businesses who will respect us as human beings.

Maribelle from The Heights

John,

I tried repeatedly to get through but was unsuccessful. I wanted to rebut a reprehensible comment made by a narrow-minded person in response to a caller who said her partner and her have a 7 month old son, and that they should be allowed to legally be a family. The rebutter said that the couple did not conceive their child so - I guess -- their family is not valid. How stupid! Adoptive parents raise good citizens every day. I am an adopted child who currently has a close relationship with both my biological and adoptive families. This experience has made me richer. There are too many "normal" couples abusing (and killing) their children. I think the person who made that narrow, uninformed statement should pause, reflect, and figure out whether it's more important to have kids who are loved. If same-sex couples are raising kids with love, it's a damned sight better than heterosexual couples who abuse or kill their children. Think about that!

Maxine

I vote no to gay or the same sex marriage because it is not biblical. If God could destroy city of Sodom and Gomorrah for committing such act, why should a living soul approve or support such ungodly act. In fact, it is totally wrong even to talk it, let alone giving concept to it. May God have mercy to our nation give them the ability to say "No" what is wrong.

Am AVAH O.

Let's not reinvent the wheel when it comes to marriage. Choosing to live an alternative life style does not guarantee special rights. Gays need to keep it real. Their relationships "shocks the conscience" and will never be illegitimate before God & man. Truth is that heterosexual relationships are the bedrock of society.

Dania
Elmhurst, NY