UD students demonstrate for gay marriage

3:19 p.m., March 18, 2004--Gay and straight couples demonstrating in support of gay marriage were symbolically joined in matrimony on the patio of the University of Delaware’s Trabant University Center on Monday, attracting approximately 500 people.

The “marry-in,” organized by members of Haven, a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender student organization, was held in support of the growing battle being waged around the country to allow gay life partners to legally marry.

Throughout the three-hour demonstration, vows were taken, ring pops exchanged and wedding cake eaten as gay and straight students showed their support for equal protection under the law for gay life partners. More than 350 were collected on a petition and 100 signatures on letters to be sent to U.S. representatives.

Senior Sasha Gamburg, president of Haven, called the demonstration a success. “We had a lot of support from people in the UD community, more then I expected. I hope the ‘marry in’ brought attention to the fact that a committed queer couple cannot get married in this state or nation. They are being denied their basic civil rights and yet are expected to pay taxes and be good citizens.... I hope people take initiative and start contacting their representatives with the objective of changing the law....”

Marilyn Prime, director of UD’s student centers, said the demonstration was about equal rights. “Many students who are not members of Haven and who are straight were getting married and signing the petition. The event crossed many campus constituencies.”

Article by Barbara Garrison
Photo by Haven

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