My Valentine

[Dan Mouer]

Happy Valentine's Day to us!

Robin Ryder and I were married in Virginia in January 1982. Rob changed his gender status officially 7 years ago. Two years later, the Commonwealth of Virginia's legislature passed a constitutional amendment making same-sex marriages, civil unions, or anything seeming to grant equality to same-sex couples as being illegal in Virginia.

Last night, a United States Federal court deemed Virginia's ban on same-sex marriage to be unconstitutional. What's more, our current, just elected, pro-equality attorney general has said that the Commonwealth of Virginia will not appeal this decision. In fact he has taken the side of the original plaintiff and has been campaigning for marriage equality.

We have lived with a constant concern that the ultra-conservatives of Virginia could, at some point, decide to nullify our marriage license because we are now a same-sex couple. I believe that, as of last night, we can pretty well let that fear go. I and my transsexual partner are legally married in one of the most backward states in this union, now and forever more, until death parts us.

[Susan McAllister]

Congratulations. I'm so happy for you both.

[borderlinegrafix]

Congratulations, Dan!  Remember, only one bottle per married couple (just kidding).

[Petrolpetal]

What a relief (and vindication) for you both. Congratulations and 'hats off' for your courage during what must have been some very trying times!

[Amy Irwen]

Wonderful news....hugs to you both... 3