California’s gay community is celebrating the California State Supreme Court decision on same-sex marriage. The Beverly Hills courthouse was at the epicenter. For many, the accompanying marriage vows expressed the hope that their same-sex unions will one day be regarded no differently than any other unions. Though demonstrators expressed their opposition, celebration was the order of the day.
Attorney Gloria Alred accompanied her clients to the Beverly Hills Court House in a white limousine to enjoy hearing them say, “spouses for life.†Alred represented Robin Tyler in her quest to marry her long-time partner Diane Olsen. The couple took their case all the way to the State Supreme Court, which decided in their favor. The ceremony was performed by Rabbi Denise Eger of West Hollywood, to cheers, applause and shouts of congratulations. The two were joined under a traditional huppa, with Los Angeles City Councilman Bill Rosendahl supporting one of the four poles.
The couple had come to the same courthouse every Valentine’s Day since 2004 seeking a license; after the historic California decision, they finally became legally wed. At 5:01 p.m. they emerged proudly displaying a marriage license on the courthouse steps.
When the ceremony was over, the wedding party was treated to a reception at the L’Ermitage Hotel in Beverly Hills – hosted by Gloria Alred.
