Nation's first voter-created domestic partner registry opens
This morning at 9:00, in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, the nation's first domestic partner registry opened for business. It is the first such registry created directly by voters, giving gay and straight unmarried couples the right to officially register as partners.
Ironically, Ohio may well become the 38th state to enact a Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in the state. The act would not only outlaw gay marriages, but would make it illegal to recognize civil unions or domestic partnerships.
Five couples were in line at 9 a.m. when the Cleveland suburb began its registration program, approved by the voters in November.
"There we go," said Larry Shaw, parks and recreation commissioner, as he notarized the first registration for Nancy Thrams, 59, and Fran Twomey, 47.
There were balloons and television cameras to capture the moment and cheers from friends of the couple.
"It just feels great. It feels equalizing," Twomey said.
The recognition is not binding on courts, governments or private companies. But supporters hope it will make it easier for couples to share employment benefits, inherit property or get hospital visiting rights. At the same time, opponents fear it could one day undermine marriage. (story)
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