Illinois Becomes The 16th State To Recognize Same-Sex Marriage

By Chuck Sudo in News on Nov 20, 2013 9:55PM

Illinois Gov Pat Quinn, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and a host of Illinois politicians are at the University of Illinois at Chicago Forum right now to sign into law legislation making Illinois the 16th state to recognize same-sex marriages.

Jim Bennett, Regional Director Midwest Regional Office for Lambda Legal, issued the following statement:

"Illinois is now on the equality map, as it joins the ranks of states recognizing that love is love. Across the Land of Lincoln, it's a truly historic day for gay and lesbian couples and their children. Lambda Legal celebrates this day with thousands of same-sex couples in Illinois who have been waiting for this day since they first decided to make a commitment of love and loyalty to each other. Lambda Legal is thrilled to have been a leading partner in this fight, and I'm personally thankful to have helped bring the freedom to marry to my home state of Illinois."

Patrick Bova and Jim Darby (a Navy Veteran) have been together for over 50 years. Now they can finally be legally wed.

We've put together a Storify to provide live updates.

Related:
Illinois Gov. Quinn To Sign Marriage Equality Bill Into Law Today On Abe Lincoln's Desk