A gay couple kiss in front of the Salt Lake City Mormon Temple
To say that the California Supreme Court’s judicial decision regarding Proposition 8 was a disappointment would be an understatement. There were two good things that came out of the ruling – there are 18,000 gay marriages that are legal and protected by law in California. The second thing is that the fight for equality under the law continues.
Troy Young Speaks to the crowd at the Utah State Capitol
Several hundred people demonstrated at the foot of the Utah State Capitol building on Tuesday evening. There were speeches by several couples who had married in California. They shared their story of love and being recognized by the law.
And as a giant “bleep you” the sprinklers turned on. I am sure they are on automatic timers but I wonder if Chris Buttars and the Republican Party had something to do with it. Hmmmm.
However, the anger of those protesting would not be dampened.
The sprinklers could not dampen the protester's anger
In attendance were gay, lesbian, straight, single, coupled, married, and those with children. There were plenty of families there. These are real families who need real rights. They need insurance and health benefits – but because someone preacher says they are sinners – there are families who are denied health insurance.
Families gathered to protest the California's Supreme Court Decision
Married in California - they are still legally married
After the speeches were concluded the crowd marched to downtown Salt Lake City to peacefully protest the inequality.
The crowd begins to march downtown toward temple square
The crowd begins their march of protest
Protesters wave the rainbow flag infront of the headquarters of the LDS Church
This couple was married in California - finally
As the protest rally wrapped up the light was the gorgeous golden light – a perfect ending to an imperfect day.
After an evening of protesting - protesters sit on the lawn of the capitol
Protesters finished their march back on the lawn of the Utah Capitol