Illinois Lawmaker Announces Her Engagement

Something rather powerful happened in Springfield, Illinois on Wednesday,  a political message was delivered in a rather unusual way.


Illinois state Representative Debra Mell went on the floor of the House and  announced that she had gotten  engaged to her girlfriend, Christine Baker.      "Two weeks ago I asked Christin Baker to marry me, and she said yes,"    Deb Mell told the assembled legislature,  a ripple of applause rang out from most of her colleagues.  


A YouTube video of her announcement is here,    but such a happy moment for the two women was tinged with the sadness that  they,  wont be able to do it in their own state.   Illinois, does not, at present recognize   gay marriages,  so they are going to have to go next door to Iowa.    "While this is a happy day, and one to celebrate, it is also bittersweet," so said Mell in her speech. "Life can be tough even on a good day, so I believe if you find that person who you want to spend the rest of your life with, regardless if you're gay or straight it should be honored and celebrated."


“I know our governor and many of you on both sides of the aisle do not consider me equal to you and our relationship equal to the relationship you share with your spouse. I think we are more alike than we are different.”


The majority of the chamber seemed to  warmly greeted the announcement and afterward the women shared a kiss.    The couple said they would be marrying in Iowa in the fall of 2011.


Legislation that would recognize gay unions in Illinois seems to have stalled and neither a civil unions bill nor one that would legalize gay marriage in the state are expected to be debated in either this or next year.


In a rather impressive show of support,  some of Mell's  fellow legislators rose to speak and  congratulate her and Baker on their engagement.







© 2010 Copyright Jason Shaw