FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | February 23, 2004

Personal Message from Kate Kendell on Marriage

(San Francisco, CA, February 23, 2004) — The past two weeks have been the most profound and remarkable of my legal career, (and of my life for that matter). It truly feels as though we are all witnesses to history, not only in San Francisco, but across the nation. The discourse about our lives and relationships has forever changed, and despite the fears and trepidation expressed by some, we firmly believe that the bold step taken by San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom will be remembered as a watershed moment.

The pictures of our icons and legends, Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon, exchanging vows with the support and recognition of an institution of government was intensely emotional and moving. As I write this, more than 3,200 couples have legally married, and it is our intent to assure that those licenses are more than historical relics. We are leading the litigation on behalf of our named couples, and truly all couples, who have married or may wish to do so in the future. Along with our co-counsel Lambda Legal and the ACLU of Northern California, we are working tirelessly to insure that every relationship is accorded full recognition under the law.

You all made this moment in history possible and your continued commitment to living your life with integrity and your support of our groundbreaking work will guarantee our success.

Stay active. Make your voice be heard. We are not going back.