On the first day of marriage equality in New York State, 484 couples were married in the five boroughs.
On Sunday, 659 marriage licenses were issued throughout the city, including 89 in Queens. The City Clerk’s office extended its business hours from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and State Court Judges volunteered their time to perform the ceremonies.
Seventy seven percent of couples served had at least one spouse from New York City and 23 states were represented.
“Today was a historic day in our City, and we couldn’t be prouder that on the first day that everyone in New York City could have their love affirmed in the eyes of the law, we were able to serve everyone,” said Mayor Bloomberg. “I want to thank all of the city workers and volunteers who made this success possible.”
Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer celebrated marriage equality with the first LGBT marriage in Queens between Gregory Levine and Shane Serkiz. In the afternoon, he attended a brunch at Molly Bloom’s in Sunnyside hosted by the Lesbian and Gay Democratic Club of Queens. Van Bramer and his partner Dan Hendrick hosted “A Toast to Marriage Equality in New York” that evening at Claret Wine Bar in Sunnyside.
“The first day of Marriage Equality was a memorable one filled with love,” said Van Bramer. “I was pleased to be a witness to history and congratulate all those whose vows represented a dream come true.”
The City Clerk’s office will continue to extend its hours for the remainder of the week.
“It was an honor and a privilege to preside over the first same-sex weddings in New York City, and I look forward to continuing to serve all New Yorkers who wish to get married in an equal and respectful manner,” said Clerk McSweeney.
