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Written by Lisa Neff, Staff writer
May 19, 2011
Delaware Gov. Jack Markell with first lady Carla Markell after the governor signed legislation creating civil unions in the state. – Photo: Courtesy Patrick Jackson/Delaware State Senate
After signing Delaware’s civil unions bill into law, Gov. Jack Markell raised the document overhead like an MVP hoists a trophy.
“This is about a new energy and a new excitement,” Markell said. “It’s about a moment in our history – and make no mistake, because tonight is history – that came about because people came together, because it became clear that Delaware’s LGBT community is in fact part of every Delaware community. And it’s also clear tonight that the greater good is served when we speak out and when we fight hard, when we see that bias or prejudice or even outdated laws attempt to lessen any one of us.”
The Democratic governor signed the bill in a ceremony on May 11 at the World Cafe Live at the Queen in Wilmington, with first lady Carla Markell attending and a jubilant crowd of about 600.
The legislation allows same-sex couples to join in civil unions to gain benefits associated with marriage. It also affirms the state will recognize same-sex marriages, unions and partnerships from other states.
The governor noted how quickly Delaware advanced the equality agenda – the state enacted an anti-discrimination law as recently as 2009, followed by passage of legislation to support LGBT parents, and then the civil unions bill.
“It’s become clear that in Delaware, justice and equality move one way – and that is forward,” Markell said.
Rep. Melanie L. George, the lead sponsor of the civil unions bill in the house, said at the ceremony, “With every fiber of my being … this is the right thing to do.”
She added, “Our government stands for liberty and justice for all. We haven’t always gotten it right, but we have worked to correct those missteps, and this is a major step toward correcting an inequity and injustice.”
Lisa Goodman, president of the statewide LGBT civil rights group Equality Delaware beamed. “Tonight is a wonderful night,” she said. “We are so grateful for the support of the governor, the general assembly and Delawareans up and down the state.” Equality Delaware drafted the measure and lobbied for votes.
Couples can join in civil unions on Jan. 1, 2012.
