Included at this heading are also some references to covenanting, domestic partner registrations, and other marriage-like actions

See also GAY DIVORCE, and other related headings; e.g., PENSIONS

Fighting to stay together [Todd Leyland and Pierre Beaulne; Leyland, an American, had to leave Canada because work visa expired June 22; two men applied for marriage licence at Ottawa city hall; etc.].
P75 (v10n6)(Sept. 16, 1992): 22 (16cm.)

Waiting to get married [Pierre Beaulne and Todd Leyland go to court to try to get marriage license; last January applied at Ottawa city hall but were told issuance would be illegal; etc.].
P77 (v10n8)(Dec. 9, 1992): 21 (11cm.)

No marriage licence [Pierre Beaulne / Todd Leyland case; applied at Ottawa city hall for marriage licence in January 1992; Ontario Court of Justice ruled March 15, 1993 that gays/lesbians not entitled to marriage licence; summary of three-judge panel decision].
P80 (v11n3)(April 21, 1993): 19 (49cm.)

Fight breaks up couple [Leyland forced to return to U.S.; couple has enlisted help of another couple from Ottawa to gain marriage license; etc.].
P81 (v11n4)(June 9, 1993): 20 (17cm.)

Immigration victory [lesbian couple in Yukon have won four-year battle; Andrea Underwood / Anna Carrott case; Anna Carrott given landed immigrant status; now seeking marriage licence from their city hall, but have been refused; in this matter, their court case is to be heard in Yukon Supreme Court, Feb. 20, 1995].
P93 (v12n8)(Dec. 7, 1994): 20 (20cm.)

Commons rejects Réal marriage [House of Commons voted "overwhelmingly" to reject Motion 264, a private member's bill sponsored by openly-gay Bloc Québécois MP Réal Ménard and seconded by Svend Robinson; bill would have legalized same-sex marriage].
P100 (v13n7)(Oct. 25, 1995): 20 (11cm.)

Sharing the news [lesbian couple convinces Halifax Chronicle-Herald newspaper to change policy on same-gender announcements; the two women have planned a commitment ceremony].
P105 (v14n4)(June 5, 1996): 21 (19cm.)

Wed, white, and the blues [report on the same-sex marriage issue in the United States].
P106 (v14n5)(July 24, 1996): 27 (43cm.)

Will you marry me...somewhere else? [information on same-sex marriage issue in some European countries].
P106 (v14n5)(July 24, 1996): 28 (33cm.)

Americans ban gay marriage [Defense of Marriage Act passed July 12, 1996 in US House of Representatives; some discussion of possible employment non- discrimination legislation].
P107 (v14n6)(Sept. 11, 1996): 26 (24cm.)

PM doesn't understand [gay marriage; John Fisher, executive director of EGALE, has offered to help].
P110 (v15n1)(Jan. 29, 1997): 25 (13cm.)

BC women wed [Georgina Scott and Linda Fraser of British Columbia now legally married lesbian couple because, when they married, Georgina was legally and physically a man; details].
P117 (v15n8)(Dec. 3, 1997): 26 (22cm.)

Couple seeks marriage rights [Quebec man, Martin Dube, and Mexican lover married in ceremony conducted by Roman Catholic organization, Dignity; province won't recognize union; etc.].
P119 (v16n2)(March 18, 1998): 25 (20cm.)

Something borrowed, something plaid [personal account by the author of her gay marriage, with details of the planning as well as of emotional aspects]. By Jesse Invik.
P120 (v16n3)(April 29, 1998): 10 (38cm.)

Marriage & taxes [MP Svend Robinson has introduced two private member's bills -- C-385 is "designed to allow same-sex partners to have a legally recognized marriage"; C-386 "would amend the Income Tax Act and the Canada Pension Plan Act's definition of spouse"; private member's bills seldom become law].
P121 (v16n4)(June 10, 1998): 24 (27cm.)

Whose right to life? [Right to Life Association in Prince Albert circulating petition to support Toronto-area MP Tom Wappel's private-member's bill to define marriage as only between man and woman; Rev. John Fryters, past president of Right to Life Association, quoted, as is Derrek Konrad, the area's Reform MP; etc.].
P122 (v16n5)(July 29, 1998): 14 (23cm.)

Court battle begins [in Quebec; Michael Hendricks and René Leboeuf attempted to apply for marriage licence in Montreal; were refused on basis of reading of Quebec Civil Code; document filed to request permission to challenge law; etc.].
P124 (v16n7)[misnumbered v16n6 on contents page](Oct. 28, 1998): 25 (15cm.)

Marriages okayed [Winnipeg report that "Rabbi Michael Levenson has received permission from the board of directors at Temple Shalom, a Reform synagogue, to perform same-sex marriages"; additional comments].
P129 (v17n4)(June 2, 1999): 13 (14cm.)

Gay marriage poll [Angus Reid poll of 1500 people for Toronto Globe and Mail newspaper reports same-sex marriage acceptable for majority (53 percent) of Canadians; support higher in Quebec and among younger Canadians; etc.].
P130 (v17n5)(July 28, 1999): 27 (10cm.)

Standing for marriage [brief newsnote that Alberta Conservative MLA, Victor Doerksen, representing Red Deer South riding, "announced December 3 that he will be introducing a bill into the legislature to outlaw same-sex marriage"; premier says bill not necessary; private member's bills rarely pass].
P133 (v17n8)(Dec. 8, 1999): 13 (9cm.)

Celebrities oppose Knight Initiative [report on California's Proposition 22 to outlaw gay marriage in the state; vote to be March 7, 2000; details of struggle].
P135 (v18n2)(March 8, 2000): 25 (32cm.)

Queer marriage: our most pressing issue? [in which author expresses opinion that "it's not so much that I'm opposed to the idea, but more so that I feel like I'm being pulled through an agenda that I don't feel much a part of"; author is "also not convinced that...marriage is the most pressing issue...."; suspects that the gay rights movement...has taken the relatively safe and comfortable approach to [of?] fighting in the courts for legislative change"; other comments]. By Jeff Dodds.
P136 (v18n3)(April 19, 2000): 6, 8 (48cm.)

Frightened by marriage [concerning the private member's bill against same-sex marriage introduced by Red Deer Conservative MLA Victor Doerksen; comments of some politicians and others as bill "is working its way through the Alberta legislature"].
P136 (v18n3)(April 19, 2000): 14 (19cm.)

C-23 debate continues ["Bill C-23 defined marriage as the union between a man and a woman,...eliminating the possibility of same-sex marriage"; British Columbia attorney-general believes this is wrong; issue arose when Judy Lightwater and Cynthia Callaghan denied marriage license; a Quebec case already in court (Hendricks); Toronto issue; opposition from REAL Women group; etc.].
P138 (v18n5)(Aug. 2, 2000): 25 (25cm.)

Marriage and the courts [in two separate cases, governments seeking rulings on whether refusing marriage licenses to gays/lesbians is constitutional; City of Toronto has applied to provincial court for ruling and British Columbia is also seeking ruling; other details and some names].
P138 (v18n5)(Aug. 2, 2000): 26 (35cm.)

Robinson challenges Day [newsnote that Svend Robinson, Member of Parliament, introduced private member's bill on October 7, 2000 that would, if passed, allow same-sex couples to marry; Stockwell Day is leader of Canadian Alliance political party].
P140 (v18n7)(Oct. 25, 2000): 26 (13cm.)

Same-sex marriage OK'd [in the Netherlands; on September 12, 2000 the Dutch Parliament "approved full marriage rights for same-sex couples by a vote of 109-33"; some details].
P140 (v18n7)(Oct. 25, 2000): 28 (14cm.)

Ontario nuptials cause a stir [currently same-sex couples in Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec have taken marriage fight to court; this newsnote is primarily about the marriage, not by licence but by posting banns, of two couples in Toronto; Rev. Brent Hawkes of Metropolitan Community Church, Toronto, marries two couples -- Elaine Vautour and partner Anne Vautour; Kevin Bourassa and Joe Varnell].
P142 (v19n1)(Jan. 31, 2001): 25 (32cm.)

Get a life [report on and reactions to attack by Alliance politicians and Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops on Governor-General Adrienne Clarkson for her congratulatory message to Kevin Bourassa and Joe Varnell on their marriage; Maurice Vellacott, Saskatoon MP, was outraged at Clarkson's action].
P142 (v19n1)(Jan. 31, 2001): 25 (25cm.)

Maritimers take the lead [report on actions of Nova Scotia government in legislation with respect to gay/lesbian couples; Bill 75 tabled on November 6, 2000; also introduced change to create Registered Domestic Partnership, for which requirements similar to but not identical with those for marriage; other details].
P142 (v19n1)(Jan. 31, 2001): 26 (39cm.)

Carbon copy [exchange of letters between David Hiebert and Saskatoon Member of Parliament Maurice Vellacott regarding same-sex marriage].
P143 (v19n2)(March 14, 2001): 4 (30cm.)

Bless me father [Anglican Church officials in Vancouver area about to publish liturgy for same-sex "covenanting" ceremony similar to one used by United Church; being called the Vancouver liturgy; ethics consultant says it would be seen as challenge to church policy; official view of Anglican Church is that homosexuality is a sin; other information].
P143 (v19n2)(March 14, 2001): 27 (28cm.)

Lesbian writer balks at "marriage" [newsnote that author Jane Rule "has publicly spoken out against the fight for same-sex marriage and common-law benefits"; considers this pursuit a step back; criticized Svend Robinson and EGALE Canada for taking on issue].
P144 (v19n3)(April 25, 2001): 25 (11cm.)

Dutch wedding bells [four couples recently became first gays/lesbians to be legally married in Holland; "a new law has wiped away the last barriers to complete equality for lesbians and gays in Holland"; "all references to gender in the laws governing both matrimony and adoption" have been eliminated; other details].
P144 (v19n3)(April 25, 2001): 28 (15cm.)

Acceptance growing [newsnote reporting on Environics Research Group Canada-wide poll on same-sex marriage; reports that 55 percent either strongly (29 percent) or somewhat (26 percent) supported legal marriage; other details, including geographical information].
P145 (v19n4)(June 6, 2001): 27 (16cm.)

Nova Scotia makes changes [reporting that four Halifax couples have registered for province's new domestic partner certificate; some details of legislation permitting this; "Nova Scotia is the first province to recognize same-sex partners in a registration"].
P146 (v19n5)(Aug. 1, 2001): 28 (14cm.)

B.C. couples fight [B.C. Supreme Court judge "is deliberating over a July court case of eight same-sex couples who challenged the constitutionality of the country's marriage laws"; decision expected by late October; details].
P147 (v19n6)(Sept. 12, 2001): 25 (34cm.)

Judge admits it's discrimination [in case of eight same-sex couples challenging federal government that exclusion of same-sex couples from marriage was against the Charter, B.C. Supreme Court Justice Ian Pitfield agreed that this was discrimination, but discrimination acceptable because he judged Charter supported marriage's function of raising children; B.C. government withdrew from case when Liberals replaced NDP as provincial government; other details].
P148 (v19n7)[misnumbered v19n6 on contents page](Oct. 24, 2001): 26 (32cm.)

The great marriage debate [author also refers to other issues -- homophobia and heterosexism, gay life expectancy, health issues; believes that marriage "is not our main priority"]. By Gens Hellquist.
P149 (v19n8)(Dec. 5, 2001): 4, 7 (57cm.)

Same-sex marriage in Canada [overview article presenting arguments for and against same-sex marriage and referring to a number of legal proceedings in various parts of the country].
P149 (v19n8)(Dec. 5, 2001): 28-29 (59cm.)

Until debt do us part: same-sex marriage as a done deal [author addresses various issues in the gay marriage legalization debate; presents examples of unfair financial treatment of gay couples by governments over the years, including her own personal example; author's opinion on the same-sex marriage issue]. By Jean Hillabold.
P150 (v20n1)(Jan. 30, 2002): 5, 9 (68cm.)

Quebec introduces civil unions [newsnote that Quebec Justice Minister Paul Begin says that if Quebec were independent state, same-sex couples would be allowed to marry; because only federal government can legislate to allow same-sex marriage, Begin has introduced legislation to allow civil union in the province; these civil unions wouldn't, however, allow adoption, despite that right being in place in other provinces; reaction].
P150 (v20n1)(Jan. 30, 2002): 28 (15cm.)

Letters [letter from Megan Morman, EGALE board member (Prairies/Territories/Nunavut), in response to "The Great Marriage Debate" article (P149, Dec. 5, 2001); emphasizes need for many people to work on many issues in different ways; outlines purpose of EGALE and lists wide variety of issues EGALE involved with; EGALE founded in 1986 "to advance equality for Canadian GLBT people on a national level, primarily through political action, legal intervention, and public education"].
P151 (v20n2)(March 13, 2002): 9 (17cm.)

Relationship report released ["Beyond Conjugality," by Law Commission of Canada; deals broadly with concept of relationships; one of 33 recommendations is to end restrictions against same-sex marriage; Commission says that "Canadians should get to decide for themselves who they are in relationships with, and then tell the state"].
P151 (v20n2)(March 13, 2002): 25 (18cm.)

Commissions support marriage [Canadian Human Rights Commission calls for Parliament to recognize same-sex marriage; cites recent report of Law Commission of Canada, which also recommends recognition].
P152 (v20n3)(April 24, 2002): 25 (22cm.)

Manitoba equality [Bill 53 introduced to "amend 56 statutes affecting marital and common-law relationships"; "bill reflects principle that those in common-law relationships (same and opposite sex) should be treated the same way as those in marital relationships" regarding property on breakdown and on death of a partner; bill will also provide for registration of a common-law relationship; other details].
P154 (v20n5)(July 31, 2002): 10 (29cm.)

No change coming [Alberta MLA Victor Doerksen introduces private member's bill to ban same-sex marriage in Alberta; this comes after Ontario court ruling on unconstitutionality of denial of marriage to same-sex couples; in June, Alberta government rather reluctantly "introduced legislation that would grant some rights and responsibilities to same-sex couples"; other details].
P154 (v20n5)(July 31, 2002): 10 (21cm.)

No change for a while [NDP government of Saskatchewan "has indicated they are waiting for the federal government to amend federal marriage laws before they think about making any changes provincially"; Ontario court decision delivered recently on unconstitutionality of denying same-sex couples right to marry; etc.].
P154 (v20n5)(July 31, 2002): 14 (16cm.)

Same-sex equality by 2004? [Ontario Superior Court decision gives federal government "two years to grant same-sex marriages the same status as heterosexual ones"; case had been brought by Metropolitan Community Church and eight gay and lesbian couples; details].
P154 (v20n5)(July 31, 2002): 25 (60cm.)

No marriage, please [newsnote that Alberta Premier Ralph Klein has indicated he is prepared to use "notwithstanding" clause of Charter of Rights and Freedoms against same-sex marriage; etc.].
P155 (v20n6)(Sept. 11, 2002): 14 (16cm.)

Marriage debate continues [reporting that on Sept. 6, 2002 Justice Louise Lemelin of Quebec Superior Court ruled definition of marriage is discriminatory in excluding same-sex couples, echoing earlier Ontario ruling; opinions of various politicians and of EGALE Canada's John Fisher; "currently Quebec and Nova Scotia are the only provinces to recognize civil unions for gays and lesbians, though not by marriage"].
P155 (v20n6)(Sept. 11, 2002): 26 (43cm.)

Out Olympian marries [Nancy Drolet, "a well-known player on Team Canada's women's hockey team," was united with her partner in a civil ceremony in Quebec in August; details, and comments of Drolet].
P156 (v20n7)(Oct. 23, 2002): 23 (27cm.)

Bring on the banns [Toronto United Church minister, Rev. Cheri DiNovo, campaigning to have the banns read wherever possible by United Church ministers; this is related to the Metropolitan Community Church in Toronto applying the ritual for same-sex couples; government response to same-sex marriage licence applications; etc.].
P156 (v20n7)(Oct. 23, 2002): 24 (35cm.)

Man's best friend [author's opinions and experiences with respect to gay relationships and comments on the gay marriage issue]. By Bert Lang.
P157 (v20n8)(Dec. 4, 2002): 5 (43cm.)

New marriage law [in July, Ontario Supreme Court gave federal government two years to revamp marriage laws; Justice Minister Martin Cauchon "will be submitting a document with four options"; he is said to be leaning towards civil union option; other details].
P157 (v20n8)(Dec. 4, 2002): 23-24 (20cm.)

Another marriage position [Coalition for Lesbian and Gay Rights in Ontario (CLGRO) calls for scrapping of marriage and having "a form of optional civil union, to replace marriages and common-law unions for all couples"; details].
P158 (v21n1)[cover misnumbered v201](Jan. 22, 2003): 26 (32cm.)

Poll results promising [Strategic Counsel survey of Canadians conducted November 2002 on gay marriage; some data presented].
P158 (v21n1)[cover misnumbered v201](Jan. 22, 2003): 26 (15cm.)

Valentine's Day protest ["activists in Saskatoon called for an end to discrimination against same-sex couples in an organized national campaign in support of same-sex marriage rights"; includes comments of Nicole White].
P159 (v21n2)(March 5, 2003): 12 (25cm.)

What's the point? [report on the hearings of and the considerable hostility at the House of Commons Justice Committee on same-sex marriage; many names and reactions presented; contact for those who wish to participate].
P159 (v21n2)(March 5, 2003): 25 (52cm.)

The marriage debate [report about hearings of the federal parliamentary Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights regarding same-sex marriage held in Steinbach, Manitoba, a conservative area, on April 4; "numerous gay and lesbian people from Winnipeg" attended; several comments by Donna Huen, director of Winnipeg's Rainbow Resource Centre].
P160 (v21n3)(April 16, 2003): 10 (32cm.)

And Belgium makes two [two years after the Netherlands "made same-sex unions equal to heterosexual marriages," Belgium has done the same; comments about the "committee of homophobes" holding hearings in Canada on this issue; comment also by John Fisher of EGALE and by a professor of international law].
P160 (v21n3)(April 16, 2003): 29 (18cm.)

Gay marriage in the courts [overview and recent history of the same-sex marriage issue, including reference to the Ontario and British Columbia court decisions, the federal government committee tour to hear Canadians' opinions, the Canadian Armed Forces situation; etc.].
P161 (v21n4)(May 28, 2003): 24 (63cm.)

Batten down the hatches [author warns to prepare for onslaught of homophobia in the next months as debate over same-sex marriage dominates media; points out that marriage relationships have changed over time; mention of letter issued by Roman Catholic bishop of Saskatoon, Albert LeGatt, urging parishoners to write federal government to oppose same-sex marriage; issue of separation of church and state gets overlooked in debate; etc.]. By Gens Hellquist.
P162 (v21n5)(July 23, 2003): 4, 11 (54cm.)

Queer wedding traditions & superstitions ["now that Canada has opened marriage up to us queers, here are some traditions and superstitions for our very own"; author lists 35 in point form]. By Kelly Ries.
P162 (v21n5)(July 23, 2003): 7 (41cm.)

No action planned [by Lorne Calvert's Saskatchewan government in issuance of licences for same-sex marriages until federal legislation is law; reactions of disappointment by Regina activist Duncan Campbell and Donna Smith of Saskatchewan Federation of Labour; but Saskatchewan Party's Ben Heppner "said that same-sex couples have enough legal rights without being allowed to marry"; continued homophobic reaction of Saskatoon Roman Catholic Bishop Albert LeGatt with mention also of Saskatoon Alliance MPs Maurice Vellacott and Lynne Yelich].
P162 (v21n5)(July 23, 2003): 14, 19 (44cm.)

No marriage please, we're Albertans ["Keith Purdy and Rick Kennedy have mounted a battle against the Alberta government over the issue of gay marriage"; had commitment ceremony in 1992, but Alberta laws don't allow same-sex marriage at present; etc.].
P162 (v21n5)(July 23, 2003): 20-21 (27cm.)

Rushing to the altar [report on the June 11, 2003 ruling by Ontario Court of Appeal; unanimous ruling that is unconstitutional to prevent gays/lesbians from getting marriage licence; this ruling followed other court rulings in Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec, which gave federal government some time to make changes; this latest ruling declared Ottawa's definition of marriage invalid and ruled it be changed to "two persons" from "one man and one woman"].
P162 (v21n5)(July 23, 2003): 26 (63cm.)

Editorial [homophobia and the gay marriage issue; Christian hatred and premature deaths among gays and lesbians; etc.].
P163 (v21n6)(Sept. 10, 2003): 3 (15cm.)

Gens in Wonderland [about gay marriage issue; author looks briefly at history of marriage and also the evidence in history of same-sex marriage; current homophobic reactions to the issue; the author wonders if he hasn't "stumbled down some rabbit hole..."]. By Gens Hellquist.
P163 (v21n6)(Sept. 10, 2003): 4, 7 (70cm.)

The politics of same-sex marriage [in the same-sex marriage debate, "our community is going to come under some serious attack"; but author predicts that "in the end, we will have the right to marry; the Constitution will protect us..."; "unfortunately, for the next little while, we will have to suffer the hatred and homophobia of those in this country who would prefer us to live with only limited rights"]. By Jeff Dodds.
P163 (v21n6)(Sept. 10, 2003): 6-7 (50cm.)

Letters: carbon copy [letter of Adam Exner, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Vancouver, criticizing court-mandated approval of same-sex marriage; Svend Robinson's letter of response].
P163 (v21n6)(Sept. 10, 2003): 8 (44cm.)

No marriage today [Manitoba government has indicated will not allow same-sex marriages in the province until the federal law is changed; case of 1974 marriage by Unitarian Church minister of Chris Vogel and Richard North discussed; they "celebrate their 30th anniversary next year and are hopeful their marriage will legally be recognized by the time that event occurs"].
P163 (v21n6)(Sept. 10, 2003): 10 (22cm.)

Puckering up [report on Alberta government reaction to gay marriage issue -- Premier Ralph Klein talks of preventing gay marriage by using "notwithstanding" clause of Charter of Rights and Freedoms, while protesters attack his statements and support same-sex marriage; various comments and other details].
P163 (v21n6)(Sept. 10, 2003): 13 (41cm.)

Confronting homophobes [Winnipeg report that "group of 100 queer supporters showed up at a 'Marriage: One Man One Woman' rally on Manitoba legislature grounds on August 18 to confront speakers"; details, including reactions of some "older queers," who were "dismayed" at behaviour of younger gays and lesbians; also, Adam Gratton, 19, distributed pamphlets in front of Winnipeg's St. Mary's Catholic Cathedral to counteract call by Winnipeg's Roman Catholic Archbishop James V. Weisgerber to oppose same-sex marriage].
P163 (v21n6)(Sept. 10, 2003): 14 (33cm.)

The great Canadian marriage melee [overview of the goings-on at the federal political level; "summer may be ending but the debate over same-sex marriage is just heating up. The main hot spots are in the political arena and the pulpit"].
P163 (v21n6)(Sept. 10, 2003): 24-25 (113cm.)

Vatican under attack ["is increasingly coming under attack for its position on same-sex marriage and the language that they use in urging Catholics to oppose any changes..."; rebuke from Canadian Psychological Association says "Vatican repeats misconceptions about gay and lesbian parents that have no basis in science"; there is no basis for saying that gays/lesbians raising children amounts to "doing violence to children"; comments of others; not all Roman Catholics agree with Vatican].
P163 (v21n6)(Sept. 10, 2003): 26 (25cm.)

Bush & marriage [Los Angeles report that Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation concerned about Bush's comments against civil marriage equality for same-sex couples; transcript and video of Bush's comments available on GLAAD Web site, with Web address given; GLAAD emphasizes importance of media's scrutinizing comments carefully to correct inaccuracy, note invocation of personal religious beliefs, and clarify state of marriage law; separation of church and state is a founding principle in the US; etc.].
P163 (v21n6)(Sept. 10, 2003): 28-29 (24cm.)

The battle's just begun [in which author discusses homophobia in relation, variously, to gay marriage, assumed gay sex obsession, and rural gays; "many religious people are like rural folk. They don't support diversity because they don't allow themselves to see diversity"; "the battle to educate people about who we are has just begun"]. By Gens Hellquist.
P164 (v21n7)(Oct. 22, 2003): 4, 8 (64cm.)

Quieter Winnipeg protests [following on August 18 protests of pro and anti same-sex marriage groups in Winnipeg, reported on in P163, there were again protests on September 7, which are reported on here].
P164 (v21n7)(Oct. 22, 2003): 13 (26cm.)

Gay marriage update [concerning Ottawa political activities on this issue].
P164 (v21n7)(Oct. 22, 2003): 22 (44cm.)

Supreme Court dismisses appeal [by two religious groups concerning Ontario courts decision to allow gay marriage; details and comments].
P164 (v21n7)(Oct. 22, 2003): 24 (19cm.)

New coalition launched [newsnote that Canadians for Equal Marriage, "a new group in support of same-sex marriage," has been formed; many named groups have come together to form this coalition; already local chapters in 35 communities; etc.].
P164 (v21n7)(Oct. 22, 2003): 25 (13cm.)

Bush & anti-gay extremists [the American organization, Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, has called on media "to scrutinize President Bush's endorsement of anti-gay organizations' so-called 'Marriage Protection Week' and examine the hateful intolerance of the groups with which the president has now formally aligned his administration"; list of many of the anti-gay organizations; other details].
P164 (v21n7)(Oct. 22, 2003): 26 (26cm.)

Same-sex ads [report that "three new television ads have been produced to promote same-sex marriage in Canada and are to run as public service announcements"; some details of the advertisements; also mention of results of latest Environics poll of Canadians on gay marriage; federal government asserts it is the right solely of Parliament to decide who can legally marry, says Constitution Act gives it power to decide marriage "capacity"].
P165 (v21n8)(Dec. 3, 2003): 26 (28cm.)

No more special rights for straights [Boston (USA) newsnote that highest court of state of Massachusetts ruled November 18 that ban on gay marriage was unconstitutional and gave legislators 180 days to fix the problem; legislature was considering constitutional amendment to define marriage as between one man and one woman; governor critical of court; etc.].
P165 (v21n8)(Dec. 3, 2003): 28 (17cm.)

Morality and other dirty words [introductory comments on some U.S. Republican (and Democratic) Party politics regarding same-sex marriage and Republican Party member's proposal of "bill to limit language used on public radio and television"; author then suggests that he sides with Republicans in considering that some words should indeed be illegal; provides an annotated list of his own "seven dirty word" -- housewife, compassionate conservative, irregardless, democracy, sodomiser, bathhouse, and gay]. By Jeff Dodds.
P166 (v22n1)(Jan. 28, 2004): 6, 7 (55cm.)

Civil unions update [newsnote concerning possible delay by Liberal government in same-sex legislation matter by adding fourth question to the three referred to Supreme Court of Canada; other details].
P166 (v22n1)(Jan. 28, 2004): 26 (18cm.)

It's about Time [newsnote that Michael Leshner and Michael Stark were married within hours of Ontario Court of Appeal ruling "that exclusion of same-sex couples from marriage was unconstitutional"; were chosen by Time for Canadian Newsmaker of the Year designation].
P166 (v22n1)(Jan. 28, 2004): 26 (14cm.)

The four weddings of the Apocalypse [comments on reactions, particularly in the United States, to the gay marriage issue]. By Gens Hellquist.
P167 (v22n2)[misnumbered v22n1 on contents page] (March 10, 2004): 4, 7 (51cm.)

Sanctity n. 1: Godliness; 2. sacredness ["according to those political leaders in Canada and the United States opposed to same-sex marriage, we must protect the sanctity of marriage"; author claims that most have abandoned the "Godliness" of marriage by choosing civil ceremonies; discussion of marriage, same-sex marriage, and the place of issue of same-sex marriage, with its aspirations towards a heterosexual social institution, in the fight for gay rights; etc.]. By Jeff Dodds.
P167 (v22n2)[misnumbered v22n1 on contents page] (March 10, 2004): 6, 7 (47cm.)

Same-sex marriage challenge [new chapter of Canadians for Equal Marriage looking for couples to launch Manitoba court challenge trying to make Manitoba third province to recognize same-sex marriage; details].
P167 (v22n2)[misnumbered v22n1 on contents page] (March 10, 2004): 9 (27cm.)

White weekend ends white wedding [about "Altitude," the Whistler Gay Ski Weekend; attendance up significantly to 4,000; for many attendees this was their honeymoon, as "dozens of couples took advantage of British Columbia's same-sex marriage licences"; etc.].
P167 (v22n2)[misnumbered v22n1 on contents page] (March 10, 2004): 22 (18cm.)

One more question [on January 28, Liberal Justice Minister Irwin Cotler gave Supreme Court of Canada another question to consider; has asked if traditional definition of marriage violates the Charter; Court has set new date of October 7-9 to hear references; comments of various politicians and others; Belinda Stronach, one of Stephen Harper's leadership competitors, has let it be known that she supports gay marriage; etc.].
P167 (v22n2)[misnumbered v22n1 on contents page] (March 10, 2004): 25-26 (65cm.)

Autumn in Quebec? ["we are still waiting on the Quebec Court of Appeal to decide on the legality of same-sex marriages in that province"; background details; one of gay men who launched case in 1998 is Michael Hendricks; other details].
P167 (v22n2)[misnumbered v22n1 on contents page] (March 10, 2004): 26 (24cm.)

Marry queers or else [British Columbia marriage commissioners ordered by Vital Statistics Department to marry same-sex couples or resign by end of March; the Department announced that over 1,400 same-sex couples married since BC court ruling on unconstitutionality of denying marriage to queers; about half the couples were Canadian; other details].
P167 (v22n2)[misnumbered v22n1 on contents page] (March 10, 2004): 26 (15cm.)

Wedding frenzy [in San Francisco, California, since Valentine's Day; details of Mayor Gavin Newsom's decision to have marriage licences issued; reactions, etc.].
P167 (v22n2)[misnumbered v22n1 on contents page] (March 10, 2004): 27 (62cm.)

Massachusetts nuptials next [in May 2004, Massachusetts (USA) will see legal same-sex marriages; after suit by seven couples in 2001, Massachusetts Supreme Court ruled that anything less than full civil marriage would be unconstitutional and discriminatory; after various efforts, governor is still determined to fight the ruling with constitutional change; other details].
P167 (v22n2[misnumbered v22n1 on contents page] (March 10, 2004): 27-28 (31cm.)

Quebec marriage ["the province of Quebec becomes the third in Canada, after Ontario and British Columbia, to clear the way for same-sex marriage"; March 19, 2004 ruling of Quebec Court of Appeal; first same-sex wedding timed to occur on April 1st, third anniversary of "first ever same-sex marriage in Holland in 2001"; Michael Hendricks and Rene LeBoeuf, partners of 31 years, "first couple to tie the knot"].
P168 (v22n3)(April 21, 2004): 28 (13cm.)

Supreme wet blanket [very brief newsnote that California Supreme Court ordered end to San Francisco same-sex weddings in March 11, 2004 ruling; "by then 4,191 couples were married but over 2,700 had their appointments cancelled"].
P168 (v22n3)(April 21, 2004): 28 (7cm.)

Let the battle begin ["the forces have been marshaled and the opening salvoes fired in the battle over same-sex marriage in Canada"; mention of Canadians for Equal Marriage leading coalition of named organizations in favour, while on the other side are Focus on the Family, the Roman Catholic Church, and the Conservative Party; details].
P169 (v22n4)(June 2, 2004): 24 (56cm.)

Massachusetts makes American marriage history [ban against same-sex marriage removed by state's Supreme Judicial Court on May 17, 2004; legislature passed constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage, and that will have to be voted on, but not until at least 2006; brief mention of actions elsewhere in the US].
P169 (v22n4)(June 2, 2004): 28-29 (36cm.)

Married on the prairies [news report about James Hein and Willie Blackmore, Saskatchewan residents married in British Columbia; none of governments of three prairie provinces currently allows same-sex marriage; couple has "started the process of having their marriage recognized in Saskatchewan"; have contacted Saskatchewan Health for a joint health card; other details].
P170 (v22n5)(July 21, 2004): 10 (43cm.)

A little immigration innovation [announcement of Citizenship and Immigration Canada interim policy regarding foreign nationals in same-sex marriages -- "now, if a Canadian marries a non-Canadian of the same sex in BC, Ontario, Quebec or the Yukon, that foreign partner will be recognized as a citizen of our country in a few months"; a good start, but those married elsewhere, or any non-Canadians married in abovementioned four jurisdictions, won't have unions recognized; other details].
P170 (v22n5)(July 21, 2004): 26 (46cm.)

Three provinces & a territory [on July 14, 2004, Supreme Court of Yukon Territory changed marriage definition to include same-sex couples; Yukon joins Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec; first gay couple, Rob Edge and Stephen Dunbar, had ceremony scheduled for July 17, 2004; two men had to go to court; other details].
P170 (v22n5)(July 21, 2004): 26-27 (20cm.)

RSVP: gay wedding [brief newsnote on shift, indicated by polling survey, in Canadians' attitudes towards same-sex marriage; June poll indicates greater support than poll of previous September; reasons suggested by analysts].
P170 (v22n5)(July 21, 2004): 28-29 (14cm.)

Constitutional amendment crashes [Washington, D.C. (USA) report that President George W. Bush failed in attempt at constitutional amendment against same-sex marriage; also upcoming issue of Marriage Protection Act; details].
P170 (v22n5)(July 21, 2004): 29 (50cm.)

Tired of waiting [Winnipeg report that three Manitoba same-sex couples taking federal and Manitoba governments to court over refusal of Manitoba government to grant same-sex marriage licences; application filed and first case conference Sept. 14; three couples are Chris Vogel and Richard North, Laura Fouhse and Snake Kunda, and Michelle Ritchot with Stefphany Cholakis; positions of the federal and provincial justice ministers; defence fund established, with address; other details].
P171 (v22n6)(Sept. 15, 2004): 7 (42cm.)

Our computer won't allow it ["Willie and James Hein-Blackmore have run into a roadblock in their efforts to have the Saskatchewan government register their same-sex marriage which took place in British Columbia"; details].
P171 (v22n6)(Sept. 15, 2004): 10 (45cm.)

I believe in love [Los Angeles report that Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation has announced winner of "I DO" competition to produce advertisement to promote gay and lesbian equal marriage rights and protections for gay and lesbian families; details].
P171 (v22n6)(Sept. 15, 2004): 28 (25cm.)

Editorial [considering that a Saskatchewan court "is likely to rule that the provincial government must begin issuing marriage licenses" and that a meeting was recently held to form a queer business and professional association, author muses about promoting queer marriage tourism to Saskatchewan; a number of suggestions are offered for various types of weddings and wedding package holidays].
P172 (v22n7)(Oct. 27, 2004): 3 (16cm.)

Going to the chapel... [on November 3, 2004, "four Saskatoon same-sex couples are going to court for the right to be legally married in the province"; despite court rulings in six other Canadian jurisdictions, Saskatchewan government and Justice Minister Frank Quennell refuse to act until "federal government or the courts tell the province what the law is"; the four couples are named; "both the federal and provincial governments have indicated they will not fight the case"; "queer couples in Saskatchewan should be able to obtain marriage licenses within no more than a day or two of November 3"].
P172 (v22n7)(Oct. 27, 2004): 9 (44cm.)

One more marriage victory [on Sept. 16, 2004, Manitoba became the fifth Canadian jurisdiction to provide same-sex marriage rights; three Manitoba couples were successful in their court fight; ruling by Justice Douglas Yard of Court of Queen's Bench ended a 30-year fight for Chris Vogel and Richard North, "who had applied for a marriage license in 1974 and were turned down"; Roman Catholic Archbishop of Winnipeg, James Weisgerber, expressed displeasure with the ruling; other details].
P172 (v22n7)(Oct. 27, 2004): 10 (28cm.)

Springfield enters same-sex marriage movement [Springfield, hometown of The Simpsons classic TV cartoon series, embraces same-sex marriage; details].
P172 (v22n7)(Oct. 27, 2004): 23 (13cm.)

Meeting the Supremes [Supreme Court of Canada, beginning on October 6, 2004, "conducted landmark hearings into the case for and against same-sex marriage"; details and background; decision "not expected for several months and could take much longer"].
P172 (v22n7)(Oct. 27, 2004): 25-26 (73cm.)

Six down and seven to go ["on September 24 [2004] Nova Scotia became the sixth jurisdiction in the country to remove the ban on same-sex marriages"; provincial Supreme Court ruled ban was unconstitutional and ordered government to recognize marriages; justice minister said government would obey the order; other details].
P172 (v22n7)(Oct. 27, 2004): 28-29 (37cm.)

Myths, lies and rewriting history ["most of our history has been ignored or twisted to fit the popular biases"; media are "lazy and very seldom willing to do the work to counter the claims of religious extremists when it comes to our lives"; author presents two example cases -- first, the November 26, 2004, American ABC television network broadcast "20/20", which reported on the October 1998 Wyoming murder of Matthew Shepard, a young gay man, presenting it not as a hate crime but as a robbery gone wrong; and, secondly, the myths accepted in the queer marriage debate, in which the "true history of marriage is seldom discussed" and where it is not pointed out that the "one man and one woman" version is not that old and is not always the cultural norm; etc.]. By Gens Hellquist.
P173 (v22n8)(Dec. 8, 2004): 4, 7 (58cm.)

Unhappy marrying queers [Rev. Dave Manley, with Church of God in Consul, Saskatchewan, gives up his certificate to issue marriage licenses after Saskatchewan court ordered government to provide marriage licenses for gay couples; reactions and comments of other marriage commissioners; Premier Calvert pointed out that legal decision did not force churches to marry those they did not want to marry and recognize; in Manitoba a few commissioners also resigned].
P173 (v22n8)(Dec. 8, 2004): 14 (33cm.)

Wedding bells in Saskatchewan [Saskatchewan is seventh Canadian jurisdiction to legalize same-sex marriage; court ruling by Justice Donna Wilson; details, including objections of Saskatchewan Party justice critic Don Morgan, Prince Albert MP Brian Fitzpatrick, and Saskatchewan chapter of REAL Women; mention also that Supreme Court of Canada has announced that its decision on federal marriage legislation is to be handed down on December 9, 2004].
P173 (v22n8)(Dec. 8, 2004): 20 (42cm.)

Wasting taxpayers' money [various details about the playing out of gay marriage issue in province of Alberta; Ralph Klein suggests they will fight against it; Stephen Lock, of Calgary chapter of Canadians for Equal Marriage, says the law is clear and "Klein simply doesn't have a legal leg to stand on"; Keith Purdy and Rick Kennedy want to get married in Alberta, near friends and family; etc.].
P173 (v22n8)(Dec. 8, 2004): 21 (27cm.)

Blue Jeans Day ["thousands" of University of Calgary students "turned out in blue jeans during Blue Jeans Day to show their opposition to" Ralph Klein government stand against same-sex marriage; other details; Blue Jeans Days were popular in the 1970s and 1980s on North American university campuses as way of showing solidarity with queer people].
P173 (v22n8)(Dec. 8, 2004): 21 (14cm.)

Young husband wanted [some notes on the behavior and marriage plans of Ashley MacIsaac; was turned down by first man he proposed to; wants to get married in Alberta; etc.].
P173 (v22n8)(Dec. 8, 2004): 22 (19cm.)

Supremely speedy [Supreme Court of Canada will answer federal government questions posed on same-sex marriage; decision to be delivered December 9, 2004; hearing proceeded quickly, with only two days needed; other details].
P173 (v22n8)(Dec. 8, 2004): 29 (49cm.)