Rochester defends same-sex marriages in N.Y.

ROCHESTER, N.Y.--July 24, 2011, marked the start of same-sex marriages being performed in New York State, and marriage equality activists hosted celebratory rallies and even wedding ceremonies at city halls around the state.

This victory is a step toward gaining same-sex marriage rights in other states and a step in the direction of full federal equality and the repeal of the oppressive federal Defense of Marriage Act.

However, not everyone was celebrating this momentous win of civil rights for the LGBT community. The National Organization for Marriage (NOW)--a right-wing, anti-gay group--alongside other bigoted groups, promoted a campaign of "Let the people vote,” and made a call out for a protest on July 24 throughout New York state. In Rochester, they bussed in around 100 supporters from outlying areas in order to demand that our civil rights be placed up for a popular vote.

Some 25 LGBT equality activists, organized with just few days' notice, came out with signs, rainbow flags and even bagpipes as a form of entertainment and to block out the speeches given by NOM. The counterprotest was a stand taken by those who continue to oppose the oppression of LGBT community.

Activists formed a wall blocking the NOM crowd from view of the street, and were cheered on by the drivers of passing cars. The pro-equality contingent consisted of new and seasoned activists.

As local LGBT activist Sarah Ives stated, "I think everybody deserves the right to express their opinion, but they don't have a right to condemn other New Yorkers for their relationships...I would not vote on taking away their rights and they shouldn't be able to do the same."