Bloomington — Thirteen gay and lesbian couples have taken symbolic wedding vows in Bloomington during a ceremony staged to protest a proposed constitutional amendment banning gay marriage in Indiana.
The couples held hands on a stage, awaiting Mayor Mark Kruzan's words during Thursday's event that was part of the opening ceremonies for a local lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender festival.
The mayor told the couples, "By the power not yet invested in me by the state of Indiana, I pronounce you partners in life." The Herald-Times and The Indianapolis Star report that Kruzan and 10 Monroe County Council and Bloomington city council members then threw flowers onto the couples.
Indiana lawmakers approved a constitutional gay marriage ban in 2011, but it must be approved again and pass a referendum before taking effect.
Raw: Texas Deputy Shot by Colo. Suspect Honored
Major Detours Following Wash. Bridge Collapse
American Held in Grisly Czech Murders
Raw: Jersey Shore Reopens for Summer
UK-bound Pakistan Plane Diverted, 2 Men Arrested
Officials: Tsarnaev Friend Linked to Slaying
Obama:Sexual Assault Threatens Trust in Military
Bridge Collapse Survivor: 'Rough Day'
Jersey Shore Open for Business
Raw: Memorial Day Flags Placed at Arlington
New Wheelchair Lift Promises More Access
First Person: Mom Discusses Famous Tornado Photo
Raw Video: Washington State Bridge Collapse
Boy Scouts Approve Plan to Accept Gay Boys
Officials: Truck Hit Bridge Before Collapse
Sheriff: No Sign Killing of 2 Kids Was Planned
Obama Defends Drone Strikes, With Limits
Raw: Jurors Deadlock on Jodi Arias Penalty
Boy Scouts Decision "First Step" Say Activists
Raw: Utah Teen Arrested in Death of His Brothers
