Menino leads the way

"Freedom to Marry," the New York-based marriage equality advocacy organization, hosted a conference on Friday morning, Jan. 20, in Washington with some of the 80 mayors who support same-sex marriage for LGBT citizens, and their intention to work toward that goal.

"It was nearly eight years ago that my city was the first large city in the country to marry same-sex couples," Menino, a co-chair of the event, said at the conference.

"Back then, it was a big deal. People were protesting everywhere, and we were the focus of international news. Well, eight years later, I'm here to tell you that marriage for gay couples has made my city of Boston a much better place," Menino said.

Included in the gathering were the event co-chairs, Boston Mayor Thomas Menino, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, openly lesbian Houston Mayor Annise Parker, and San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders.

The mayors released a statement calling other mayors to join the coalition. The statement read:

Mayors for the Freedom to Marry is a broad-based and nonpartisan group of mayors who believe that all people should be able to share in the love and commitment of marriage ... We understand that the strength and health of our cities are enhanced when all families are protected and supported. We know many people in loving and committed same-sex relationships who are active participants in improving our communities and we've seen how important marriage has been for them and their families.

We invite our colleagues to join us in signing this statement as we advocate for the freedom to marry and build a nation where all loving couples who want to make the life-long commitment can share in the joy and respect of marriage.