in Britain, Civil Partnership, Equalities, Marriage, Marriage Equality, Norwich 261 Words

Out and Proud

On the 19th March 2014, same-sex marriage was legalised in England and Wales. But for those in a civil partnership, converting their union to a marriage wasn’t legally possible until today. The wheels of State turn ever so slowly and I think someone forgot to order the right stamp. Liam and I got hitched in 2008. We treated it like our wedding and splashed out on a once in a lifetime full production number with our nearest and dearest. Everyone had a splendid time (naturally, the free bar helped). Here’s a few snaps of that momentous day.

Mr & Mr
My Mum and Her Youngest Grandkids
I Do
Smile for the Camera
Liam’s Family
Youngest and Eldest Sibling
On the Buses
Just Wed
The Top Table
Tulips from Waterloo
Kisses for My Mother
The Drunken Spouses
Happy Anniversary, Liam

Legally, we were civil partners, something that sounded like a firm of solicitors. But whatever the Law said, we always thought of ourselves as married. Now mind and state have converged. Today, on the first day possible, Liam made an honest man of me and me of him by legally converting our union at Norwich Register Office. We didn’t bang a gong beforehand or make a big song and dance out of it. There were no generous presents, smart suits, free-flowing bubbly or tearful speeches; just the same old shoes and an impromptu meal with a couple of old muckers. We’ve already had the big day. There’s no need to do that all over again. That would be greedy. We weren’t the very first to convert. Two other north folk of Norfolk beat us to the chequered flag. But a bronze medal suits us just fine.

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I’ve always been out but now I’m really proud.

21 thoughts on “Out and Proud”

  2. Oh wow. Didn’t even realise that had happened in the UK today but massive congratulations to you both on becoming married. Like you said, ‘civil partnership,’ is a bit legal sounding. And can’t believe you were only bronze medal winners!! Is that old age slowing you down. 😉 Congrats again. 🙂
    Julia and Barry xxx

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