Thousands Rally For Ohio Marriage

Thousands gathered in Cleveland yesterday for a mass protest wedding of over 250 gay couples.

While some were dressed in more casual attire they all had the same intention: to send a message to the state of Ohio to recognize same-sex marriage. Sierra Chapman, 25 and Sandy Thomas, 48, both of Cleveland, recreated a private service held three years ago. "We wanted to do this in a joint ceremony with people who are like us," said Chapman. "My parents are okay with it, but they didn't want to come to watch." Hundreds of friends and relatives of the brides and grooms joined the celebration as eight priests and ministers recited marriage vows to couples of all ages. The afternoon ceremony followed more than an hour of speeches by activists on the steps of Cleveland City Hall, where a gay pride flag flew under the American flag.