For the past few decades, same-sex couples here in Minnesota have felt like second-class citizens because they did not have the right to marry. But finally, on May 14, 2013, Governor Mark Dayton signed the bill that would allow same-sex marriage and change the lives of gay couples across the state. One of those lives is Richard Carlbom, who some of our readers may know as one of the faces behind the same-sex marriage movement here in Minnesota. And after seeing his dream of same-sex marriage become a reality, he also had his own chance to stand at the altar.
The grandeur of his wedding to his partner Justin Schramm was fitting, considering the uphill climb it took to get gay marriage legalized in the state. Some 239 people were expected to attend the ceremony this month along with a few notable names such as Rep. Tim Walz and St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman. But although the ceremony and reception were everything the couple dreamed they would be, Carlbom told reporters that although his wedding day was an important part of his life, the most important part to him was preparing for how he was going to live his life with his spouse for the next 50 years — something he would not have easily been able to do here in Minnesota several years ago.
But for all the joys that come with marriage so too come the hardships. With same-sex marriage also comes the unfortunate talk about divorce as well. But unlike in states where same-sex marriage is not recognized, Minnesota residents may have an easier time settling their divorce now than was ever possible in years past. While the hope is always that your own marriage will not end is dissolution, it’s worth noting that Minnesota law has now made it that much easier for gay couples across the state.
Source: The Star Tribune, “Minnesota’s same-sex marriage champion set to marry,” Baird Helgeson, Dec. 19, 2013
