Working to ensure and promote dignity, safety, and equality for all
lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Delawareans
First Civil Union Takes Place in Delaware
Civil Union and Equality Act Took Effect January 1, 2012
The Delaware Civil Union and Equality Act, which passed the General Assemby in April 2011 and was signed by the Governor in May 2011, went into effect on January 1, 2012. As may be appropriate, the first couple to have their civil union solemnized was Lisa Goodman, President of Equality Delaware, and her partner, Drewry Fennell who is the Executive Director of the Delaware Criminal Justice Council. Both Lisa and Drew have been instrumental in LGBT equality issues in the First State and it is fitting that they are the first to celebrate a civil union in Delaware. The ceremony took place at Trinity Episcopal Church in Wilmington. The service in English and Spanish was celebrated with all three clergy of the parish: The Rev. Patricia Downing, The Rev. Juan George and The Rev. Dustin Trowbridge. U.S. Senator Chris Coons preached an inspiring and uplifting sermon to an emotional crowd of over 400 people, citing the obviously strong support of the community for justice thus realized and for the welfare and happiness of the couple themselves. Lt. Gov. Matt Denn and The Honorable Jan R. Jurden, Judge of the Superior Court, also participated in the service.
(See the joint press release issued by Equality Delaware and Lambda Legal, below)
Download FAQ document with answers to frequently asked questions about the new civil union law and what it means for Delawareans
Visit Lambda Legal's information page on the Delaware Civil Union law
Civil Union Law Goes Into Effect January 1
(New York, December 27, 2011) -- Today, Lambda Legal and Equality Delaware released a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) guide for same-sex couples in Delaware who are considering getting a civil union.
"We congratulate Delaware on the advent of civil unions. We know that a new civil union law can be confusing, so it is likely many families will have questions about what it all means. This FAQ will provide some clarification for Delaware residents who are wondering how civil unions can help protect their families," said Susan Sommer, Director of Constitutional Litigation at Lambda Legal. "Because Delaware still excludes same-sex couples from marriage and federal law and many states still do not recognize civil unions of same-sex couples, it is critically important that Delaware residents know the extent of the rights and responsibilities that come along with a civil union."
"Equality Delaware is pleased and excited with the steps that have been taken toward the upcoming implementation of the civil union statute. As far as we are aware all governmental entities will be fully prepared to implement the statute on January 1st," said Equality Delaware President, Lisa Goodman. "Beginning on January 1st same-sex couples who enter into civil unions in Delaware will, for the first time, have their families recognized and protected under Delaware law. It will truly be a new day as well as a new year for equality."
The Delaware Civil Union and Equality Act passed the state legislature in April 2011 and was signed by the Governor in May 2011. The law goes into effect on January 1, 2012. New Castle County’s Clerk of the Peace office plans to open for special hours on New Year’s Day by appointment only. Sussex and Kent County Clerks of the Peace Offices will be open to issue licenses on January 3, 2012, after the holiday observance.
Lambda Legal invites couples to sign up online through Civil Union Tracker to get their questions answered, share stories, and gain direct access to information related to their new rights and responsibilities. Civil Union Tracker can be found at www.lambdalegal.org/delaware-civil-unions
