As of June 1, 2011, civil unions are now legal in Illinois!  Civil unions allow couples of the same or opposite gender to be legally united. Joining together in a legal partnership is an act of courage and of love, and altho these unions are not legally recognized (yet) by the Federal government, the day will come when gay marriages will be recognized as legal by all states in this country. Chief Justice Margaret H. Marshall speaks about the role of marriage in civic life and the life of a couple, reminding us what an important step this is. 

"Marriage is a vital social institution. The exclusive commitment of two individuals to each other nurtures love and mutual support; it brings stability to our society. Marriage provides an abundance of legal, financial, and social benefits. In return it imposes weighty legal, financial, and social obligations ....A civil marriage enhances the 'welfare of the community.' It is a social institution of the highest importance."

"Civil marriage is at once a deeply personal commitment to another human being and a highly public celebration of the ideals of mutuality, companionship, intimacy, fidelity, and family.... The decision whether and whom to marry is among life's momentous acts of self-definition."

We celebrate this major step toward total equality everywhere by providing the same memorable personalized ceremonies to all couples, who wish to make a commitment honoring their love, whether gay or straight; young or old; same or different races, cultures, religions (or no religion). Living in the greater Chicagoland area, I am willing to travel within the Midwest. 

For more information about civil unions in Illinois, check out Equality Illinois' website, especially the frequently asked questions.