Hawaii okays same-sex unions and sets the pace for its peer states to follow. Will this set an odd future or precedent for other governments to get on board for same-sex civil unions?
In a landmark moment for the people of Hawaii, lawmakers in the state finally put a bill through that will allow same-sex civil unions to take place among gay and lesbian couples.
Essentially, the Bill puts an end to a bitter moment in the country's history, and the age-old fight can finally be put to rest, as Hawaii becomes only the 7th state in the union to move along the lines in accepting same-sex marriages.
The bill will allow same-sex couples the right to have the same courtesies afforded to them as heterosexual couples.
Now that Hawaii okays the same-sex unions, Governor Neil Abercrombie, a fierce supporter of gay and lesbian civil same-sex unions, said he would sign the bill into law in the next 10 business days.
For many, that time can't come soon enough. The only problem (if one can call it a problem) is that same-sex unions cannot take place legally until Jan 1, 2012.
It's true that Hawaii okays the same-sex unions now, but back in 1993 because of a technicality, the state would have been the first to legalize the civil unions among gays and lesbian couples.
With a culture known for its rich history of inclusion and diversity, it is still a welcome gesture that is way overdue, according to proponents of the original amendment.
With the fresh news that Hawaii okays same-sex unions, it is turning out to be an aloha moment for all those who will benefit from this pivotal moment in time.
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Photo credit: Wikipedia
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