© 2024 WYSO
Our Community. Our Nation. Our World.
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Springfield Gay Rights Rally Protests Local Probate Judge

User Stéfan
/
Flickr/Creative Commons

More than 50 people attended a rally organized by gay rights activists in downtown Springfield Wednesday night, to protest what they claim is unfair treatment by a probate judge.

After the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that same-sex couples can legally marry, Clark County Probate Court Judge Richard Carey refused to affix his name on same-sex marriage licenses - citing his religious beliefs.

Rick Incorvati, of Equality Springfield, organized the rally. He says he thinks Judge Carey's action promotes discrimination.

"It's a blurring of lines between personal faith and public service that has consequences and we remain concerned about it," Incorvati said.

Carey now states that marriage licenses will be issued to all couples in Clark County without any judge's name on it - but that still doesn't sit right with Incorvati.

"Being treated differently after the Supreme Court's decision is still troubling and not satisfying to me personally and not to others who spoke tonight," he said.

Springfield Mayor Warren Copeland and City Commissioner Karen Duncan also spoke at the rally. Both of them applauded residents for speaking up for gay rights in the city.