Marriage Equality Supporters to Resume Road Side Vigils in Algonquin

Some of the Marriage Equality vigilers in Woodstock last May.

Members of the Tree of Life Unitarian Universalist Congregation in McHenry, Parents and Families of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), and Fortunate Families, a Catholic family group will once again be holding a silent roadside vigil in support of Marriage Equality in Illinois.  They will gather from 5 to 6 pm on Friday, September 20 in Algonquin at the southeast corner of Main Street (Rt. 31) and Algonquin Road (Rt. 62.)

Last May 31 sponsors of the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act in the Illinois House unexpectedly withdrew the bill for a vote on the final day of the regular spring session.  The measure had already overwhelmingly passed the Senate and had the support of Governor Pat Quinn.  Leaders said House members asked them for time to consult their constituents, but pledged to return for a vote in the November veto session.

Patrick Murfin, Social Justice Committee Chair of the Tree of Life Congregation said.  “Over the last months Rhode Island, Maryland, and Minnesota have all approved Marriage Equality legislation.  It is on the fast track in others.  In Illinois polling shows a majority of voters support it by a widening margin.” 

Last spring vigils were held in McHenry, Crystal Lake, and Woodstock.  “We got overwhelmingly positive reactions in each of those cities and members of the public parked their cars to join us,” Murfin said.  “It is particularly important for legislators to know that not all religious communities and individuals oppose civil marriage for all.  Many religious voices join us in Standing on the Side of Love.”

Anyone can join the vigil.  Volunteers are urged to bring their own signs and maintain a thoughtful and respectful attitude.

For more information contact Patrick Murfin, 815 814-5645 or e-mail pmurfin@sbcglobal.net .

For those planning on attending the Naomly Brennet and RUNE concert at 7 pm that evening at Haystacks Coffee House at then Tree of Life Congregation in McHenry but are worried that they won’t have time to grab a bite to eat if they attend both, rumor—very strong rumor—has it that pizza will be available in the kitchen at church for those who attended the vigil.