Increase in Minnesota same-sex couples could be deciding factor in election

Let’s hope so! Census figures show a rising number of same-sex couples in Minnesota, which could be a decisive factor in the 2012 election, especially as it pertains to the constitutional marriage amendment that’s been mounted by anti-equality forces there. From MPR News: St. Paul, Minn. — New census data showing the number of households occupied by same-sex couples rose by 50 percent in Minnesota over the last decade could have rippling effects as the state heads toward a constitutional vote on same-sex marriage in next year’s election. People in almost 14,000 households throughout the state told the census last year that they were living with their unmarried same-sex partners. Gay and lesbian couples account for less than 1 percent of households across the state.
One such household was in the Longfellow neighborhood of south Minneapolis. Peter Sage is a teacher who lives with his partner of ten years, and their four year old son. “For us, it was about letting it be known that we are out there, hopefully in significant numbers,” Sage said. “I think 10 years ago, it would have been different. People would have been more hesitant.” Ten years ago was the first time the census counted gay couples. Same-sex marriage wasn’t legal in any state in 2000. Minnesota struck down its sodomy laws in 2001 and the federal government did so in 2003. When Americans filled out their census forms in 2010, same-sex marriage was legal in five states plus the District of Columbia, and constitutionally prohibited in 29 others. Minnesota is not either of those, but the question will be on the ballot in next year’s November elections.
]]>