San Francisco: Mayor Newsom marries Phyllis Lyon and Dell Martin at city hall

In San Francisco, at 5:01 PM Mayor Newsom officiated a private marriage for Phyllis Lyon and Dell Martin at city hall.

Afterwards Phyllis, Dell and the Mayor entered the public reception area as rose petals were tossed from the second floor of the rotunda.

Phyllis and Dell cut a wedding cake at the public reception and remarked how they couldn’t have imagined this back in 1953, on Valentines Day, when they became lovers. Phyllis said they were so happy and hoped this would be the last time they have to cut a wedding cake.

“I can think of no greater example of commitment after 55 years together [Dell and Phyllis]. Today marriage as an institution has been strengthened. Today marriage has been affirmed. Today in California we are providing marriage equally, denying no one their right to live their lives out loud,” remarked Mayor Newsom.

A group of protestors assembled in front of San Francisco city hall. Carrying banners and signs. One rather large yellow banner read “Re-criminalize sodomy” and was held high by petitioners.