20 year anniversary for same-sex marriage in Massachusetts

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) – Today marks two decades since same-sex marriage was legalized in Massachusetts.

The Goodridge v. Department of Public Health ruling was a historic moment and some of the plaintiffs in the case were from western Massachusetts. Heidi and Gina Nortonsmith from Northampton were one of seven couples who sued the state back in 2001.

Marriage Equity Ad

An anniversary card for the Nortonsmiths is published in The Daily Hampshire Gazette . The message reads:

Senator Comerford says that this celebration this year is a reminder to keep pushing forward, “So it’s one part celebration today and commemoration both of the hard work that brought us to this landmark case.”

Comerford says that it’s really important to take nothing for granted, adding that continued visibility, continued advocacy and days of celebration and recommitment are critical as we push forward.

Nationwide same-sex marriage was legalized in 2016.

Local News

Police searching for missing woman in Pittsfield

Springfield Street renamed in honor of local businessman John Murphy

New Indian restaurant L’Amour opens in Springfield

Springfield Police honor fallen officers at Memorial Ceremony

22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts in March 1953. Watch the 22News digital edition on weekdays at 4 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.