Celebrate 20 Years of Marriage Equality in Cambridge May 15-18

Cambridge, the pioneering city that issued the first same-sex marriage licenses in the nation in May 2004, is preparing to commemorate 20 years of marriage equality. Over the course of four days, the Office of the Mayor and the City will be hosting three events. All members of the community are invited to come together and celebrate 20 years of legal same-sex marriage, a remarkable achievement that has paved the way for progress and inclusivity.

Wednesday, May 15 from 6-8 p.m.
A Marriage Equality Story Slam will be held by the Office of Mayor E. Denise Simmons on Wednesday, May 15 from 6-8 p.m. at Cambridge City Hall (795 Massachusetts Avenue) in the Sullivan Chamber. There will be an opportunity to gather as a community, share stories about marriage equality, and enjoy wedding cake.

Anyone interested is encouraged to register online.

Friday, May 17 from 6:30-8 p.m.
A 20^th Anniversary of Marriage Equality in MA! event will be held by the Office of Mayor E. Denise Simmons and the Cambridge Museum of History and Culture on Friday, May 17 from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Kendall Center Public Lobby at 355+325 Main Street in Cambridge. A photography exhibition courtesy of Marilyn Humphries Photography, keynote address from former Massachusetts State Representative Byron Rushing, live music by Bobby Tynes, and refreshments will be provided.

No registration is required.

Saturday, May 18 from 11:30 a.m.- 3 p.m.
The Cambridge LGBTQ+ Commission and City of Cambridge’s Office of Equity and Inclusion invite all members of the community to Cambridge City Hall on Saturday, May 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The joyous celebration will include refreshments, give aways, a performance, and inspiring speeches. Festivities will kick off inside Cambridge City Hall at the Sullivan Chamber.

The event will include remarks from Mayor E. Denise Simmons, Deputy City Manager Owen O’Riordan, and other City officials. Marcia Hams and Susan Shepard, the trailblazing couple who were the first to receive a same-sex marriage license in Cambridge on May 17, 2004, will share their heartfelt words on this historic milestone. The celebration will also include a performance on City Hall lawn by the Boston Gay Men's Chorus, video highlights from May 2004 when same-sex marriage licenses were first issued, a youth-specific workshop/activity, and opportunities for couples to share their stories. Appetizers and cupcakes will be provided for attendees for free; additional food will be available to purchase at an on-site ice cream food truck.

For more information, please contact calmonte@cambridgema.gov.