Michigan

Michigan couple that challenged gay marriage ban wed

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. (AP) — Two Detroit-area nurses whose lawsuit erased Michigan’s ban on gay marriage and played a role in making it legal across the country have exchanged vows.

April DeBoer and Jayne Rowse wed Saturday in Southfield. Federal Judge Bernard Friedman, who struck down the state’s ban, performed the ceremony.

Between 250 and 300 family members and friends attended the wedding at a banquet hall. DeBoer wore a cream-colored wedding dress and Rowse a black tuxedo.

The couple sued the state after they couldn’t jointly adopt each other’s children. That case grew into a challenge to a Michigan constitutional amendment that recognized marriage only between a man and a woman.

Friedman overturned the state’s gay marriage ban in 2014. In June, the U.S. Supreme Court said same-sex couples have a right to marry.

Related posts

Suspect wanted on federal warrant shot by Michigan State Police trooper in Benton Harbor

Jon Zimney

Popeyes employee credited for quick pick-up of robbery suspect

Jon Zimney

Niles couple charged with Medicaid fraud

Amelia Lee