September 3rd

09-03-2013 On this date the Pentagon declared that same-sex spouses of military members will be eligible for the same health care, housing and other benefits enjoyed by opposite-sex spouses. “It is now the department’s policy to treat all married personnel equally,” Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said in a memo to senior Pentagon officials. Military personnel in a same-sex relationship who are stationed in a state that does not permit same-sex marriage will be allowed to take leave for travel to a jurisdiction where they can marry legally.

09-03-2014 New York City – For the first time an openly gay group will march in New York City St. Patrick’s Day parade under their own banner. The decision by the organizers of the parade was a striking reflection of the evolution of gay rights in the city and in American society. The first group to march in the 2015’s parade is OUT@NBCUniversal – an LGBT employee resource group. Other gay groups will have to apply for 2016.