Cambridge's gay senator to exchange wedding vows
By Ann E. Donlan, BostonHerald.com from the Web, November 20, 2004
Just two days after the one-year anniversary of the historic Goodridge decision legalizing gay marriage in Massachusetts, Sen. Jarrett T. Barrios is marrying his longtime partner, Doug Hattaway, a former campaign spokesman for Al Gore's 2000 presidential campaign.
The local celebrity wedding is under wraps as it takes place today -- a definite departure from Barrios' usual high-political profile.
But an aide said Barrios (D-Cambridge) and Hattaway decided to privately celebrate their wedding day, with a ceremony that will be attended by several Senate colleagues.
Among those attending will be Senate President Robert E. Travaglini (D-East Boston), who opposed gay marriage earlier this year during emotional legislative debate.
"Since he adopted two children earlier this year, Sen. Barrios felt it was extremely important to secure all the rights and protections of marriage for him and his
family," Barrios spokesman Colin B. Durrant said. "He's honored to live in a commonwealth which recognizes that all families are equal under
law."
Durrant would not release any details about the ceremony.
Travaglini will offer a toast after the gay nuptials, according to his spokeswoman.
"Sen. Barrios is a true friend," Travaglini spokeswoman Ann Dufresne said.
"He's giving the toast along with several other legislators."
During the Constitutional Convention debate, Travaglini worked with Sen. Brian P. Lees (R-East Longmeadow) on a proposed constitutional amendment that would ban gay marriage but allow civil unions.
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