Council members to celebrate same-sex marriage bill passage

The date for the final vote on the D.C. Council bill to legalize same-sex marriage has been set, and council members are ready to celebrate.

The council and the Human Rights Campaign, a gay rights advocacy group, are teaming up to throw a party next Tuesday at the Long View Gallery on 9th Street NW. Earlier in the day, the council will hold the final vote on Council member David A. Catania's (I-At large) same-sex marriage bill. With 11 of 13 council members supporting the bill, passage is widely expected.

An invitation to the council bash features two gold wedding rings interlocked. "Celebrate marriage equality in DC," the invitation states.

Ben Young, a Catania spokesman, said several hundred guest are expected. Although invitations have been sent out, Young said the party will be open to the general public.

But budget hawks and same-sex marriage opponents need not worry. Young said the Human Rights Campaign, not city taxpayers, are picking up the cost of the party.

--Tim Craig