Chicago, IL (May 1, 2014) — Sunday, June 1 marks the first day of marriage equality throughout the state of Illinois and to recognize this historical day, Unity in Chicago will be hosting Married in Unity, an all-inclusive, non-denominational group wedding ceremony that will be happening in the beautiful Unity garden located on the church grounds at 1925 W. Thome Ave. in the Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago.
Unity in Chicago's Senior Minister, Rev. Heidi Alfrey will officiate the ceremony for all who wish to participate including:
- same sex couples
- opposite sex couples
- couples who would like to express their commitment without legal documentation
- married couples who would like to renew their vows
"One of Unity's guiding principles is Love Honored Here," says Rev. Alfrey. "Unity honors all expressions of love and on June 1st we will celebrate marriage equality with an open ceremony for all who wish to be a part of history. We're inviting anyone who wants to make a commitment with their partner or who would like witness this event. It's going to be an amazing day."
For any couples wishing to marry legally, all they need to do is bring a valid marriage license with them to the ceremony. You can apply for a license through the Cook County Clerk's Office. Unity in Chicago will provide assistance to anyone who may need help obtaining a license.
The ceremony will be free of charge for any couples who wishes to participate. All couples will need to register online at UnityChicago.org . Married in Unity is open to the public for all who would like to bear witness to this historical event. Anyone who plans to attend as a witness is asked to RSVP at UnityChicago.org . There is also a Married in Unity Facebook page where regular updates on the event will be posted on couples who will be exchanging vows as well as on entertainment and vendors who will be participating. #MarriedinUnity.
The event will take place on Sunday, June 1. The garden will be open to the public at 4:00pm with the ceremony commencing at 5:00pm. Music will be performed by a number of Chicago musicians and food will be provided by several local businesses. Married in Unity will also partner with local bars and restaurants for after-the-ceremony events. (A full list of participants will be released on May 15.)