Civil unions, six months later

Six months ago today, more than 40 same-sex couples rang in the new year by saying "I do" on the State House lawn. With that, their lives changed immediately.

Some got insurance benefits for the first time in years. A few found their political voice. Others experienced validation they never expected.

"I've spent all my life hiding my interest and desire to be with a woman," said Concord's Kay Amsden, 77, who was united with her long-time partner Mary Lou Fuller, 79, in February. "You play a role for decades because you don't want to lose your friends or your job. It was nice to have people come up and say, 'Congratulations. We are happy for you.' "

Since Jan. 1, 384 couples have entered into civil unions in New Hampshire, according to numbers from the Secretary of State's office. Fifty-nine others have obtained permits but not yet had a ceremony. The Monitor recently caught up with three newly-united couples to ask what the new law has meant to them.

  See Civil unions, six months later
Concord Monitor