I'm really proud to be a resident of Vermont, the only state with a civil union law. In a perfect world, same-sex relationships would not be feared and discriminated against. Same-sex marriage would be available to all couples because it is a human right. While the real world is far from perfect, Vermont's civil union law is an important step in the right direction.

It has been my privilege and honor to be present at many civil unions since their inception in Vermont in 2000. I have photographed events from elopements to gatherings of over a hundred guests for couples from many states and several countries. I witnessed a man say to his grandmother, "so, Grandma, here you are at my wedding- even if it's not what you expected," to which she replied, "you exceed my expectations." I heard a woman vow to her partner, "I'm so happy to be publicly married to you today because in my heart I've been married to you for a long time."

I have experienced my own ignorance being wiped away and my understanding of people in all their rich variety being expanded. It is my joy to work in an occupation where I can learn so much.