MASON, Mich. – Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum performed the first same-sex marriage ceremonies in Michigan on Saturday morning -- following Judge Bernard Friedman's ruling that struck down the state's unconstitutional ban on same-sex marriage.
Byrum said her office in downtown Mason would remain open until 1 p.m. Saturday.
"It's always an honor to join two loving individuals in marriage, but this morning has been especially moving and emotional for our couples, my staff and the crowd that has gathered here in celebration," said Byrum. "I'm so honored to be a part of this historic day and I look forward to the day where full equality is the law of the land for all Michiganders."
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Shortly after 8 a.m., Byrum issued a license and performed a ceremony for Glenna DeJong and Marsha Caspar of Lansing.
"We've been waiting 27 years for this," said DeJong.
"After yesterday's ruling, my staff and I began preparing immediately to issue marriage licenses to loving, committed same-sex couples, because couples in Ingham County have been waiting for this day for years," said Byrum. "Too many residents in Ingham County and throughout Michigan have been treated as second-class citizens for too long. It's time for Governor Snyder and Attorney General Bill Schuette to put politics aside and stop wasting taxpayer dollars defending an unconstitutional marriage ban."
Byrum reminds residents that individuals are to apply in the county in which they or their partner reside. Applications will be available in the office and are also available online. Applicants should also bring a government-issued photo ID.
Staff are on hand to process same-sex marriage licenses and all other county clerk filings. The clerk's office is located at 315 S. Jefferson in Mason. Please enter at the west entrance of the courthouse.