MEDIA RELEASE

FAIR LAWN, NJ – Jon and Michael Galluccio, the New Jersey couple who made history by successfully contesting a state policy barring joint adoptions by unmarried couples in December of 1997, will be joined in Holy Union on June 21, Father's Day. The couple will be joined, by family and friends for a church service in which they will exchange vows and honor their 16 year loving relationship.

In addition to affirming their commitment to one another, the Galluccio's hope that the ceremony will serve to remind the public that current state and national law does not allow the church to perform this service as a legal union.

The service will take place at the Episcopal Church of the Atonement in Fair Lawn at 10:30am on Father's Day, June 21, 1998. Presiding over the service will be the Rev. Kevin P.J. Coffey, Rev. Linda Strohmier, Rev. Dr. Ellen Barrett and the Rev. Canon Elizabeth Kaeton.

The Right Reverend John Shelby Spong, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark, said "This Diocese has by Convention Resolution pledged to support our clergy when they act as priest and pastor to the gay and lesbian members of our Church. I am proud and honored to support that resolution and to honor the Galluccio Family by supporting this blessing of their Holy Union as part of the full ministry of this Diocese."

Joan M. Garry, Executive Director of the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) was the first woman in the state of New Jersey to legally adopt her partner's biological child. "Jon and Michael's commitment to one another demonstrates what 'family values' are really about: love and determination. Clearly, it is time for our community to receive the legal respect and dignity which our heterosexual friends and families enjoy."

Jon, who legally took Michael's surname earlier this year, proposed the union to Michael on the steps of the courthouse on their 16th anniversary. The couple will hold a private service on Saturday, June 20th, followed by the planned service, with their church's congregation, on Father's Day. "We had no idea how many people would want to be a part of this, " stated Michael. "But as word got out, calls and emails began arriving on a daily basis. We knew then that it would be impossible to plan a small private ceremony."

The forthcoming ceremony will not provide Jon and Michael, and their two children, with any of the legal benefits afforded to heterosexual couples. While the state ruled that the couple could legally raise their adopted child together, the state will not allow the couple to include him on their joint tax return.

Evan Wolfson, Director of the Marriage Project for Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund, co-counsel in the Hawaii marriage case commented, "Just as government should not force religious groups to perform marriages they do not support, differing religions should not dictate who gets a civil marriage license. The freedom to marry and share equally in the commitment, rights, and responsibilities of civil marriage belongs to the couple in love. All Americans, gay or non – gay, should have the same freedom to marry under law."

Since the unprecedented ruling in New Jersey, Jon and Michael continue to speak out on behalf of their family and in favor of equality for all Americans. They have been supported by and worked with groups including The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF), and the Human Rights Campaign (HRC).

After a good old fashioned Father's Day barbecue, given in their honor by Michael's parents, the couple will head to New York City. They will end their day by delivering the final speech at the New York City Gay Pride Rally at 5:30. The rally, which will be held in Bryant Park, is part of the NY100 and officially kicks off New York Gay Pride Week. (For rally information contact Jimmy Riordan of Heritage of Pride at (212) 247-5453, cellular (917) 881-4988)

The Galluccio Family will be available for interviews and comment immediately following the ceremony.

If you plan to attend, please fill out the following accreditation form and fax it to (973) 622-3503, by Thurs. June 18, 1998. We will provide you with a press pass to ensure your access, along with a map and parking directions. We must receive your accreditation form by Thursday, June 18. TV media must telephone (973) 430-9915 to make special arrangements.

ACCREDITATION FOR JUNE 21, 10:30 AM, CHURCH OF THE ATONEMENT, FAIRLAWN, NJ

Name____________________________________________

Representing:___________________________________

Address:________________________________________

        ________________________________________

Phone_______________________

Fax_________________________

I will need _____additional passes for photographer(s).

I will need _____additional passes for video crew 

Fax this form to (973) 622-3503 or contact Dale directly at (973) 430-9915