Elisa chats with the Michaels in their Toronto home
In our continued exploration of “Marriage Equality/LGBT Rights” and its evolution in Canada, we sat down with “the Michaels” to discuss how it felt to be part of the historic movement that saw them being the first gay couple in Canada to be legally married.
They reminisced about the date forever etched in their minds – July 20, 2005 – when Canada became the fourth country in the world and the first country outside Europe to legalize same-sex marriage nationwide, thanks to the enactment of the Civil Marriage Act. The Act definitively established the definition of marriage as gender neutral.
Open, honest and passionate, Michael Leshner and Mike Stark – forever known as “The Michaels” – spoke about their first meeting in 1981 (oh the sparks that flew!) and how much has changed in the 30 years since for LGBT rights in Canada and abroad. They shared their thoughts – at times differing – on the impact of marriage equality on their lives and its importance in defining who they are. And the offered words of wisdom and inspiration for all those fighting for equality – as they did – in all its forms.
We’ll be sharing their digital and video stories shortly. Stay tuned.