8 couples marry at Philadelphia City Hall as Pennsylvania same-sex weddings begin in earnest

5/23/2014

David Fisher, left, and Robert Kurrell hold hands near their home in Paxinos, Pa., Wednesday, May 21, 2014. The couple, who have been together for 27 years, plan to marry Memorial Day following a federal judge’s ruling Tuesday, May 20, 2014, that Pennsylvania’s ban on gay marriage is unconstitutional. (AP Photo/The News-Item, Larry Deklinski)

ASSOCIATED PRESS

PHILADELPHIA — The first same-sex marriages are now in the history books at City Hall in Philadelphia.

Eight couples were married today in the mayor’s reception room, days after a federal judge lifted the state’s same-sex marriage ban.

City judges performed the ceremonies as family and friends looked on.

College Spanish teachers Oscar Cabrera and Chris DiCapua say the formal recognition after 18 years together means a great deal to them. They say are full of pride for the city and each other after being married by Judge Barbara McDermott.

McDermott believes the couples married today reflect the diversity of the city.

Mayor Michael Nutter is out of town, but a deputy says he plans to officiate at same-sex weddings at City Hall on Saturday.