Farmingville Resident Reacts to Same Sex Marriage

Joanne Svec thought legislation for same sex marriage in New York would pass, but she didn’t know when the day would come.

Last week it became official when the New York State Senate voted, 33-29, to legalize same sex marriage in the Empire State.

“Years ago I thought it would never happen,” said Svec, 51, who lives in Farmingville with her partner Miriam Ortiz, 45. “Time changes all things. I did feel like a weight was lifted and it makes us both feel like we have more options and choices.”

Svec, a Sachem alum, said she and Ortiz will get married at some point.

“To us it’s just the right thing that all people should have the choice to make for themselves,” she said. “Gay rights are human rights. Equal rights for all people, no matter whom they chose to love.”

Many local politicians weighed in on the subject as soon as it became official. State Sen. Lee Zeldin said he was firmly against the legalization of same sex marriage.

“This legislation will have a profound impact on the lives of all New Yorkers,” he said in a statement.

Svec, and millions of others, are satisfied for the outcome.

“I'm really happy for younger people," she said, "so they will feel more accepted."