Gay couples now welcome to apply for TODAY’s “Modern Love” wedding contest
”Over the past few days TODAY has received a considerable response regarding our wedding contest application. The rules stated that eligible couples must be able to be legally married in New York, where we will host the wedding, therefore excluding same-sex couple applicants. Our intent was not to be discriminatory or exclusive. In 2005 when the wedding took place outside of New York, the application process was open to same-sex couples. We have listened to every voicemail and read every email. We take this feedback seriously, and we will change our application process. TODAY is a longtime supporter of the LGBT community, and GLAAD considers us an ally. We are committed to keeping those relationships strong and positive. We have opened up the application process to same-sex couples, and will extend the deadline to Monday, July 12. Moving forward, we ensure that our future wedding contests will be inclusive of all couples.”
Statement released by NBC and the TODAY show after meeting with the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. Earlier this week, GLAAD had asked why TODAY had only allowed for a “Groom” and “Bride” at a time when several states and the District of Columbia have legalized same-sex marriages. Media attention, viewer feedback, and gay rights groups seem to have positively affected the producers’ opinion. The contest form has now been changed to reflect gender-neutral language, referring instead to “Applicant 1” and “Applicant 2.” (TODAY)
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