Same sex marriage supporters rally

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Supporters of same sex marriage came together to demonstrate in Providence Saturday morning.

Gay marriage proponents gathered downtown to lobby for equal marriage rights for all Rhode Islanders.

The event began with a march from Burnside Park to the State House, for a rally on the front marble steps.

Rhode Island is the only state in New England that does not permit same-sex marriage or unions, and the supporters called for lawmakers to change that.

"It's embarrassing, frankly, to be part of the only state surrounded by all of these other states that have already made the progressive choice," said protestor Ken Fish. "And to have it happen here in Rhode Island -- how ironic -- the birthplace of religious freedom!"

Saturday's protest also blasted Gov. Don Carcieri for delivering a keynote address this week to the conservative organization, Massachusetts Family Institute, and saying he believes marriage is not a civil right.

Event Organizers from Marriage Equality Rhode Island say supporters from throughout New England, New York, and California took part in Saturday's events.