Group calls for marriage equality in RI

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- Supporters of same-sex marriage have formed a new coalition in Rhode Island.

Rhode Islanders United for Marriage was unveiled at Central Congregational Church in Providence Monday morning, a day before a hearing on proposed legislation on Smith Hill. The organization says it is committed to winning full marriage rights for Rhode Island families and couples.

"Rhode Islanders United for Marriage is a broad and growing non-partisan coalition of organizations who are coming together to stand up for all families and ensure the Ocean State joins the rest of New England in providing the unique protection and recognition that only marriage can afford," campaign director Ray Sullivan said in a news release.

Rep. Arthur Handy has introduced legislation to legalize same-sex marriage in Rhode Island for 11 consecutive years, and is the bill's main sponsor in the House.

"Nothing affirms love, commitment and family like marriage," Handy said. "My wife and I would not want someone telling us our relationship was somehow unworthy of the recognition of marriage. It's time we joined our New England neighbors in affirming the ability of all loving, committed couples to have the freedom to marry."

An Eyewitness News poll from last September showed 56% of Rhode Islanders favored allowing same-sex coupled to marry.

A pro-traditional marriage group, Faith Alliance to Preserve the Sanctity of Marriage as Established by God, has its own news conference planned ahead of Tuesday's hearing. That event will be held Tuesday at 4 p.m. at the State House main hallway.