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by Causes | 8.30.18

What’s the story?

74-year-old Bonnie Foerster wept tears of joy as a Utah state judge declared her and her longtime partner legally married three months after her now-wife died.

“I’m numb from happiness. I’m married,” Foerster said through tears outside the courtroom. “I’m a married woman. I’ve waited 50 years.”

What’s the backstory?

Judge Patrick Corum declared Foerster and Beverly Grossaint – who died in May 2018 at the age of 82 – were a couple in the eyes of the state, despite not having had a registered marriage. Utah does not have common law marriage, but residents can petition the court to recognize a marriage. This case is not the first time a posthumous marriage has been declared legal.
Utah legalized same-sex marriage in 2013, but Grossaint’s persistent health problems prevented the couple from getting a marriage license.
\"She was born for me and I was born for her,\" Foerster told the BBC. \"We found each other. I believe that.\"

What do you think?

Should state judges have the power to legally wed living and deceased individuals? If Kavanaugh is confirmed, should the Supreme Court revisit same-sex marriage? Hit Take Action and tell your reps, then share your thoughts below.

—Josh Herman

(Photo Courtesy Bonnie Foerster)

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