When it comes to the gay marriage debate, social security is hardly brought up. But the fact is, partners who have lived together for years are face economic hardship when social security benefits are denied after their other half dies. That's why occasional LAist contributor Shawn Nee produced this short documentary video, telling Atwater Village resident Bill Bowersock's story of loss and burden. more ›

As this week marked the bittersweet one-year anniversary of legal gay marriage in California, two political leaders made big moves in the advancement of gay rights. In California, Governor Schwarzenegger on Tuesday decided not to defend the constitutionality of Proposition 8, which banned gay marriage, in a federal court case. Disappointing traditional marriage advocates, he said it will be up to the courts to decide because the case "presents important constitutional questions that require and warrant judicial determination." more ›

Shame on you Californians. more ›