About 50 people from the LGBT community gathered in the rain last night at the intersection of University Avenue and Atlantic Avenue to protest the resounding defeat of the same-sex marriage bill by the New York State Senate.

The bill was defeated 24 to 38 in a Democratic-controlled Senate. No Republicans supported the bill, and eight Democrats joined them in opposition.

The State Assembly already approved the bill - with Assembly member David Gantt abstaining.

It was especially disappointing that our local senators - James Alesi and Joe Robach - voted no, considering this city's history at confronting human rights issues.

Many of the protestors sounded disappointed, but determined. And many said the vote was a good thing because it exposed those politicians who like to cozy up to the LGBT community whenever it serves them, but offer nothing in return.

Divisiveness and ignorance ruled over equality and progress, said Marie Gibson and Peg Meeker, who have been together for 11 years.

But this isn't the end for same-sex marriage in New York. Advocates will press on.

In the meantime, we will continue to love each other, to build our relationships, and to forge our place in society.

The more we love our mates, our children, our families, and ourselves, the more we expose the impotency and cowardice of those who choose to repress us.

Let them choose discrimination and hate. They'll go unremembered.

We're steadfastly on the side of love.