Mayoral Proclamation, Ithaca, N.Y. 1998 WHEREAS, February 12, 1998 has been designated as the National Freedom to Marry Day; and WHEREAS, Ithaca is a city that celebrates the diversity of its population, including people of all sexual orientations; and WHEREAS, Ithaca has long been a leader in recognizing the rights of lesbian and gay, bisexual and transgender people; and WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca currently recognizes same gender relationships through domestic partnerships, but realizes that this does not offer the legal benefits and responsibilities of marriage; and WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca looks forward to the day when none of its residents will be excluded from the right of civil marriage, and NOW, THEREFORE, I, Alan J. Cohen, Mayor of the City of Ithaca, New York, do hereby proclaim February 12, 1998 as: FREEDOM TO MARRY DAY in Ithaca, New York and encourage all Ithacans to support efforts to make same gender marriages legal in New York State. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the great seal of the City of Ithaca to be affixed this 6th day of February 1998. Alan J. Cohen, Mayor The Sweet Corn Shop    Products that affirm self-esteem and social equality.    A smart variety of Bumper Stickers and Buttons    for political impact, plus Mugs and Teddy Bears.    Purchases help support Partners’ efforts.