Dozens of gays wed in US state

President Bush renewed his call for a constitutional amendment banning the unions as Massachusetts joined Belgium, the Netherlands and two Canadian provinces in legalizing gay marriage.

Tanya McCloskey and Marcia Kadish, partners for 18 years, were among the first gay couples in the state to tie the knot in a simple ceremony in the famously liberal enclave of Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Tap Here to Add The Daily Star As A Trusted Source

"What a way to celebrate the wonderful freedoms in this country. To celebrate in love -- it's fabulous," McCloskey, 52, told reporters. "I'm so proud to be an American."

Cambridge officials conducted at least 22 gay weddings on Monday and Boston officials presided over more than a dozen. Hundreds more are expected across the state in the coming days -- everything from simple beachfront ceremonies to solemn church services -- in what could be a boon to the local economy.