The Couples Who Changed Vermont

In the 1990s, Lois Farnham and Holly Puterbaugh took Vermont to court, challenging the state’s ban on same-sex marriage—and won, paving the way for the nation’s first civil unions in 2000. Though not full marriage equality, these unions granted vital rights like hospital visitation and inheritance, setting a precedent that inspired other states and ultimately led to nationwide marriage equality in 2015. Reflecting on the long, hard journey, Lois called it learning to crawl before running, while Holly insisted the fight was worth every contentious moment. Today, 65% of Americans support same-sex marriage—proof that the groundwork laid by pioneers like them continues to transform our society. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/95298889598dcb82