NATION IN BRIEF : NEW YORK : Gay ‘Weddings’ Held for 2 Dozen Couples

Two dozen gay and lesbian couples exchanged vows and rings at a “wed-in” in symbolic ceremonies in New York City attended by hundreds of activists fighting for legalized same-sex marriages. Gloria Steinem called the fight for same-sex marriage inseparable from the pro-choice and feminist movement. “We are talking about the right of all individuals to form committed, loving, nurturing relationships,” she said. Roy Strickland, 78, and William Wynkoop, 80, were among the couples to “wed.” They said they had been living together for 46 years. At least 15 pastors from different Christian denominations and a rabbi presided.