WILLEMSTAD - On July 27, 2024, Curaçao marked a historic milestone with its first civil marriage between an LGBT couple. Two weeks after a groundbreaking Supreme Court ruling, the lesbian couple Danika and Melinda exchanged vows, celebrating a momentous event that resulted from years of advocacy for equal rights. Surrounded by family, friends, colleagues, and supporters, they commemorated this historic day.
Previously, it was impossible for them, like many other couples, to officially seal their love. Their relationship felt incomplete without official recognition. However, thanks to a four-year legal battle led by Human Rights Caribbean (HRC), they finally experienced this long-awaited moment.
"This is a victory for love, equality, and justice," said HRC Chairwoman Janice Tjon Sien Kie. "This is an important step forward for our community and a signal to the rest of the world that love knows no bounds."
The ceremony was intimate and emotional, proceeding peacefully. The couple's children served as witnesses, symbolizing the unity of the entire family. Their granddaughter presented the rings, creating a heartwarming moment that deeply moved those present.
Additionally, Kranshi deserves praise for its role in organizing this historic wedding flawlessly. The Public Affairs Department was professional in its preparations, with a system to register same-sex couples put into immediate effect. On the day itself, the officiant spoke sincerely and empathetically, reinforcing the universal message that 'love is love.'
After the intimate ceremony at the civil registry, the festivities continued at Landhuis Kranshi, a historic location that, in 1998, hosted the first Caribbean LGBT conference. This conference was inaugurated by then Minister of Development Cooperation, Edith Strauss-Marsera. Even back then, Bishop Wim Ellis advocated for equal rights for the LGBT community, encouraging the ongoing effort to "sow roses in the desert."
The choice of this venue holds special significance as it houses Curaçao's first civil registry. Celebrating the first civil marriage between same-sex couples at this location seems almost predestined.
With this marriage, Curaçao sets a precedent in the Caribbean for upholding LGBT community rights. Since the groundbreaking Supreme Court ruling, at least eight LGBT couples have announced their engagements.
"This is a victory for everyone who has fought for equality," says Janice Tjon Sien Kie of HRC. "It is a sign that we are on the right path."
On July 12th, the Supreme Court in The Hague confirmed the previous appellate court decision. This ruling acknowledges that the definition of marriage in the civil code violates the anti-discrimination provisions of the constitutions of both Aruba and Curaçao. In December 2022, the court rightly stated that there is no justification for excluding same-sex couples from marriage. The governments of Aruba and Curaçao appealed this decision, but the Supreme Court upheld the appellate court's judgment. As a result, same-sex couples could immediately marry on the islands without any need for legislative changes.
Tjon Sien Kie remarked, "With this marriage, a new chapter in the history of Curaçao has been written. HRC is incredibly proud to have contributed to this historic moment. May Danika and Melinda enjoy a lifetime of happiness and serve as an inspiration for future generations. Let's continue to fight together for a world where everyone is equal and love always wins."
HRC also looks back with satisfaction on its collaboration with Igualdat Kòrsou. “The strength of this collective has allowed us to enjoy these equal rights today. I want to thank everyone who has been part of Igualdat Kòrsou for the ten-year struggle we have fought, culminating in this beautiful outcome.”