Gay Committment Ceremony

[The Byron]

My boyfriend and I are headed to Las Terrenas next weekend. We would like to exchange some vows and express our love in a very, very small ceremony on the beach. Do you know where we could find an offciant who could perform this ceremony in Spanish and English?

[johne]

Originally Posted by The Byron

My boyfriend and I are headed to Las Terrenas next weekend. We would like to exchange some vows and express our love in a very, very small ceremony on the beach. Do you know where we could find an offciant who could perform this ceremony in Spanish and English?

Since I know absolutely nada about the laws/ customs regarding such a ceremony you are seeking information on I would like to know the following:
1) When you ask to find an "officiant" to perform.. In what way (in the DR) does he officiate?
In the DR does he hold some legal power to "legalize" this union?
2) what made you decide to have this ceremony in the DR?
3) what country are you living in now or coming from?

[Ken]

I'll be surprised if you find a legitimate Dominican "officiant" who is willing to preside over the "marriage" of two men

But then, for enough money, you can get almost anything here.

[johne]

Originally Posted by Ken

I'll be surprised if you find a legitimate Dominican "officiant" who is willing to preside over the "marriage" of two men

But then, for enough money, you can get almost anything here.

Ken-even for "enough money" what do you get for your money ie; is the "marriage" 'legal' in some fashion in the DR?
Moderator-maybe should be turned over to Legal Dept. I am interested solely in knowing what this "ceremony" gives the 2 parties.
john

[Mirador]

Like Johne says, "por la plata baila el mono". Be forewarned that gay "unions" are not contemplated in Dominican law. However, there are no sodomy laws on the books, and the age of consent is 18 years. Regarding possible consequences of your "gay public ceremony" you should keep in mind that public display of affection between two males is frowned upon in the DR, and may provoke a public disturbance, and maybe even arrest on moral charges, depending on the local authorities. I suggest holding the "gay ceremony" in another country, why not Jamaica?

[jrzyguy]

well...if this OP is not looking for a church or "official" service....i cant see what the big fuss would be.

For real..the only homophobia i have encountered on my travels in DR has been from other tourists (usualy fat guys going there to give there pesos to the prostitutes), or expats.

But then again..i am not holding a commitment ceremony on the beach either;-)

I am not sure about las terrenas...but in juan dolio or boca chica or playa caribe, or even guyacannes i dont think anyone would bat an eyelash...as long as you kept it small and descrete.

I know quite a few folks in DR that who live a very open life with no real fear or threat (and i know many many more who are indeed active but who are very discrete).

I dont think i would be easy to find a real "offiical" to preside over such a ceremony...but since it wont be legaly recognize...who NEEDS an official!

If you have the script for your ceremony all together...i know a couple of folks that might be able to arrange something for you.

[Fabio J. Guzman]

The DR does not recognize same-sex marriages.

[mkohn]

My take on this is a simple commitment ceremony.
Like a vow renewal ceremony only for the first time.
Since ther would be no "justice of the peace" or "priest" it should be pretty simple to put together a ceremony and reception for them.
Just my opinion.
mkohn

[jrzyguy]

Originally Posted by Fabio J. Guzman

The DR does not recognize same-sex marriages.

The OP was not asking for a marriage...just a simple commitment ceremony. An exchange of personal vows between two people. I personaly think that the OP and his partner should just invite a close family member or friend to preside over the ceremony.

If the OP wants to PM me i know some folks that might be able to help arrange something small and simple yet special.

best of luck and Salud!

[juanita]

Maybe these people can help you: Amigos Siempre Amigos.Inc