August 4, 2010 | Sex & Society

Today show allows gays into wedding contests

The “Today” show’s “Modern Day Wedding Contest” was originally only open to straight couples. However, after much pressure, NBC has announced that they will permit same-sex couples to enter as well.

The change came after the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) pressured the show to be more inclusive, meeting with the “Today” executive producer in New York.

“Our intent was not to be discriminatory or exclusive,” the network said in a statement. Last Friday's deadline for applicants was extended by three days to allow more same-sex couples to apply. “Moving forward, we ensure that our future wedding contests will be inclusive of all couples,” the statement read.

“Today” producers still have the final say on who appears on the show, meaning gay couples may still be left out in the cold. Viewers only get to vote on one of the four finalists the show picks.

Still, just knowing some bigots are furious over the decision is enough of a victory ... for now.

‘Today’ to Allow Same-Sex Couples in Contest [New York Times]