Gay marriage opponents to meet over blocking the bill

PHOTOGRAPHER: The Associated Press

Opponents of gay marriage are meeting in New York City on Thursday to discuss how to block the same-sex marriage bill that Gov. David Paterson plans to introduce the same day.

The meeting is being organized by state Sen. Ruben Diaz of the Bronx, who is also a minister.

Diaz says the meeting is to inform Hispanics, Catholics, evangelicals and others of their options to prevent the bill’s passage.

Diaz also says it is “disrespectful” of Paterson to introduce the legislation the same week that Catholics are celebrating the installation of New York City Archbishop Timothy Dolan. Paterson was expected to attend the ceremony at St. Patrick’s Cathedral.