Jackson County, Mo., which includes Kansas City, has launched a registry for unmarried couples, including same-sex couples, The Kansas City Star reports. The registry affords couples no legal rights, but gay activists heralded it nonetheless as a significant step toward those rights. "If you are in a committed relationship and together 30 to 40 years, you have the same responsibilities as other couples, owning property, raising children," said Jamie Rich, director of the Lesbian and Gay Community Center of Greater Kansas City. "It's a good way to get across that there is equal commitment and responsibility" in such relationships. Ken Evans, spokesman for county executive Katheryn Shields, told the Star that several members of the community had requested the registry. "It was something reasonable we could do that wouldn't have any legal impact," he said.
Search
AI Powered
Human content,
AI powered search.
Latest Stories
Stay up to date with the latest in LGBTQ+ news with The Advocate’s email newsletter, in your inbox five days a week.
@ 2026 Equal Entertainment LLC.
All rights reserved
All rights reserved
By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
The Latest
Support Independent Journalism
LGBTQ+ stories deserve to betold.
Your membership powers The Advocate's original reporting—stories that inform, protect, and celebrate our community.
Become a Member
FOR AS LITTLE AS $5. CANCEL ANYTIME.
More For You
Most Popular
@ 2026 Equal Entertainment LLC. All Rights reserved














