Gay marriage recognized in nation's capital Beginning at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, same-sex couples married in jurisdictions outside D.C. had their unions recognized by the nation's capital, and work is underway to allow gay and lesbian couples to get married in Washington as well. That's good news for the gay and lesbian community, says D.C. Councilmember David Catania, adding that he has been pleased with the reaction to "this historic legislation" from Washington's residents.