A Love Story and a Life's Work: 44 Years and Still Going Strong
Once upon a time, in an era when acceptance was a scarce commodity, Allen McMullen and Nathan Frye met and set out on a journey that would span a lifetime. Their story kicked off 44 years ago, with a whirlwind romance that lasted six months before they parted ways. But that was just chapter one in their epic tale—a journey fueled by love and activism.
After going their separate ways, Allen and Nathan spent over a decade living their separate lives. Twelve years later, however, destiny stepped in. They bumped back together, almost magically. "We hadn't seen each other in 12 years, and then it just happened," Nathan reminisces. "After a weekend together, it was crystal clear—we belonged together." Their bond proved that genuine love can endure anything, even time.
making history at The march on washington
Their journey took a pivotal turn in 1993. They dove headfirst not just as lovers, but as advocates on a mission. During that historic March on Washington—a beacon in our fight toward LGBTQ+ rights—Allen and Nathan cemented their union. They joined a mass "wedding" outside Washington, D.C.'s IRS Building. Why there? To shine a light on inequalities, specifically tax benefits, faced by LGBTQ+ couples.
"The location was symbolic," Nathan explains. "Our straight friends enjoyed tax perks after a week-old marriage, while we got nothing after decades together." Among thousands, they exchanged vows and rings, standing with 5,000 other couples in a unified statement. "It was packed but amazing," Nathan says with a smile. "Love and protest, all rolled up together."
Love's endurance and equality's challenge
After that unforgettable day in Washington, their partnership faced both victories and hurdles. Though deeply devoted, legal recognition was a long time coming. Allen and Nathan forged their life together with documents like living wills and powers-of-attorney. It wasn't until recent years, with strides in marriage equality, that they tasted those societal and financial perks.
"We sorted living wills and powers-of-attorney, but legal marriage didn't give us benefits—until four years ago. Then, we saved $5,000 in taxes as a married couple," Nathan notes. With new opportunities in hand, they made it official. A simple Las Vegas ceremony, with a parking guard as witness, was all it took.
pride, persistence, and a love that lasts
Today, Allen and Nathan are living proof that love can last, that activism can change worlds. Their story, from a chance run-in on a random day, highlights both progress and ongoing battles in recognizing LGBTQ+ rights.
Nathan reflects, "Now I can look at Allen and call him 'my husband,' no questions asked." Their story isn't just about them—it's a testament, a call out, celebrating resilience and determination across our community.
We're sharing tales like Allen and Nathan's as part and parcel with our Pride series, celebrating our community's diverse tapestry. Here's looking ahead, as we honor their story—and so many others—this Pride Month and beyond.
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