AP Approves Use of "Husband" and "Wife" for Same-Sex Marriages

Getting with the times

Amid criticism from the gay rights community, the Associated Press has added a new entry to its Stylebook approving the use of "husband" and "wife" when referencing same-sex marriages.

"Regardless of sexual orientation, 'husband' or 'wife' is acceptable in all references to individuals in any legally recognized marriage," the entry reads. "Spouse or partner may be used if requested."

The AP came under fire earlier this month over an internal memo advising staff to use "couples" or "partners" when referring to civil unions and same-sex marriages, rather than "husband" and "wife." "Our view is that such terms may be used in AP content if those involved have regularly used those terms… or in quotes attributed to them," the memo stated. "Generally AP uses couples or partners to describe people in civil unions or same-sex marriages."