JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — An openly gay man is taking drastic measures to send a message to the Clerk of Courts in Duval County.
Chuck Chapman said it all started when the Clerk of Courts decided it would no longer offer weddings, right after gay marriage became legal.
Chapman said he was called into the Duval County Courthouse this week for jury duty, and the judge asked prospective jurors if there was "someone sitting in the jury panel that felt uncomfortable or biased or prejudice for the case."
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Chapman said that's when he chose to make his voice heard.
"I went on to say that point as an openly gay man living in Jacksonville, Florida, for 60 years and I didn't feel comfortable in the courthouse," said Chapman.
He said he knew there was the possibility that he could be held in contempt, but figured his message to push equality, was worth it.
"That could've happened, I did not refuse jury duty, I felt uncomfortable with being in the courthouse," said Chapman
He said he hopes the Clerk of Courts will reconsider their decision and once again let there be marriages here.
In the end, Chapman said he wasn't selected to serve on the jury.