The clerk-recorder in one California county handed out more than 20 "certificates of inequality" to gay couples on Valentine's Day.

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Freddie Oakley's action in Yolo County was part of an organized protest against California's failure to provide legal recognition for same-sex couples, the Sacramento Bee reported. Demonstrators from both sides of the issue showed up Wednesday to praise and denounce her.

Advocates of gay marriage have made the week of Valentine's Day "Freedom to Marry Week." Similar protests were planned in other California counties and around the country.

Critics said Oakley was bringing politics into her office.

"She's using an elected office to condone unlawfulness," said Pastor John Evertson of Yolo County Citizens for Better Government, who wants Oakley recalled. "If she is allowed to do this, what isn't she allowed to do?"

But Shelly Bailes of Davis was thankful to have something to show for her 33-year relationship with her partner -- although she said she would prefer a marriage license.