Start planning your weddings people! In a 5-4 decision reached this morning, the Supreme Court ruled that the 14th Amendment requires all U.S. states to license marriages between people of the same sex, and to recognize marriages lawfully performed outside of the states. The ruling also rejects the notion that the state definition of marriage rests on the ability of couples to procreate. Basically, only allowing marriage rights to heterosexual couples is now a violation of the amendment – which is amazing news and a huge step in our march for equality.
“No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice, and family. …[They] ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right,” Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote in the majority opinion.
In 2013, the court struck down a provision of the Defense of Marriage Act, and actively prevented same-sex couples married in states where such unions are legal from accessing certain federal programs and filing tax returns as a married couple. Today marks a turning point: a bold step towards a brighter and more accepting future for same-sex marriages across the U.S.
Gay rights supporters gathered outside the U.S. Supreme Court building this morning in Washington, D.C., and celebrated as the ruling was passed. And who can blame them? “This ruling is a victory for America,” President Obama said. “This decision affirms what millions of Americans already believe in their hearts: when all Americans are treated equal, we are all more free.”
Take a moment to reflect on this monumental decision and how it will effect the U.S. You can read up on further details on the White House Blog as the Obama Administration and Obama took a moment to call a same-sex marriage plaintiff after the incredible ruling. See what major news outlets are saying as well! This is going to be one exciting day!
Today is a big step in our march toward equality. Gay and lesbian couples now have the right to marry, just like anyone else. #LoveWins
— President Obama (@POTUS) June 26, 2015
The right to marry has always been something that most heterosexual couples have taken for granted – no one stops to think that they are so incredibly lucky to be able to marry the person they love, and share their lives with them, and have that union officially recognized in their state. And from this day forward, same-sex couples will have the same constitutionally-protected rights.
#LoveIsLove
