Same-sex couples have a constitutional right to marry nationwide, said the US Supreme Court today, which has been called the biggest victory for civil rights this century.
Voting 5-4, the justices stated that they “lack any legitimate reason to deprive gay couples of the freedom to marry”.
Justice Anthony Kennedy, who voted in the majority said, “No union is more profound than marriage for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice and family.”
Same-sex marriage was legal in 36 states, but the new ruling has now brought marriage equality to the remaining 14.
“Today, love prevailed and our nation became a more perfect union by affirming that all people are indeed created equal and justice belongs to everyone,” said Sarah Kate Ellis, President and CEO of GLAAD.
“With this decision, loving and committed same-sex couples can finally rest knowing their families are protected and their dignity is no longer up for public debate. But as we celebrate this watershed victory for fairness, we are reminded that marriage equality is a benchmark, not a finish line, and our work to bridge the gap to full acceptance for LGBT people continues.”
Citizens, including celebrities, have been tweeting their delight with the ruling.
WE HAVE MARRIAGE EQUALITY IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!
— Dustin Lance Black (@DLanceBlack) June 26, 2015
Can’t type so well. Tears of joy making my phone too slippry. Thank you SCOTUS for making me an equal… https://t.co/qaXdZbuHtD — Adam Shankman (@adammshankman) June 26, 2015
Crazy to think that this day will go down in history #SCOTUS
— // MIKE EDWARDS //✖️ (@mikey1000x) June 26, 2015
Thrilled #SCOTUS has recognized the right to marriage for all Americans, regardless of who they love pic.twitter.com/4RgesBbnkJ — Rosa DeLauro (@rosadelauro) June 26, 2015
I am deeply moved by the news that #SCOTUS has made marriage equality the law of the land. Read More: http://t.co/qpTKqevKUo
— Mayor Marty Walsh (@marty_walsh) June 26, 2015
#SCOTUS clearly states that regardless of your gender or the gender of your partner, you have a fundamental right to marry #LoveWins — NWLC (@nwlc) June 26, 2015
5-4 Decision from SCOTUS in favor of marriage equality. This isn’t just a win for LGBT people— this is a win for ALL Americans.
— Chely Wright (@chelywright) June 26, 2015
BREAKING: #SCOTUS has just announced that love is equal across the nation!!! #MarriageEquality #LoveAlwaysWins #Loveislove — Ricky Martin (@ricky_martin) June 26, 2015
Of course, not everyone is happy about the ruling…
Such sorrow you have brought upon USA for proud sin! SCOTUS says same-sex couples have right to marry in all states! pic.twitter.com/yRGo9UduUi
— Westboro Baptist (@WBCSaysRepent) June 26, 2015
© 2015 GCN (Gay Community News). All rights reserved.
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