In a historic ruling, the Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriage would be recognized nationwide, and the decision would no longer be left to the states.
After the ruling, President Obama called Jim Obergefell, the lead plaintiff in the case to tell him congratulations, as CNN broadcasted the President's warm words over speakerphone. Speaking at the White House later in the morning, Obama said that Americans should be very proud.
Outside of the Supreme Court, hundreds of same-sex advocates anxiously awaited the Court's decision. Once they heard the news, the crowd erupted in joy, and proudly waived rainbow flags and banners with the Human Rights Campaign's equal sign, which has recently come to represent the gay rights movement.
Supreme Court's Decision Affirms Growing Support
The Supreme Court's decision affirms the growing public support for gay marriage, with about two-thirds of Americans favoring same-sex unions. Gay marriage bans have fallen rapidly in recent years, with 37 states allowing gay marriage – that is, until today's historic ruling.
The Court was being asked whether states could ban same-sex marriage, and whether stated had to recognized same-sex marriages performed in other states. The case was brought to the Supreme Court after a number of lower courts overturned state bans on gay marriage.
Today, in a 5 to 4 decision, the Supreme Court ruled that the Constitution guarantees the right to same-sex marriage. Justice Kennedy contended that gay and lesbian couples have a fundamental right to get married.
Justice Kennedy said that no union is more profound than marriage. He said that marriage embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice, and family. In forming a marital union, he said that two people become greater than they were.
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