Celebrations are taking place across the United States and on social media with the hashtag #LoveWins after the Supreme Court ruled today in a 5-4 decision that same-sex couples have the constitutional right to marry nationwide.
The majority opinion was echoed across the 50 states, where many uploaded photos, video and written sentiments of thrill, delight and festivity.
L.A. City Councilmember Mike Bonin, who is openly gay, said he was elated with the U.S. Supreme Court’s 5–4 ruling in favor of nationwide marriage equality.
“Just over a decade ago, marriage equality was legal nowhere in the United States,” Bonin said. “Today, my husband Sean and I celebrate a breathtaking decision that affirms the right to marry nationwide.
“As we celebrate this historic day, the most important thing I can say is simply, ‘thank you’ Thank you to every grassroots activist who took to the streets. To every person living paycheck to paycheck who sacrificed to make a donation to the cause. To every straight ally who said ‘no more’ to inequality. To every person who found their courage, burst open a closet door, and told their story. To every person who listened to their heart, fought for their love, and made equality happen. It is you who forced our spring. It is you who made today possible. Thank you.
“Thank you to those who fought the struggles that blazed this path — those who fought against racial discrimination, for immigrant rights, and for equality for women. And thank you to those who continue the struggle — against bullying and hate crimes; for employment nondiscrimination; for transgender equality; for the civil rights and for the very lives of our sisters and brothers facing brutality, torture, and death in other nations. And thank you to those who join the struggle for equality and social justice for everyone.
“Today is a historic day – a truly great day for our country and I share in the happiness and love that now reaches every part of America.”
Other elected officials also hailed today’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court legalizing same-sex marriage as a landmark decision that finally recognized the principle of marriage freedom.
“I’m proud that Los Angeles has long championed marriage equality,” Mayor Eric Garcetti said. “This is not only a victory for freedom, inclusion and love but for the union of a nation founded on the principle that all Americans deserve to be treated equally.”
Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon, D-Los Angeles, said that with today’s ruling, “love and dignity won.”
“Today’s ruling by the Supreme Court on same-sex marriage is one of the strongest affirmations ever made to enshrine a central tenet of this nation: all people are created equal,” he said. “The struggle to truly realize justice and equality for all continues, but today represents a major step forward for our nation and the world in protecting the dignity of all humans regardless of where they come from or who they love.”
Gov. Jerry Brown added his voice to those hailing the U.S. Supreme Court for its decision legalizing same-sex marriage.
“With the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Riots this weekend, we’re reminded of how long and winding the road to equality has been,” Brown said.
“Today, our highest court has upheld a principle enshrined in our Constitution, but only now finally realized for same-sex couples across America,” he said.
