AFY_Will
Facebook
Judge Vaughn Walker has DENIED the motion by the Prop 8 defendants to stay his decision. As a result, there will not be a temporary ban on same-sex marriages as the Prop 8 case makes its way thru the appeals process.
Gay and lesbian couples are able to marry in California as of 5pm on Aug 18 - and if you're near a TV screen, I'd suggest you start channel surfing. The scene across California at the moment is one of pure joy. With this ruling, California - and, in some small way, all of America - is one step closer to true equality. [You can check out the live stream from CNN online here.]
Reports on Twitter and around the web showed excitement buliding throughout California (and the nation) this morning as people waited for Judge Walker's decision. Lines had already formed at courthouses throughout the state, as gay and lesbian couples waited in hope of being legally married this afternoon. While these couples will now have to wait until next Wenesday, they can return secure in the knowledge that their right to marry will be honored and upheld.
In fact, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa was poised to personally perform marriage ceremonies this afternoon - though I fully expect he will be back to join the official celebrations next week. Photos and tweets showed crowds of LGBT supporters cheering throughout the morning as straight couples exited court buildings after getting married. Many have been tweeting about gay and lesbian friends and relatives who were waiting in line to see if they would be able to wed today.
In fact, courts in Los Angeles and San Francisco started handing out paperwork to waiting couples in anticipation over an hour ago of the possible ruling. That paperwork will soon be put to use as these couples are allowed to exercise their constitutionally-protected right to marry in California.
Well, now they can.
Congratulations to all - and let the celebrations begin!
kathleenmysistahs
| 8/12/10 04:43 PM
| Report
| Reply
