Goodridge v. Mass. Department of Public Health
On May 17, 2004 the Massachusetts Supreme Court ruled that Massachusetts’ Constitution requires the state recognize same-sex marriage. Allowing, Marcia Kadish and Tanya McCloskey of Malden, Mass. to become the first legally married same-sex couple in the United States. On the same day 77 other couples were able to marry. While hundreds more applied for marriage licenses.
Banning Second-Class Citizens
The decision was reached on November 18, 2003. Which allowed the state of Massachusetts’ 180 days to change the law. Finding the ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional. As the state constitution bans the “creation of second-class citizens.” Further ruling; “The state could not deny the protections, benefits and obligations conferred by civil marriage to two individuals of the same sex who wish to marry.”
Paving the Way
Following this decision, some states changed laws to restrict legalization and recognition of same-sex marriage. While other states worked to continue toward equality. Working for recognition of these partnerships in all states. On June 26th, 2015 the United States Supreme Court ruled in Obergefell v. Hodges. Finding that all 50 states must issue marriage licenses and recognize same-sex marriages. Including those performed in other jurisdictions. Making same-sex marriage legal in all of the United States.
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Sources: Mass.gov and History.com
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