Court Rules Ban On Gay Marriage Is Unconstitutional

The rally was more of a celebration. Supporters for gay rights in Oklahoma call today monumental, and just one step further to full equality.

Friday, July 18th 2014, 8:08 pm

By: News 9

Court Rules Ban On Gay Marriage Is Unconstitutional

The rally was more of a celebration. Supporters for gay rights in Oklahoma call today monumental, and just one step further to full equality.

"If I had to sum it up, I would have to say it's surreal," said Scott Hamilton with the Cimarron Alliance.

"A cause for celebration for same-sex couples," Plaintiffs' Lead Attorney, Don Holladay, said.

"Expanding the institutional marriage to gay and lesbian couples who are committed to loving will only strengthen marriages and families in Oklahoma," Plaintiffs' Council, Joseph Thai, said.

The fight lasted a decade, but now Holladay can sit with elation for his plaintiffs, who he calls a representation of hundreds of same-sex couples in the state.

"I think it would be safe to say they are walking tall and in thin air right now," Holladay said.

"He came to die for sin, and we've stopped calling some things sin," said Rep. Sally Kern, (R) District 84. "We want to accept everything. Everything’s ok. Think about that. If everybody does everything that's right in their eyes, what do you have? Anarchy."

Those opposed to the ruling, including Rep. Kern, continue to point to the state-wide vote in 2004, where an overwhelming 75 percent of the voters ban same-sex marriage.

In a written statement, Governor Fallin wrote, "Today's ruling is another instance of federal courts ignoring the will of the people and trampling on the right of states to govern themselves."

"Unelected individuals are telling us what we have to believe and what we have to accept," said Rep. Kern. "That's ridiculous."

With today's ruling, supporters of same-sex marriage now feel the fight with the state is already decided.

"It's no longer a question of if marriage equality will happen, it's when," said Troy Stevenson with Freedom Oklahoma.

Now, a stay has been issued on the ruling, meaning no same-sex marriages can be officially be performed.

The defendants in the case now have 90 days to file an appeal petition to the Supreme Court, which those on both sides fully expect.