The reactions to the news that California's Proposition 8 was ruled unconstitutional are starting to roll in.
In a press release, Equality California said:
We are thrilled with today’s ruling, which affirms that the protections enshrined in our U.S. Constitution apply to all Americans and that our dream of equality and freedom deserves protection. Judge Walker has preserved our democracy by ruling that a majority cannot deny a minority group of fundamental freedoms. This is as much a victory for the soul of our nation as it is for the thousands of same-sex couples and their families who will be directly impacted.
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand tweeted:
A true victory for #equality! V pleased Judge Walker has found #Prop8 to be unconstitutional.
Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa tweets:
Californians knows that marriage is a civil right, not a privilege. Love does not discriminate. #prop8
In a statement, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said:
For the hundreds of thousands of Californians in gay and lesbian households who are managing their day-to-day lives, this decision affirms the full legal protections and safeguards I believe everyone deserves. At the same time, it provides an opportunity for all Californians to consider our history of leading the way to the future, and our growing reputation of treating all people and their relationships with equal respect and dignity.
Today's decision is by no means California's first milestone, nor our last, on America's road to equality and freedom for all people.
And from Media Matters Karl Frisch, an intriguing tweet:
Live in CA? Go get married NOW while you still can. Judge Walker enjoined his decision -- there is no stay yet. #prop8 #gay
For more discussion on today's decision, see freelancewoman's diary