By Rachel Gossen

Celebrations erupted outside the Supreme Court this morning when it was ruled that same-sex marriage is to be recognized as legal in all 50 states. The landmark 5-4 decision is a big step for civil rights and equality. Before the decision was handed down, same-sex marriage could marry in 36 different states. Now, the remaining 14 states will have to stop enforcing their bans, and recognize all couples’  marriages. President Obama applauded the court’s decision and called the lead plaintiff, Jim Obergefell, to congratulate him on the historic win.

In the majority opinion, written by Justice Kennedy, emphasis was placed on love. “No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice and family. As some of the petitioners in these cases demonstrate, marriage embodies a love that may endure even past death,” he wrote. “They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right.”

Green Living magazine would like to recognize this triumph and celebration of love for all!