#LoveWins: US Legalizes Same Sex Marriage Nationwide

The US Supreme Court legalised same sex marriage in a long-sought victory for the gay rights movement, Friday morning in a 5-4 decision.

Within hours, couples across the country were being issued marriage licences.

The decision, which was the culmination of decades of litigation and activism, set off jubilation and tearful embraces across the country. The first same-sex marriages in 50 states and resistance or at least stalling in others. It came against the backdrop of fast-moving changes in public opinion with polls indicating that most Americans now approve of the unions.

On social media, happiness bloomed under the hashtag #LoveWins – which fast became the top trending topic worldwide. Couples, supporters, companies and celebrities came together to express their gratitude – and, at times, their shock – at the ruling.

President Barack Obama said the ruling was a “victory for America”.

“When all Americans are treated as equal, we are all more free ” he said.

Also on Twitter, singer Katy Perry said she was “really encouraged to be an American today” and for pop-star Ariana Grande, the announcement came as a pleasant surprise on her 22nd birthday.

Congratulations – Love is Love!