by Nicole Hsiang
Here in San Francisco, the hot weather wasn’t the only thing that was abnormal about yesterday, May 15th. Around 11:00 AM, the California Supreme Court ruled that the state may no longer exclude same-sex couples from marriage because it violates the constitution’s guarantee of equality.
Excited to be a part of this historic moment, my colleagues and I ran to City Hall to celebrate with the political and community leaders who had spearheaded our winning battle. The press was all over the place, and as soon as I stepped through the doors, I could see and hear the thunderous roar of an enthusiastic crowd. This was a monumental court decision that will be remembered, studied about, and celebrated for decades past my time. I am proud and amazed to have been there when it happened.
It was truly a day about love conquering all. I saw people of all ages were wiping tears away, hugging their loved ones, and reveling in the euphoric sensation of justice and equality. We have waited much too long for it.
Let’s remember this feeling, as we continue to seek equal rights for all - because you and I both know the work is far from being over. For example, undocumented immigrants are unable to work, attend school, receive healthcare, vote, and constantly live with the fear of being detained and deported.
Immigrant rights is a crucial point of unity in the movement for social justice, and it’s important to make the connections between the struggles of all oppressed communities.
Out4Immigration, an organization that Agape fiscally sponsors, is doing just that. Through outreach and advocacy, they address the widespread discriminatory impact of U.S. citizenship laws on the lives of LGBT and HIV+ people and their families, declaring, “No U.S. citizen should be forced to choose between country and partner!”
I hope that the gay marriage victory will be a stepping-stone to more victories. As more people are able to taste freedom, let’s all make a concerted effort to learn about and support the struggles of others who aren’t free.
The marriage case ruling revealed one simple fact: that gay marriage took nothing away from anyone else, that essentially, the only result of equality is liberation for all.
I’d be curious to know what will happen to same-sex marriages that are performed between now and any overturn by initiative. I know that the constitution may be amended by voter initiative (but let’s hope we can defeat that), but can they retroactively un-marry people who are legally married in the next few years? “Inquiring minds want to know.”