NYC Crowds Gather at Newly Landmarked Stonewall Inn To Celebrate National Same-Sex Marriage Legalization

The United States Supreme Court ruled once and for all that love is love this morning by mandating all states to legalize same-sex marriage. In the immediate aftermath of the 5-4 vote, thousands rejoiced, and same-sex couples nationwide made headlines reciting their vows under federal law.

A crowd in New York gathered to the front of the Stonewall Inn, a gay tavern and the historical site of the Stonewall riots of 1969, widely regarded to be the single most pivotal moment in the fight for gay and lesbian rights in America. The bar made headlines only a few days earlier for a very different reason, when the Landmarks Preservation Committee of New York City voted unanimously to name the Inn a city landmark. It is the first historical site to be given such status for the reason of its importance to the LGBTQ rights cause.

Many have stated through social media that the fight does not end here, that today is a day to celebrate but not a day to put down the megaphones. It is true, LGBTQ Americans have a long way to go before they reach the equal standing among heterosexual Americans they deserve, but they are victorious today, as they were almost 50 years ago when cities nationwide led the first gay pride marches in history in response to the Stonewall Riots. Here’s to hoping the Inn will stay standing to see the victories to come.

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