As of Friday June 26, 2015, same-sex marriage is now legal in the United States of America. Since the United States is by far one of the most developed countries in the world, I find it hard to believe that it took so long to legalize same-sex marriage. Everyone should have the freedom to marry whomever they please and have the same benefits as a heterosexual couple. I understand that some people may oppose same-sex marriage however, I feel as a people, we should live and let live. Same-sex couples should have the legal right to marry and commit to each other as heterosexual couples do.

Although same-sex marriage is now legal, it is still difficult for some jurisdictions in the United States to recognize it. Same-sex marriage is a political and social issue, as well as religious issue in this country and many others. It gives couples legal protection such as inheritance and hospital visitation rights. Same-sex couples will finally be allowed to make decisions regarding legal, financial and medical issues that directly affect them and their families.

As of now same-sex marriage is legal in over two dozen countries, such as Spain, Canada, France and Brazil. In some countries same-sex marriage is performed and recognized in some states. In Mexico where same-sex marriages are recognized by all states and the federal government, they can only be performed in Mexico City. Israel also acknowledges same-sex marriages completed in other countries. Same-sex couples are also able to use British laws to marry in Australia.

In addition, having a bisexual best friend who is just finding herself, I feel that this Supreme Court decision gives her hope and sends the message that you are free to be whom you really are, and that you do not have to be afraid of self-expression and making choices that others may not agree with. This gives her and many, many others like her hope for a brighter future.

The fight for marriage equality still is not over even though it is now legal in the United States. Same-sex couples would like to be accepted in our communities, our churches, our schools and various organizations. Yes, there still are hurdles to overcome but, in the famous words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “ If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”

I do not believe that love and the sanctity of marriage belongs only to the heterosexual couple but to anyone and everyone who has the ability to feel and express it. Among the many obstacles that America has overcome in the last 10 years I believe that the ruling of Marital Equality is one of the greatest accomplishments this country has faced. Congratulations, America You Finally Got It!