California Upholds Ban on Gay Marriage, Lets Existing Unions Stand

Tuesday May 26, 2009

Today, the California Supreme Court voted to uphold the ban that voters approved in the recent November elections. This was known as “Proposition 8,” and many felt that it was worded in such a way that Californians would not understand what they were voting for, which was a statewide ban on gay marriages.

However, the court decided today that gay couples would no longer be allowed to wed in the state of California. This means also, that they will not be able to enjoy many of the rights enjoyed by heterosexual couples.

There was some concern that the marriages, which took place before November would no longer be upheld. Nevertheless, the Supreme Court said that they would continue to be legal. This means that homosexual couples will be able to file joint tax returns, plan joint estates, and legally make medical decisions for each partner. Those who were not married before November are outraged by the decision and many lead protests this morning.

Gay rights activists have vowed to continue the fight to “get marriage back” in the California vote in 2010.