Florida lifts ban on same-sex marriage

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Today in Monroe County a Florida circuit judge, Luis Garcia, ruled in favour of same-sex marriage. The ruling only applies for this county (one out of sixty-seven) which includes the majority of the Florida Keys.

The ruling came as same-sex couples contested that the ban on same-sex marriages effectively made them second class citizens. They also contested that this was in direct violation of the 14th Amendments guarantee of equal protection under the law.

Garcia wrote The court is aware that the majority of voters oppose same-sex marriage, but it is our country’s proud history to protect the rights of the individual, the rights of the unpopular and the rights of the powerless, even at the expense of offending the majority,”

The circuit judge ordered the county clerks office to start printing marriage licenses as early as Tuesday morning, meaning same-sex marriage can be conducted from that date.

In 2008 a ban on same-sex marriages was voted into effect by the majority of persons in Florida, seemingly following the states pattern of inequalities.

Sylvia Walbolt, an attorney involved in the fight for equality was quoted as saying. “Same-sex marriages are completely beneficial. They are entitled to the full protection of the Constitution.”

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About Matthew Hoy

Matthew Hoy is currently studying to become a Chartered Accountant. Despite the popular belief that accountants lack creativity, he has a creative side and is passionate about writing and inspiring people. He has a love-affair with music and weird novels. @Matthew_Hoy