Jordan Bryant | Contributing Writer

On June 26, 2015, the United States Supreme Court ruled in favor of same-sex marriage across all 50 states. President Obama released a statement after the ruling that called this a “victory for gay and lesbian couples”. The decision was finalized by the Supreme Court in a 5 to 4 decision that will prevent states banning same-sex marriage.

A majority of American states have already placed laws that allow same-sex marriage within their states lines. States such as Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina have ruled in favor for gay and lesbian couples in recent years.

Virginia was the most recent state to rule in favor of same-sex marriage. As recommended by Governor McAuliffe, the bill was signed on March 6,2014 and went into effect immediately. Virginia is one of the most populated states with gay and lesbian citizens, most residing in Richmond and Virginia Beach with 3.5% and 4.4% respectively living in these areas.

This Supreme Court ruling only solidifies the nations strive for equality regardless of race or sexual orientation. The right to marry whomever one wishes  has been a fight for decades. This ruling is the trophy that has been awarded after a long race for equality.