How many states legalized gay marriage

Civil unions for same-sex couples existed in many states but created a separate but equal standard. At the federal level, couples were denied access to more than 1, federal rights and responsibilities associated with the institution, as well as those denied by their given state.

Same-Sex Marriage Around the World

On social media, Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton merely tweeted the word "proud" and the White House changed its Twitter avatar , external into the rainbow colours. The case considered by the court concerned Jim Obergefell, an Ohio resident who was not recognised as the legal widower of his late husband, John Arthur.

The Journey to Marriage Equality in the United States

While gay and lesbian couples can marry, there is not yet a marriage equality law on the books. Netherlands Europe First country to legalize same-sex marriage after its Parliament passed the law in December Norway Europe The law replaced a statute permitting civil unions.

Date Same Sex Marriage Legalized By State

On November 6, , Maine, Maryland and Washington became the first states to legalize same-sex marriage through popular vote. On June 26, , in the landmark civil rights case Obergefell v. Thirteen of the 50 U. Hodges, these laws are null and void. Thirty-seven states have legalized gay marriage, with restrictions in Kansas, Missouri, and Alabama.