Only a few years ago, the idea of same-sex unions--marriage equality--was new in the American States. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts consider marriage equality early on, and in an early court ruling on the matter, Judge Margaret Marshall describe the significance of marriage for all committed couples.
“Marriage is a vital social institution. The exclusive commitment of two individuals to each other nurtures love and mutual support; it brings stability to our society. For those who choose to marry, and for their children, marriage provides an abundance of legal, financial, and social benefits. In return it imposes weighty legal, financial, and social obligations....Without question, civil marriage enhances the "welfare of the community."
It is a "social institution of the highest importance. ...
It is a "social institution of the highest importance. ...
Marriage also bestows enormous private and social advantages on those who choose to marry. Civil marriage is at once a deeply personal commitment to another human being and a highly public celebration of the ideals of mutuality, companionship, intimacy, fidelity, and family.... Because it fulfils yearnings for security, safe haven, and connection that express our common humanity, civil marriage is an esteemed institution, and the decision whether and whom to marry is among life's momentous acts of self-definition.”
Photo by John Mazlish Weddings
