Share your reaction to the gay marriage decision
Massachusetts's highest court ruled 4-3 that same-sex couples are legally entitled to wed under the state constitution, but stopped short of allowing marriage licenses to be issued to the seven couples who challenged the law. The court ordered the Legislature to come up with a solution within 180 days. What are your thoughts on the issue?
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I am in favor of this ruling.
Judith , Haverhill
It is about time!
Don, Boston
Woo-Hoo!!!!! Why put the Commonwealth thru all of this. The court made it legal. Just let it be. Keep the Legislature (and that loser Finneran) out of it. Let Massachusetts be the example for the Nation that we know how to do things here. We know civil rights and the value of ALL our citizens....EQUALLY.
Scott, Milton
Hooray! Welcome to the 21st century, Massachussetts. Today I'm actually proud of my home state, and it's progressive views. But what do you expect from the same people who fought & died for principles like "Seperation of Church and State". It's unfortunate that it's taken this long to realize that a religious doctrine should not be endorsed or enforced by our government. But I'm optimistic that other states, and eventually the Fed, will recognize this too.
Gene , West Newbury, MA
Thank you to the Massachusetts SJC for making this courageous ruling......I ask the state legislature to respect the ruling, expedite the issuance of licenses and not compromise the rights of gays and lesbians.
LEF, Boston
This is great news! Although, I think the bigger issue is equality - something that has been lacking for a long time when it comes to gay issues. Worst case scenario would be for the legislature to rule for civil unions, which wouldn't be all that bad, but it's not marriage. For me it's about having the *option* to marry my partner, and if I choose to do so, I don't want anything to stand in my way.
Heather, JP
I think it's terrific! It's about time and let's hope the legislature does as it should and make same-sex marriages legal. I'm all for it! Straight but not narrow...
Andy , Newton
It's about time. Our marrying someone we love has no bearing on those who are not gay, and they should get on with strengthening their own marriages, leaving us to ours.
raye ellen, Bedford, NH
Excellent progress (and it's about time!) but there needs to be licenses too- otherwise it's useless. It's a big step in the right direction, and now we need to keep the momentum going!
Stella, Hudson
My partner and I have been "married" since we held a commitment ceremony 14 years ago and have two children, ages 16 and 12. The majority decision is exactly right in stating that we have been second class citizens during this period. We are looking forward to legalizing our relationship as soon as possible.
Helen , Jamaica Plain
