Your Take: U.S. Supreme Court Declares DOMA Unconstitutional

By Eileen McNamara and Caitlin Mazzola

In a major victory for gay rights activists the U.S. Supreme Court today, June 26, has struck down the federal Defense of Marriage Act, the Huffington Post reports. 

As gay rights advocates rallied outside, the court this morning ruled 5-4 against the federal law in what experts are saying is a broad ruling that could doom state laws banning gay marriages. 

The much-anticipated ruling means the federal government must recognize gay marriages in the 12 states in the U.S. that have legalized gay marriages, including in Connecticut. 

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy today heralded the court's decision as a major advance in equal rights for gays.

“Although the State of Connecticut has recognized marriage equality for same-sex couples since 2008 ... DOMA prevented these legally married couples from being recognized by the U.S. government, thus being denied a host of rights that are afforded to all other married couples," Malloy said. “Having two different sets of laws for people based solely on their gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity is wrong ..."

Westporter Nora Myhre Ray said the court's ruling made Wednesday, June 26, 2013 "a beautiful day for humankind."

"DOMA was legislation designed to alienate individuals based on who they love and deny equal rights to citizens of the United States," she said via the Westport Patch Facebook page. "Good riddance, in my opinion!" 

Natalie Ponte added she is thrilled that all Connecticut marriages will be recognized by the federal government.

"Now I'm just hoping more states pick up the slack."

The court additionally ruled that the activists who put California's Proposition 8, which bans gay marriage in that state, on the state's ballot in 2008 did not have the constitutional standing to do so, according to the Huffington Post. 

What's your take on this issue and this decision? Share your thoughts in the comments.