Gainesville gay rights supporters are excited that a California same-sex marriage ban was deemed unconstitutional Tuesday by a San Francisco federal appeals panel.
The ban, called Proposition 8, was approved by 52 percent of California voters in 2008. Supporters expect the issue to go to the Supreme Court, although the appeal had not been sent as of Tuesday night. Until then, Gainesville groups will wait and celebrate.
Terry Fleming, co-president of the Pride Community Center of North Central Florida, said members of the center are thrilled with the decision and will watch to see what happens next.
"This is a historic decision that will have an impact across the nation," he said. "If it violates it in California, it violates it across the nation."
Bridget Siegel, external vice president for the Pride Student Union at UF, said the announcement was a big victory for gay rights supporters. The group has not planned activist activities in reaction to the announcement, but she said she expects the group to arrange events within the next week.
"Finally for it to be deemed completely unconstitutional is an amazing opportunity," said Siegel, a 20-year-old religion studies sophomore.
Mayor Craig Lowe, who is the city's first openly gay mayor, said the measure was a step forward for the nation.
If the Supreme Court decides to look at the issue, Lowe said he will consider asking the City Commission to pass a resolution supporting the push for same-sex marriage.
"Ultimately, what will be required is the realization that all families have value and deserve to be respected under the law," Lowe said.
