TO OUR AMERICAN FRIENDS…

Photo courtesy of Mark Wilson via Getty Images

Congratulations! We at Canada Gay Weddings wanted to express our excitement for you on the Supreme Court’s decision to grant marriage equality in all 50 states. It is a fantastic outcome on a hard-fought battle and deserves to be celebrated, even by those in neighbouring countries.

Photo courtesy of Jim Bourg via REUTERS

We who live in Canada can sometimes forget how lucky we are, having been granted the freedom to of same-sex marriage 10 years ago. This wonderful news about the United States being given the same rights is a fresh reminder to be thankful for the opportunities given to Canadians a decade ago. It brings us so much joy to see the happy and deserving crowds that gathered all across the America in celebration.

Photo courtesy of Evan Golub via Corbis Images

This year is shaping up to be a big one for marriage equality. In May Ireland became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage by popular referendum. Hundreds of thousands of Irish citizens voted, many of whom live in other countries and who flew back just to cast their vote. After the historic decision in the States was made, the government of Puerto Rico has announced that it will no longer defend a law that bans same-sex marriage, a big step forward for equal rights in the U.S. territory. Who knows what other countries will be able to celebrate the same cause by the end of the year.

Photo courtesy of Valentina Petrova via Associated Press

So today, the day on which we Canadians celebrate our country with pride, we congratulate you America, on this fabulous step forward and wish every couple a happy marriage.

Photo courtesy of Cyanide and Happiness

Leah Morrison is a Toronto-based writer who loves boating and Oreos. You can follow her on Twitter, Instagram and her blog.