Same-Sex Marriage Is Legal: Immigration Groups Welcome Historic Supreme Court Ruling

Marriage is a legal right guarenteed to homosexual and hetrosexual couples equally in all 50 U.S. states, the Supreme Court ruled on Friday. The 5-4 decision paves the way for same-sex couples to live equally under the law such as tax benefits, hospital visitation rights and inheritance rules that apply to married couples. Justices Stephen Breyer, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor joined Anthony Kennedy’s majority opinion. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Antonin Scalia, Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito wrote their own dissents.

"No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice, and family. ... [The challengers] ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right," Kennedy concluded in the majority opinion, according to SCOUS blog’s live coverage of the ruling, issues this morning in Washington, D.C.

Immigration Groups Welcome SCOTUS Ruling

Friday’s decision was welcomed by pro-immigration groups as a victory for “marginalized people” that would make the country more “equitable” for everyone. Many used the decision as a hook for immigrant rights, particularly those of undocumented immigrants who advocates say face tougher times in immigration jails

“Today, the Supreme Court issued a historic decision that will be remembered for generations to come affirming what Americans have come to understand: the freedom to marry is a precious, fundamental right that belongs to all of us,” wrote Marielena Hincapié, executive director of National Immigration Law Center, in a statement. “It’s a proud day for our country, as this decision marks a victory for freedom, equality, inclusion, and love. As our country continues the long journey towards true and full equality for same-sex couples and other traditionally marginalized individuals and communities, this ruling is a strong reminder of the type of inclusion and equality we are capable of.”

On Twitter, immigration groups blasted audiences with congratulations for equality advocates. United We Dream, a pro-immigrant youth organization, welcomed the ruling, saying that laws shouldn't descriminate against "anyone."

The National Council of La Raza (NCLR), a Hispanic advocacy group, broadcast the celebration from the steps of the Supreme Court.

The scene outside the #SCOTUS upon the decision legalizing same-sex marriage. #MarriageEquaility #LGBTLatino pic.twitter.com/0kwpbDS4K8

— NCLR (@NCLR) June 26, 2015

The NCLR also issued a statement of support.

“The decision handed down today ends once and for all an injustice that millions of Americans have endured,” Janet Murguía, President and CEO of NCLR wrote, in the statement. “We are pleased to see that the Court agrees with the majority of Americans who believe that LGBT couples deserve equal rights, benefits and protections under the law.”