Guam First U.S. Territory To Approve Same-Sex Marriage

A federal judge struck down a law barring gay marriage in Guam today, making the tiny Micronesian island the first U.S. territory to legalize marriage equality.

U.S. District Court Chief Judge Frances M. Tydingco-Gatewood ruled in favor of Loretta M. Pangelinan and Kathleen M. Aguer, who, after being denied a marriage license, brought the lawsuit in April. The couple argued that denying them a marriage license was discriminatory and unconstitutional.

Pangelinan and Aguer were “delighted with the news” but Guam Gov. Eddie Colvo was less enthused. Calvo called the decision “impractical” with the Supreme Court’s ruling expected later this month. Though Calvo declared he had a “solemn duty to uphold the law” he also said he would accept whatever decision the Supremes make.

So while Ruth Badass Ginsburg and the Justice friends deliberate on the big gay fate of a country, Guam’s going to be awash in beach ceremonies. The new law will go into effect 8 a.m. Tuesday when gay couples can start applying for marriage licenses.

Meanwhile, a quick perusal of the Wikipedias shows that Guam’s biggest industry is tourism so methinks business is going to be booming.

 Les Fabian Brathwaite — like Guam! Guam! Guam! Bitch better have my marriage.

h/t: USA Today