Another Domino Falls

[Content Note: Homophobia.]

Over the weekend, a federal judge ruled Alaska's ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional:

The late Sunday afternoon decision caught many people off guard. No rallies were immediately planned, but some plaintiffs celebrated over drinks at an Anchorage bar.

Matthew Hamby, who along with his husband Christopher Shelden was one of five couples to sue, was "just having drinks with friends, enjoying it."

He said he was "elated" U.S. District Court Judge Timothy Burgess sided with them, and he planned to among the first in line to apply for a license Monday.

"This is just an amazing day for Alaska. We're just so fortunate that so many have fought for equality for so long — I mean, decades," said Susan Tow, who along with her wife, Chris Laborde, were among couples who sought to overturn Alaska's ban.

Naturally, the Republican-majority state government says it will appeal the decision, despite the fact that it's totally fucking pointless:

In an email, the state said it will appeal Burgess' ruling.

"As Alaska's governor, I have a duty to defend and uphold the law and the Alaska Constitution," Gov. Sean Parnell said in a press release. "Although the district court today may have been bound by the recent Ninth Circuit panel opinion, the status of that opinion and the law in general in this area is in flux. I will defend our constitution."

Yawn. There is no point except to make life harder that much longer for same-sex couples who want to marry in the state. What vile jerks.

Despite the pitiful tantrums of losing bigots, it's good news for marriage equality in Alaska. Congratulations, pro-equality Alaskans!