Same-sex Washington couples tie the knot today

Ceremonies were being held in Washington, DC, today as the first same-sex couples to marry in the city made legal history.

They have been able to apply for marriage licences since last Wednesday. However, because of the mandatory waiting period, they had to wait until today to tie the knot. “Around 150 couples were expected to pick up their marriage licences this morning,” reports Pink News. The report continues: “The law was signed by DC mayor Adrian Fenty in November and has passed a Congressional review. The district follows five other states in allowing gay couples the right to marry.” Marriage applications are now gender-neutral and registrars have been given new advice on officiating ceremonies. The new law has not been without its detractors. “Opponents had attempted a last-minute appeal to block the law but this was declined by the US Supreme Court,” says Pink News. Religious and “family” groups are expected to continue their efforts to repeal the law. Meanwhile, on March 20, there will be a mass ceremony in the city to celebrate legal marriage.