30 Images of Marriage Equality on the Day It Was OK'd 7 Years Ago

Marriage Equality Became the Law of the Land Seven Years Ago

It's hard to believe it's been seven years since the Supreme Court handed down its 5-4 decision that legalized marriage for same-sex couples throughout the United States.

When the decision came down, outside the high court in Washington, D.C., marriage equality advocates cheered and the Gay Men's Chorus of Washington sang the National Anthem. Later, across the country, LGBTQ+ people and allies took to the streets of West Hollywood for a triumphant rally, and The Advocate was there to chronicle the hard-fought road to marriage equality in photos.

Families, friends, husbands, wives, and queer couples in love took joined the celebration for a decision some thought would never happen in their lifetimes. There was much cheering, and also there were tears of joy.

Here's a look back at the rally in West Hollywood on June 26, 2015.

Photos by Yannick Delva (except the lead photo for the story from Getty).

It was a hard-fought battle.

It was a moving sight to behold.

Taking in the moment.

To the beat of a different drum.

Love was in the air.

It was a rainbow flag kind of day.

The mood was celebratory.

Marriage equality would change the lives of so many.

It was about community.

It was hard to believe it actually, finally happened for many.

Rainbow families celebrated.

Gloria Allred posed for pics.

More rainbow families!

Found families cheered the day.

The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence were there.

Marriage equality was decreed.

Acknowledging the decades of hard work by LGBTQ+ activists.

Love did win.

A reflective moment.

Friends basked in the news.

Love is for all.

Surrounded by rainbow flags.

Even more rainbow families.

Thank you for your service.

A moment of calm.

Love is love.

Smiles abounded.

Goin' to the chapel?

History was made.