San Francisco Begins Issuing Marriage Licenses to Same-Sex Couples

On February 12, 2004, the city of San Francisco made a groundbreaking move in the fight for marriage equality in the United States by beginning to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples. This bold action was spearheaded by then-Mayor Gavin Newsom, who directed the city clerk to grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples, challenging California’s state law that defined marriage as a union between a man and a woman.

Context and Background

The early 2000s were a pivotal time for the LGBTQ+ rights movement in the United States. The issue of same-sex marriage had been gaining traction, with advocates pushing for legal recognition and equality. Prior to San Francisco’s decision, the state of Massachusetts had made headlines in 2003 when its Supreme Judicial Court ruled in Goodridge v. Department of Public Health that same-sex couples had the right to marry, making it the first state to legalize same-sex marriage.

Key Events Leading Up to February 12, 2004

• Legal and Social Climate: The early 2000s saw increasing advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, with numerous legal battles and public debates over the recognition of same-sex marriage.
• Massachusetts Ruling: The 2003 Massachusetts court decision set a legal precedent and inspired activists and officials across the country to push for similar changes in their jurisdictions.
• Mayor Gavin Newsom’s Initiative: Motivated by the Massachusetts ruling and a commitment to civil rights, Mayor Newsom decided to take a stand against California’s existing marriage laws, which he viewed as discriminatory.

The Event

On February 12, 2004, San Francisco’s City Hall became the site of a historic moment as the city began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. The first couple to receive a license was Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon, who had been together for over 50 years. Their marriage, along with those of thousands of other couples, symbolized a significant step forward in the struggle for marriage equality.

Aftermath and Consequences

• Legal Challenges: The issuance of marriage licenses to same-sex couples in San Francisco was met with immediate legal challenges. In March 2004, the California Supreme Court ordered a halt to the marriages and later invalidated the licenses issued by the city.
• Prop 8 and Continued Advocacy: The events in San Francisco galvanized both supporters and opponents of same-sex marriage. In 2008, California voters passed Proposition 8, a ballot initiative banning same-sex marriage, which was later overturned by the courts.
• National Impact: San Francisco’s actions in 2004 contributed to the national conversation on marriage equality, influencing public opinion and setting the stage for future legal battles. This momentum ultimately led to the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark decision in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide.

Broader Historical Significance

The issuance of marriage licenses to same-sex couples in San Francisco marked a critical moment in the marriage equality movement. It highlighted the growing demand for equal rights and set a precedent for other cities and states to follow. The courage and determination of those involved in this pivotal event helped pave the way for significant legal and social changes in the United States, advancing the cause of equality and justice for the LGBTQ+ community.