What happened inside the White House on the day that the Supreme Court ruled in favor of marriage equality and legalized same-sex marriages nationwide? Former President Barack Obama has released a video on the five year anniversary of that momentous day that is bringing the internet to tears.
From lighting the White House in rainbow colors to delivering the eulogy after the racist mass shooting at Mother Emanual church, the inside glimpse of the Obama presidency is both fascinating and touching.
Related: These photos from same-sex weddings show everyone what love looks like
“Five years ago today was a day I’ll never forget,” Obama posted with the video. “After decades of protest, and organizing, and the determination of so many to never give up, the Supreme Court declared marriage equality a reality in America. As I made some comments in the Rose Garden, I looked at so many young members of my staff, and I noticed that they and all the people I saw on TV gathered on the steps of the Supreme Court shared the same expression on their faces: joy.”
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Later that day, Michelle and I went to Charleston to remember the nine Black Americans who were murdered at Mother Emanuel church, and to reflect on the grace that community showed––and what it might mean if more of us found the courage to do the same. And as night fell at the White House, a spontaneous celebration popped up in Lafayette Park––a fitting end to a momentous week.
“It was a week of progress––of real reflection on the painful symbols of our past and continuing injustices today, in the battle for the right to health care, and in the struggle for full equality for every single American. A week of moments that should sustain us in our longer journey to make this country we love more perfect––and convince us that we can.”
June 26, 2015: Justice Like a Thunderbolt
Five years ago today was a day I’ll never forget. After decades of protest, and organizing, and the determination of so many to never give up, the Supreme Court declared marriage equality a reality in America. As I made some comments in the Rose Garden, I looked at so many young members of my staff, and I noticed that they and all the people I saw on TV gathered on the steps of the Supreme Court shared the same expression on their faces: joy.Later that day, Michelle and I went to Charleston to remember the nine Black Americans who were murdered at Mother Emanuel church, and to reflect on the grace that community showed––and what it might mean if more of us found the courage to do the same. And as night fell at the White House, a spontaneous celebration popped up in Lafayette Park––a fitting end to a momentous week.It was a week of progress––of real reflection on the painful symbols of our past and continuing injustices today, in the battle for the right to health care, and in the struggle for full equality for every single American. A week of moments that should sustain us in our longer journey to make this country we love more perfect––and convince us that we can.
Posted by Barack Obama on Friday, June 26, 2020
