Friday, dozens celebrated in Myrtle Beach the US Supreme Court’s ruling to legalize gay marriage.
In November, same-sex marriage became legal in South Carolina.
Still, many came out to Pulse in Myrtle Beach to celebrate the Supreme Court’s ruling.
“They realized there is nothing to be fearful about the gay community,” said Terry Livingston.
Livingston is the director of Grand Strand Takeover; a nonprofit organization that raises awareness for the LGBTQ community.
He says even though he was hopeful for the outcome, he was still in shock when the decision was announced.
“I’m almost scared to post on Facebook they we won because it almost seems too good to be true,” said Livingston.
A few years ago Livingston traveled to Washington D.C. so he could be married.
Only a few short months later, South Carolina legalized same-sex marriage.
Livingston says progress has been moving fast and Friday is a day he never thought he would see.
“We’re not trying to redefine marriage. We just want what’s already out there; the recognition, the rights, the responsibility that comes when you found that person you want to spend the rest of your life with,” he said.
Livingston says no longer will he have to carry power of attorney to defend his marriage when traveling across the country.
He says now he and his family and many others will no longer have to fight to be recognized.
Today we can just breathe a sigh of relief that the Supreme Court did rule in our favor and we’re happy and celebrating tonight,” said Livingston.
In South Carolina, Senator Lindsey Graham was quoted saying he is a proud defender of “traditional” marriage.
However, he said fighting the Supreme Court’s decision would be doomed to fail.
News 13 reached out to Governor Nikki Haley, who has been opposed to same sex marriage in the past, for comment but did not get a response.
