It's a Big Week For Gay Rights in the US

Same-sex marriage is a hot topic in America this week following gay-rights wins in Arizona, Texas, and Kentucky. Over the past few years, the US has seen a growing number of states where same-sex marriage is legal, and recent political moves signal more strides. On Wednesday, Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer vetoed the controversial anti-LGBT bill that would've allowed businesses to refuse service to gays or others based on religious beliefs. She addressed all the buzz over the bill, saying, "I call them as I see them, despite the cheers or the boos from the crowd," adding, "I sincerely believe that Senate Bill 1062 has the potential to create more problems than it purports to solve. It could divide Arizona in ways we cannot even imagine, and no one would ever want."

Meanwhile, a federal judge struck down the gay-marriage ban in Texas, marking a major political move in the conservative state. Calling it "state-imposed inequality," US District Judge Orlando L. Garcia wrote, "These Texas laws deny plaintiffs access to the institution of marriage and its numerous rights, privileges, and responsibilities for the sole reason that plaintiffs wish to be married to a person of the same sex." Although it's certainly a step for gay rights, it doesn't mean couples will be able to marry in Texas just yet.

Kentucky, too, saw new moves in the legal acceptance of same-sex marriage. After a federal judge threw out the same-sex marriage ban, Attorney General Jack Conway — who might have appealed that ruling and fought for the ban — has asked to delay the effective date of his order by 90 days. His request implies that he may consider not appealing, which would lead Kentucky to legally recognize gay marriages from other states.