Couples listen to historic marriage equality ruling at SF City Hall

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- The Supreme Court's historic ruling on Friday on same-sex marriage brought cheers, hugs and tears - raw emotion among the dozen or so same sex couples who gathered at San Francisco City Hall to hear the decision.

"I feel like I'm part of the American dream now, that I have the right to live the American dream just like everybody else," said one man who was at City Hall.

"It did take a long time, but it says a lot about our country, that we can get to the right place," said David Finkle, another man who came out to City Hall.

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"I'm just so happy this happened now and it's just a new beginning for us and all the world, so I'm very grateful," said Laura Carnosal.

"It's amazing. It's incredible. We waited all these years, all these years," said Barbara Brass, also out to celebrate the Supreme Court's decision.

Among those who made it out, State Senator Mark Leno, who came out more than four decades ago. He said, "After 46 years, my federal government is now recognizing that my heart beats and loves no differently than yours or anybody elses."

Kari Kendzerski and Millie Milliken brought their three-month-old son Julien.

"This is a huge celebration for our family. It's just so exciting. He's going to grow up in a more tolerant place," shared Kari Kendzerski.

A rainbow flag adorned the entrance to San Francisco City Hall. Mayor Ed Lee and city officials stood on the steps where the fight began eleven years ago.

"Did you feel the earth shake this morning?" asked Mayor Lee. "I do believe it was the scales of justice tipping."

"Today, America walks the talk of equal justice under the law," said Kate Kendell, with the National Center for Lesbian Right.

"Today is the antidote to cynicism. It's an antidote to any kind of despair you may have," said Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom. "Today is an affirmation of all of us in our unique capacity to do extraordinary things. The best is yet to come in this country."

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For full coverage on the same-sex marriage battle, click here.