One of the proudest moments I had as a Canadian was sitting in the Senate visitor's gallery watching the debates on same-sex marriage that led to the full legalisation in Canada. In coming down to the US for work, I was sad to come to a place that not only didn't allow it, but had actually had a number of ballots in states voting specifically that the marriage referred to "One Man, One Woman".
I found a transcription of the Hansard of Prime Minister Paul Martin's
introduction of Bill C-38 (The Civil Marriage Act). The logic in there for why Canada needed to legalise same-sex marriage is quite specific to Canada, but he talks about why it's important for the issue not to come to a vote:
The Charter was enshrined to ensure that the rights of minorities are not subjected, are never subjected, to the will of the majority. The rights of Canadians who belong to a minority group must always be protected by virtue of their status as citizens, regardless of their numbers. These rights must never be left vulnerable to the impulses of the majority.
I don't really understand the US system of rights. I hope that the protection of the right to love another consenting adult and make a commitment to them becomes the law of the land throughout the United States.
I love being married. I get the joy of being able to come home to my belle and share my day, spend time, and know that to the best of our ability, we're going to try to grow old together. I'm so happy that this ruling has come down and that in California the debate is now over.