NC gay marriage proponents to move to overturn ban

RALEIGH, NC (AP) — Same-sex marriage advocates in North Carolina say they will ask a federal judge to quickly strike down the state’s ban following the US Supreme Court’s refusal to hear appeals of the issue.

“I believe that whether it’s a man or a woman, or a man and a man who fall in love, that’s alright,” Angela Colon said.

“Marriage is between one man and one woman,” New Hanover County Republican Chairman Sam Ibrahim said.

It’s a debate years in the making, but now it might come to an end.

The US Supreme Court said Monday that it would not review rulings overturning marriage bans in five states, including Virginia. The 4th US Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond in July struck down Virginia’s ban. That court has jurisdiction over North Carolina and state Attorney General Roy Cooper has said the ruling is binding here.

American Civil Liberties Union of North Carolina legal director Chris Brook said the group will file a request Monday seeking an immediate ruling from Chief US District Judge William L. Osteen, Jr., in Greensboro overturning the state’s ban as unconstitutional.

“This is a big step, change is about to happen,” Jill McIlwain said.

But many say this decision counters what the majority of North Carolinians voted on.

“They have dismissed the will of the majority of North Carolina voters,” Ibrahim added.

Gov. Pat McCrory says legal counsel advised him it’s just a matter of time until the state will have to match the court’s decision in Virginia, legalizing gay marriage.

“Although I strongly disagree with the court’s decision, I’ve said all along that I’m sworn to uphold the constitution, and I respect the court’s decision,” McCrory said.

A federal judge in North Carolina issued an order, putting a 10 day hold on the same-sex marriage ban decision.