A decade after the enactment of the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 in England and Wales, the milestone continues to resonate strongly within the LGBT+ community, exemplified by the personal accounts of several couples and individuals who have directly benefited from the legislation.

Antony and David Lowbridge-Ellis, who married in 2014, voiced their appreciation for the laws that allowed them to legally wed, something David found unimaginable in his youth due to his sexual orientation. They stress the significance of their marriage in providing positive representation for future LGBT+ generations. In a similar vein, Adam O’Leary and Ben Amponsah from Manchester, who married the same year, shared how the legislation transformed marriage from an abstract concept to a reality for them, emphasizing the equality and normalization it brought to same-sex relationships.

Commemorating the 10th anniversary of the first same-sex marriages in England and Wales, individuals like Lisa expressed how the law enabled her and her partner Tracey to achieve what once seemed an unreachable dream. Reflecting on the journey towards marriage equality, Liberal Democrat politician Lynne Featherstone recalled the resistance she encountered, especially from religious factions, highlighting that the Church of England still does not conduct same-sex weddings, although blessings are allowed. Father Jarel Robinson-Brown discussed his personal challenges as a gay Christian within this context.

Despite varying opinions on the institution of marriage itself, such as those shared by Peter McGrath who, while not a fan, acknowledges the importance of the availability of marriage for LGBTQ+ rights, the narrative strongly leans towards a recognition of the progress made. However, it’s also clear that the journey towards full equality and acceptance continues.

The legacy of the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 after ten years reflects a mix of significant advancements for LGBTQ+ rights and ongoing societal and institutional challenges, underscoring the nuanced ongoing journey towards full inclusivity and equality.