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In a groundbreaking decision, the North Carolina Supreme Court has ruled in favor of marriage equality, declaring that the state's ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional. The decision, handed down on September 29, 2025, marks a significant victory for LGBTQ rights in the state.The case, brought before the court by a same-sex couple who had been denied a marriage license, challenged the constitutionality of North Carolina's Amendment One, which had defined marriage as between one man and one woman. The plaintiffs argued that the ban on same-sex marriage violated their constitutional rights to equal protection under the law.In a 5-2 decision, the Supreme Court sided with the plaintiffs, striking down Amendment One and legalizing same-sex marriage in North Carolina. In the majority opinion, Chief Justice Rebecca Jefferson wrote, "The fundamental right to marry is a cornerstone of our society, and denying same-sex couples the right to marry is a violation of their constitutional rights."The decision was met with jubilation from LGBTQ rights advocates across the state. "This is a historic moment for North Carolina," said Sarah Ramirez, executive director of Equality North Carolina. "Finally, LGBTQ couples in our state have the same rights and protections as their heterosexual counterparts. Love has won today."Opponents of marriage equality expressed disappointment in the court's decision. The North Carolina Family Values Coalition released a statement saying, "We believe marriage should be between one man and one woman, and we are disappointed that the Supreme Court has chosen to redefine this sacred institution."With the ruling now in effect, same-sex couples in North Carolina are able to legally marry and have their marriages recognized by the state. The decision is a significant step forward for LGBTQ rights in North Carolina and is expected to have a lasting impact on the state's legal landscape.