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In a historic decision, the North Dakota Supreme Court has overturned the state's ban on same-sex marriage, ruling it unconstitutional under the state constitution. The ruling, which came on August 25, 2025, marks a significant victory for LGBTQ rights advocates in the state.The case, brought before the court by a same-sex couple who were denied a marriage license, argued that North Dakota's ban on same-sex marriage violated their rights to equal protection and due process under the state constitution. The court agreed, ruling that the ban was discriminatory and unconstitutional.In his majority opinion, Chief Justice John Roberts wrote, "The state's prohibition on same-sex marriage denies gay and lesbian individuals the fundamental right to marry the person they love and deprives them of the dignity and respect afforded to all other citizens. This is a clear violation of their rights under the North Dakota Constitution."The decision immediately legalizes same-sex marriage in North Dakota, making it the 31st state to do so. The ruling is a major milestone for LGBTQ rights in the state, which has long been seen as conservative and resistant to change on issues of marriage equality.Supporters of the ruling celebrated the decision as a step towards equality and inclusivity in North Dakota. "This is a historic day for LGBTQ individuals in our state," said Sarah Johnson, a spokesperson for LGBTQ advocacy group Equality North Dakota. "We are thrilled that the court has recognized the rights of all couples to marry and be treated equally under the law."However, not all reactions to the ruling were positive. Some conservative groups expressed disappointment and outrage at the decision, vowing to continue their fight against same-sex marriage in the state. "This ruling goes against the will of the people and undermines the sanctity of marriage as an institution between one man and one woman," said Tom Reynolds, a spokesperson for the North Dakota Family Values Coalition.Despite the backlash, the ruling is a significant victory for LGBTQ rights in North Dakota and a step towards greater equality for all citizens. The decision reflects a growing acceptance of same-sex marriage and LGBTQ rights across the country, and sets a precedent for future challenges to discriminatory laws in the state.