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In a controversial move, the Oklahoma legislature has passed an amendment to the state constitution that explicitly bans gay marriage. The amendment, known as State Question 789, was approved by a narrow margin in a late-night session on April 18, 2026.The passage of the amendment comes after months of heated debate and protests from both supporters and opponents of same-sex marriage. Proponents of the amendment argue that it is necessary to uphold traditional values and protect the sanctity of marriage, while opponents say it is a discriminatory and unconstitutional measure that goes against the principles of equality and freedom.The amendment specifically states that "marriage is defined as a union between one man and one woman" and prohibits the recognition of any other form of marriage in the state. It also prohibits the recognition of same-sex marriages performed in other states.Supporters of the amendment, including conservative religious groups and lawmakers, hailed the passage as a victory for traditional marriage and family values. They argue that the amendment will help protect children and uphold the institution of marriage as it has been understood for centuries.Opponents of the amendment, however, have vowed to challenge its legality in court. They argue that the amendment violates the equal protection clause of the U.S. Constitution and infringes upon the rights of same-sex couples to marry and have their relationships recognized by the state.The passage of State Question 789 has put Oklahoma at odds with the growing trend of states legalizing same-sex marriage and recognizing the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. It remains to be seen how the amendment will be implemented and enforced, and what impact it will have on the LGBTQ+ community in Oklahoma.As the debate over same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ rights continues to unfold in Oklahoma and across the country, the passage of State Question 789 is likely to spark further controversy and legal challenges in the months and years to come.