Well, to say it has been a long week would be an understatement. Our hearts go out to those affected by the Oklahoma tornado as well as the I-5 bridge collapse in Washington. It’s a good week to remember that life is precious – so make sure you tell your friends and family how much you love them this weekend. Now, onto the point of the post, read below to catch up on what’s been happening with equality this week.

Boy Scouts Lift the Ban on Gay Youth

We have been following this story for quite some time, and we are happy to report that the Boy Scouts have officially lifted the ban on openly gay youth, while still restricting counselors. Clearly, this is not enough, but baby steps in the right direction are always appreciated by us. Good work, BSA!

President Clinton Urges Illinois to Pass Marriage Equality

Freedom to Marry distributed a statement this week in which former President Clinton urged the Illinois House to pass legislation that would bring marriage equality to the state. In the statement, he said, “Our nation’s permanent mission is to form a ‘more perfect union’ – deepening the meaning of freedom, broadening the reach of opportunity, strengthening the bonds of community.That mission has inspired and empowered us to extend rights to people previously denied them. Every time we have done that, it has strengthened our nation. Now we should do it again, in Illinois, with marriage equality.” Hopefully his words resonate with the legislators in Illinois. Stay tuned on this story!

Nevada Shifts Toward Equality

This week, Nevada Governor Sandoval signed anti-hate crimes legislation into law – a huge step forward. Later in the week, the Nevada legislature approved a bill that would remove the state’s anti-marriage constitutional amendment and replace it with one that would bring equality to the state. From here, the legislature will vote again in 2015 and if approved, the voters will voice their opinion in 2016.

France’s President Signs Marriage Equality into Law

We already knew this was coming, but the fact that it happened makes it that much sweeter. France is now the 14th nation with marriage equality, and weddings can begin on August 1. Congrats again, France!

Movement on Marriage in the United Kingdom

This week, the House of Commons approved a marriage equality bill that would apply to England and Wales. The legislation was passed by a landslide, with a vote of 366 to 161, and now the measure will be put in front of the House of Lords. Marriages could begin as soon as next summer if all goes well. Stay tuned!