Illinois became the 16th state in the country to legalize same-sex marriage Wednesday.
A massive audience crowded into the University of Illinois at Chicago Forum to see Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn sign marriage equality legislation — on the same desk President Abraham Lincoln used to pen his first inaugural address.
“Love never fails,” Quinn said amid thunderous applause, immediately before sitting down to put his signature on the historic law.
Several officials delivered passionate and celebratory remarks ahead of the signing.
“It’s time to stop planning rallies and start planning weddings,” said Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon to loud cheers.
State Rep. Greg Harris, a primary sponsor of the bill who is openly gay, applauded activists and advocates who lobbied for the legislation.
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