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Hundreds of same-sex couples are gathering at the University of Illinois-Chicago Forum this afternoon as Gov. Pat Quinn is expected to sign the historic SB10 bill into law. The move will make Illinois the 16th state to allow gay marriage.

Supporters hail the measure as a huge step forward for the LGBT community and the gay rights movement.

From the Chicago Tribune:

The celebratory tone is a marked departure from late May, when the legislation stalled in the House to the bitter disappointment of advocates who had been pressing for a vote on gay marriage since shortly after Illinois legalized civil unions in 2011. Supporters soon launched a summer lobbying blitz that was buoyed by a U.S. Supreme Court decision that struck down the definition of marriage as between a man and a woman for the purpose of receiving federal benefits.

Read more at the Chicago Tribune

Opponents of the law, mostly led by conservative and religious organizations, argue that it does not do enough to protect their rights. The bill prevents religious groups from being forced to perform wedding ceremonies for gay couples. They also argue that faith-based organizations in opposition of same-sex marriage may be forced to provide health insurance to the spouse of a same-sex employee.

Where do you stand on same-sex marriage?

Is it wrong or a right for all to enjoy?

Sound off below!