In an effort to join the rest of the states that are becoming more progressive, Illinois has jumped on the same-sex bandwagon. On Wednesday, Governor Pat Quinn signed it into law, allowing same-sex couples to be married, and enjoy all of the same benefits that heterosexual couples have been getting since the institution of marriage began.

The same-sex weddings would be able to start next summer, and the decision makes Illinois the 16th state to legalize same-sex marriage.

The trend is certainly catching on, and a time where much of the country allows same-sex couples to be married cannot be too far away.

In becoming the 16th state, Illinois follows Hawaii, who recently legalized same-sex marriage on November 12th, and the law will go into effect on December 2nd.

Pat Quinn, as Governor, also realizes that it is partly his job to set an example in his state, which might help others follow suit. He reiterates this when stating “We understand in our state that part of our unfinished business is to help other states in the United States of America achieve marriage equality.”

Illinois is a state where same-sex was bound to happen eventually, due to it being a state where Democrats lead both legislative chambers and the governor’s office. Civil Unions were also legalized in 2011, however the road to legalize same-sex marriage was not as easy as some people might think, since with this issue, there are always going to be some people who oppose it.

The law was of course fought hard by some of the state’s most well-known religious leaders, but luckily with a push in the final days from Pat Quinn and House Speaker Michael Madigan, the bill was able to be signed into law.

Gov. Quinn signs gay marriage bill, making Illinois 16th state to allow same-sex marriage. #breaking pic.twitter.com/9NhkHUpC7l

— AJAM Live (@ajamlive) November 20, 2013

Congrats to Illinois, Obama's home state, being the 16th state to legalize gay marriage!! #LoveisLove #MarriageEquality

— • sara wren • (@nerwaras) November 21, 2013

Mayor Rahm Emanuel gave a strong statement in support of the law when saying “There is no straight or gay marriage in Illinois. There is only marriage.”

Illinois legalizing same-sex marriage is a big step in the right direction for human rights nationwide, and after becoming the 16th state to do so, they are likely to set an example for many more to follow in their footsteps.

Sending love to @SheilaSimonIL & @GovernorQuinn today as they sign marriage into law in Illinois! Thanks for your leadership for #equality!

— Justin Mikita (@JustinMikita) November 20, 2013

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