Dozens Gather for DOMA Rally in Downtown Tampa

Growing up in small-town Missouri, Charles Hancock never thought he'd see a day when same-sex couples were allowed the same benefits as heterosexual couples.

After hearing about a downtown Tampa rally to celebrate the monumental decision, Hancock, of Wimauma, and Seminole Heights resident Howard Hawk headed to the steps of the federal courthouse on Florida Avenue, rainbow flags - and suspenders - in hand.

"I'm very enthusiastic," Hancock said. "I'm glad at least someone will benefit. Whether Florida can remains to be seen." 

Hours after the Supreme Court narrowly overturned the Defense of Marriage Act, allowing legally married same-sex couples to receive the same benefits as heterosexual couples, Tampa Bay residents like Hancock gathered for a rally at the federal courthouse in downtown Tampa. 

After the rain subsided, rainbow flags and smiles were spotted along N. Florida Avenue, along with chants of equality. Before shouting his support of DOMA into a bullhorn, South Tampa resident R. Zeke Fread said he hoped a measure supporting rights for same-sex Florida couples would be the next step.

"When they said DOMA itself was unconstitutional, it opened the door for states like Florida," he said. 

Jarrod Scarborough of Gibsonton agreed.

"The purpose of the rally is to celebrate the victory of the Supreme Court," he said, "and be mindful of the work ahead."

Ed Lally of civil rights organization Equality Florida said the rally was a celebration.

"It was a huge step forward, but to be honest, justice isn't done in Florida."