SALT LAKE CITY – Mayor Ralph Becker proclaimed Saturday, Dec. 20 2014 Salt Lake City’s “Freedom To Marry Day” in recognition of the historic federal court decision one year ago that struck down Utah’s ban on same-sex marriages.

Becker, who officiated some three-dozen wedding ceremonies following the ruling, described the day as one of his most memorable in public office.

“The emotion and joy that I had the privilege of being a part of on that amazing day a year ago will remain with me as a highlight of my time as mayor of this great city,” said Becker. “This ruling was a long overdue correction of a state law that was both discriminatory and unfairly created a second-class group of citizens. I continue to celebrate the appropriate extension of marriage rights to all of our residents and look forward to a time when we, as a society, stop battling over our differences and simply appreciate and respect one another.”

Equality Utah Executive Director Troy Williams joined Becker in noting the significance of the ruling and changes it brought to Utah.

“Judge Shelby’s landmark ruling had a tremendous impact on Utah’s LGBT families,” said Williams. “We are one step closer to enjoying full legal equality. We remember December 20th with great joy and look forward to continuing to love, work and live in the state that we all call home.”

More on the Utah marriage equality anniversary is here →

Following is the full text of Mayor Becker’s Freedom To Marry proclamation.