The Supreme Court refused to take part in appeals to ban same-sex unions from five states, effectively paving the way for 11 new states (including Colorado) to legalize same-sex marriage. Soon after, at 3 p.m. Monday, Larimer County began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples.

We are thrilled the issue of equal marriage rights is now being properly addressed by the Supreme Court, by the state of Colorado and by Larimer County.

However, we shouldn’t consider this the finish line. Best case scenario, after all is said and done, 20 states will still ban same-sex marriage in the U.S. Even with the legalization of same-sex marriage, it’s undeniable that those in the GLBT community still face day-to-day discrimination, are susceptible to hate crimes and general alienation from society.

Homosexuals are still brutally harassed — or even killed — for their sexuality in our country. There is a larger fight that exists, larger than legislation and the U.S. Supreme Court. As a society, we must work to promote tolerance and acceptance of each other’s differences, rather than calling it good with legal marriage for same-sex couples.

That said, this is an incredible step in the right direction. The Supreme Court has recognized that this is a substantial problem and human rights issue that is long overdue for correction.

While there is still progress to be made, let’s be proud that we live in a state that is working to promote equality and progression.