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Marking the first anniversary of a historic ruling that struck down Utah's ban on same-sex marriage, Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker proclaimed Saturday "Freedom to Marry Day."

Becker said in a written statement that being part of the events on Dec. 20, 2013, was a highlight of his tenure in public office. The mayor performed nearly three dozen marriages in the days after U.S. District Judge Robert Shelby handed down his ruling.

"This ruling was a long overdue correction of a state law that was both discriminatory and unfairly created a second-class group of citizens," Becker said. "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."

His proclamation says the extension of marriage rights to all couples is a celebration of diversity in the community.

Troy Williams, Equality Utah executive director, said the ruling had a "tremendous impact" on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender families.

"We are one step closer to enjoying full legal equality," he said.

pmanson@sltrib.com

Twitter: @PamelaMansonSCL