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It was a historic day as the first same-sex couples wed in the US state of Massachusetts.

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Hillary Goodridge gave her daughter a kiss in their home in Boston before going to the city hall to marry her partner...

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...and exchange rings with Julie Goodridge (right).

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The Boston Gay Mens' Chorus watches over a marriage in Arlington Street Church.

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There was huge media interest in what is a controversial election year issue in the US.

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Protests in Boston reflected one end of the spectrum of views.

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Many had queued to get marriage licences at civic venues all over the state.

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Legal recognition of the unions sparked celebrations for the couples and their families.