The U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals struck down the gay marriage ban in a 2-1 decision.

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The Plaintiffs, their families, and the members of the American Foundation for Equal Rights gathered in Downtown Los Angeles today to celebrate what they call a "historic victory."

In a narrow 2-1 decision, the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals found that proposition 8 violated the United States Constitution by taking away the right to marry from a minority group.

American Foundation for Equal Rights President Chad Griffin says the ruling sent the message marriage is a right for all Americans.

"Make no mistake about it, today is a historic victory for marriage equality and freedom and for the plaintiffs and their families behind me, but it is a monumental loss for those who oppose marriage equality, freedom, and liberty," Griffin said.

Paul Katami, his partner Jeff Zarrillo and Kris Perry and her partner Sandy Stier were all plaintiffs in the case. Each took the stage with their families to thank supporters. Katami says the ruling is a victory for equal rights.

"And today's decision is important to that young me, that never dreamt that I would wake up in a country where I could marry the person that I love," Katami said, "I never allowed myself that opportunity until today."

The case is far from over. Supporters of proposition 8 can appeal in the 9th Circuit or go straight to the U.S. Supreme Court. That’s the likely scenario, according to Peter Sprigg of the Family Research Council, an anti-gay marriage group who helped campaign for prop 8.

"I disagree with the decision of the court," Sprigg said. "I don't believe there is any constitutional violation in proposition eight and in fact I believe the people of California have the sovereign right to amend their constitution in the way that they did."

It is unknown where the case will go in the courts, but gay rights groups are mobilizing to get another initiative on the ballot for November.