Visual

This image was taken in June of 2008, shortly after California legalized same sex marriage, at the San Francisco City Hall. Titled neutrally, "Gay Marriages Begin in California," the picture invokes emotion from its viewers, regardless of their sexuality.
Until June 26th of this past year, gay marriages were not recognized in all fifty states. Historically, California has been very dynamic in the revolution to make marriage a right of everyone, beginning in 1999 by allowing domestic partners to receive federal benefits. This picture is politically significant for the world because it reflects the ideals of equality and progress that people have worked to achieve for decades.
In this image, two men are holding hands and walking into a darkly lit city hall building. They appear to be wearing suits, although the image is backlit so their appearances are not as well defined. Through closing doors you can see a crowd of people cheering and applauding on a sunny day.
There is more to this photograph than meets the eye. The image is a symbol of social justice, and speaks to the American ideals of equal rights for all people.
The photographer's use of the light from outside is symbolic of many messages. Most obvious is the common association of light and "goodness." The portrayal of outside the city hall is a supportive environment, whereas the dark interior reflects the grim past of the LGBT community in politics. (LIGHT AND DARK BINARY!!!) Understanding the significance of the men's silhouettes is essential to grasping the power presented in this photo. The inability to recognize the specific features of the men  amplifies the ultimate message that equality under the law is something all people deserve- regardless of their appearance, etc. Another aspect of the photo that contributes to its symbolism, is the symmetry. With the exception of the differing heights of the men and the letters on the city hall sign, the picture is very balanced. Nothing in particular is given more weight, just as the law is supposed to be carried out equally, without preference to a specific group of individuals.
The photograph is effective in evoking emotion from its viewers, although it almost seems to leave out information that would be interesting. Who are these men? What hardships did they face as a result of being gay? The picture seems too good to be true in some ways...