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The decision determined that the same-sex marriage ban passed in 2008 was not legal under the U.S. Constitution.

Although this decision is a monumental victory for the gay community, this ruling will certainly not end the debate over gay marriage in California.

Proponents of Prop 8 are already gearing up to appeal the decision and many are predicting that this could end up as a monumental case in the Supreme Court.

However, the struggle for gay rights is not limited to America. In fact, a shocking new article published by The Independent reveals how much more needs to be accomplished around the globe.

Seventy-six countries around the world still regard homosexuality as a crime. Out of these 76, seven punish homosexual acts with death.

As an American, it's hard to imagine a world where homosexuality is considered a crime, but for thousands of people it is a reality.

An episode of the Vanguard show on Current TV opened my eyes to this reality. Titled "Missionaries of Hate," the episode explored the atmosphere in Uganda surrounding the proposed Anti-Homosexuality Bill.

The bill, which, because of backlash from other countries, was recommended to be withdrawn last May, would have imposed harsh penalties on anyone practicing homosexuality. Homosexuality is already illegal in Uganda, but the bill called for the death penalty in some cases, extradition or jail time. It also required that Ugandans report homosexual behavior they observe within 24 hours, creating a Stalinist society against homosexuality.

The episode followed both proponents of the bill and closeted gays in Uganda. The proponents of the bill were mainly Christian pastors who felt that homosexuality was going to ruin their Christian nation. The episode implied that the intense hatred against homosexuality was a result of American Christian missionaries who had planted the seeds of hate against homosexuals.

They also told the heartbreaking story of one Ugandan man who was forced to move many times to avoid neighbors' suspicions. His life was a constant struggle to remain anonymous and avoid jail, humiliation or beating.

It is important to remember that the fight for equality is one that we are all in together as a world. We need to work together so that someday no one is jailed or killed because of who they are.

To reach staff reporter Stephanie McNeal here.
Follow her on Twitter @stephemcneal.