Fourth of July nightlife in West Hollywod, CA (Julia Tabar)

Since the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and Propostion 8 in California were struck down, Independence Day for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community meant a little more to them this holiday celebration.

In May, federal courts took both DOMA and Prop 8 to trial to "hand down a definitive ruling on the issue" of states' rights and constitutionality in terms of equality, according to the Guardian. On June 26th, the Supreme Court's rulings dismissed DOMA and Proposition 8 in California and declared it unconstitutional to ban same-sex marriages. Governor Jerry Brown and Attorney General Kamala Harris "refused to defend Prop. 8 in court" in order to allow same-sex marriages to "resume 'immediately'".

ALSO SEE: West Hollywood Rallies To Celebrate Overturn Of Prop. 8

Independence Day came soon after the rulings, in time for the LGBT community to celebrate a newfound sense of independence. West Hollywood, which has a large gay community, was filled with lively night clubs and bars open late for the 4th. Luis from West Hollywood said the community had "more of a reason to celebrate" the 4th since the dismissal of DOMA and Prop 8. "The fireworks were a little more special this year," he added.

Some celebrators were less enthusiastic, despite the excitement over the June 26th rulings. Helen from Los Angeles said the court rulings to dismiss DOMA and Prop 8 "should have already happened and now that it has, business [continues] as usual."

ALSO SEE: Californians Celebrate Dismissal Of DOMA And Prop. 8

Others felt that support for the community was always present in Los Angeles. Frankie from Boston, Massachusetts has lived in LA for the last eight years. "Prop 8 is a huge thing here, [but] I always felt supported and I always surrounded myeslf with that community of people who don't think twice about it." Zack, a West Hollywood resident originally from St. Louis, Missouri, said "We are where we should be now...We have the legitmacy behind us and now we are just going on with our life." When asked if he feels more support outside of the LGBT community this holiday, he said it was too soon to tell, but recognized that "we have the benefit of living in LA where most people are progressing." 

For more Neon Tommy coverage of same-sex marriage, go here.

Reach Reporter Julia Tabar here.