BAKERSFIELD -- Same-sex couples in Bakersfield are rejoicing over a court ruling made 200 miles north.

San Francisco Superior Court Judge Richard Kramer made the controversial decision on March 14 to strike down two California laws that limit marriage to a man and a women.

In Bakersfield, dozens of same-sex couples gathered at the Liberty Bell in front of Superior Court to celebrate the ruling.

"It's a validation for who we are as a people, and that the Superior Court is not going to stand for second-class citizenship in this state," said Whitney Weddell, member of the Marriage Equality of California.

The Mayor of San Francisco, Gavin Newsome, also welcomed the ruling.

"With my perspective, this is an important day, but hardly is this effort complete -- quite the contrary," said Newsome.

However, not everyone showed such enthusiasm for the ruling.

"This is a crazy ruling by an arrogant San Francisco judge who hates marriage, family and hates the voters. Judge Kramer has trashed the voters and marriage for a man and woman," said Randy Thomasson, member of an anti-gay marriage group, Campaign for Children and Families.

At least two California groups plan to appeal the decision after March 30, the day Kramer plans to make the decision final.