Cesar Miranda, the Justice Secretary of Puerto Rico, made an announcement on Friday the government will take no measures restricting marriage to a bond between a man and a woman.

For Puerto Ricans wanting legalized same sex marriage, this is an important first step.

Speaking at a press conference Miranda explained that as of right now 37 U.S. states and 19 countries permit same-sex marriages, and that state and federal courts in the United States have handed down 64 rulings that the discrimination of same sex marriages must be overcome.

Regarding the shifting perspectives about what marriage means, Miranda said, "Things change."

As reported by Fox News Latino, Miranda stated the lifting of the ban had historic overtones and was “an acknowledgment that all Puerto Rican men and women are equal under the law."

Miranda bemoaned the previous ban saying, "For reasons of sexual orientation in Puerto Rico, some people are denied what others are allowed, and that is neither right nor legal nor ethical."

Puerto Rico made the decision Friday because the period of time was expiring when it would be possible to present a plea before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit in Boston on a case contesting the constitutionality of banning same-sex marriage.

According to Time, Gov. Alejandro Garcia Padilla said, “Our constitutional system does not allow discriminatory distinctions such as that contained in the Civil Code concerning the rights of same-sex couples."

“Everyone knows my religious beliefs, but it is not for political leaders to impose our beliefs. We must push for progress in civil and human rights for all citizens equally. As Governor of Puerto Rico, that’s my duty.”