“It’s not just that there is an acceptance of same-sex marriage, it’s that there is a [lack of] acceptance of people who are not supportive,” political consultant Mike Madrid said. “That’s just fascinating, as a student of politics.”…

Imam Moustafa al-Qazwini, head of the Islamic Educational Center of Orange County in Costa Mesa, said that the topic of gay marriage used to be taboo but that people are increasingly willing to discuss it, a sign of new openness.

“As far as the Islamic faith is concerned, marriage is defined as between a man and a woman. However, the vast majority of Muslims in America respect the choice people make. It’s a personal issue,” he said.

Charles Patrick, pastor of the Sunago Christian Fellowship Church in Compton, attended rallies in support of Proposition 8 in the days before the 2008 election. He said Wednesday that he remains firmly opposed to gay marriage. But he added that “times have changed” and that the issue is less a part of his ministry.