WORCESTER, Mass. - As a woman being married to another woman, it hasn't always been easy for Brae Adams.

"There was a time when we were travelling down south where we were very careful," Adams said. "I took my wedding ring off because I wasn't sure whether we'd be safe."

Adams identifies as a lesbian and while she and her family have faced some challenges, Tuesday was a chance to celebrate. President Joe Biden signed into law the Respect for Marriage Act, which federally recognizes same-sex and interracial marriage.

It's a big relief for Adams, specifically after the supreme court's recent reversal of Roe v. Wade.

"We sort of heard whispers that Obergefell might be next," Adams said. "We went to an attorney and we made sure that we had power of attorney, medical power of attorney. We made sure our wills were in place because if something changed, would our children get what they deserved? Would we have to fight to get in a hospital room or to make decisions for one another?"

Adams is a pastor at Worcester's United Congregational Church and performs same-sex marriages. For more than 30 years, the church has had a certificate of openness and affirmation.

"There is so much love in the room when people affirm their children and they approach a wedding like this," Adams said.

The respect for marriage act passed the Senate with support from a dozen Republican senators. Adams believes the legislation can a turning point for the country.

"It's just not so weird anymore," Adams said. "It's just not so bizarre. I don't think anything of walking into a store and holding my wife's hand."

Adams calls the new law a small victory in an even bigger fight for equal rights.

"We need to know that transgender people in particular are being not only - they're being persecuted, they're being denied life-saving medical procedures," Adams said. "This is a momentous and wonderful day, but we're not done yet."