Six months ago Maine became the sixth state in the country to allow gay and lesbian couples to marry. This week, voters rejected the law, and the state becomes the 31st state to oppose the unions in a popular vote.

Up to this point, New England has led the nation in extending marriage rights to same-sex couples; four of the five states that perform gay marriages are located in the North East - Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. But on Tuesday voters decided 53% to 47% to overturn the measure passed by the state legislature and signed by Democratic Governor John Baldacci in May.

Gay-rights activists had hoped Maine voters would have been the first to endorse same-sex marriage in a statewide ballot. In the five states performing gay marriages the practice took effect after legislation or court order. New York and the District of Columbia recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states, but do not grant them.

"We're in this for the long haul. For next week, and next month, and next year until all Maine families are treated equally. Because in the end, this has always been about love and family and that will always be something worth fighting for," said Jesse Connolly of the pro-gay-marriage group Protect Maine Equality.

Both campaigns spent millions in out-of-state funds on rallies, phone calls, e-mails and ads in the days leading up to the vote, and their messages resonated among voters of both sides.

Want to get involved? Do This!

• Film a documentary about how gays are treated in your community.
• Wear a button to advertise your stance on gay marriage.
• Start a Gay/Straight Alliance at your school.