Washington (CNN) -- The wedding photo shows the happy couple poised to kiss, ready to begin an adventure that has now taken them to the U.S. Supreme Court. For Karane and Jamelle Thomas-Williams, this is a fight for recognition by the federal government of their legal same-sex union, part of a landmark constitutional appeal over same-sex marriage and "equal protection." Their love has united them, but the larger social issue has split the country for more than four decades. The Washington, D.C., couple legally married last October, but not in the eyes of some of their employers or elected leaders.
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D.C. couple seek federal recognition of their legal same-sex union
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Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on same-sex marriage
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President's support for gay marriage puts Congress in position of defending DOMA
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DOMA defender says law is "important because Congress said it's important"
Jamelle Thomas-Williams
"As a federal employee and as an airman, you get a constant reminder that you're second class," @placeholder told CNN.
Jamelle Thomas-Williams
She enjoys the benefits of her relationship with @placeholder because her local government in the nation's capital recognizes same-sex marriage.
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Washington, D.C.
D.C.
"We sent our elected representatives to @placeholder, and they chose to say that marriage is one man and one woman for purposes of federal law."
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DOMA
Sitting in their comfortable Washington home, they appear blissfully happy being together, but @placeholder has put unexpected strains on the marriage because of "little frustrations."
Jamelle Thomas-Williams
For one thing, they worry what could happen when @placeholder gets sent overseas in a war zone.
Karane
@placeholder added: "It's like we have to still go above and beyond just to get to where heterosexual couples already are."