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  WINDY CITY TIMES

U.S. Supreme Court backs marriage equality, groups and leaders respond
2015-06-26

This article shared 5728 times since Fri Jun 26, 2015
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The U.S. Supreme Court has legalized marriage equality nationwide. The ruling was 5-4.

See the ruling here: www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/14pdf/14-556_3204.pdf .

From Lambda Legal:

"For the first time, LGBT people in America will live in a nation that respects their love and their families. Today, the Constitution and our democracy shine brightly."

(Washington, D.C., June 26, 2015) — In an historic decision, the U.S. Supreme Court today declared that denying same-sex couples the freedom to marry violates the U.S. Constitution. The Court's decision invalidates all state statutes and constitutional amendments barring same-sex couples from marriage. Lambda Legal was co-counsel in one of the landmark cases decided today. Lambda Legal Executive Director Kevin Cathcart and co-counsel Al Gerhardstein of Gerhardstein & Branch issued the following statements:

"What a glorious day for equality, justice and love," Cathcart said. "For the first time, LGBT people in America will live in a nation that respects their love and their families. June 26 is a day that will stand out forever as a day of victory in the history of the LGBT rights movement in America. On this very day in 2003, Lambda Legal won Lawrence v. Texas, a groundbreaking Supreme Court ruling striking down state laws that made lesbian and gay people criminals for having private intimate relationships. And two years ago on this day, the Supreme Court issued its historic ruling in U.S. v. Windsor. Today, the Constitution and our democracy shine brightly again. "

"Still, our work is far from done," Cathcart added. "While marriage equality is an important landmark victory, our 'To-Do' list remains long. Today we celebrate—tomorrow we get back to work. We still need to fight for protections in the workplace, for people with HIV, and for LGBT youth and for justice and equality for transgender people. And, of course, we are prepared for resistance in some states as same-sex couples seek the marriage rights and responsibilities the Court has determined are theirs under our Constitution."

"Congratulations to the plaintiff couples and families who stood up for all of us," Cathcart continued, "and to our partner organizations — the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), and the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) as well as the wonderful private counsel who joined with us in bringing these cases and, ultimately, winning them before the Supreme Court. This represents the culmination of decades of hard work by all, and we are all enormously grateful and proud."

Today's ruling came in six cases out of the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals collectively known as Obergefell v. Hodges, challenging discriminatory state bans on marriage for same-sex couples.

"We are thrilled!" Alphonse Gerhardstein said. "With this decision, Ohio must now recognize the marriages of same-sex couples married elsewhere. And soon same-sex couples will be able to marry in Ohio as well. The babies born to and adopted by our plaintiff couples will no longer be blocked from having both parents listed on their birth certificates. Full legal protection for their families and for families across the country has arrived. This is truly an historic day! We stand ready to seek full and prompt implementation of this ruling."

The six cases on review before the Court included: two Ohio cases, Obergefell v. Hodges, where the ACLU joined with Gerhardstein & Branch, and Henry v. Hodges, where Lambda Legal joined Gerhardstein & Branch;

DeBoer v. Snyder, a Michigan case litigated by private counsel and GLAD; Bourke v. Beshear and Love v. Beshear, two Kentucky cases litigated by private counsel and the ACLU; and Tanco v. Haslam, a Tennessee case litigated by private counsel and NCLR.

Lambda Legal, the ACLU, NCLR and GLAD, along with other civil and LGBT rights organizations and pro bono private counsel, have been fighting for the freedom to marry for same-sex couples for decades. Lambda Legal first fought for marriage equality in Hawaii almost 20 years ago, won a unanimous decision allowing same-sex couples to marry from the Iowa Supreme Court in 2009, and has successful litigated many other marriage lawsuits, including in Arizona, California, Illinois, Indiana, New Jersey, Nevada, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia.

View the opinion here: http://www.lambdalegal.org/in-court/legal-docs/henry_oh_20150626_opinion

From the ACLU:

WASHINGTON —The U.S. Supreme Court today issued a sweeping and historic decision that affords gay and lesbian couples the same legal right to marry and recognition of their marriages as different-sex couples. The ruling invalidates discriminatory laws in Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee upheld by the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, and as a practical matter, requires all 50 states to allow same-sex couples to marry.

"The Supreme Court today welcomed same-sex couples fully into the American family. Gay and lesbian couples and our families may be at peace knowing that our simple request to be treated like everyone else — that is, to be able to participate in the dignity of marriage — has finally been granted," said James Esseks, director of the ACLU's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and HIV Project. "Today's historic victory comes on the backs of same-sex couples and advocates who have worked for decades to dismantle harmful stereotypes and unjust laws in the quest for equal treatment."

The court's 5-4 opinion holds that state marriage bans violate the due process and equal protection provisions of the U.S. Constitution. Recognizing that "marriage embodies a love that may endure even past death," the Court held that the Constitution grants to same-sex couples the right to "equal dignity in the eyes of the law."

"Today's decision has been 50 years in the making and will stand with Brown vs. Board of Education as one of the landmark civil rights moments of our time," said Anthony D. Romero, ACLU Executive Director. "Now we take the battle for full legal equality to the states, where 31 states have yet to pass any statewide LGBT non-discrimination laws. The wind is at our backs, and we are now on the cusp of achieving full legal equality for LGBT Americans across the country."

The case is captioned Obergefell v. Hodges and is made up of cases from Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee. The American Civil Liberties Union represented plaintiffs in Kentucky cases Bourke v. Beshear and Love v. Beshear and in Ohio case Obergefell, et al. v. Hodges with private firms.

"We're very excited for our clients, and for other families all over the country, who no longer have to have their relationships relegated to second-tier status," said Dan Canon, attorney at Clay, Daniel, Walton and Adams representing Kentucky plaintiffs. "This is the right decision — one that puts the U.S. on the right side of both history and humanity."

More than fifty courts ruled in favor of marriage equality following the Supreme Court's watershed 2013 decision in United States v. Windsor that struck down the federal Defense of Marriage Act. In January 2015, the high court granted review of an aberrant Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that upheld marriage bans in the four states — the first appeals court to do so after Windsor.

"We started this case with a dying married man — John Arthur — and a death certificate. Without recognition of his marriage, this last document recording his life on earth would be forever wrong. Now the Supreme Court has ruled that Ohio must recognize his marriage and Jim Obergefell will be properly recorded as his surviving spouse," said Alphonse Gerhardstein of Gerhardstein & Branch representing Ohio plaintiffs. "This ruling will protect LGBT families from cradle to grave in medical and all other respects. May John Arthur rest in peace. We are thrilled and honored to help make this ruling a reality."

From The American Psychological Association

WASHINGTON — The American Psychological Association applauded the U. S. Supreme Court's ruling today that the U.S. Constitution bars states from denying marriage licenses to same-sex couples, citing scientific research as a basis for upholding the equality of all Americans regardless of sexual orientation.

"Empirical research demonstrates that the psychological and social aspects of committed relationships between same-sex partners largely resemble those of heterosexual partnerships," said APA President Barry S. Anton, PhD. "Like heterosexual couples, same-sex couples form deep emotional attachments and commitments. Heterosexual and same-sex couples alike face similar issues concerning intimacy, love, equity, loyalty and stability, and they go through similar processes to address those issues."

APA has a long history of supporting equal access to legal marriage based on years of scientific research. APA has supported legal benefits for same-sex couples since 1997 and civil marriage for same-sex couples since 2004.

APA filed an amicus brief in the case, Obergefell v. Hodges, which was joined by the Kentucky Psychological Association, Ohio Psychological Association, American Psychiatric Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, Michigan Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, National Association of Social Workers, National Association of Social Workers Tennessee Chapter, National Association of Social Workers Michigan Chapter, National Association of Social Workers Kentucky Chapter, National Association of Social Workers Ohio Chapter, American Psychoanalytic Association, American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Medical Association.

The brief argued that scientific evidence strongly supports the conclusion that homosexuality is a normal expression of human sexuality; that gay men and lesbians form stable, committed relationships that are equivalent to heterosexual relationships in essential respects; that same-sex couples are no less fit than heterosexual parents to raise children, and that their children are no less psychologically healthy and well-adjusted; and that denying same-sex couples access to marriage contributes to the negative treatment of lesbian, gay and bisexual people.

Freedom to Marry posted:

Today the Supreme Court held that same-sex couples can no longer be denied the freedom to marry guaranteed by the Constitution, assuring that soon all loving and committed couples will be able to marry throughout the United States.

Evan Wolfson, president of Freedom to Marry, released the following statement:

"Today's ruling is a transformative triumph decades in the making, a momentous victory for freedom, equality, inclusion, and above all, love. For anyone who ever doubted that we could bend the arc of the moral universe toward justice, today the United States again took a giant step toward the more perfect union we the people aspire to. Today the Liberty Bell rings alongside wedding bells across an ocean of joy.

"With the ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, the justices affirmed what a super-majority of Americans had come to understand: the freedom to marry is a precious, fundamental right that belongs to all, and that same-sex couples and our families share the same dreams and needs as any others.

"Today's win is the culmination of a decades-long campaign that successfully made the case in the court of public opinion, enabling victories in the courts of law.

"Freedom to Marry calls on state officials to swiftly and faithfully implement the Constitution's command in the remaining 13 states with marriage discrimination, so that all Americans can marry the person they love and build and protect their families, without delay, throughout the land.

"While the work towards equality for all Americans is far from over, the Freedom to Marry campaign has been transformative in Americans' understanding of who gay people are.

"The movement will continue to harness the power of the marriage conversation and win in the work ahead — including passage of a federal civil rights bill, securing state and local protections against discrimination, tending to the needs of our youth and our seniors, and ensuring that the lived experience of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people is fulfilling, good, inclusive, and equal throughout the land. But the work of this Freedom to Marry campaign is now accomplished. Over the next several months, Freedom to Marry will collaborate with key movement colleagues to smartly and strategically wind down its work and document lessons learned, and then close its doors, having achieved its goal of winning marriage nationwide and helping loving and committed couples cross the threshold to marriage and full inclusion in society, with equal justice under law."

The court majority wrote:

"No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice, and family. In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than once they were. As some of the petitioners in these cases demonstrate, marriage embodies a love that may endure even past death. It would misunderstand these men and women to say they disrespect the idea of marriage. Their plea is that they do respect it, respect it so deeply that they seek to find its fulfillment for themselves. Their hope is not to be condemned to live in loneliness, excluded from one of civilization's oldest institutions. They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right. The judgment of the Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit is reversed."

From the National Center for Lesbian Rights:

(Washington, D.C., June 26, 2015)—In a historic decision, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that states laws that ban marriage for same-sex couples are unconstitutional. The decision overturns a November 2014 Sixth Circuit Court ruling that upheld marriage bans in Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee.

The 5-4 ruling strikes down laws in 13 states and Puerto Rico and requires all 50 states to allow same-sex couples to marry.

The Tennessee plaintiffs are Dr. Valeria Tanco and Dr. Sophy Jesty; Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Ijpe DeKoe and Thom Kostura; and Matthew Mansell and Johno Espejo. They are represented by the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR), Tennessee attorneys Abby Rubenfeld, Maureen Holland, and Regina Lambert, William Harbison and other attorneys from the Nashville law firm of Sherrard & Roe PLC, and Douglas Hallward-Driemeier and other attorneys from the law firm of Ropes & Gray LLP. Hallward-Driemeier and GLAD's Mary Bonauto argued on behalf of the plaintiffs before the Court on April 28, 2015.

"We are overjoyed and grateful to the Supreme Court for finally putting an end to these damaging laws that have hurt so many families in Tennessee and across the country," said Tanco, who has a 1-year old daughter with Jesty. "We are grateful to every single member of our legal team, who have worked tirelessly to take down these discriminatory laws and finally bring the freedom to marry to the LGBT community. We would also like to thank our family, friends, and neighbors in Tennessee for all their support in this amazing and historic journey."

Said NCLR Legal Director Shannon Minter, Esq.: "In resounding terms that will echo through history, our nation's highest court has affirmed the common dignity and humanity of same-sex couples. For all people in this country, including millions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Americans, today is a day to celebrate. By recognizing that the U.S. Constitution guarantees all Americans the freedom to marry and form a family with the person with whom they have chosen to share their life, the Court has brought us one monumental step closer to a nation in which everyone can live openly and authentically, without fear, harassment, or discrimination. We are grateful to the courageous couples who brought their case before the Court, and to generations of LGBT activists, leaders, and community members who worked tirelessly for decades to make this day possible."

From PFLAG National board president Jean Hodges:

"Today feels like a wedding that the entire country was invited to, and the whole PFLAG family is right up front with hearts overflowing and tears in our eyes. By affirming the rights of all loving couples to commit to each other with the full weight of legal protection that marriage affords, the Supreme Court has affirmed a founding principle that we must all continue to strive for: a more perfect union.

While we celebrate today's victory, we are dedicated to continuing and redoubling our advocacy work to secure legislation that explicitly protects people who are LGBTQ from discrimination in the workplace, in their homes, in their schools and in their communities. Now is the time to expand federal law—law which already protects people from discrimination based on race, sex, age, ethnicity, and religion—to include explicit protection from discrimination based on actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression."

From OutServe-SLDN:

OutServe-SLDN Calls on VA Secretary to begin immediately providing benefits to LGB veterans and their families

WASHINGTON ( June 2015 ) — OutServe-SLDN Interim Executive Director Matt Thorn issued the following statement in response to today's Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, which will require states to license a marriage between two people of the same sex:

"Today, our community was told by the Supreme Court of the United States that you are an American, and a citizen of the United States. Your relationship, your marriage and your family matters to our community as a country and must be respected and treated fairly under the law.

"The absence of marriage equality has cast a long shadow on families and been an attack on the very foundations of our Republic. Today, the Supreme Court has reaffirmed our founders' beliefs and the promise of our Declaration and Constitution. Today we are again a city upon a hill, leading the world to a brighter future.

"Without the leadership and persistence by the many plaintiffs, attorneys, many advocates and organizations over the years this day may not have come as soon as today. Today, the OutServe-SLDN urges all of our members, all advocates and allies, to celebrate this earth-shattering opinion by the Supreme Court.

"While we take pleasure in this decision by SCOTUS, there is still much work to do. We need open transgender military service, gender identity inclusion as a protected class in the Military Equality Opportunity Program, a comprehensive Employment Non-Discrimination Act ( ENDA ), a comprehensive immigration plan for LGBT couples and families, a renewed focus toward domestic HIV care and support, a plan to address LGBT homelessness, to name a few, but today we celebrate this victory and join together as a community in the goals and achievements that we have been able to accomplish in the last five decades.

"OutServe-SLDN also calls on the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to begin immediately providing benefits to our LGB veterans and their families to ensure that all have access to their earned VA benefits, regardless of their state of residence. This is a critical step that will ensure that every member of the United States military and their families have the same access to the benefits that they have so rightfully earned in their service and sacrifice to our country. The climate of the era has changed definitively with the decision of the Supreme Court. We implore the VA to give our military families the respect, dignity and protections that they have earned. Our LGB veterans should not be denied these benefits because of the state they live in or because of their sexual orientation. They should be given these benefits because it is the right thing to do. It is the American thing to do." You may read an advance copy of our letter to Secretary of Veteran's Affairs Robert McDonald here.

From DignityUSA, LGBT Catholics:

Boston, June 26, 2015. DignityUSA, the organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Catholics, cheered today's Supreme Court's sweeping decision that strikes down state bans on same-sex marriage, and makes marriage equality the law of the land throughout the U.S.

"As Catholics, we celebrate the increase in justice that this ruling ushers in. We rejoice with all of the couples and families who will be able to access the legal protections that marriage will afford them. Mostly, we are thrilled that the Supreme Court has recognized that the love and commitment of same-sex couples is absolutely equal to that of other couples," said Marianne Duddy-Burke, Executive Director of DignityUSA.

Duddy-Burke continued, "Catholics have been in the forefront of efforts to gain marriage equality for more than a decade. Our commitment to the values of love, inclusion, family, and justice have inspired millions of Catholics—both straight and LGBT—to work for this day, even when some leaders of our Church have instructed us to fight against it. It is wonderful to see the true values of our faith and our country affirmed today.

"DignityUSA prays for consideration and solidarity as this ruling is implemented. We understand that there are many in our country, and in our church, who will be disappointed by this ruling, and urge that the sincerity of their beliefs be respected. At the same time, we expect that all people, no matter what their beliefs, abide by what the Supreme Court has affirmed as the law of the land, and treat same-sex couples and their families respectfully and in full accordance with the law."

From National Center for Transgender Equality:

Washington, DC — Washington, DC - Today, the US Supreme Court issued their long-awaited ruling bringing the freedom to marry to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people nationwide. In response to the historic ruling, National Center for Transgender Equality Executive Director Mara Keisling said:

"The U.S. Supreme Court has finally ruled that gender can no longer be used to prevent couples from marrying bringing immeasurable stability to families with transgender spouses. The National Center for Transgender Equality welcomes this ruling and acknowledges that our path to equality cannot stop here. The LGBT movement must continue our work toward the legal recognition of all kinds of families while recommitting ourselves to racial, social, and economic justice for all Americans. From securing explicit employment non-discrimination protections, to ending the unsafe detention of undocumented trans immigrants, to advancing trans-affirming policies at all levels of government, our work ahead is clearer and more achievable than ever."

From NCLR (National Council of La Raza)

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, in a 5-to-4 decision, the Supreme Court affirmed the legality of same-sex marriages, granting gay and lesbian couples across the nation the right to marry. NCLR (National Council of La Raza) applauds this decision, which is a monumental victory for equal treatment and justice for all.

"The decision handed down today ends once and for all an injustice that millions of Americans have endured," said Janet Murgua, President and CEO of NCLR. "We are pleased to see that the Court agrees with the majority of Americans who believe that LGBT couples deserve equal rights, benefits and protections under the law."

A 2012 study released by NCLR found that Hispanics were as tolerant as their fellow Americans, if not more tolerant, toward the LGBT community. Nearly half of all Latinos polled supported gay marriage, while about 60 percent supported civil unions. Similar to the overall population, Latinos have since increased their support for same-sex marriage and show high support for legal protections for hate crimes and job discrimination toward LGBT individuals.

NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org or follow along on Facebook and Twitter.

DNC Chair Statement on Obergefell v. Hodges:

Washington, DC — Today, DNC Chair Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz released the following statement in response to the U.S. Supreme Court's decision on same-sex marriage:

"I enthusiastically applaud the Supreme Court's decision in the case of Obergefell v.Hodges. This decision, and what it means for the LGBT community, has been a long-time coming and is the result of decades of struggle and perseverance.

"Now, same-sex couples throughout the country will be guaranteed the recognition and legal protections they so fully deserve. No longer will their families be viewed as lesser in the eyes of the law.

"Last week I had the privilege of officiating a same-sex wedding right across the street from the Supreme Court building. It was clear that the love between Alex and Robert is no different than the love I share with my husband Steve. Love is love, and love is now the law.

"Today is a day of celebration, and as we move forward from this important victory, Democrats will continue fighting to ensure that nobody in this country faces discrimination because of who they are or whom they love."

From U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05):

CHICAGO — Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), Vice-Chair of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, released the following statement in response to the 5-4 Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges legalizing gay marriage nationwide:

"Today is the day we have been waiting for. Today, the Supreme Court unequivocally affirmed that the Constitution guarantees the fundamental right of all Americans to marry who they love. Finally, equal justice under the law means marriage equality for all. The Court's historic decision will be remembered for bringing respect and stability to millions of LGBT families and a clear and decisive victory for the decades-long fight for marriage equality nationwide.

"The Supreme Court has recognized what we already know: that LGBT families are equal in every way with other families. Thanks to this decision, LGBT families will be protected under the law and have full access to the rights and responsibilities of legal marriage. We can celebrate that ours is a country that keeps its promise of the pursuit of happiness, liberty, and justice for all.

"While this decision is a momentous victory for LGBT Americans, it is not the end of the fight for full equality. In too many states, it is still legal to fire or deny housing to Americans because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. In these states, LGBT couples who can now get legally married can then be legally fired for entering into that marriage. As we celebrate the fact that all Americans now have equal access to marriage, we must not forget that much work remains to be done to ensure that no one can be denied employment, housing, public accommodation, or federal benefits because of their sexual orientation or gender identity."

From Hillary Clinton:

Hillary Clinton released the following statement after the Supreme Court decision on Marriage Equality in the Obergefell v. Hodges case.

Along with millions of Americans, I am celebrating today's landmark victory for marriage equality, and the generations of advocates and activists who fought to make it possible. From Stonewall to the Supreme Court, the courage and determination of the LGBT community has changed hearts and changed laws.

This ruling is an affirmation of the commitment of couples across the country who love one another. It reflects the will of the vast and growing multitude of Americans who believe that LGBT couples deserve to be recognized under the law and treated equally in the eyes of society. And it represents our country at its best: inclusive, open, and striving towards true equality.

But we know that the struggle for LGBT rights doesn't end with today's triumph. As love and joy flood our streets today, it is hard to imagine how anyone could deny the full protection of our laws to any of our fellow Americans—but there are those who would. So while we celebrate the progress won today, we must stand firm in our conviction to keep moving forward. For too many LGBT Americans who are subjected to discriminatory laws, true equality is still just out of reach. While we celebrate today, our work won't be finished until every American can not only marry, but live, work, pray, learn and raise a family free from discrimination and prejudice. We cannot settle for anything less.

From Pride at Work:

WASHINGTON, DC - In a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court ruled today to affirm the right to marry for same-sex couples across the nation. Pride at Work celebrates this historic victory for marriage equality and the LGBTQ community. Executive Director, Jerame Davis, reacts:

"Today's momentous victory in the Supreme Court has affirmed what we already knew - the 14th amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees equal protection under the law and that includes the right to marry for same-sex couples. We are ecstatic that this ruling will finally deliver equality and justice to families in every state of our great nation. We hope the states will move quickly to implement this ruling.

"The opponents of marriage equality have predicted doom and despair at each stage of this long journey to equality, but love and commitment are not values that undermine our national heritage. Today's ruling underscores the importance of marriage in our society and upholds the dignity and value of the lives of LGBTQ Americans.

"But we are not done. In 29 states, same-sex couples who take advantage of their right to wed may face serious complications with their job, housing, and public accommodations. The very real possibility that a worker could marry the person they love on Saturday and then get fired from their job Monday morning when they show pictures around the water cooler is a looming threat to many workers who do not enjoy the protections of a union collective bargaining agreement. While a union contract will protect workers in the workplace, not every workplace is a union shop, which is why we need a comprehensive national non-discrimination law to protect these workers on the job, at home, and in the public square.

"We have won a major victory today, but the backlash will be swift. Our comrades in the labor movement rejoice with us in our victory and will stand with us to fight the battles ahead. We are one union and one nation. Both are stronger today."

From Cook County Clerk David Orr:

Cook County Clerk David Orr applauded the 5-4 ruling Friday by the U.S. Supreme Court in favor of marriage equality in the United States. The landmark decision in the case of Obergefell v. Hodges makes same-sex marriage a constitutional right in the United States.

"Marriage equality will now be the law of the land, and there is no turning back," Orr said. "I am thrilled that the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled in favor of marriage equality, agreeing with the majority of Americans that same-sex couples throughout the United States should enjoy the right to marry.

"Justice delayed is justice denied," Orr said. "For too long, same-sex couples in this country have had to wait: for state legislatures to pass marriage equality; for judges to declare that withholding this right was unconstitutional; and for voters to turn back anti-equality initiatives, just so they could marry the person they love.

"Like all civil rights struggles, the fight for marriage equality has been long and contentious, but those on the frontlines worked hard and kept their focus steady, as their victories increased. I have supported this fight, applauded each victory, especially here in Illinois and Cook County. I congratulate the LBGT community, and all advocates of equality, on this momentous day."

Prior to the ruling, the legality of same-sex marriage was left up to individual state legislatures and the court. In total, 37 states as well as the District of Columbia legalized same-sex marriage from 2004-2015. Illinois became the 16th state to enact marriage equality on June 1, 2014.

Cook County started issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples on Feb. 21, 2014 (photos/video). Orr has issued more than 7,500 marriage licenses to same-sex couples since then. More than one-quarter of those couples have come from out of state.

Same-sex couples looking for more information on getting married in Cook County can find frequently asked questions and more on the Clerk's Marriage Equality webpage, www.cookcountyclerk.com/vitalrecords/marriageequality .

From The Service Employees International Union's International President Mary Kay Henry:

WASHINGTON—In response to the Supreme Court's ruling in Obergefell v.Hodges, SEIU International President Mary Kay Henry issued the following statement:

"Justice and equality are at cornerstones of our union and of the labor movement, but more than that, they are at the heart of the American promise. Today, the Supreme Court advanced justice by settling the debate over marriage equality, once and for all.

"Marriage equality means that LGBT working people will now have access to the same workplace laws, from healthcare to retirement benefits—that have always protected married workers and their spouses. It is right for this to be the case. In the fullness of time, love always wins, and today's reflection of that reality from the Supreme Court is cause for celebration.

"This week working families prevailed at the Supreme Court on multiple fronts, from marriage equality to healthcare to fair housing. But we know that attacks on justice by conservative extremists will continue. We will keep fighting to overcome these attacks and restore the Supreme Court's vital role in our democracy, above politics and partisanship."

www.seiu.org .

From the Family Equality Council:

Family Equality Council applauds the decision by the Supreme Court of the United States in Obergefell v. Hodges, making nationwide marriage equality a reality for millions of LGBTQ people, including the 3 million parents and their 6 million children whom we represent. "In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than once they were," Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote in the majority opinion. "They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right." His beautiful statements are particularly impactful for families living in the 13 states where it has been illegal to marry a person of the same sex.

The Court's decision marks the culmination of decades of litigation, advocacy and public education efforts by many in the LGBTQ community. Family Equality Council, which has worked to advance protections for LGBTQ parents and their children is particularly proud of the role we have played in elevating the voices of our children in every federal circuit and in front of the nine justices of the U.S. Supreme Court in our "Voices of Children" friend of the court brief. Our latest version of the "Voices" brief included contributions from more than 30 children, teens and adults ranging in age from 10 to 44. It is a proud day for these children, their parents and for the LGBTQ movement at-large.

Statement from Family Equality Council Executive Director Gabriel Blau:

"The justices have affirmed what more than 60 percent of Americans believe: that marriage is a fundamental right that belongs to all. What matters more to the people I talk to —especially LGBTQ parents and their children — is the need to feel validated and regarded as equal by peers, teachers, and the many other people in their lives. Today we celebrate, though tomorrow we resume our work — as there is so much left to accomplish. We won't rest until all LGBTQ people and families are protected, supported and respected and true lived equality becomes a reality."

Statement from Family Equality Council Director of Public Policy Emily Hecht-McGowan:

"This is a joyful moment for our families and what a day of pride for our country. As a movement we now have a responsibility to harness this momentum as we continue to work for nationwide non-discrimination protections, greater adoption and foster care rights, and increased security for working LGBTQ parents and their families. Even with this ruling, in the majority of states, people can be fired, denied housing or refused service in a restaurant just because they are LGBTQ. Today we celebrate and tomorrow we get back to work."

Statement from Family Equality Council Director of Programs Brent Wright:

"Today is a day to rejoice and give thanks for this important step forward in our quest for legal equality. And while our journey towards lived equality is not yet complete, the long campaign for marriage equality has transformed the country and Americans have gained a new understanding about the need to support all families, including those headed by LGBTQ people and same-sex couples."

From Transgender Law Center Executive Director Kris Hayashi:

"With today's historic ruling, the Supreme Court has sent a resounding message that the values of fairness and equal treatment are fundamental to our Constitution. Many people, including transgender people, are impacted by the legal recognition of our relationships and families and will be able to live with more safety and dignity because of today's decision. This is an incredible victory that seemed unimaginable just a few years ago. This ruling also sets an important precedent that we will build on in our legal work, helping us make the case that the discrimination that too many transgender people face every day is unconstitutional, just like discrimination against lesbian, gay, and bisexual people.

Going back to pivotal moments like the Stonewall and Compton's Cafeteria rebellions, the courage and advocacy of transgender leaders of color, and particularly transgender women of color, has been instrumental in advancing the whole LGBT movement and laying the groundwork for victories like today's. As we celebrate today's ruling, we must honor the values that got us here. We believe that all people should have a fair chance to live their lives in this country, but right now, too many members of our community are in a daily battle for survival.

As many celebrate today, we must remember that many members of our community cannot. At least nine transgender women have been murdered this year alone, mostly trans women of color. In 31 states, there are no explicit laws protecting LGBT people from being fired and denied services just because of who they are, and several states this year have tried or are trying to prohibit transgender people from using public bathrooms. Police target and incarcerate transgender and gender nonconforming people of color at alarming rates. Immigrant transgender women looking for safety are met by horrific abuse and assault in detention centers, and when a TransLatina undocumented immigrant woman called on the President at a White House Pride reception to take action to stop the abuse, she was silenced by both the President and our LGBT movement leaders. As an LGBT movement we have much more to do.

As we celebrate today, we also know we must keep working towards the day when all people, regardless of their gender, can live their lives safely, authentically, and free from fear."

From Planned Parenthood:

WASHINGTON, DC — Planned Parenthood released the following statement on the U.S. Supreme Court's historic ruling today that makes clear that the constitutional right to marriage extends to same-sex couples.

Statement from Cecile Richards, President of Planned Parenthood Federation of America:

"Planned Parenthood is thrilled with the Supreme Court's decision recognizing that the right to marry extends to same-sex couples in all 50 states. This ruling affirms what many of us already know — that love is love and all couples should be treated equally. Today will make a difference in the lives of millions of Americans and their families.

"Today's ruling is a major victory for LGBTQ equality and a tremendous step forward for this country, which has seen extraordinary progress on LGBTQ issues in the past 10 years. This progress is rooted in principles that also underlie reproductive rights: that politicians should not get to decide what you do with your body or what your family looks like, and that rights in this country should not depend on the state you live in. We know that this progress will only continue.

"Planned Parenthood believes that reproductive rights are deeply connected to LGBTQ rights and is proud to be a provider of health care and information for so many in the LGBTQ community. We have long stood with LGBTQ people — many of whom turn to Planned Parenthood for health care, information, and education — in the fight for full equality. We care passionately about helping women, men, and young people lead healthy lives, no matter who they are or where they live. We are thrilled that people in every state will now be able to marry who they love and form the family they want."

At Planned Parenthood, we know our patients and supporters don't comprise any one identity, and we're grateful for the many volunteers, staff, and supporters of all genders and identities who work every day to ensure that people in communities across the country get the health care and information they need.

Planned Parenthood's doors are open to everyone — regardless of gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation. We believe that all people deserve high-quality, affordable health care and accurate, nonjudgmental sexual health information, no matter who they are or where they live. We know that when people are truly cared for, they make their lives, their families, and their communities better and healthier.

Background on the ruling:

In May of 2004, there wasn't a single state in the country that permitted same-sex marriage. Prior to this ruling, 37 states and the District of Columbia had marriage equality, and nearly 72 percent of Americans lived in a state that allows same-sex couples to marry. In this case, the Supreme Court considered whether or not the remaining states must allow same-sex marriage, and if not, whether they must recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states. It answered both questions in the affirmative, holding all states must allow same-sex marriage and that states must recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states.

There is strong public support for marriage equality: According to an April 2015 Washington Post-ABC News Poll, a record-high 6 in 10 Americans support marriage equality, saying individual states should not be allowed to define marriage as only between a man and a woman. A February 2015 poll from CNN/ORC found that 63 percent of Americans believe that same-sex couples have a constitutional right to marry. The poll also showed that there is a majority support for marriage equality in every region of the country, as well as majority support in every age group (with 52 percent of Americans over the age of 65 saying they support marriage for same-sex couples and 70 percent of respondents under 50).

From Francis DeBernardo, Executive Director, New Ways Ministry:

MOUNT RAINIER, Maryland—New Ways Ministry rejoices with millions of U.S. Catholics that the U.S. Supreme Court has decided in favor of marriage equality for lesbian and gay couples! On this historic day, we pray in thanksgiving that justice and mercy have prevailed and that the prayers and efforts of so many have combined to move our nation one step closer to fairness and equality for all.

With this Supreme Court victory, Catholics recommit themselves to working to make sure that all LGBT people are treated equally in both church and society. While we are delighted with this victory, there is still much work to be done to ensure those goals.

Catholics have been at the forefront of working for equal marriage rights for lesbian and gay couples. The overwhelming majority of U.S. Catholics have consistently been in favor of marriage equality, and have put their support into action in legislative, judicial, and electoral campaigns.

Their Catholic faith has inspired them to make sure that their lesbian and gay family members, friends, neighbors, and co-workers receive equal treatment by society. The Supreme Court's decision embodies the Catholic values of human dignity, respect for differences, and the strengthening of families.

While the U.S. Catholic bishops have consistently opposed marriage equality measures on all fronts, Catholic people in the pews have had a different perspective from their leaders. The lived faith of Catholic people has taught them that love, commitment, and sacrifice are the essential building blocks of marriage and family. Their daily experiences interacting with lesbian and gay couples and their families has taught them that these relationships are identical to heterosexual marriages in terms of the essential qualities needed to build a future together, establish a family, and contribute to social stability and growth.

The U.S. bishops now need to reconcile themselves to the new social reality of marriage equality, as it is poised to spread to all 50 states. They can do so by entering into a dialogue with lesbian and gay Catholics to learn more about the reality of their lives and how their faith inspires their relationships. The bishops should declare a moratorium on firing lesbian and gay church employees who have married legally. These firings have been a scandalous trend with effects that are harmful not only to the people involved, but to the life of the Church.

Today begins a time for Catholic supporters and Catholic opponents of marriage equality to reconcile with one another and work to build up their local faith communities so that together they can work for a world Pope Francis envisions: one of justice and mercy.

From the Williams Institute:

Williams Institute scholars are available to comment and provide legal and demographic analysis.

LOS ANGELES — The U.S. Supreme Court today legalized marriage equality nationwide by ruling that states can no longer ban same-sex couples from marrying.

In its historic decision, the Supreme Court cites research by the Williams Institute Blachford-Cooper Distinguished Scholar and Research Director Gary Gates, "As all parties agree, many same-sex couples provide loving and nurturing homes to their children, whether biological or adopted. And hundreds of thousands of children are presently being raised by such couples. Most States have allowed gays and lesbians to adopt, either as individuals or as couples, and many adopted and foster children have same-sex parents. This provides powerful confirmation from the law itself that gays and lesbians can create loving, supportive families."

According to Williams Institute research:

There are approximately 1 million same-sex couples (married and unmarried) living together in the United States.

The number of married same-sex couples in the United States has tripled since 2013. An estimated 390,000 same-sex couples are currently married.

An estimated 122,000 same-sex couples are raising 210,000 children under age 18, of whom 58,000 are adopted or foster children. Same-sex couples are nearly three times as likely as their different-sex counterparts to be raising an adopted or foster child. Married same-sex couples are five times more likely to have these children when compared to their married different-sex counterparts.

Approximately 150,000 same-sex couples live in the 13 states that did not previously allow same-sex marriage. An estimated 70,000 of those couples will marry in the next three years.

Compared to all same-sex couples in the United States, those in the 13 states are more likely to have children, earn less, and are more likely to be racial or ethnic minorities.

In Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and Tennessee — the states specifically at issue in the cases before the Supreme Court — 19 percent (nearly 11,000) of the 56,000 same-sex couples are raising more than 18,000 children under 18 years old.

Public support for same-sex marriage has increased in all 50 states since 2004, especially in states that have legalized same-sex marriage.

Williams Institute scholars have filed amicus briefs and served as expert witnesses in many cases concerning marriage rights for same-sex couples, including all of the cases before the Supreme Court. Numerous courts have relied explicitly on William Institute research in striking down bans on marriage for same-sex couples, including the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the Fourth, Seventh, and Ninth Circuits.

A webinar with Williams Institute legal and social science experts will be held at 8-9 a.m. PDT on Monday, June 29 on the decision's impact on state and local economies, families, stigma and LGBT health, and public opinion.

Williams Institute scholars are available for comment. For more information about the webinar, contact Lauren Jow at jow@law.ucla.edu or 310-206-0314.

From April DeBoer, Jayne Rowse, and the National Marriage Challenge:

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Today the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that marriage is a constitutional right, finding in favor of Michigan couple April DeBoer and Jayne Rowse, whose case DeBoer et al v. Snyder asked the Court to establish whether the Constitution requires states to allow same-sex couples to marry.

In his opinion for the majority, Justice Anthony Kennedy noted that denying marriage equality has created "a grave and continuing harm" in violation of the 14th Amendment's Equal Protection and Due Process Clauses.

"No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice, and family," said Kennedy. "[The plaintiffs] ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right."

"We're elated, not just for our family but for hundreds of thousands of families around the country," said DeBoer. "We've done everything we could to protect our children, and to make sure families like ours have the same safety and security as all other families, and we couldn't be more thrilled that this day has finally come."

"For years, our five-year-old daughter has been asking us when 'we' are getting married, meaning the whole family," said Rowse. "We all thought it was cute, but she's honestly more astute than many politicians in recognizing the importance of marriage for uniting a family."

Four years ago, DeBoer and Rowse had no idea they would be a part of a precedent-setting, historic case that would decide the issue of marriage equality for the entire nation. The hospital nurses are the parents of four adopted children, two with special needs. They originally challenged Michigan's adoption code so that they could adopt their children jointly rather than as "single" individuals, and provide them the security of having two legal parents. They later challenged the state's marriage ban since it keeps April and Jayne, as well as the children, from being legally recognized as a family and from the protections other families enjoy. After a nine-day trial in 2014, Federal District Court Judge Bernard A. Freidman struck down Michigan's ban on marriages and similar unions. The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals overturned that decision and those of courts in Ohio, Tennessee and Kentucky, even as multiple other rulings established marriage equality as the governing law. The Fourth, Seventh and Tenth Circuits all found state marriage bans unconstitutional, decisions the Supreme Court declined to review. With the Sixth Circuit causing a split in the courts, the Supreme Court accepted the group of cases known as Obergefell v. Hodges, including Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee along with Michigan.

The DeBoer-Rowse family was represented by Michigan attorneys Carole M. Stanyar; Dana Nessel of Nessel and Kessel Law; Kenneth Mogill of Mogill, Posner & Cohen; Wayne State University Law Professor Robert Sedler; and Mary L. Bonauto, Civil Rights Project Director at Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders.

"Thanks to April, Jayne, and their children, people all over the country have the legal benefits and stability of a family united by marriage," said Nessel. "While we in Michigan still have a long way to go to ensure equal protection under the law for LGBT people, this is a huge hurdle to clear and we're energized by this decision."

"This was a definitive statement for now and for future generations," said Stanyar. "States cannot treat people unequally. Same-sex couples, and their children, are entitled to liberty, dignity and respect."

Statement by Jessica Stern, Executive Director, International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission, on the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges

For weeks and months to come, Americans will celebrate today's historic ruling - a dream come true for tens of thousands of LGBTI community members and tens of thousands of their loved ones and extended family, clergy, teachers, employers and allies across the country.

The United States has joined 20 other countries in recognition of the freedom to marry for same-sex couples nationwide*

And yet, our work is far from over - not in the United States and not around the world. Marriage equality is one slice of the pie, but homophobia and transphobia morph into different shapes in law and practice. Nearly 80 countries still criminalize same-sex intimacy and countless prohibit so-called "cross-dressing." Name a country and almost daily, you will find grotesque acts of homophobia and transphobia.

With today's victory, I hope that Americans will move into a new era in our movement for LGBTI rights. First, we must address those who are most vulnerable within this country, including transgender people in immigration detention. Second, I hope that we will join the global movement to fight intolerance and affirm fundamental dignity. That work must truly become our own, if we hope to achieve a world free and equal for all. Today is not an end but a new beginning.

*Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Canada, South Africa, Norway, Sweden, Portugal, Iceland, Argentina, Denmark, France, Brazil, Uruguay, New Zealand, Britain, Luxembourg, Finland, Ireland, and Pitcairn Island), while Mexico and the United States have had regional or court-directed provisions enabling same-sex couples to share in the freedom to marry. In Slovenia, Parliament approved a marriage bill in March 2015 and is headed to the president's desk. Many other countries provide some protections for such couples.

From the American Bar Association

WASHINGTON, June 26, 2015 — American Bar Association President William C. Hubbard commended the decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, which ruled that the 14th Amendment grants same-sex couples the fundamental right to marry and would require states to recognize a marriage between two people of the same sex when their marriage was lawfully licensed and performed out-of-state.

"The Court's decision means that now children of same-sex couples will have the security that legal marriage provides. Recognizing the dignity and equality of same-sex couples is consistent with the fundamental principles that undergird the rule of law: fairness, equality and liberty," Hubbard said in a statement. Please click here to view Hubbard's full statement.

The ABA filed an amicus brief before the court in March, urging the justices to rule that the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment requires a state to license a marriage between two people of the same sex.

From the White House:

Following the ruling, President Barack Obama delivered a statement from the Rose Garden. Watch the video at the link; www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2015/06/26/live-updates-lovewins-supreme-court-rules-gay-and-lesbian-couples-can-marry-0 .

Related coverage at the link: www.windycitymediagroup.com/lgbt/Supreme-Court-State-bans-on-marriage-for-same-sex-couples-unconstitutional/51972.html .


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