Photo by Suzette' Franck
Today, the United States Supreme Court made a historic decision for marriage equality.
“Today’s ruling creates unstoppable momentum for LGBTQ freedom, justice and equality. It also shows that love does conquer all,” said Rea Carey, Executive Director, National LGBTQ Task Force.
“For same-sex couples and their families across the country, this is incredible news. For millions, it affirms our faith in the promise of America — as this ruling tears down one more barrier between LGBTQ people and true lived freedom. This ruling turns the page from national discrimination towards a new day of equality when it comes to recognizing our relationships.”
The Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that same-sex couples have the freedom to marry the person they love in their home state, or in any state. As a result of this historic ruling, same-sex marriage is legal in every state and in U.S. territories. States must perform marriages and recognize them from other states.
“Now same-sex couples who choose to get married will gain access to all of the rights, protections and responsibilities associated with marriage. These include: health care, Social Security, housing and income security—all key components of building a life where you can be you and reach your full potential,” Carey said.
Now that the court has ruled that marriage discrimination is unconstitutional, LGBTQ advocates note that laws should follow in other areas to provide protections and legal equality.
“Today and for months to come we can celebrate a historic win on marriage. We also continue the hard work for more progress. For example, we still live in a world where same-sex married couples can go to work and get fired for who they are or love and there are many other experiences of discrimination that get in the way of LGBTQ people — and LGBTQ people of color — accessing good paying jobs, affordable housing and quality healthcare,” said Carey.
“As we leverage the celebration and momentum of marriage equality, we must take a comprehensive approach to tackling the full range of issues that affect the lives of LGBTQ people and their families. From the urgent need for strong non-discrimination laws at every level of government across the United States to nixing Indiana-style pro-discrimination laws where religious liberty is used as an excuse to impose beliefs and prejudices on others; from fixing our broken immigration system to delivering accessible reproductive health care. We must fundamentally address the challenges that impact our families and the very soul of our nation such as racism, racial injustice and hatred — as we witnessed in the appalling murders of Black people in a South Carolina church. Yes, marriage equality is a great victory and we need much more.”