GLAD Congratulates California on Marriage Win
State Supreme Court Makes California Second State with Equal Marriage Rights
Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders applauds today’s decision by the California Supreme Court allowing same-sex couples to marry. The majority of the California Supreme Court ruled that the exclusion of same-sex couples from marriage violates the state constitution, and that a separate system granting the rights of marriage to same-sex couples is constitutionally insufficient.
GLAD Civil Rights Project Director Mary L. Bonauto, who argued and won Goodridge v. Department of Public Health, the lawsuit that made Massachusetts the first state with equal marriage, today issued this statement:
“Congratulations California! Like Massachusetts, your courts and legislature have seen the humanity gay people share in common with others. Get ready for an outbreak of happiness as committed couples finally share in the dignity and security that marriage brings. Today’s landmark ruling—which affirms the legislative majority—marks a moment in history that will be remembered more like the crest of a wave than simply another ripple.”
GLAD argued its Connecticut marriage equality case, Kerrigan & Mock et al v. Connecticut Department of Public Health, at the state Supreme Court in May, 2007.
Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders, now celebrating its 30th year, is New England’s leading legal rights organization dedicated solely to ending discrimination based on sexual orientation, HIV status, and gender identity and expression.
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Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders is New England's leading legal organization dedicated to ending discrimination based on sexual orientation, HIV status, and gender identity and expression.