Rather than protecting or supporting the families of opposite-sex couples, Amendment 3 perpetuates inequality by holding that the families and relationships of same-sex couples are not now, nor ever will be, worthy of recognition. Amendment 3 does not thereby elevate the status of opposite-sex marriage; it merely demeans the dignity of same-sex couples. And while the State cites an interest in protecting traditional marriage, it protects that interest by denying one of the most traditional aspects of marriage to thousands of its citizens: the right to form a family that is strengthened by a partnership based on love, intimacy, and shared responsibilities. The Plaintiffs’ desire to publicly declare their vows of commitment and support to each other is a testament to the strength of marriage in society, not a sign that, by opening its doors to all individuals, it is in danger of collapse.Remarkably, he didn't stay the decision, so couples have rushed out to get married.
The Governor is not happy. Nor is the Mormon church.
An appeal has been filed, and a request for a stay is expected. Whether the marriages will remain intact or be annulled? well....we pre-Prop8 couples have been there, done that. Ours were "grandfathered in" after Prop H8. Good luck, brothers and sisters!
UTAH?
Update: excellent analysis from Think PRogress here.
3 comments:
I'm watching Rachel Maddow cover this now: JAW-DROPPING!!!!
Bit of a shock. The Salt Lake City mayor presided over one of the marriages.
If this holds on appeal, it means marriage equality nationwide (but not until SCOTUS upholds it, and it probably would not reach them until the 2015 term). (New Mexico, on the other hand, was decided under the state constitution, there is no appeal, but it has no precedential value or impact outside of NM).
It would be good, however, to see some more victories at the ballot box in 2014, (Oregon, a defeat for hate in Indiana) so that SCOTUS is not too far ahead of public opinion and can feel confident making the right decision.
Let`s not get too overconfident, and keep pushing forward, because we are almost there.
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