Center for Reproductive Rights Statement on Supreme Court Marriage Equality Rulings

(PRESS RELEASE) In two historic decisions, the U.S. Supreme Court today reversed the discriminatory policy under the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) to ensure the federal government and states recognize same-sex marriage where it is legal and left in place the ruling restoring marriage equality rights to gay couples in California. Said Nancy Northup, president and CEO of the Center for Reproductive Rights: “The Supreme Court’s historic decisions have reaffirmed the importance of equal treatment as one of the fundamental protections guaranteed every American under the U.S. Constitution. “At a time when other fundamental rights, including women’s reproductive rights, are coming under ferocious assault at the hands of hostile lawmakers in states across the nation, it is reassuring that the court has demonstrated its commitment to this vital principle. “We applaud the individuals and organizations involved in both historic legal challenges for their deep commitment to equality and liberty for all Americans. Because of their efforts, significant steps have been taken to overturn discriminatory policies under DOMA and LGBT families in California will finally be restored the equal rights and protection under the law that they—and every family across the country—deserve. “Today we stand with the LGBT community and every American who believes in equality, fair treatment under the law, and the ability to exercise freely and fully our fundamental, constitutionally protected rights.”