A historic ruling was made today when federal Judge Timothy Black overturned a portion of Ohio’s marriage ban, stating that Ohio must recognize same sex marriage licenses of couples who have legal wed in other states.
“This is a historic day for all Ohioans,” stated Why Marriage Matters Campaign Manager, Michael Premo. “This ruling is about love, stability and family; and it is a victory for the families that have been denied equality under the law. We thank Judge Black for his ruling, which is a great step in the right direction toward full marriage equality.”
The ruling will not go into effect immediately as Judge Black is scheduled to revisit case details in Henry v. Himes tomorrow. There are currently over 50 marriage equality court cases working their way through the judicial system across the US.
“For the second time Judge Black has affirmed that the marriages of committed and loving same-sex couples must be recognized by the state of Ohio,” said Human Rights Campaign president Chad Griffin. “Since the Supreme Court’s landmark marriage equality rulings last June, not a single state marriage ban has survived a federal court challenge. It’s only a matter of time before marriage equality is the law of the land in not just Ohio, but every corner of America.”
Today’s ruling will not alter Ohio’s ban that prevents same-sex couples from getting married within the state. Same-sex marriage is currently legal in 17 other states plus Washington DC.
“We are excited about today’s ruling, but we know that our work must continue,” added Premo. “We will keep talking to Ohioans about why marriage matters and highlighting the amazing stories of loving and committed couples that are being denied the dignity of marriage. We will continue to encourage everyone to talk to their friends, family and neighbors about marriage equality because we know that it strengthens families and communities.”
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