The US Supreme Court reached the long-awaited verdict today that removes all state bans of same-sex marriage, which includes the ban that the State of Ohio enacted in 2004. The decision was reached in a 5-4 verdict.
“Today the Supreme Court affirmed what we have always known: we are equal,” said Equality Ohio executive director Elyzabeth Holford in a statement issued today. “Today, as an attorney, an advocate, and a woman deeply in love I can say to my fiancée, my family, and my friends: we are equal. Yes, we are celebrating, and Equality Ohio will continue working for legal and lived equality across this great state.”
This historic decision will allow hundreds of thousands of same-sex couples across the country the freedom to marry, and the rights that come with that designation. Local officials in Columbus are calling the verdict a victory for local residents.
“I am pleased with the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the ban on same-sex marriage because it represents true equality for all, regardless of who they love,” said Mayor Michael B. Coleman. “This decision reflects the inclusiveness and support for marriage equality for same-sex couples in Columbus, the state of Ohio and throughout the nation.”
While today’s verdict is seen as a positive step, advocates also say that there is more work to be done.
“While we celebrate marriage equality as a nation, the ACLU will continue to work towards equality, especially nondiscrimination protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals here in Ohio and the nation,” Christine Link, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio. “It’s unacceptable that hardworking LGBT people can still be fired from their jobs, evicted from their homes, and denied service in restaurants and shops simply for being who they are.”
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