In a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court today ruled that the U.S. Constitution guarantees the freedom to marry to all Americans.
Today’s ruling follows oral arguments at the Supreme Court in April
regarding whether states have the right to outlaw gay marriage and, even
if they do, whether they must honor marriages performed in states that
allow same-sex marriage. The cases, consolidated under the title Obergefell v. Hodges, were from Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee, and included more than 20 plaintiffs.
In response to today’s decision, Marielena HincapiĆ©, executive director
of National Immigration Law Center, made the following statement:
“Today, the Supreme Court issued a historic decision that will be
remembered for generations to come affirming what Americans have come to
understand: the freedom to marry is a precious, fundamental right that
belongs to all of us.
It’s a proud day for our country, as this
decision marks a victory for freedom, equality, inclusion, and love. As
our country continues the long journey towards true and full equality
for same-sex couples and other traditionally marginalized individuals
and communities, this ruling is a strong reminder of the type of
inclusion and equality we are capable of.”