Assemblyman Rich Gordon statement on Supreme Court’s decision that overturned California’s Proposition 8; Marriage Equality returned to California

Assemblyman Rich Gordon statement on Supreme Court’s decision that overturned California’s Proposition 8; Marriage Equality returned to California

SACRAMENTO, CA - Assemblyman Rich Gordon (Menlo Park), Chair of the Legislative Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Caucus, released the following statement in response to today’s Supreme Court decision that overturned California’s Proposition 8 on grounds of standing. 

“Marriage equality has been a priority and a dream of the LGBT community for decades. Today, with the Supreme Court’s announcements, we are realizing that dream and we now celebrate equal marriage rights for all Californians.  

In 2008, I had the privilege of marrying my partner of 26 years. This was one of the greatest days of my life, as we were finally able to stand together and say, in front of our friends, family and loved ones, ‘We are a family.’ This is an experience that many loving couples have been unjustly denied until now.  We are not just a gay couple; we are two individuals who are deeply in love.

Furthermore, with the high court striking down DOMA, this is truly a historic day for all Californians and all Americans who value fairness and equality. The institution of marriage not only provides over 1,000 legal and financial privileges, it is a powerful symbol of a couple’s love and commitment. It is something to be cherished and shared.

The passage of Proposition 8 was a dark day for individual freedoms and rights. The ban on marriage equality came as shock to most; but we have learned from our missteps, recovered and continue to march on. 

While this is a day for celebration, we must also remember that our work is not yet done. Only thirteen states and the District of Columbia have achieved the dream of marriage equality. However, public opinion is rapidly changing.  In May alone, Rhode Island, Delaware, and Minnesota achieved marriage equality, and for the first time ever a majority of Americans now favor equal marriage rights. With momentum on our side, we will not rest until every American can exercise their right to marry who they love.”

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Media Contact:
William Kim
916-319-2024
William.Kim@asm.ca.gov