NCJW Celebrates Supreme Court Rulings that Advance Marriage Equality | NCJW.
NCJW Celebrates Supreme Court Rulings that Advance Marriage Equality
June 26, 2013, Washington, DC — The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) applauds today’s rulings on marriage equality in United States v. Windsor and Hollingsworth v. Perry by the US Supreme Court. NCJW CEO Nancy K. Kaufman released the following statement:
“Today’s decisions by the US Supreme Court represent a gratifying and historic step towards justice and equality for same sex couples under our nation’s laws. The 5-4 decision in United States v. Windsor is as significant as it is simple: DOMA, the 1996 federal law barring recognition of same-sex couples, was a violation of equal protection for legally married same-sex couples. NCJW is gratified that the Court’s decision in this case grants same-sex couples the respect, rights, and recognition that they deserve and for which they have struggled for many years.
“The ruling in Hollingsworth v. Perry that the sponsors of Proposition 8 did not have standing to challenge California’s marriage equality law, restores justice for same-sex couples in that state who found their marriages cruelly invalidated by a ballot measure. Although the impact of the decision does not extend beyond California, NCJW hopes that this decision serves to highlight the uneven rights of LGBT people around the country and will inspire more states to join the growing number of marriage equality states. NCJW, long an advocate for marriage equality, pledges to redouble its efforts to win this important right nationwide.
“These decisions are a victory not just for the LGBT community but for all who value equality and fairness.”
The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. NCJW joined amici briefs on the sides of Perry and Windsor, emphasizing our Jewish values for social justice by working towards laws and policies that provide equal rights for all.
Contact: Brianne Nadeau
202-265-3000 Brianne@rabinowitz-dorf.com