Press Release

Civil Marriage Granted to Same Sex Couples in Massachusetts

For Immediate Release - Contact: Roy Speckhardt (202) 238-9088

(Washington, D.C., November 18, 2003) As Massachusetts Chief Justice Margaret Marshall declared in today's ruling, this "decision marks a change in the history of our marriage law." Goodridge et al. vs. the Department of Public Health makes clear that Massachusetts may no longer deny to individuals of the same sex who wish to marry, the protections, benefits, and obligations conferred by civil marriage. While the seven couples filing claim for having been denied marriage licenses received no immediate remedy, it is clear that one is forthcoming.

AHA President, Mel Lipman responded, "As the courts are beginning to realize, there is no room for the creation of second-class citizens in this country. This ruling is a step forward, but more steps are needed. We must not tolerate the withholding of equal rights on the basis of sexual orientation."

AHA board member and Harvard Humanist Chaplain, Tom Ferrick, added, "I am very enthusiastic to hear this decision, though I am concerned that the legislature will not properly implement the ruling as already my state's politicians are clamoring to block the rule of justice. Such action goes against the wishes of Massachusetts voters who support civil marriage for gay and lesbian couples by a 59% to 39% margin-according to the Freedom to Marry Coalition.

"This ruling will not harm the lives of anyone who is not gay, but will be a great benefit to those who are and want full citizenship in our commonwealth. This is a judgment on behalf of human liberty, regardless of theological or philosophical pronouncements, and that's why it's appropriately supported by the Massachusetts Constitution."

"One down, and 49 to go," said AHA Executive Director Tony Hileman, "For over six years the AHA has been pushing for equal marriage laws in all fifty states and the District of Columbia, and we won't stop until every state respects the rights of all Americans. As most of us know instinctively, sexual orientation has no bearing on depth of commitment, ability to raise children, or overall family stability. Lesbian and gay couples deserve equal rights-not unenlightened legislation that tries to tie our society to blind tradition," Hileman concluded.

The American Humanist Association is the oldest and largest Humanist organization in the nation. The AHA is dedicated to ensuring a voice for those with a positive outlook, based on reason and experience, which embraces all of humanity.

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