Santa Fe, NM – June 26, 2015 – Today, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down a historic decision in favor of marriage equality, making it so that same-sex couples will soon have the freedom to marry and will enjoy equal respect for their marriages across America.
“This ruling has been decades in the making, and we’re overjoyed as we celebrate this victory for equality,” said Amber Royster, Executive Director for Equality New Mexico. “Today’s decision is even more special, as it took place on the two-year anniversary of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and Proposition 8 rulings, as well as the 12-year anniversary Lawrence v. Texas, and shows a clear turnaround toward a more accepting and educated society. While there’s still a great deal of work to do for real justice and to help improve the everyday lives of LGBTQ New Mexicans, we know that this ruling will bring joy and fulfillment to families across the nation, and that all couples will now have the fundamental right to celebrate their commitments to one another through the bonds of marriage.”
The Supreme Court’s ruling means same-sex couples will soon be free to marry in all 50 states. However, as each state processes marriage licenses in their own way, each state will have to implement this new decision. Same-sex marriage has been legal in New Mexico since December 2013; however, states that did not previously issue same-sex marriage licenses must now begin the process of implementation.
“It’s our hope that state officials across the nation move quickly and implement this decision,” continued Royster. “The Supreme Court has spoken, and the days of marriage discrimination are a thing of the past. Today the Courts affirmed that America is a nation that values freedom, inclusion, and love—for all.”
About EQNM: Equality New Mexico is committed to educating to change hearts and minds, advocating for those treated unfairly, and helping to empower communities and individuals to achieve a fair and just New Mexico.
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