Marriage bans are dropping like flies. Last week, they were struck down in Idaho, yesterday in Oregon and today in Pennsylvania. Arkansas, Michigan, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah and Virginia are additional states that have said adios to inequality. We're certainly riding quite a wave of momentum but does this mean we've just added these states to the equality list? Yes and no.
You see, this time last year, bills were being pushed through states' legislatures to grant the freedom to marry. Since last summer's victorious win against Prop 8 and the U.S. Supreme Court's very meticulously written decision that put significant power in the state court, courageous couples have been challenging the marriage bans via the state court system. And winning.
However, these rulings are often only active for a short period before the opponents' request for a stay is approved and the ruling is put on hold until the appeal (which could take months). From a federal perspective, as in the Utah scenario last December, marriages performed during those joyous hours, days or weeks that the state issued marriage licenses to same-sex couples, are recognized. But within the borders of their own state, their marital status remains in limbo. While it's certainly a reason to celebrate, we also shouldn't let down our eagerness to keep fighting for equality. And in the meantime, congratulations to the couples who are saying “I do!”
Help us fight on the right side of history by pledging a donation, speaking out to your legislators and spreading the word. For more information on how you can get involved, visit http://www.freedomtomarry.org.
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