BOISE, Idaho – A federal court on Tuesday, May 13th declared that Idaho’s ban on marriage for same-sex couples is unconstitutional. The law was challenged on behalf of four same-sex couples by the National Center for Lesbian Rights.
Following on the heels of this ruling, residents of Pocatello will vote next Tuesday on an ordinance that bans discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
“The court was right to strike down this discriminatory law,” said Monica Hopkins of the ACLU of Idaho. “All loving and committed couples deserve the recognition and the peace of mind that comes with the protections that only marriage can provide. This ruling is a significant step toward full equality for all and we will continue to fight for additional policies, like the proposed Pocatello ordinance, that protect Idahoans against discrimination.”
The ACLU has brought challenges of its own against similar marriage laws in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Virginia, Oregon, Indiana, and Wisconsin. Following the Supreme Court’s decision striking down the federal Defense of Marriage Act – a case in which the ACLU served as co-counsel to Edie Windsor – the ACLU launched the Out for Freedom campaign to achieve the freedom to marry for same-sex couples across the country.
“All across the country hurtful laws like these are becoming a thing of the past,” said Amanda Goad, staff attorney with the ACLU Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender Project. “The courts are correctly ruling that these laws serve no purpose other than to deny our loved ones, friends, and neighbors the same security and dignity as any other family. This brings us one step closer to the day when couples nationwide will have the freedom to marry.”
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