Pelosi Statement on Oral Arguments in Supreme Court Cases on Marriage Equality

Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Today, House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released this statement on the oral arguments before the Supreme Court in marriage equality cases from Ohio, Tennessee, Michigan, and Kentucky:

"With oral arguments before the Supreme Court concluded, it is clear that the question of marriage equality can only be correctly answered with a response that honors the humanity, recognizes the possibilities, and celebrates the promise of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. But these cases are about an even deeper part of our American identity: equal justice under the law.

"No one deserves to be denied the rights of citizenship because of who they are or who they love. Marriage, with protections and privileges loving couples earn through their dedication to one another and their contributions to our country, is a basic right. We all lose when committed Americans are denied the opportunity to be full participants in our great country.

"A nation built on the ideal of ‘E Pluribus Unum' must not prohibit same-sex couples from marrying, if it seeks to remain true to the highest aims. The arguments heard today make clear that loving same-sex couples and their families deserve to be treated with dignity, respect, and equality under the law. Now is the time for the Supreme Court to affirm that every American has the right to marry the person they love."

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