This morning, the Iowa Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the Iowa Constitution prohibits discrimination against same-sex couples in marriage licensing. This is a tremendous victory in our movement to secure for all couples and families the full dignity and respect that come with marriage.
Congratulations to the courageous plaintiffs, lead counsel Lambda Legal, and state LGBT group One Iowa. The Human Rights Campaign and the Human Rights Campaign Foundation joined with Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders (GLAD), MassEquality, Love Makes a Family and other LGBT advocacy groups and Massachusetts elected officials to submit an amicus brief (PDF) in this lawsuit.
In the official ruling, the court states:
Consequently, the language in Iowa Code section 595.2 limiting civil marriage to a man and a woman must be stricken from the statute, and the remaining statutory language must be interpreted and applied in a manner allowing gay and lesbian people full access to the institution of civil marriage.
Regarding civil unions, the court also declared:
A new distinction based on sexual orientation would be equally suspect and difficult to square with the fundamental principles of equal protection embodied in our constitution.
Carolyn Jenison, Executive Director of One Iowa, issued this statement (PDF) today:
Today’s ruling is an historic victory for fairness and equality. We’re overjoyed! Today’s victory assures that all Iowans have access to marriage and the security, dignity, and protections it provides. We extend our best wishes to the couples who choose to recognize their commitment to each other through marriage.
HRC will issue an official statement later today. (*UPDATE: HRC’s statement is HERE). Read the official court ruling below:
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