U.S. Supreme Court overturns DOMA & Prop 8

26 Jun 2013

DATE 26 June 2013

U.S. Supreme Court overturns DOMA & Prop 8

Advocacy group Marriage Equality have said huge congratulations are the order of the day as moments ago, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the federal, so-called Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and California's Proposition 8

Moninne Griffith, Director of Marriage Equality said that this is an historic day for the so many families all across America as today's Supreme Court ruling restores civil marriage for same-sex couples in California and extends all the federal rights of marriage to couples in 13 U.S. states and the District of Columbia where same-sex couples can legally marry. By striking down a central part of DOMA, the Supreme Court took a big step towards ensuring all married couples get equal respect and treatment under federal law.

“Today’s historic win in the U.S. Supreme court is great news for so many same sex couples, their families and their children across the U.S. and would like to congratulate all our friends in the U.S. on this huge achievement” said Marriage Equality Director Moninne Griffith “It will also add to the momentum for marriage equality here in Ireland too. With this momentum, Marriage Equality and our supporters all over Ireland will continue to call on the Irish Government to take on board the recommendation from the Constitutional Convention in April, to provide for access to civil marriage for same-sex couples in the Constitution by calling a referendum on the issue as soon as possible.”

“This is our chance to be leaders when it comes to equality for all, and to enshrine essential Irish values of justice, equality, fairness, and respect for all citizens in the Constitution. Ireland is ready for marriage equality." added Griffith.

Last week the Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore said he would be in favour of a referendum being held on this issue in 2014.

ENDS