Article

California Supreme Court Upholds Proposition 8

Winnie Stachelberg weighs in on the California Supreme Court's decision to uphold the ballot initiative, which bans same-sex unions in the state.

The California Supreme Court, pictured above, today ruled to uphold Proposition 8, which bans same-sex unions. (AP/Paul Sakuma)
The California Supreme Court, pictured above, today ruled to uphold Proposition 8, which bans same-sex unions. (AP/Paul Sakuma)

The California Supreme Court’s decision to uphold Proposition 8 is disappointing, but it should not distract us from the progress that is being made toward marriage equality. The number of states where same-sex couples can marry has more than doubled since November, and an April poll from ABC News and The Washington Post found more Americans supporting gay marriage than opposing it.

I am also pleased that the Court did not undo the 18,000 marriages that have already been performed in the state. As Californians see these families caring for each other, raising children, and going about their lives, conservative fear tactics about marriage equality will stop working. Already, polling has found Californians split on a potential amendment to allow marriage equality.

More on this issue:

Column: Expressing Faith Through Marriage Equality

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Authors

Winnie Stachelberg

Former Executive Vice President, External Affairs

@wstachelberg