Making History
For better or worse, Supreme Court is set for a 2013 date with marriage
Just as easily, though, the court could rule that states have a right to limit marriage between a man and a woman, even if states cannot repeal marriage equality once granted. A ruling that the Constitution does not guarantee same-sex couples the right to marry would be a major setback for a movement that has enjoyed momentous victories recently.
When oral arguments on DOMA and Proposition 8 begin in March, it will likely be one of the most high-profile Supreme Court cases in recent history. With about 150 first-come, first-serve public seats in the courtroom, the editors of SCOTUSblog predict some of the court’s longest lines ever, forming as many as three days in advance.
The hopes of millions of same-sex couples will be in the hands of the court’s justices. Although some remain nervous, others are confident equality will prevail.
”We are now literally within months of getting a final resolution of this case that began three-and-a-half years ago,” said David Boies, one of the lead attorneys on the case, adding that he and co-counsel Ted Olson are hopeful the justices will address the fundamental issue of whether it is unconstitutional to discriminate against same-sex couples’ right to marry.
”And if they decide that – as we’re confident they will if they reach that issue – our way, that would mean there would be a fundamental right to marry in every state in the country, because obviously the federal Constitution applies to every state in the country.”
Support Metro Weekly’s Journalism
These are challenging times for news organizations. And yet it’s crucial we stay active and provide vital resources and information to both our local readers and the world. So won’t you please take a moment and consider supporting Metro Weekly with a membership? For as little as $5 a month, you can help ensure Metro Weekly magazine and MetroWeekly.com remain free, viable resources as we provide the best, most diverse, culturally-resonant LGBTQ coverage in both the D.C. region and around the world. Memberships come with exclusive perks and discounts, your own personal digital delivery of each week’s magazine (and an archive), access to our Member's Lounge when it launches this fall, and exclusive members-only items like Metro Weekly Membership Mugs and Tote Bags! Check out all our membership levels here and please join us today!
