American Foundation for Equal Rights

Marriage News Blog

“Equal Justice Under Law”

Special message from AFER Board Member Dustin Lance Black

“Equal Justice Under Law”

These words are inscribed above the doors of the U.S. Supreme Court.

As the Supreme Court prepares to hear AFER’s federal constitutional challenge to California’s Proposition 8 and the ACLU’s challenge to so-called Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), its duty is clear: to ensure that the Constitution’s central promises of liberty and equality are a reality for all Americans.

Yet for far too long, gay and lesbian Americans have been treated as second-class citizens—denied the fundamental freedom to marry and the right to be treated with equal dignity and respect under the law.

That’s about to change.

In just a few months, AFER’s case for full federal marriage equality will be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court. Make a special year-end donation to help AFER win the freedom to marry for every American. Your tax-deductible gift will be doubled dollar for dollar.

My friend and AFER supporter Yeardley Smith stepped up to help us reach our $50,000 goal by the end of year. She’ll match every donation we receive until we hit our target. We’re so close and we need your help to get there.

We have the case. Prop. 8 was ruled unconstitutional in Federal District Court and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. 14 times since 1888 the Supreme Court has stated that marriage is a fundamental right of all individuals. With an impressive trial record, 17 expert witnesses, and 80 findings of fact, there is simply no reason to deny gay and lesbians Americans the freedom to marry. The Prop. 8 Proponents tried and failed. Twice.

We have the legal team. Ted Olson and David Boies are the two most respected lawyers in America. Combined, they have argued over 70 cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. After facing each other in Bush v. Gore, they put politics aside and came together to represent our four plaintiffs. There is no one better than Ted and David to make the case for marriage equality before the Supreme Court.

And we have you. Every day, the advocacy and financial backing of our supporters enables AFER’s legal team to make the arguments that need to be made, and AFER’s communications and online staff to help create an echo chamber of support for our cause.

It’s time “Equal Justice Under Law” is realized for gay and lesbian Americans. Won’t you join me by making a donation to help win marriage equality nationwide?