Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Iowa Today, Pennsylvania Tomorrow

IF WE WORK FOR IT!

New Ad: How the Freedom to Marry benefits ALL Iowans

On Friday, April 3 the Iowa Supreme Court unanimously ruled in favor of marriage equality for gay and lesbian couples. Recognizing marriage for caring, committed gay and lesbian couples will continue a long-standing Iowa tradition of protecting all its citizens and treating each Iowan fairly.

We hope this ad will start a conversation with Iowans about the Supreme Court decision, which isn't just about gay and lesbian Iowans-it's about ALL Iowans. We know that marriage strengthens families and, as Iowans, we support committed couples who want to accept the responsibility that comes with marriage.

We invite you to view our ad and participate in a statewide conversation about marriage. Talk to your family, friends, and neighbors. Discuss what marriage means to you.



Some have asked what the Court's decision means for religious institutions.

It's important to know that while the state, its cities and businesses will recognize marriage for gay and lesbian couples, religious institutions will only recognize it if they choose to. Just as some churches are not required to marry a couple that is not a member of their denomination, this decision will not require any religious institution to recognize a marriage contrary to its beliefs.

The Court's decision specifically states, "The sanctity of all religious marriages celebrated in the future will have the same meaning as those celebrated in the past. The only difference is civil marriage will now take on a new meaning that reflects the more complete understanding of equal protection of the law."

Check out ONE IOWA

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