JUNE 28, 2013 — The American Ethical Union (AEU) celebrates with justice loving people across the country. The U. S. Supreme Court’s decision that the federal government cannot discriminate against married lesbian and gay couples for the purposes of determining federal benefits and protections is an ethical decision bringing us closer to full marriage equality. We look forward to the day when every loving couple can publicly and legally declare their commitment to one another.

The AEU has long supported the right of same sex couples to marry and hopes the decision today moves the country closer to universal acceptance of this right. We continue to work for social justice for all.

The AEU also congratulates the thousands of couples in the State of California whose marriages are deemed legal with the Supreme Court’s refusal to decide on California’s Proposition 8, and looks forward to the resumption of same sex marriages in that state.

Executive Director, Bart Worden, noted, “This is a great day for marriage equality. And, though we realize there is much to be done, our hopes have been buoyed by the court’s decision which has also increased our confidence that we will soon see nationwide legalization of same sex marriage!”