Press Releases

CA NAACP Salutes Decision on Same-Sex Unions

May 16, 2008

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(Sacramento, CA)……”The California NAACP salutes the ruling of the California Supreme Court mandating that same-sex couples have the same right to benefits of civil marriage as opposite-sex couples. This is a good decision that advances the cause of social justice and equality to all citizens of California,” stated Alice Huffman, State President.

California is the second in the nation after Massachusetts' to declare a right of same-sex couples to marry. Huffman further stated, “what makes this decision more significant is that it is the first high court to rule that the state's Constitution forbids all discrimination based on sexual orientation with the same strict type of prohibition that applies to bias based on race, sex or religion. This becomes very important with the threat of an upcoming constitutional amendment to strike down same-sex marriage. The California NAACP strongly advocates and believes as Chief Justice George stated in his opinion that the State Constitution guarantees individuals personal privacy and protects individuals’ rights to establish a legally recognized family with the person of one’s own choice.

Huffman further stated, “The California NAACP commends Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger on his public statements after the decision was rendered to respect and uphold the decision of the California Supreme Court and to not support an amendment to the constitution that would overturn this State Supreme Court ruling. The California NAACP is proud to continue its work and association with Equality California to build a state of equality, to strengthen families, and protect citizens’ rights.