THE TIME FOR EQUALITY IS NOW

Statement of Nan Aron, President, Alliance for Justice, at a rally in front of the Supreme Court in support of Marriage Equality

March 27, 2013

My name is Nan Aron.  I am the president of Alliance for Justice and I am here on behalf of our over 100 member organizations to stand with you, and the vast majority of the American people, in support of marriage equality.

Our Constitution rests on the simple but profound idea that every single one of us is entitled to the equal protection of the law, no matter who we are, or who we love. 

In a nation truly dedicated to liberty and equality, there is no place for discrimination based on sexual orientation.

There is no place for the idea that some American families are legitimate, and some are not.

There is no place for the idea that some people can legally bind themselves in love and commitment, but others cannot.

We are not two nations, one gay and one straight. We are one nation, united in a belief in fairness, committed to strong families, and bound by the conviction that all of us deserve to be treated the same under the law.

So now, on this momentous day, the next step in our long national journey for equality is in the hands of the nine justices of the Supreme Court.

This morning they are hearing from the lawyers. But let them also hear the voices of the American people who agree that the time for change is now. Let them hear that the wait for equality must end today.

Today, our message is strong and clear - the time for equality is now!

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Alliance for Justice is a national association of over 100 organizations, representing a broad array of groups committed to progressive values and the creation of an equitable, just, and free society. Through our justice programs, we lead the progressive community in the fight for a fair judiciary, and through our advocacy programs, we help nonprofits and foundations to realize their advocacy potential.