LANSING, MI — Gay couples and straight supporters rallied outside the Michigan Capitol on Monday night, hours before a challenge to the state’s same-sex marriage ban goes before the nation’s highest court.
“We’re going to make history before the Supreme Court tomorrow,” said Bill Green, interim director of Equality Michigan. “We’re going to win our civil rights, and when we do, we’re going to make Michigan a better state, and we’re going to make America a better country.”
The Supreme Court is set to hear oral arguments on Tuesday in consolidated same-sex marriage cases originating from Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee. A ruling is not expected until June or July.
Attorneys will argue whether the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution requires a state to license same-sex marriages or recognize those performed in other states where it is legal.
Michigan voters in 2004 approved an amendment to the state constitution that effectively banned gay marriage, but state and national polls have shown a significant swing in public opinion over the past decade. Same-sex marriage is now legal in 37 states.
“Across America, people are learning what we’ve known for a long time,” said Green. “Love is love. Love is where you find it. Love is whomever you find it with. Not one politician can tell us what love is, and definitely not our government.” MORE