Pennsylvania Gay Marriage became a win officially in May of 2014. A federal judge ruled in favor of Same sex marriage, putting an end to the ban on homosexual wedding ceremonies. Since the judge did not declare a stay in the ruling, same-sex couples began applying for marriage licenses immediately. Fueled in part by a landmark case filed by the American Civil Liberties Union, the ALCU of Pennsylvania and private attorneys, the fight to win marriage equality officially began. After entering the decision on the case, the Governor declared that he would not appeal the ruling since the Attorney General had already announced that she would not be defending discrimination. The law took effect, and Pennsylvania became the 19th state where same-sex couples can legally wed.
Four marriage equality advocate groups supported each other and worked together to educate people and begin a dialogue about the freedom to marry.
1. Why Marriage Matters Pennsylvania. This campaign educated the public that the freedom to marry is for all loving, committed couples.
2. Freedom to Marry. This coalition is a nationwide campaign designed to win marriage for same-sex couples.
3. The American Civil Liberties Union of Pennsylvania. This nonprofit, nonpartisan, membership organization is committed to preserving and expanding individual rights and personal freedoms throughout the entire state.
4. Equality Pennsylvania. This group works to achieve equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals through education, policy reform, coalition building, and organizing.
The 2014 ruling overturned a 1996 state statute prohibiting the state government from respecting, conducting wedding ceremonies, or other forms of family status for same-sex couples. According to the 2010 census, over 22,000 same-sex couples live in the state, representing just under five same-sex couples per 1,000 households. In fact, according to the 2010 census over 53 percent of Pennsylvania residents favor the constitutional amendment allowing same-sex couples to get married and to enjoy the same benefits and protections as opposite-sex married couples.
