Obergefell v. Hodges

"The restriction of marriage to opposite-sex couples contradicts our founding principles."

"Liberty protects the right to define one's own concept of existence and meaning."

"Laws excluding same-sex couples from marriage violate their equal protection rights."

"Love itself is the foundation of the marriage right, not predetermined categories."

"Change toward justice requires courts willing to protect fundamental rights."

"The dignity interests of same-sex couples are as compelling as any others."

"Marriage is a basic civil right, not a privilege to be granted selectively."

"Two people committed to one another deserve equal legal standing."

"Constitutional liberty includes the freedom to marry whom you choose."

"Social stigma attached to exclusion from marriage is a real and lasting harm."

"The benefits of marriage—tax, inheritance, custody—must extend to all equally."

"Morality evolves; our Constitution must reflect our highest moral understanding."

"Couples united in love deserve equal protection in their commitment to each other."

"The State's refusal to recognize same-sex marriage demeans the couples involved."

"Freedom includes the right to marry and build a life with the person you love."

"Our nation's founding principles demand equality for all its citizens."

"Love provides the meaning that makes marriage significant, not legal tradition alone."

"Excluding same-sex couples harms their children and denies them necessary protections."

"The Constitution's equal protection guarantee protects all citizens equally."

"Marriage represents the most profound commitment two people can make."

"Laws must reflect the reality that same-sex love is as genuine as any other."

"Constitutional progress requires recognizing rights for those previously excluded."

"The right to marriage has deep roots in our nation's culture and law."

"Dignity requires that the law recognize what couples know to be true about their love."

"Liberty means the freedom to make choices about love and commitment freely."

"Marriage equality is a victory for all who value human dignity and freedom."

"The Constitution protects liberty in ways that apply to all persons, not just majorities."

"Same-sex and opposite-sex couples experience the same transformative power of marriage."

"Legal recognition of marriage provides stability, security, and respect to families."

"Denying marriage rights treats an entire group of people as lesser citizens."