The Supreme Court today declared that a key section of the Defense of Marriage Act, which restricts federal benefits for gay couples, is unconstitutional.
Entertainment industry insiders, including openly gay celebrities, spoke out about today’s big decision.
Glee, American Horror Story and The New Normal co-creator, Ryan Murphy:
“Today is a historic day made all the more meaningful by the fact that my marriage to my husband David will now not only be recognized by my home state of California, but federally as well, as it always should have been. Many have suggested that Hollywood, and particularly television, has helped move the country forward on the issue of marriage equality. If that is true, and my work played even a small part in that, I am humbled and reminded of the power of entertainment to enlighten as well as entertain.”
Singer and Broadway composer Cyndi Lauper:
“History has been made today and justice has prevailed. To all of you who have been waiting on the sidelines for years, for lifetimes, it’s a huge day. I am so, so happy for you.”
“The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of loving and committed gay couples and the so-called Defense of Marriage Act has been ruled unconstitutional. Not only that, but California’s Proposition 8 was struck down, restoring marriage equality to the state of California.”
“Both of these decisions not only impact the lives of gay couples, but of gay and transgender youth who struggle to find acceptance from their family and friends. Every step closer we get to equality ensures that these kids have the futures that they deserve and are entitled to.”
“Thank you so much to the inspiring plaintiffs, attorneys and everyone across the country who have worked so hard for so many years. Today, we celebrate. Tomorrow, we keep working for full equality for all and to bring the freedom to marry for gay couples to the 37 states that still remain.”
Melissa Etheridge:
“Laws and institutions must go hand in hand with the general progress of the human mind.”–Thomas Jefferson”
“Let’s hear it for the general progress of the human mind. With a beautiful sweep of sweet justice’s blind hand we move forward. We correct the laws made hastily out of fear.”
“I look forward to exercising my American civil liberties and getting fully, completely and legally married this year to my true love of over three years, Linda Wallem.”
“Once again our constitution stands strong. All men, and women and everything in between are created.”
Oscar-winning Milk screenwriter Dustin Lance Black:
“We stand on the shoulders of so many who gave their hearts, their stories, their names and their lives to see this day realized. I’ll be celebrating them tonight… but tomorrow it’s back to work to insure our promise of Full Federal equality applies to all Americans regardless of what state they live in.”
Pop icon Madonna:
“What a way to start my day!! I’m wearing a smile from ear to ear. There is a G-D! Justice is served. Hallelujah !!”
Scandal star Guillermo Diaz
“Finally! Everything is as it should be. Today has been an enormous victory for Marriage Equality… When you have to fight for something it makes you cherish it all that much more…”
Bravo executive and Watch What Happens Live host Andy Cohen:
“I’m just thrilled. I never thought that I would see this day, really, and it’s just a huge victory. I’m a little speechless because it came from the highest court, and it’s huge.”
Precious director Lee Daniels:
“It’s a sad day for the gay men who are trying to save their money. But in all seriousness, this day is as important as the day African-Americans were given the right to vote. I’m proud to be an American.”
Rock of Ages director Adam Shankman:
“I never thought in my lifetime I would see anything like this happen. I had settled into subconsciously believing that I would always be viewed as separate and unequal. I have never felt so grateful, and so happy. I look forward to the rest of my married life with my fiance, and soon to be husband, Frank Meli.”
