In a ruling announced today at noon, California Northern District Court Judge Vaughn Walker lifted a stay on his decision overturning Proposition 8, but did give same-sex marriage opponents a few days to appeal the matter to the Ninth District Court. At this time, same-sex marriages are expected to become legal in California on Wednesday, August 18, at 5 p.m.
Progressive faith leaders are hailing the decision and encouraging committed same-sex couples to prepare to complete marriage license paperwork.
“Today justice won out,” said Samuel M. Chu, Executive Director of California Faith for Equality. “Today’s decision by US District Court Judge Vaughn Walker to overturn Prop 8 and lift the stay on same gender marriages in the state of California on August 18th is a giant step toward equality.
“The Supreme Court has affirmed that marriage is a fundamental right. Justice Walker, Perry v. Schwarzenegger, last week said that California has no interest in discriminating against same gender couples. On August 18, 2010 discrimination will end and equality will become a reality.
“Our membership of over 6000 clergy are poised to perform marriages for loving gay and lesbian couples throughout the state. As people of faith. we believe these are blessed and holy relationships and we are thrilled that they can now be legally recognized marriages in the state of California.”
The stay was opposed by Governor Arnold Schwarznegger and California Attorney General Jerry Brown.
