Connecticut Supremes Rule in Favor of Marriage Equality

I'm still learning the details, but according to the commentators, this is one of the most strongly worded decisions for marriage equality we have seen. This is an amazing moment in American history. We now have 3 states who have rejected sex discrimination in marriage.

For the full decision go here: http://www.jud.state.ct.us/external/supapp/Cases/AROcr/CR289/289CR152.pdf

For a video of the plaintiffs reacting to the ruling, go here: http://www.courant.com/video/?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=3012541

The Governor of Connecticut says that, although she disagrees with the ruling, she considers the matter settled, and will not seek to repeal marriage equality. For more on that, go here: http://blogs.courant.com/capitol_watch/2008/10/rell-statement-on-gay-marriage.html

Bilerico is reporting that, not only did the court say that the constitution requires marriage equality, but has also made the sexual orientation a quasi-suspect class. That means laws that impose a greater burden on LGB people will have to be reviewed under a higher tandard of protection than other laws in Connecticut.

On the down side, Connecticut's Constitution can only be amended in a constitutional convention every twenty years. Guess when Connectiticut will next decide whether to hold a constitutional convention? That's right: This November. This could be bad for equality, expeccially if equal marriage will nto go into effect immediately, but we don't know anything for sure yet.

For more on those issues, see Bilerico's post here: http://www.bilerico.com/2008/10/connecticut_legalizes_same-sex_marriage.php

Update: Based on my reading of the majority opinion, it appears that marriage equality will go into effect immediatly, or at least as soon as the trial court (to which the case has been remanded) grants summary judgment for the plaintiffs (as the Supreme Court instructed it to).

A tragedy.

Rest in Peace, Shaun Dykes.