May 19, 2014

PORTLAND – On Monday afternoon, the City of Portland Human Rights Commission (HRC) joined millions awaiting the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision on marriage equality in Oregon. Based on the long-awaited outcome, the HRC stopped to applaud Judge Michael McShane’s ruling, deeming the ban on gay marriage unconstitutional.

As a diverse body of leaders who represents all segments of the community including LGBTQ, the HRC sees this decision as one that sets Oregon apart from states that have yet to take a stance on the issue. HRC Chair and LGBTQ Ally, Sonji Young stated, “To love is by far the greatest commitment that any of us can make in our lives.  By removing the legal barriers, all of our fellow citizens can pursue happiness, regardless of their personal preference.”  Young added, “Today’s decision demonstrates that love is indeed a human right. We all deserve to declare our love through marriage and have it recognized.”

HRC Commissioner Sam Sachs, who has long been a member of Portland’s social justice community agreed with Young, exclaiming, “Oregon has done the right thing!”

The HRC works to eliminate discrimination and bigotry, to strengthen inter-group relationships, and to foster greater understanding, inclusion, and justice for those who live, work, study, worship, travel and play in the City of Portland.

For more information, please contact Jeff Selby at jeff.selby@portlandoregon.gov.

# # #