Rallies for Marriage Equality Throughout PA (Philadelphia, Pittsburgh: legal, catholics, cities)

[Clark Park]

The United States Supreme will begin hearing arguments that may or may not affect the progress of legalized same-sex marriage on March 25th. Two cases are coming before the court: one is challenging the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals striking down California's Proposition #8 which overturned legal same-sex marriage in California, the other concerns DOMA (the "Defense Of Marriage Act") which was passed by Congress in the '90's that denies federal recognition of legally married same-sex couples in those 9 states and the District of Columbia where it is legal.

The opponents of legalized same-sex marriage are chiefly conservative Christian groups including both Evangelical Protestants and the Roman Catholic hierarchy (although numerous polls reveal the majority of ordinary Catholics are in favor of it.) These groups are hoping the Court will overturn the federal court ruling in the Prop. 8 case, and will also rule DOMA is constitutional. The main organization opposed to legalized same-sex marriage is NOM (the National Organization for Marriage), and they will be sponsoring a large gathering and rally in Washington on March 25th.

Supporters of legalized same-sex marriage or 'marriage equality' are taking a different approach and instead are organizing rallies and events in scores of cities all over the US. Marriage equality advocates are buoyed by a recent Gallup Poll that says that more Pennsylvanians are in favor of legalized same-sex marriage than opposed, and the recent victories in Maryland, Maine, Washington state, and Minnesota. Here in PA, rallies will be held on March 25th, 26th, and 27th in the following cities (so far):

• Harrisburg
• Pittsburgh
• Philadelphia
• Erie
• Allentown
• Scranton

For more information, go to Equality Pennsylvania