Stonewall Democrats Applaud Iowa Marriage Ruling

Washington, DC - Today, the Stonewall Democrats issued the following statement in response to a decision by the Iowa Supreme Court that found all Iowans have the freedom to marry under the Iowa Constitution:

"Stonewall Democrats applauds the ruling of the Iowa Supreme Court in Varnum vs. Brien and their finding that the Constitution of the State of Iowa does not permit discrimination.  This decision secures the freedom of religious institutions to continue, as they have to marry and recognize relationships they so choose.  In Varnum vs. Brien, six Iowa couples filed suit seeking the extension of marital protections to their families.  These courageous couples include Kate and Trish Varnum, founding members of the Linn County Stonewall Democrats.

Thanks to the courage of the couples involved in this case - and the expert guidance of Lambda Legal - Iowa now enjoys a competitive advantage among neighboring states - and indeed the entire Midwest - in attracting new businesses to the state and the best and brightest workers during this difficult economic climate.  In recent years, Iowa has long been afflicted by a 'brain drain', with a substantial portion of its young workforce moving to neighboring states for job opportunities.  Providing its workforce with the legal protections of marriage will help attract new investment and bring jobs back to the Hawkeye State.  This ruling is not only a benefit to Iowa's families, but it is a boost to their state economy. 

Stonewall Democrats throughout Iowa - and the entire nation - are celebrating this ruling as a vindication of human dignity and civil rights.  In the coming days and weeks and months, we will with working with Democrats and the statewide equality organization, One Iowa, to defend equality and protect the economic advantage that Iowa has gained today."

- Jon Hoadley, Executive Director, Stonewall Democrats

"As the statewide LGBT and allied caucus for the Iowa Democratic Party, Iowa Stonewall Democrats is thrilled with this result.  We are proud that Iowa Democrats fully support marriage equality, as is written in our state party platform.  Iowa is a great place to live, work and raise a family and this ruling continues this tradition." 

- Dean Genth, President, Iowa Stonewall Democrats

"We are so proud of our neighbors Kate and Trish, who are also founding members of the Linn County Stonewall Democrats.  We recognize the positive and significant impact that their case has on our entire state and how this ruling strengthens the legal standing of families and protects children throughout Iowa."

- Harvey Ross, Chair, Linn County Stonewall Democrats