News :: GLBT
Hawaiian gays sue for marriage by Hannah Clay Wareham
Associate EditorThursday Jul 29, 2010 Six same-sex couples have sued the state of Hawaii for legal recognition of same-sex marriage, following the veto of a civil union bill by Gov. Linda Lingle.
In cooperation with Lambda Legal and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Hawaii, the two male couples and six lesbian couples-two of which have children-formally filed suit on Thursday, July 29.
"This was a sad surrender to political expediency that does not support business or family interests, but damages them," Jennifer C. Pizer, National Marriage Project Director for Lambda Legal, said of the quashed civil union bill, H.B. 444. "In caving in to a well-orchestrated disinformation campaign mounted by the bill’s opponents, Governor Lingle has abandoned thousands of Hawaii families who have needed this bill’s protections for many years. We’re also disappointed that the Legislature opted to not override this veto immediately -- we would have preferred to see couples win fair treatment through the political branch rather than having to pursue legal action. However, we’re still ready to do what’s necessary so our clients can protect their loved ones."
The legal organizations had readied a lawsuit after the House tabled HB 444 in January.
"We’re obviously disappointed that Governor Lingle has, once again, used her power to deny the people of Hawaii their civil rights" said Laurie Temple, Staff Attorney for the ACLU. "Luckily for the people of Hawaii, however, our constitution prevents discrimination based on sexual orientation. If the Governor won’t honor her oath to uphold the constitution, the courts will."
The Hawaiian plaintiffs are following in the footsteps of seven same-sex couples living in Montana who, in cooperation with the ACLU of Montana, sued the state for domestic partnerships last week.
Hannah can be reached at hclaywareham@baywindows.com.
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