“The ruling that Proposition 8 violates the US Constitutions equal protection and due process clauses is a victory for the LGBT community all around the country. The landmark decision came after same-sex couples shared their personal stories with the judge and the public. I’m convinced that continuing to tell our stories to friends, family, coworkers and through the media is an essential step to achieving our full equality.”—Kevin Boyer, GLAAD Chicago Leadership council co-chair.

“The federal court’s decision was the most thorough analysis of the facts behind anti-marriage campaigns. And the court determined that subjecting fundamental rights of a minority group to the whim of the majority violates the core principles of the U.S. Constitution. However, this is only one step on the road toward full equality for LGBT people and, unfortunately, it doesn’t directly impact the legal status of same-sex couples in Illinois. Same-sex relationships are still not recognized in Illinois. And while we take comfort in this decision, we must continue fighting until all Americans are protected equally under the law, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.”—Bernard Cherkasov, CEO of Equality Illinois

“As my wife, Char, says, “We want our gay son to have the same rights as our straight son—nothing more but certainly nothing less.” With Judge Walker’s decision, the day when our gay son and our straight son both have the civil right to marry is closer than ever. Eventually, the Supreme Court will review the body of evidence presented in Judge Walker’s court and, I believe, concur that marriage equality should be secured and protected.”—John R. Cepek, national president of PFLAG (based in Illinois)

” [Join the Impact-Chicago] is thrilled with Judge Walker’s decision to overturn Prop 8, restoring civil rights to queer people in California. This victory is incredibly significant for our organizations since we were born out of the initial Prop. 8 ballot measure. Though we are ignited with hope and a sense of justice, we know that there is still much work to be done, and we will not cease to fight until there is full federal equality for every queer citizen in the United States.”—Lindsey Dietzler, member of Join the Impact-Chicago