FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | June 1, 2005

NCLR Says California Considers Same-Sex Couples Less Than Equal

"Each and every day, same-sex couples and their families are being denied critical rights and
protections because they are denied the right to marry. These discriminatory laws are a clear message to those couples that their government considers them less than equal."

(San Francisco, CA, June 1, 2005) — On Tuesday, May 31, 2005, California Attorney General Bill Lockyer filed a notice of appeal in San Francisco Superior Court, saying he will appeal a final judgment issued April 14 by Judge Richard Kramer ruling that same-sex couples in California have a constitutional right to marry.

The National Center for Lesbian Rights represents Equality California, Our Family Coalition, and twelve same-sex couples, including Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon, the first couple to be issued a marriage license in San Francisco in February 2004.

Shannon Minter, Legal Director, National Center for Lesbian Rights released the following statement:

"Each and every day, same-sex couples and their families are being denied critical rights and protections because they are denied the right to marry. These discriminatory laws are a clear message to those couples that their government considers them less than equal."

"Judge Kramer issued a carefully reasoned, thoughtful opinion that is based firmly on established California law. We believe that the higher courts will uphold Judge Kramer's decision and we are anxious to see this issue resolved as quickly as possible."

"Couples who make a permanent commitment to one another should have full legal protection. Californians generally support equality and fairness for all families. The purpose of this lawsuit is to secure equality for all Californians, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation."