Mansfield Times

State Reps. Jessica E. Miranda and Dontavius Jarrells held a press conference in Columbus yesterday to announce the introduction of the Marriage Equality Act in Ohio. The proposed bill aims to provide legal protections for same-sex and interracial marriages, granting them the same rights and benefits as any other married couple.

During the press conference, Rep. Miranda emphasized the importance of the legislation in promoting love and respect for all Ohioans. She stated, "Marriage for all Ohioans, regardless of gender, race, or sexuality, should be protected. A marriage represents a special commitment, symbolizing a devotion for another human; a right that should never be denied."

Rep. Jarrells echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for Ohio to be a place of acceptance for people from all walks of life. He expressed, "All Ohioans, without exception, deserve the fundamental right to love, to marry, and to build a family with whomever their heart chooses. We aspire to be a place that welcomes all kinds of families, prioritizing people over politics."

The press conference also featured Civil Rights Activist Jim Obergefell, the plaintiff of the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges U.S. Supreme Court case, and Maria Bruno, Equality Ohio's Public Policy Director. Both individuals expressed their wholehearted support for the Marriage Equality Act.

Obergefell emphasized the importance of protecting the right to marry, stating, "Ohio must protect our right to marry. It is time for Ohio to choose love instead of hate. Ohioans deserve the right to publicly and legally commit to the person they love. We deserve to live in a state where we can form, build, and sustain our families on an equal basis."

Bruno highlighted the significance of the legislation in aligning Ohio's statutory code with the Obergefell v. Hodges decision, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. She stated, "Today we take a step forward with this legislation that ensures that Ohio’s statutory code no longer discriminates LGBTQ+ Ohioans. We are proud to support this step that provides a positive direction for our LGBTQ+ Ohioans."

Although Rep. Tavia Galonski, a primary joint-sponsor of the Marriage Equality Act, was unable to attend the press conference, her support for the bill was reiterated.

The introduction of the Marriage Equality Act in Ohio represents a significant step towards ensuring equal rights and protections for same-sex and interracial couples. Ohioans from diverse backgrounds are hopeful that this legislation will create a more inclusive and accepting state, where love and commitment are celebrated without discrimination.

Click this link to access more information: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/darrell-kick/news/reps-miranda-jarrells-hosted-press-conference-introducing-marriage-equality-legislation-in-ohio-117146