Via Freedom to Marry:

Daniel, We are one step closer to winning the freedom to marry nationwide. Just moments ago, a federal court struck down the discriminatory Proposition 8 constitutional amendment in California and affirmed the constitutional right of same-sex couples to marry. The case, Perry v. Schwarzenegger, was filed on behalf of two same-sex couples -- Kris Perry and Sandy Stier and Paul Katami and Jeff Zarrillo -- who wish to marry but cannot because of Proposition 8. This important ruling wouldn't have been possible without the active support of people like you. To build on this win and to show the world what's possible when we stand together against discrimination, add your name to the growing list of people committed to equality and making a difference -- "I'm helping defeat Prop 8": http://freedomtomarry.org/HelpDefeatProp8 Judge Walker's decision will be appealed and litigation will continue, but what we witnessed in the clear light of his courtroom cannot be erased. The witnesses, evidence, and arguments all demonstrated what we've long known: exclusion from marriage harms committed same-sex couples and their families, while helping no one. As today's trial court ruling is appealed and defended, there is much left to accomplish across the country. A staggering 45 states continue to deny same-sex couples the freedom to marry, and federal marriage discrimination persists. After today's ruling, the crucial work of changing hearts and minds, securing the freedom to marry in more states, and ending federal marriage discrimination is more urgent than ever. Judicial wins like this one are only one part of Freedom to Marry's Roadmap to Victory. Courts don't operate in a vacuum, and to maximize the chances of winning on appeal, it's now up to us to move the opinions of people in our own communities, and to encourage decision-makers (including appellate judges) to do the right thing and end exclusion from marriage. That starts by showing the world that you support the freedom to marry for all committed couples: http://freedomtomarry.org/HelpDefeatProp8 Thank you so much for making today possible. Let's celebrate now, and then get back to work. Evan Wolfson Executive Director, Freedom to Marry