Couples Challenge Florida's Same-Sex Marriage Ban
Six same-sex couples are filing a lawsuit, challenging Florida's constitutional amendment that bans gay marriage.
Equality Florida Institute is also challenging the ban. The couples are all from South Florida, and several of the couples are raising children or have grandchildren.
The lawsuit reportedly argues that Florida's laws barring same-sex marriage violate the U.S. Constitution by denying them the legal protections and equal dignity that marriage provides.
READ: Florida marriage complaint (PDF)
"These couples have been embraced by their families and communities, but every day, Florida laws are denying them the protections and dignity that every family deserves," says Nadine Smith, Chief Executive Officer with Equality Florida Institute.
Catherina Pareto and Karla Arguello are one of the six couples suing. Pareto says in a press release, "Florida is our home
, it is where we are raising our child, and where we want to get married."
She adds, "Karla and I wish for our family the same things the other families want. We want to build our lives together, provide a safe and caring home for our child, and sharein the responsibilities and protections of marriage."