OUTMemphis Statement on Marriage Discrimination
HB 1473 creates chaos and confusion for more than 13,000 couples
MEMPHIS — OUTMemphis CEO Molly Quinn released the following statement on HB 1473, which declares that Tennessee citizens and organizations aren't bound to recognize same-sex marriages under the 14th Amendment:
“This legislation kicks open the door for discrimination against same-sex couples and will create nothing but panic and confusion if it passes. If upheld in court, there’s no reason to think the attacks on same-sex marriage will stop.
“In human terms, we’re talking about more than 13,000 marriages in Tennessee, including mine, that have been targeted for hate and scorn by politicians. We’re both tired and full of rage that we have to defend our right to exist, when all we want is dignity and mutual respect.
“We expect that this bill will be challenged, and OUTMemphis will support legal challenges in every way that we can. We are also organizing a field trip to Nashville so that community members can advocate directly in person.
“This bill got 68 yes votes. Out of 68 people, it’s a statistical certainty that some have LGBTQ+ relatives and friends. Remembering that their loathing runs straight through their own lives should remind us what kind of people they are.”
