Mixed reaction to Supreme Court’s DOMA ruling

By Aldo Amato

Staff Reporter

MADISON — Both residents of Madison and Huntsville had mixed reactions to the Supreme Court’s ruling on the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) on June 26.

The court struck down the ruling and declared California’s Proposition 8 unconstitutional allowing same-sex couples in the state to get married and be eligible for federal benefits. The ruling does not affect the State of Alabama because the state does not recognize same-sex marriage.

James Robinson, Executive director GLBT Advocacy & Youth Services in Huntsville said he was excited to see the 5-4 decision go through.

“We watched the ruling in the office this morning and are very excited about this decision,” Robinson said. “This is a tremendous step forward in the Civil Rights Movement. Marriage equality is a civil right and the movement did not stop in 70’s.”

Many sided with Johnson in a June 26 Madison Record Facebook poll.

“I am thankful that the marriages of two people in love will be respected, if in the least – legally tolerated,” Carly Jordan said. “Our world needs more love.”
President Barack Obama commented on the ruling shortly after it was announced with a tweet saying “Today’s DOMA ruling is a historic step forward for #MarriageEquality #LoveIsLove.”

Others in the Madison area were not a fan of the ruling.

“I think it is unfortunate that our country and the Supreme Court Justices have made this decision,” Steve Grissom said. “I believe in God’s plan for marriage was true yesterday and is still true today and that marriage is for one man to be married to one woman and to display God’s glory through the family. In a way, I’m not surprised at all by the vote.”

Barbara DeFalco only said it was “a sad day in America.”

Robinson said a group of supporters planned a celebration rally for June 26 in Big Spring Park. More details on decision are expected to be released in the next coming weeks.