The Workmen's Circle/Arbeter Ring Praises
the California Supreme Court Decision on Same-Gender Marriage The Southern California District of The Workmen’s Circle/Arbeter Ring, part of an international organization dedicated to social justice and Jewish culture, hails and celebrates the California Supreme Court decision on same-gender marriage issued on May 15, 2008, which declared state statues that limit marriage to opposite-sex couples as unconstitutional. "...[W]e cannot find that retention of the traditional definition of marriage constitutes a compelling state interest." More than ten years ago, the Los Angeles-based New Directions Branch 1092 of The Workmen’s Circle was the first entity within The Workmen’s Circle to issue a resolution in favor of same-gender marriage. Within a short time this became the policy of the entire organization. The Workmen’s Circle stood at the forefront of the Jewish community in calling for legalization of same-gender marriage. "We laud the California Supreme Court on its foresight, integrity and courage in reaching this landmark decision. All Californians will now have equal protection and treatment by law, which is and should always remain our Constitutional right," stated Ruth Judkowitz, Chairmentsh of the Workmen’s Circle Southern California District. "This ruling underlines the role that grassroots movements and organizations can play in a dynamic functioning democracy, and The Workmen's Circle is proud to have been ahead of the curve on this issue. This day will be noted in history as a victory for all Californians who cherish family and fairness, freedom and opportunity. "At the same time," she added, "The Workmen's Circle is also alert to the coming battle over a well-funded right-wing initiative to place a California constitutional amendment on the November ballot that, if passed, would nullify today’s landmark ruling. We are committed to collaborate with Equality for All, a coalition of organizations working together to defeat this extremist initiative." Call us or e-mail circle@circlesocal.org today to learn about the work of our Social Action Committee and the rest of our numerous socially conscious programs, lectures, readings, and more! Visit our online calendar for the latest event information.
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