Washington D.C. – Interfaith Alliance President, Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy issued the following statement in response to the California Supreme Court’s decision to uphold Proposition 8.

The California Supreme Court’s decision to uphold Proposition 8 is a disappointing setback for marriage equality. Allowing 18,000 same-gender marriages to stand, while denying that same to right to those who come after, does not even rise to the standard of separate but equal – it is separate and unequal.

Strengthening assured equality and supporting expanded civil rights among all people are essential actions in the cause of justice. Despite today’s decision, I believe that our nation, committed to liberty and justice for all, will continue moving towards equal rights for the LGBT community.

There are no easy answers as we move forward in addressing this issue, but the foundation of any solution is to find common ground on which the people in our nation can meet and, through honest, civil debate, chart a legal path. A violation of the basic nature of democracy is of no help to anyone. I am confident that our nation is compassionate enough and smart enough to find a way for people with contradictory values and opinions as well as beliefs and religions to live together without denying civil rights for all.

Interfaith Alliance celebrates religious freedom by championing individual rights, promoting policies that protect both religion and democracy, and uniting diverse voices to challenge extremism. Founded in 1994, Interfaith Alliance brings together members from 75 faith traditions as well as those without a faith tradition to protect faith and freedom. For more information visit interfaithalliance.org.