A group of Latino leaders in Arizona
have endorsed marriage equality.
According to alternative weekly the
Phoenix
New Times, the group announced its support at a Phoenix event
organized by Why Marriage Matters Arizona.
“There's a perception out there that
the Latino community does not support marriage equality, but that's
not the case,” said Jeremy Zagas, a project director for the
coalition. “There are regular folks from the Latino community who
are vocal supporters, and who believe very strongly in marriage
equality. Not in spite of who they are, but in many cases because of
it, because of the values that have been instilled in them growing
up.”
“This is about ending
discrimination,” said Mark Mazon, president of Friendly House, “a
goal that resonates with Arizona's Latinos.”
“Marriage matters for the same
reasons to all people, gay or straight,” said Dolores Huerta, a
civil rights activist. “And it's our responsibility to support
inclusion of our gay and lesbian friends and family members in the
important institution of marriage.”
A federal judge's ruling
handed down Friday leaves little doubt Arizona's ban on such
unions will be the next to fall.
U.S. District Judge John Sedwick's
order that the state recognize the marriage of military veterans Fred
McQuire and George Martinez for the purpose of death benefits
strongly suggests he's leaning toward striking the down the law
entirely.