Media Contact:
Deborah V. Hall, M.D.
National President
[email protected]
Medical Students Support Marriage Equality as Supreme Court Announces Decision
Sterling, Va. – Following the historic ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, the Supreme Court of the United States has affirmed that same-sex couples nationwide have the right to marry, irrespective of their state of residence.
The American Medical Student Association (AMSA) responds by reaffirming its longstanding support for marriage equality and applauding this landmark decision.
By determining that same-sex couples should be granted the same marital rights as heterosexual couples, the Supreme Court acknowledges the equal dignity of lesbian, gay, and bisexual citizens in relation to marriage. Specifically, AMSA National President Dr. Deborah V. Hall emphasizes, “The social, economic, and health benefits of marriage must not be withheld from individuals based on whom they love.”
Corey Hoch, chair of AMSA’s national committee on gender and sexuality, notes, “Marriage equality ensures our patients have essential rights during critical moments, including end-of-life decisions and eligibility for family medical leave.”
While this decision does not address the standard of strict scrutiny—which would offer broader protections against discrimination—there remains significant progress to be made to ensure lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals experience equal access to rights and privileges in all areas. Nonetheless, the Supreme Court’s ruling is an enormous step forward, reflecting the dedicated efforts of countless advocates over many years. With this victory, AMSA and other organizations supporting LGBT rights can now concentrate on dismantling the remaining barriers to full equality.
About the American Medical Student Association
AMSA is the oldest and largest independent association of physicians-in-training in the United States. Founded in 1950, AMSA is a student-governed, non-profit organization committed to representing the concerns of physicians-in-training. To learn more about AMSA, our strategic priorities, or joining the organization, please visit us online at www.amsa.org/.
###