Life

Gay marriage activist Jim Obergefell honored as civil rights ‘champion’

Gay marriage activist Jim Obergefell honored as civil rights ‘champion’

CINCINNATI (AP) — The lead plaintiff in the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that legalized same-sex marriage across the state is being honored with an award recognizing people and organizations striving to live up to the ideals of the Underground Railroad movement to better their community.

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati says Jim Obergefell will receive its Everyday Freedom Hero award. A lawsuit by Obergefell and his dying partner John Arthur sought legal recognition of their marriage by the state of Ohio, leading to the 2015 Supreme Court decision on lawsuits challenging same-sex bans in four states.

Obergefell has continued as an activist for gay rights and other causes.

The Cincinnati center’s president, Clarence G. Newsome, praises Obergefell as “a champion of civil rights.”

The award presentation is Oct. 22.

Don't forget to share:

Support vital LGBTQ+ journalism

Reader contributions help keep LGBTQ Nation free, so that queer people get the news they need, with stories that mainstream media often leaves out. Can you contribute today?

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated

Watch: Dolly Parton tells Christians to stop judging gays and love more

Previous article

Watch: Clinton talks Trump, dances with Ken Bone on ‘The Ellen Show’

Next article