This is a big win. Yes, it's only a trial court judge. Yes, it will be appealed. But this is the case that I suspect will finally end Florida's ban on adoption by gay men and lesbians, once and for all. Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Cindy Lederman has declared the ban unconstitutional.
We've won in trial courts before. But this case was litigated as a battle of the experts. Here's a summary of what the experts for our side said. The ACLU lawyers decimated the testimony of the state's experts. Thank you to the ACLU LGBT Rights Project. They have put the whole trial transcript on line. Later today, look for a link to the court's 53 page ruling on their website, and I'll write an analysis of it as soon as I've read it.
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6 Comments
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Yes!...Now for Arkansas....and I guess other states. Congratulations FLORIDA...and to all Florida families!
LOrion | November 25, 2008 11:32 AM
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It is becoming clear that while taking to the streets is important, we should be going to the courthouse more.
jadi | November 25, 2008 11:49 AM
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I don't know whether to feel happy or sad.
It's great news for everyone (even more so those in Florida), especially following the elections.
But I'm also feeling kind of sad that I'm finding something so basic so promising.
I'm really looking forward to reading your analysis.
Reformed Ascetic | November 25, 2008 12:55 PM
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This is a good first step, with lots more fighting to go as it moves up the court system.
Waymon Hudson | November 25, 2008 5:22 PM
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Best news I've heard all day!
Bil Browning | November 25, 2008 7:33 PM
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Friday, December 12 at 7 PM , Governor Charlie Crist who is widely rumored to be gay (and not just by gay people), will get married at 7PM in St Petersburg with reception to follow at the Vinoy Hotel (site of Crist inarguration as well). No gathering should take place at the church, because the logistics are bad and because the United Methodist Church as a whole is somewhat gay friendly.
We can count on many of the persons on the donor list (and the secret list as well) in support of AMendment 2 to be in attendance.
The reception will be at the Vinoy Hotel which is across the street from Straub Park where people should gather at 7 PM. Wearing white would be a nice touch.
The message is- Charlie Crist's marriage of convenience is a slap in the face to gay people who aren't in the closet.
David Hearne | November 26, 2008 12:25 PM
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