Jim Obergefell, the man who lodged the case that took marriage equality to the US Supreme Court, has been invited to attend President Barack Obama’s final State of the Union address as a special guest.
Obergefell will join First Lady Michelle Obama along with 22 other Americans who made great achievements during the President’s terms.
“The guests personify President Obama’s time in office and most importantly, they represent who we are as Americans: inclusive and compassionate, innovative and courageous,” The White House released in a statement.
Mr Obergefell took his case to court in 2013, when Buckeye State would not recognise his marriage to his dying 20-year-long partner. Obergefell wanted legal recognition of their marriage and to be listed on his husband’s death certificate.
The case made it to the Supreme Court after Ohio state successfully appealed Obergefell’s win in the district courts – triggering the debate and ruling which led to marriage equality across the United States.
“Jim considers himself an accidental activist,” The White House wrote, “One who became entwined in a political statement larger than himself – a statement of equality and dignity that Americans have been fighting for since this nation’s founding – and he now remains committed to ensuring the civil rights for all Americans.”
OIP Staff
