Lucas County Commissioners Tina Skeldon Wozniak, Pete Gerken, and Carol Contrada are pleased with today’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court which enables Ohio to join 37 other states in granting marriage equality to our fellow LGBT citizens. Lucas County prides itself on its inclusiveness for all of our citizens. In 2010, Lucas County extended healthcare eligibility to domestic partners of county employees, allowing any employee in a committed relationship to ensure that a partner would receive health coverage. In 2013 and 2014, Lucas County publically supported marriage equality campaigns and initiatives working in Ohio to build support for this very issue.

“The Supreme Court ruling enables citizens to love who they choose to love and to make a commitment to each other,” remarked Commissioner Tina Skeldon Wozniak. “This ruling stands for the proposition that all love is equal.”

“As a proud parent of my son Christopher, who had to get married out of state to his partner Rick two years ago, I rejoice for all the couples who can now freely marry anywhere,” said Commissioner Pete Gerken. “The rights of people prevail!”

“Our Constitution guarantees equal protection for all,” said Commissioner Carol Contrada. “Today the Supreme Court declared marriage equality the law of the land and we celebrate this momentous and historic ruling with our friends of the LGBT community.”