Research & Resources > Press Releases > September 28, 2007

MPV Joins 400 Religious Organizations and Clergy Members in Support of Same-Sex Marriage Rights

Today Muslims for Progressive Values joined more than 400 religious organizations and clergy members to file an interfaith brief arguing that the constitutional principles of religious freedom and separation of church and state require that same-sex couples have equal access to civil marriage.

MPV’s amicus brief statement was as follows:

Sexuality is a core component of human nature, and sexual activity is an essential aspect of human lives. In the Qur’an, God sanctions sexual activity only in the context of publically acknowledged, commited relationships. Denying that to the queer community is tantamount to demanding they commit a major sin, or remain celibate their entire lives, neither of which is acceptable.

Furthermore, freedom of conscience, freedom of religion, and the right to pursue happiness are basic human rights. Each individual is free to navigate their own life path, so long as their choices do not harm other individuals. No matter what one person’s view on marriage or homosexuality may be, what is important is the view of the two individuals desiring to be married.

Aside from the moral ramifications of denying marriage to the queer community, there are also legal and financial repercussions in American society that cannot be overlooked. From visitation rights in hospitals, to tax and insurance benefits, denying marriage to the queer community puts one segment of our society at a financial and social disadvantage compared to other American citizens.