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In a groundbreaking decision, the Colorado Supreme Court has ruled in favor of upholding same-sex marriage protections in the state, solidifying the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals to marry and have their marriages recognized and protected by law.The case, which dates back to early 2025, involves a same-sex couple, Anna and Sarah, who were denied a marriage license by their county clerk on the grounds of religious beliefs. The couple, represented by the ACLU of Colorado, brought their case to the Supreme Court after lower courts ruled against them.In a unanimous decision, the Supreme Court justices found that the denial of a marriage license to Anna and Sarah violated their constitutional rights under the Equal Protection Clause of the Colorado Constitution. The justices recognized that denying same-sex couples the right to marry not only discriminates against them based on their sexual orientation but also denies them the legal rights and protections afforded to heterosexual couples.The ruling is a significant victory for LGBTQ+ advocates in Colorado, who have long fought for equal rights and recognition under the law. Colorado has a history of being at the forefront of LGBTQ+ rights, becoming the first state to decriminalize homosexuality in 1972 and legalizing same-sex marriage in 2014."This decision reaffirms the principle that all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation, deserve the inherent dignity and rights that come with marriage," said ACLU of Colorado Legal Director, Sara Neel. "We are thrilled that Anna and Sarah's love and commitment to each other has been recognized and affirmed by the highest court in the state."The Supreme Court's ruling sets a precedent for future cases involving same-sex marriage in Colorado and sends a powerful message of inclusivity and equality to LGBTQ+ individuals across the state."We applaud the Colorado Supreme Court for standing on the right side of history and affirming that love is love, no matter who you are," said LGBTQ+ rights advocate, James Martinez. "This decision is a step forward in our ongoing fight for equal rights and protections for all."