Supporting Amendment J: A Step Toward Equality in Colorado

Colorado is now celebrated for its strong protections for the LGBTQIA+ community, but it wasn't always this way. Just a few decades ago, the state was branded as the "hate state" due to various initiatives and laws that limited the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Among these was Amendment 43, which narrowly passed in 2006 and remains entrenched in our constitution, prohibiting same-sex marriage.

In a historic move, leaders from the LGBTQIA+ community, alongside allies, have launched the Freedom to Marry Colorado campaign with a mission to remove the ban on same-sex marriage from our state's constitution. Working closely with Legislative Leaders, they successfully referred Amendment J to the 2024 General Election ballot.

What Does Amendment J Mean for Colorado?

A YES vote on Amendment J will remove the definition of marriage as solely between one man and one woman. This crucial step not only protects the rights of same-sex couples but also affirms Colorado’s commitment to equality and love for all its citizens.

"As a queer elder with a wife that has multiple, degenerative disabilities, Freedom to Marry ensures all Coloradans have the same opportunities we have to be responsible for and care for one another in the ways we have discussed and decided." - Heidi Hess, Western Slope Field Organizer

As we reflect on the progress we've made, it's important to remember the struggles that led us here. The fight for equality is ongoing, and supporting Amendment J is a vital part of that journey.

“Marriage, to me, is all about love, commitment, and being treated equally, no matter who you are. As someone in a same-sex marriage, getting rid of Amendment J in Colorado is personal—it’s about making sure everyone’s relationship is respected and free from outdated bans that don’t belong in our laws.” - Alex Limas, Chief Development and Operations Officer

The time has come for Colorado to formally recognize and protect the rights of all couples. By voting YES on Amendment J, we can ensure that love is celebrated, regardless of who it is between. This amendment is more than just a legal change; it’s a testament to our values as a community.

“My wife and I were married in 2022, quicker than we had originally planned because we had just spent the year listening to the Supreme Court talk about how they want to review Obergefell. We just celebrated our two year wedding anniversary and thankfully, Obergefell is still in place. Our marriage matters to us because in those two years both of us have faced chronic health issues, some of which have landed us in the hospital/ER. With our marriage in place, I know without a doubt that we have the right to be by each other's sides in those difficult times.” - Alex Floyd, Health Equity Director

Imagine a Colorado where love knows no boundaries, where every couple has the right to marry the person they choose without fear of discrimination. This vision can become a reality with your support. Amendment J is a critical step in solidifying the progress we’ve made and ensuring that our laws reflect our values of inclusion and equality.

“Amendment J isn't just about a right; it's about the freedom to create the family life you envision. When I became a mother, I always assumed it would be a road I traveled alone in responsibilities. When I met my now-wife, all of that changed. Five years, an emotional adoption process, and a big family move together have cemented the Happy Hardy Home. Marriage isn't an obligation "for the kids." It's giving our kids a two-parent household where they can trust us and feel supported to be themselves. Marriage equality is about a healthy and loving relationship, not just between my wife and me but also for our children. For us, passing Amendment J is the freedom to keep creating memories as a family. Amendment J is about love.” - Brandi Hardy, Lead Field Organizing Strategist

Let’s stand together and show that Colorado is a place that values love, acceptance, and equality for all. Vote YES on Amendment J, and let’s make history together.

“For Liz and I,  Amendment J represents a chance for Coloradans to stand for fairness, once and for all. We’ve navigated a unique path to marriage, three times, to be exact. In 2013, we had a civil union. The next year, we got our marriage license at the Boulder County Clerk’s office, only to learn later that it was deemed invalid by the Colorado Attorney General. We were finally able to marry 'for real' after the Obergefell decision. To be clear, our marriage was real from the first 'I do,' but we both understood that a legal document was essential to secure protections our love alone couldn’t provide. While I can say Liz has married me three times, no one should have to fight so hard to have their love recognized. A yes vote on Amendment J will ensure that no other Coloradan has to go through these hurdles to love freely, equally, and be protected by the law.” - Nadine Bridges, Executive Director

Together, we can pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone in Colorado. Let’s take this opportunity to unite for love and equality.

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