Press Release

February 2, 2007

Citizens for Traditional Values applauds the Michigan Court of Appeals Ruling on Marriage

LANSING – The Michigan Court of Appeals today strengthened families today by strictly interpreting the Defense of Marriage Act, which voters overwhelmingly approved in 2004, and ruling that state and municipal governments cannot offer benefits to the same-sex partners of their employees.

"Preserving the traditional family and the institution of marriage is essential for the children and for society as a whole," said James Muffett, president of Citizens for Traditional Values. "In 2004, the people of Michigan voted overwhelmingly in favor of a constitutional amendment to preserve the traditional institution of marriage for future generations. That amendment plainly states that, 'the union of one man and one woman in marriage shall be the only agreement recognized as a marriage or similar union for any purpose.'"

Muffett also recognized the work of Attorney General Mike Cox on this issue. From the beginning of this debate in 2004, he fought for this amendment to be approved by the Legislature. He then supported the petition drive to place the issue on the ballot and once approved by the voters, consistently defended their clear intentions, resulting in this decision by the Court of Appeals, Muffett added.

"Although some will accuse us of being motivated by hatred, that could not be farther from the truth," Muffett said. "As Abraham Lincoln once said, 'with malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right.'"

Contact James Muffett at (517) 321-6233 for additional information.