Statement on the 303 Creative SCOTUS decision
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 30, 2023
Nicole McAfee (they/she), Freedom Oklahoma Executive Director, nicole@freedomoklahoma.org
Freedom Oklahoma Statement on SCOTUS Opinion in 303 Creative v Elenis
Oklahoma City, OK – Today in a narrow yet concerning 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) chose to allow discrimination rather than protect 2SLGBTQ+ people. In response to the decision, Freedom Oklahoma issued the following statement.
The following is attributable to Freedom Oklahoma Executive Director, Nicole McAfee:
Freedom Oklahoma stands united in our disappointment and concern following the recent SCOTUS ruling in the case of 303 Creative v. Elenis. This decision highlights the urgent need to address discrimination against the 2SLGBTQ+ community in businesses nationwide.
The Supreme Court's ruling, which favored 303 Creative, yet again affirmed the current majority is more interested in ignoring legal precedent and norms, instead twisting the law to maintain opportunities to discriminate against historically marginalized and excluded community members.This decision has raised serious concerns among our community members. While narrow in scope, it sends a disheartening message that discrimination against 2SLGBTQ+ individuals in businesses can persist without consequences, despite the significant progress made in advancing civil rights in recent years.
Freedom Oklahoma firmly believes that no one should ever face discrimination based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression while accessing goods, services, or employment. The ruling fails to acknowledge the profound impact that such discriminatory practices have on the well-being, dignity, and self-worth of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals in Oklahoma and across the nation.
We have been so grateful to all of the Oklahomans who have affirmed their commitment to fight for 2SLGBTQ+ people, and we need that continued spirit as the attacks continue at every political level. Together, we can work towards a future where all 2SLGBTQ+ Oklahomans have the safety to thrive. The journey may be challenging, but we will continue to advocate relentlessly until discrimination becomes a chapter in our history, rather than the guiding doctrine of our governments.
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We know that amplifying attacks on 2SLGBTQ+ people has a measurable negative impact on mental health. 2SLGBTQ+ affirming mental health crisis support is available through entities such as Trans Lifeline (877-565-8860), the Trevor Project (call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678), and the LGBT Hotline (888-843-4564).