Yesterday, the Williams Institute and 49 other scholars, researchers, and legal experts filed an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in Fulton v. City of Philadelphia. The case will ultimately determine whether states and localities must contract with child welfare agencies that discriminate against same-sex couples on the basis of religious beliefs.
The Williams Institute's brief explains that forcing states and localities to allow discrimination against same-sex parents will cause significant and long-lasting harm to same-sex couples and children in foster care. It would likely reduce the number of homes available for children in need and stigmatize LGB people, which has been shown to jeopardize health and well-being. Furthermore, it would send a message that the government sanctions and approves LGB discrimination, potentially emboldening other forms of discrimination against LGB people.
The brief was prepared with the pro bono assistance of Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld, LLP.