Marriage Equality Rhode Island

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Our Mission

Marriage Equality Rhode Island (MERI) is the only organization in Rhode Island whose mission is solely to achieve LGBTQI equality through policy change.

Equality For All

Marriage Equality Rhode Island is a grassroots organization that works to secure equal marriage rights for all Rhode Island couples, regardless of sexual orientation or identity.

Our Goal

MERI’s goal is to win access to marriage for all Rhode Island couples by June, 2011. As one of only five states without a so-called “Defense of Marriage Act,” and with open access to marriage just across the border in both Massachusetts and Connecticut, Rhode Island is uniquely poised to be a leader in the marriage equality movement. Currently, our governor is ideologically opposed to equal marriage and due to term limits Rhode Island will have a new governor in 2010 — so it’s clear that if we step up our work to build the necessary support, we can win in 2011.

Our Support

This goal is ambitious, yet we have strong plans and strong partnerships with Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders (GLAD) and MassEquality, who help us build on their successes in Massachusetts to win equal marriage here in Rhode Island. We are the umbrella organization bringing others who support equal marriage together in a well-organized, comprehensive movement.

Our Belief

MERI believes that a civil society guarantees to all of its citizens certain civil rights; civil marriage is one of these fundamental rights. Each and every adult in Rhode Island — regardless of socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation — deserves the opportunity to attain the legal protections and safeguards gained through civil marriage.