BOSTON - The American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts celebrates today's momentous vote in the legislature defeating a proposed amendment to end marriage equality in Massachusetts.  The final vote to defeat the amendment was 151 to 45.

"We thank the legislators who stood up for freedom and fundamental fairness for all by voting no," said Carol Rose, Executive Director of the ACLU of Massachusetts.  "This is a victory for all people in Massachusetts -- gay and straight alike -- who understand that discrimination has no place in our constitution or in our state."

The ACLU of Massachusetts, a founding member of the Mass Equality Coalition, was a key player in implementing the legislative strategy that led to today's victory in the State House.

"We are grateful to our coalition partners and especially to ACLU of Massachusetts lobbyists Norma Shapiro and Ann Lambert for their seasoned approach in reaching out to lawmakers who had previously voted yes," said Rose. “This measure was designed to divide us.  Instead, our Commonwealth remains an example for the entire nation that we are strongest together."