FORT LAUDERDALE–Equality Florida will be awarding its annual Voice of Equality Award to Jim Obergefell, the named plantiff in the Obergefell v. Hodges Supreme Court case that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. The award is the highest honor the organization bestows all year.

“Thousands of people contributed to achieving marriage equality in our state and our nation, and Jim Obergefell’s name and story will forever be linked to this historic victory,” said Stratton Pollitzer, deputy director of LGBT-rights group Equality Florida. “His and John’s love story so beautifully epitomized the desperate need for these protections, and the tragedies our families experienced when we lacked this basic dignity.”

“It is an honor to accept this award and I feel humbled to be at the forefront of this important decision furthering equality for the LGBT community,” said Mr. Obergefell from his home in Cincinnati.  “While this decision was an important one, we still have a long way to go.  This historic decision should fuel our efforts to ensure global equality for our entire community, and I invite you to join me as we continue this journey for positive change.”