The Rev. Peter Morales, president of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA), issued the following statement applauding the legalization of same-sex marriage in Rhode Island:

"Today, we celebrate marriage equality in Rhode Island. I want to thank and applaud all who worked tirelessly to secure this victory.

Rhode Island now joins nine states and the District of Columbia where same-sex marriage is the legal right for all committed couples. In each of these states and the District of Columbia, Unitarian Universalists were at the forefront of the efforts to secure marriage equality. As a religious community, Unitarian Universalists are called to affirm the worth and dignity of every person regardless of sexual orientation.

On my recent visit to the First Unitarian Church of Providence in Rhode Island, I was joined by the Rev. Geoffrey Black, the general minister and president of the United Church of Christ, to rally supporters for marriage equality to continue their important work. I was humbled by the passion of our faith communities to stand in partnership for justice and love.

Today, more and more Americans realize that marriage equality strengthens families, protects children, and ensures the basic rights of citizenship for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender couples. It is my fervent hope that marriage equality becomes the right of all loving, committed couples. Until that day, Unitarian Universalists will continue to stand on the side of love in this struggle for equality."