Cranford, NJ—American Atheists today applauded the United States Supreme Court in its 5-4 decision guaranteeing the rights of same-sex couples to marry nationwide and joined LGBT Americans in celebrating equality under the law.

“This is a victory too long in the making,” said American Atheists President David Silverman. “The Court recognized what we have been saying for years—that bigotry cloaked in religious belief has no place in our laws. This is a day to celebrate with our LGBT friends, family, and loved ones.”

“The Court’s decision today is just the first step in ensuring equality for all Americans,” said National Legal and Public Policy Director Amanda Knief. “States throughout the nation continue to use ‘religious freedom’ laws as an excuse to discriminate against LGBT people and religious minorities. That is the next fight. And it is one that we have to win.”

AMERICAN ATHEISTS is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that defends civil rights for atheists, freethinkers, and other nonbelievers; works for the total separation of religion and government; and addresses issues of First Amendment public policy. American Atheists was founded in 1963 by Madalyn Murray O’Hair.