***For Immediate Release***
Thursday, June 17, 2021
Contact: Magdalena Cazarez
Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed
O: (402) 438-8853 ext 119
mcazarez@neappleseed.org
LINCOLN, NE – Today, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in favor of Catholic Social Services’ ability to discriminate against same sex coupled foster parents in Fulton v. City of Philadelphia. Nebraska Appleseed’s Child Welfare Program Director, Sarah Helvey, issued the following statement:
“We are disappointed in today’s decision from the Supreme Court regarding same sex coupled foster families. This decision, however, is very narrow and specific to the contract at issue in the case. It is not a widespread allowance of agencies to discriminate against willing same-sex coupled foster parents, solely based on their sexual orientation and the make up of their family. Nebraska should not use this ruling as an excuse to discriminate against individuals and families who are willing to provide safe and loving homes to children in foster care.
This case sheds light on the continued, widespread discrimination and inequalities against LGBTQ+ individuals and families in the child welfare system. Sexual orientation has no bearing on a family’s ability to provide affirming and supportive care to youth in foster care. Nebraska Appleseed will continue to work towards policies that affirm, support, and protect LGBTQ+ individuals.
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