A coalition of conservative leaders and organizations is pushing back against the Supreme Court’s 2015 ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges. This decision mandated that same-sex marriages must be recognized by all states, which many believe has been detrimental to the traditional family structure. The campaign, dubbed “Greater Than,” centers around placing children’s needs above the desires of adults for recognition of same-sex marriage.
According to The Daily Signal, the campaign stresses the importance of prioritizing children in marriage and family law. Senior Editor Tyler O’Neil shared the coalition’s message on social media, revealing the involvement of key organizations, including the American Family Association and Family Research Council, among others. These groups aim to redefine marriage’s implications on family dynamics and children’s well-being.
Katy Faust, president of Them Before Us, criticized the impact of the Obergefell decision, saying, “Since the redefinition of marriage a decade ago, we’ve seen the consequences: parenthood treated as replaceable… and children deprived of the unique love and guidance only a mother and father can provide.” She emphasized that, “children deserve better and that they are Greater Than adult desires.” This statement encapsulates the coalition’s focus: ensuring that the rights and needs of children take precedence over adult choices.
The campaign features voices like Daily Wire host Michael Knowles, who pointed out that the current societal trend prioritizes adult fantasies over the real needs of children. Family Research Council President Tony Perkins echoed this sentiment, stating, “It’s a mother and a father that bring forth children into the world, and that’s by design.” Their statements highlight a fundamental belief that traditional parental structures are essential for raising children effectively.
This movement comes after significant shifts in the legal landscape concerning individual rights, particularly with the recent reversal of Roe v. Wade, which returned control over abortion laws to the states. Critics of the pro-life movement often claim that their concern for children’s welfare diminishes after birth. However, this coalition’s current initiative clearly states that their fight extends beyond life in the womb—it is about protecting children in all aspects of their development, including the family unit.
Research supports these efforts. A 2013 study cited by The Daily Citizen provides “strong evidence that father absence negatively affects children’s social-emotional development.” Other studies have shown that children raised in traditional married households tend to live longer, achieve greater academic success, and are less likely to encounter legal troubles or substance abuse issues.
The coalition’s active stance demonstrates a commitment to advocating for children’s needs in the face of evolving societal norms. Their message is clear: if the goal is to secure a healthier future for the next generation, then the structure of family and the roles within it cannot be overlooked. They argue that what matters most is the effectiveness of parental care and the safeguarding of children’s best interests. Thus, this campaign aims not only to challenge the Obergefell decision but also to establish a new narrative around what constitutes a healthy family environment.
\n
"*" indicates required fields
