The looming situation that LGBTQ+ individuals dreaded has now arrived. We tried to raise awareness about this.

This is no exaggeration. This is a reality shaped by Republican legislation.

On Monday, the Idaho House of Representatives petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to annul the Obergefell v. Hodges decision, the significant 2015 ruling that legalized same-sex marriage across the nation. Should the Supreme Court choose to hear this case and rule in favor of the Idaho House, it could lead to the termination of gay marriage in America.

This action aims to convey a message from the GOP: that LGBTQ+ equality will not be accepted any longer. The Republicans want us to feel anxious about the potential loss of our rights.

Republicans oppose my marriage and my equal rights

I was never the kind of person who envisioned their wedding as a child. It wasn’t until a few years back, when I confronted my own sexuality, that I understood why.

After acknowledging that I am gay, the idea of marriage suddenly became appealing. I created a Pinterest board filled with wedding inspirations like heart-shaped cakes, custom matchbooks, and brides in matching white dresses. I began to imagine the possibilities for the future if I were to find the right partner.

If Obergefell is overturned, there’s a possibility I won’t be able to marry in North Carolina, my home state, due to a constitutional amendment added in 2012 stating that “only a marriage between one man and one woman shall be legally recognized.”

North Carolina is among the 35 states with laws prohibiting same-sex marriage, laws that could be reinstated if the Supreme Court decides to revert power back to the states.

Numerous Republicans have made it clear that they disregard my aspirations and those of every LGBTQ+ individual. They certainly wish to deny us the legal rights that accompany marriage, such as filing taxes jointly, co-owning property, holding joint insurance, and enjoying all the privileges that straight couples take for granted.

Are Republican lawmakers targeting Americans? Could Obergefell v. Hodges be at risk?

This development comes as no shock. The underlying Republican agenda, which seeks to restrict the rights of anyone who isn’t a straight white male, has been advancing for years.

The Supreme Court, in 2022, delegated abortion issues back to the states, leaving one-third of women facing new bans imposed by conservative state legislatures. Both state and federal Republican lawmakers persist in attacking our healthcare rights, challenging access to in vitro fertilization, birth control, and abortion medication like mifepristone.

The GOP’s inclination to control LGBTQ+ individuals is evident in their continuous assaults on trans rights: including the right to participate in sports, receive gender-affirming healthcare, and obtain government identification that accurately represents their identity.

Disputes at the state level have been ongoing for years. Donald Trump integrated these issues into his presidential platform; now, we’re witnessing a surge of federal restrictions impacting trans individuals.

Republicans have found encouragement in Trump to advance their control agenda. This is occurring shortly after he took office for his second term. The future prospect frightens me.

Trump’s initial weeks focused on stripping our rights away

I strive for the ability to marry and establish a life with a partner. I want to hold their hand during hospital visits. I want the options that Idaho Republicans are attempting to take from me and my community.

Since January 20, it has become evident how rapidly Republicans intend to strip our rights over the ensuing four years. Their actions often induce fear, pushing people towards submission.

Every Democrat ought to heed what is transpiring. There are individuals you might know—people you may care for—who are being affected by what the government aims to take away from us. This is not the moment to surrender; it is a moment to stand up.

Follow News columnist Sara Pequeño on X, formerly Twitter: @sara__pequeno