A Moment of Relief — and a Reminder of the Work Ahead

Today’s news from the U.S. Supreme Court brings a moment of relief. The Court declined to take up a case aimed at overturning marriage equality. It’s a decision that protects a fundamental right that changed the course of my life and the lives of countless LGBTQ+ people and families across this country.

For some, today may feel procedural, even routine. But for many in our community, it is deeply emotional. It is a reminder of how fragile rights can feel when they are continually questioned, challenged, or used as political currency.

Our rights should never be up for debate.
Our marriages, our families, our dignity are not political talking points. They are the foundation of our lives, our safety, and our belonging in this world.

And seriously — we do not want to be part of “Breaking News.”
We do not want to live under a constant state of attack, scrutiny, or uncertainty. And this weight is even heavier for our transgender community, who continue to be targeted by policy after policy and headline after headline.

We just want to live our lives.
To love who we love.
To build our families.
To show up — to work, to dinners, to holidays, to community — without fearing what the next court case, legislative session, or news cycle may bring.

I began my advocacy work fighting for marriage equality. I have marched, organized, celebrated, and stood with so many of you over the years. To see these fundamental rights questioned again and again is exhausting. It takes a toll. It is deeply personal.

To our friends, family, and loved ones who may never have to carry this kind of daily stress — we know you care. And we ask: please don’t look away. Your voice, your vote, your solidarity matter. The people you know, work with, and love deserve to live without fear that their rights could be stripped away with the stroke of a pen.

Today reminds us of something important:

Our work continues.
But we continue it together.
With resilience. With community. And yes — with love.

In solidarity,

Tammi Wallace
Co-Founder, President & CEO
Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce