Lambda Legal Statement on Passing of Edie Windsor

Edie Windsor, plaintiff in the landmark case United States v. Windsor, which struck down the Defense of Marriage Act and helped pave the way for marriage equality nationwide, has passed away. She was 88 years old. Susan Sommer, Lambda Legal’s Director of Constitutional Litigation, has issued the following statement:

“Our hearts are with Edie’s wife, Judith Kasen-Windsor, their family, friends and all whose lives were changed because Edie so fearlessly stood up for herself and her community. She called for the respect and dignity denied to same-sex spouses, and the Supreme Court heard her plea. Because of Edie, we are a more perfect union. She left an indelible mark on all who knew her story, and all whose love is now recognized and protected because of the victory she helped secure for LGBT people. Thank you Edie. You will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude. We will miss you.”