#45: How to Influence The Future of Equality with Jim Obergefell

All Jim Obergefell wanted was to marry John Arthur, his partner of 20 years, before he died of ALS. But in 2013, Ohio would not recognize gay marriage. And so, by fighting to get his union to John legally recognized, Jim unexpectedly changed history. In 2015, Jim became the lead plaintiff in the landmark Supreme Court case, Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized same-sex marriage across the United States.  Embracing his role as an “accidental activist”, Jim received calls of congratulations from President Obama and Vice President Biden after the historic ruling,

 During an IVY Ideas Night in Washington DC, Jim shared his inspiring story, and discussed his continued work as an activist with organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign and Equality Ohio.

 Please enjoy our conversation, with Jim Obergefell. And remember to visit IVY.com to enjoy access to a lifetime of learning, growth, and impact through in-person collaborations with world-class leaders, thinkers, and institutions.