Since 2006, when Colorado voters narrowly passed Amendment 43 in an act of hate and exclusion, the Colorado constitution states marriage is between “one man and one woman.” This fall, Colorado voters have the opportunity to protect and validate our LGBTQ+ communities by voting yes on Amendment J to remove this exclusionary language from our state’s constitution. Not only does this protect an important right for LGBTQ+ Coloradans — it also protects their mental health.

Colorado has come a long way from being known as the “hate state.” In 2019, the Colorado legislature passed Jude’s Law, which makes it easier for transgender Coloradans to update their gender and name on IDs and birth certificates. In 2022, Marlo’s Law expanded the definition of a family so LGBTQ+ couples who adopt and conceive through assisted reproductive technology have the same legal protections and recognition as heterosexual parents. At Envision:You, we have supported state legislation that seeks to close the gaps in health outcomes for LGBTQ+ Coloradans. Yet, Colorado is one of 30 states that still has a statewide ban on same-sex marriage in the constitution.

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Make no mistake: Amendment J is a mental health issue. When same-sex marriage is legal, it helps to normalize LGBTQ+ relationships and families. This can lead to a decrease in societal stigma and discrimination, which are major contributors to anxiety and depression in the LGBTQ+ community. According to the Trevor Project’s 2023 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ Young People, nearly 1 in 3 LGBTQ young people say their mental health is negatively affected by anti-LGBTQ policies and legislation. On top of that, Colorado ranks 46th for mental health, making it one of the worst states for youth mental health and overall prevalence of mental illness among our state’s population.

The legal recognition of same-sex marriage delivers a strong message of acceptance and equality. In a time when civil liberties previously protected by the U.S. Constitution are challenged by the U.S. Supreme Court, it is crucial we take a stand. The court has already indicated it may reconsider Obergefell v. Hodges, the landmark case that legalized same-sex marriage. If overturned, this would reverse nearly a decade of progress and undermine the efforts of advocates working to reduce discrimination.

Marriage offers a range of legal and financial benefits, including health insurance coverage, joint tax filing and inheritance rights. This stability can alleviate significant stress for same-sex couples. Should Obergefell be overturned, the 2022 federal Respect for Marriage Act would protect the approximately 7,000 LGBTQ+ Coloradans already married, but new same-sex marriages would no longer be legal. Without Obergefell or new federal protections, same-sex couples in Colorado would lose the right to marry.

Amendment J asks voters to remove the ban on same-sex marriage in Colorado to safeguard families, individuals and youth from discrimination. Legal same-sex marriage is essential for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for the LGBTQ+ community. When LGBTQ+ youth witness committed same-sex couples, it demonstrates they too can have fulfilling relationships. Research shows same-sex couples who can marry experience greater relationship satisfaction and commitment. The freedom to marry without legal repercussions promotes self-acceptance, reduces stigma and supports healthier, happier lives.

LGBTQ+ Coloradans face distinct mental health challenges and are experiencing mental health issues at alarming rates. This November, I encourage you to vote “yes” on Amendment J to remove the ban on same-sex marriage in Colorado. Doing so will protect the legal rights of our families, friends and neighbors, while also promoting the mental well-being of LGBTQ+ Coloradans.

Steven Haden (he/him) serves as the executive vice president of community partnerships and outreach at Mental Health Colorado and is the founder of Envision:You, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals in Colorado. As a social worker, therapist and advocate, he collaborates with a dedicated team of changemakers to drive positive change. Steven resides in Colorado with his partner James and their two dogs, Rigby and Henry.