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Prop 8 Hearing Today about Cameras in the Courtroom
Photo by Tom Andrews/LAist (more photos here)
Chief Judge Vaughn R. Walker of the U.S. District Court in Northern California today will hear testimony from both sides about letting cameras into the courtroom in the case against Prop 8, which banned gay marriage in California. Walker is expected to make a decision on Friday, after receiving public input via letters and petitions (we posted about one yesterday).
“For too long, the debate over marriage equality has taken place in the political arena, which is dominated by spin and scare tactics," said Chad Griffin, President of the Equal Rights Foundation, which is representing the plaintiffs in the case. "This unprecedented trial, through evidence and witness testimony, will reveal the true harm and unconstitutionality of measures like Proposition 8. These important proceedings should be available to people across the country."
The historic trial will begin on Monday. If no cameras are allowed, only those who are physically present will be able to report on the trial.