HRES 319119th CongressIn Committee

Recognizing the contributions of Clela Rorex, pioneering county clerk who advanced civil rights for all couples seeking to be married in 1975.

Introduced: Apr 9, 2025

Standard Summary

Comprehensive overview in 1-2 paragraphs

This House Resolution memorializes and honors Clela Rorex, the Boulder County Clerk who, in 1975, issued the first same-sex marriage licenses in the United States. It describes her as a civil rights pioneer who faced threats but continued advocating for LGBTQ rights and equality. The measure expresses formal recognition of her leadership and contributions and supports designating a commemorative “Clela Rorex Day.” It is a ceremonial, non-binding expression from Congress that highlights an important historical milestone in the fight for marriage equality, but it does not create new laws or change existing statutes.

Key Points

1Recognizes Clela Rorex as a pioneer for civil rights and same-sex marriage, highlighting her bravery and leadership.
2Acknowledges that in 1975 she issued the first same-sex marriage licenses in the United States after confirming no explicit prohibition in Colorado law at the time.
3Notes that Rorex issued multiple licenses, faced death threats and widespread criticism, yet continued her advocacy for LGBTQ rights.
4Expresses support for designating a commemorative “Clela Rorex Day” in recognition of her contributions.
5Clarifies that this is a House of Representatives resolution (ceremonial, non-binding) introduced in the 119th Congress and referred to the Judiciary Committee.

Impact Areas

Primary group/area affected: LGBTQ rights community and the broader civil rights/history-seeking public. This resolution brings attention to an early, pivotal moment in the fight for marriage equality and in local government’s role in civil rights.Secondary group/area affected: Boulder County, Colorado, and other local governments or institutions that might consider or promote commemorations such as “Clela Rorex Day.”Additional impacts: Educational and historical awareness about the origins of same-sex marriage rights; potential inspiration for public statements, commemorations, or curriculum emphasizing civil rights milestones; no direct legal changes or policy mandates result from a non-binding resolution.

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