The Supreme Court ruled on Thursday that the city of Philadelphia violated the Constitution by limiting its relationship with a Catholic foster care agency over the group's refusal to certify same-sex couples as foster parents.
The justices came down unanimously against Philadelphia and for Catholic Social Services.
“The refusal of Philadelphia to contract with CSS for the provision of foster care services unless it agrees to certify same-sex couples as foster parents cannot survive strict scrutiny, and violates the First Amendment,” Chief Justice John Roberts wrote.
Catholic Social Services is affiliated with the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. The agency has said that its Catholic beliefs prevent it from certifying same-sex couples as foster parents.
Philadelphia learned in 2018 from a newspaper reporter that the agency would not work with same-sex couples. The city has said it requires that the two dozen-plus foster care agencies it works with not to discriminate as part of their contracts. The city asked the Catholic agency to change its policy, but the group declined. As a result, Philadelphia stopped referring additional children to the agency.
Catholic Social Services sued, but lower courts sided with Philadelphia.
With the holiday season here, many families and friends are looking for enjoyable events to experience together. Vincent Ortega, associate director of Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland, a must-see all-musical show for all ages with some stunts, top performances, and dazzling costumes. Plus, the circus provides a performance for Cheddar News viewers in studio!
The 2024 Golden Globe nominations are out and some of the year's biggest films received a nod. Cheddar News took a look at the rundown of some of the big categories.
Days may be getting shorter and colder, but your furry friend still needs to get that daily exercise. Dr. Danielle Bernal, global veterinarian with Wellness Pet Co., joined Cheddar News to discuss the health benefits of walking for humans and dogs.
Many parents are currently shopping for presents for their young children as the holiday season is underway. Parenting and lifestyle expert Amanda Mushro joined Cheddar News to give some ideas on what to purchase for your kids.
