Colorado court: Ruling stands that baker can’t cite religion

DENVER (April 26, 2016)- Colorado’s Supreme Court has refused to take up the case of a suburban Denver baker who would not make a wedding cake for a same-sex couple, letting stand a lower court’s ruling that the Masterpiece Cakeshop owner cannot cite his Christian beliefs in refusing service.

 

The American Civil Liberties Union applauded today’s development, saying it affirmed that no one should be turned away from a business serving the public because of who they are or who they love.

 

Baker Jack Phillips (below) has said he has no problem serving gay people at his store, but that making a wedding cake for a same-sex wedding would violate his Christian beliefs.

 

His attorney, Nicolle Martin, says Phillips should have the same conscience rights as artists like Bruce Springsteen who has refused to perform in North Carolina to protest a law limiting LGBT rights. Martin also says they had not yet decided whether to accept the ruling, ask Colorado’s highest court to reconsider, or approach the U.S. Supreme Court. Martin says she is surprised the Colorado court would not consider the case.

 

“This is a matter that affects all Americans, not just people of faith,” Martin said.

 

Read More: Colorado court: Ruling stands that baker can’t cite religion