A Texas judge has ruled that a lesbian mom’s partner of three years move out, because of a “morality clause” in the mom’s divorce papers (from a previous opposite-sex marriage). The clause requires that no one she has a non-marital “dating or intimate relationship” with may stay in the home after 9 p.m. if the children are present, reports the Dallas Voice. And of course, same-sex couples are forbidden by law to marry or have their marriages recognized in Texas.
The good news, such as it is, for Carolyn Compton, her partner Page Price, and the children, is that morality clauses are rarely enforced and the ruling is likely to be overturned on appeal, says Ken Upton Jr., a senior staff attorney with Lambda Legal.
Still, what a trauma for the family. Even as we celebrate recent victories in some states, we still have a long way to go in others—and it is children and families that pay the price.
The Dallas Voice also notes that people can contribute to Page Price and Carolyn Compton’s attorney fees by sending checks to Dee Pennington, c/o Dallas Credit Union, 1301 Young Street #100, Dallas, TX 75202. Make checks payable to Page Price and mark “Personal” on envelope. (I have not personally confirmed this information; use your own discretion when sending anyone money.)