Jury 1 J – K

The Case of the Disappointed Brides

Sally and Samantha became engaged and decided to have their favorite tailor, George, design and make their wedding gowns. They set a date for the ceremony 8 months in the future. George had been making dresses and suits for them over many years and he knew their tastes and their measurements. He has a thriving business in a busy retail area. At the appointment to discuss their gowns, George informed the engaged couple that he was opposed to same sex marriage and would not make their wedding gowns.

The Trial

Sally and Samantha sued George. They brought in evidence showing that George had always made their clothes, knew they were a couple and had never expressed his concerns about their relationship. They have been unable to timely find another designer/tailor to complete their gowns.

The Arguments at Trial

Sally and Samantha’s attorney argues that George has no right to discriminate against them because of their sexual orientation, which is a protected class. In fact, the state in which they reside allows for same sex marriage, thus no law was being broken. George had taken care of their specialty clothing needs for years and his abrupt refusal, caused them emotional distress. George’s attorney argues that George is invoking his right to freedom of religion. If George made the gowns for the couple, that would constitute an endorsement of their homosexuality and that was something his religion did not allow.

Questions to Discuss

1. If you were on the jury in this case, who would you decide for and why?
2. If, instead of a homosexual couple, the request had been to make a Ku Klux Klan hood and robe, would your answer be the same? If not, why not? If yes, then why?