Separate inherently is not equal. There's a reason why $45 million was spent against marriage equality. It's because people understand the word does have meaning. And equality comes when we accept the same notions and the same institutions for everyone, regardless of race and gender and regardless of sex orientation.

In this quote, Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California and advocate for marriage equality, emphasizes the fundamental connection between the concepts of equality and inclusion. He argues that separation—whether it involves different treatment based on race, gender, or sexual orientation—is inherently unequal. By stating that "separate inherently is not equal," Newsom highlights how segregating or distinguishing people based on these characteristics perpetuates inequality, no matter the context.

Newsom also draws attention to the significant financial effort, specifically the $45 million, spent to oppose marriage equality, which underscores the intense resistance to extending equal rights to same-sex couples. He suggests that the large sum of money spent reflects the understanding that the word "equality" has real meaning and carries significant cultural, social, and legal weight. People who oppose marriage equality recognize that its acceptance would challenge traditional norms and alter the definition of marriage as an institution.

The second part of the quote calls for a shift in how society defines and treats institutions like marriage. Newsom argues that true equality can only be achieved when we accept the same notions and institutions—such as marriage—for all people, regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation. His statement reflects a belief in the importance of universal rights and the need for society to adopt inclusive practices that recognize and respect every individual’s identity and rights.

Ultimately, this quote reflects Newsom’s stance on the moral and legal imperative to grant equal rights to everyone, regardless of their identity. It advocates for societal and institutional reform that removes discriminatory barriers, making equality a core principle that applies universally.