Today, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of New Mexico and the Why Marriage Matters New Mexico campaign announced that Albuquerque native and star of TV’s “Modern Family” Jesse Tyler Ferguson will visit his home state to support local efforts to win the freedom to marry for same-sex couples. Ferguson and his spouse, Justin Mikita, will unveil their new collaboration with Taos Pueblo native and “Project Runway” finalist Patricia Michaels, who has designed a stunning New Mexico-themed bowtie for Ferguson and Mikita’s Tie The Knot Foundation.


Using a fun play on words, Tie The Knot was founded to raise awareness and advocate on behalf of marriage equality in the United States through art, fashion and entertainment. Combining elements of humor, style and individuality—Tie The Knot releases a limited edition collection of neckwear each season. Tie The Knot was founded to benefit foundations that support marriage equality.


“I am excited to return to my home state to support all the fantastic work being done to win the freedom to marry in New Mexico,” said Jesse Tyler Ferguson. “In July, after the Supreme Court overturned Prop 8 in California, my husband Justin Mikita and I tied the knot. Having our relationship recognized and respected means a lot to us, and we want the same for loving, committed couples in New Mexico.”


The Patricia Michaels bowtie will benefit the Why Marriage Matters New Mexico campaign. This public education project is designed to increase support for the freedom to marry for same-sex couples in the state. Ferguson is also a celebrity ambassador for the ACLU’s national Out for Freedom campaign.


“In his role as a gay dad in 'Modern Family', Jesse Tyler Ferguson has shown millions of Americans that same-sex couples and their families are similar to other families,” said ACLU-NM Executive Director Peter Simonson. “We are honored that he has chosen to partner with the Why Marriage Matters New Mexico campaign and talented New Mexican artist Patricia Michaels to help promote respect and recognition of same-sex couples’ relationships in his home state.”


WHAT: Jesse Tyler Ferguson speaks about the fight for marriage equality in New Mexico. The event is in support of Why Marriage Matters New Mexico (www.whymarriagemattersnm.org).
WHEN: Thursday, September 26th, at 7 p.m 
WHERE: South Broadway Cultural Center, 1025 Broadway Blvd SE
HOW MUCH: Free!

For more information on the fight for equal marriage rights, Tie The Knot will keep an active blog with up-to-date news and developments throughout the country on their website www.tietheknot.org. You can also follow Tie The Knot on TwitterFacebookPinterest, and YouTube.

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