SUPREMES ON GAY MARRIAGE
In a victory for same sex couples today, the Supreme Court pulverized a provision of a federal law denying federal benefits to married gay couples. That law stated legally married same-sex couples could not get tax, health and pension benefits. The ruling also cleared the way for the resumption of same-sex marriage in California. In a second decision, the Court declared California’s Proposition 8 law “unconstitutional.”
President Obama made this statement: "The laws of our land are catching up to the fundamental truth that millions of Americans hold in our hearts: when all Americans are treated as equal, no matter who they are or whom they love, we are all more free,” “I’ve directed the Attorney General to work with other members of my Cabinet to review all relevant federal statutes to ensure this decision, including its implications for Federal benefits and obligations, is implemented swiftly and smoothly.”
Congressman Matt Cartwright issued this statement: “In recent years, both California’s Proposition 8 and the Defense of Marriage Act became symbols of discrimination around the country and around the world. Today, ‘equality for all’ prevailed. I applaud both rulings made by the Supreme Court this morning. The Defense of Marriage Act treated loving, committed gay and lesbian couples as a separate and lesser class of people. The Supreme Court has righted that wrong, and our country is better off for it. In striking down Section 3 of DOMA, the Court ensures that married gay and lesbian couples are fully recognized by their government and that they and their children qualify for the host of rights and benefits designed to strengthen and protect American families. For married couples living in states that do not recognize their marriages, however, there is still uncertainty. The federal government must ensure that these couples receive full range of federal agency and federal policy recognition and respect that they deserve. I urge the administration to provide policy and administrative clarity to these couples and take every possible step to ensure they receive fair treatment. I am committed to working with the president to make that happen.”
This ruling by the Supreme Court signals a recognition in America that all people can love who they want. And get the same benefits. It is the right thing to do. At long last. Plus, it's common sense. People have a right to figure out their own relationships. It usually works out in the end if it's meant to be. No matter what the sex.