Lucas,
This past year has been one of extraordinary progress for LGBT rights: Marriage equality won in three states and President Obama declared his support.
I am proud of our progress on this issue, but it is not complete. The next big fight will take place in the Supreme Court, where the justices are set to hear arguments next week on the constitutionality of the so-called Defense of Marriage Act (or DOMA).
Two federal appeals courts have already declared DOMA unconstitutional. The Supreme Court must do the same: Marriage is an undeniable human right. All loving, committed couples must be able to take part in it.
A growing chorus has joined together in support of marriage equality. I am partnering with my colleagues to speak out against DOMA. Our message becomes more powerful when you are on our side. Join us.
New York has led the way on equal rights. I am proud to call it home.
Put simply, it is wrong that the marriages of gay and lesbian couples in New York still go unrecognized by our federal government.
As it currently stands, DOMA denies same-sex couples the more than 1,100 federal rights and privileges enjoyed by married straight couples. Those rights include hospital visitation, inheritance and even some health care benefits.
Just as wrong is the fact that by denying these rights, we send a message that the love married same-sex couples feel does not count – that it is not good enough. That could not be further from the truth.
Add your voice: Tell the Supreme Court you support marriage equality.
Every person should be able to marry the person they love.
This is our moment to make sure they can.
Thank you,
Kirsten