Congressman Mfume Statement on Passage of Legislation to Protect Same Sex & Interracial Marriage
Press Release
Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07) issued the following statement regarding his vote to pass the Respect for Marriage Act, which upholds marriage equality under federal law for same sex and interracial couples. This legislation now goes to President Biden's desk to be signed into law.
"When the Supreme Court of the United States overturned Roe v. Wade, it marked a frightening reversal in what our country recognized as the long-established law of the land. When a sitting member of the same court suggested revisiting the legal precedent regarding marriage could be next, it became imperative for Congress to answer the call, act, and protect this critical human right," said Congressman Mfume.
"All discrimination is wrong, and with the Respect for Marriage Act we are defending the millions of interracial and same-sex couples in America, whom many of us simply know as family, friends, and neighbors. I will continue to do everything in my power to defend the rights and liberties that make us American, including the right to love who you love," he concluded.
Topline Highlights of the Respect for Marriage Act
Federally Recognizes Marriage Regardless of Sex or Race
Requires, for federal law purposes, that an individual be considered married if the marriage was valid in the state where it was performed.
Gives same-sex and interracial couples additional security that they will continue to enjoy equal treatment under federal law as all other married couples.
Repeals, once and for all, the discriminatory and unconstitutional Defense of Marriage Act so that it cannot be utilized against the LGBTQ community.
Prohibits any person acting under color of state law from denying full faith and credit to an out-of-state marriage based on the sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin of the individuals in the marriage.
Provides the U.S. Attorney General with the authority to pursue enforcement actions and creates a private right of action for any individual harmed by a violation of this provision.
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