Statement on Department of Justice's New Policy on Same-Sex Couples

Statement

Rep. Schakowsky released the following statement about the Department of Justice's new policy toward same-sex couples.

"I am pleased to see the Department of Justice act to recognize the importance of marriage equality throughout the nation. The changes in the Department's policy memorandum released Monday will ensure that individuals in same-sex marriages will now be treated the same as other legally married couples with regard to civil and criminal trials, bankruptcy filings, and more.

"As a founding member of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, I am so proud to see how far we've come over the past few years. I will continue to advocate for LGBT equality wherever discrimination continues.

I also applaud Michael Sam, former University of Missouri football player and current N.F.L. prospect, for his courage. Our country is changing for the better when young people like him take it upon themselves to break down barriers. Sam is an inspiration to all of us, and he is especially an example to other youth. This is a great day, a great week for equality and I will always be a proud supporter of this kind of progress in our society."

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