Nadler Hails Long-Awaited Victory for Marriage Equality in New York

Statement

Today, Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), the top Democrat on the Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, and author of the Respect for Marriage Act to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), celebrated the successful votes in both chambers of the New York State legislature supporting marriage equality for all New Yorkers. He issued the following statement:

"I am thrilled by today's victorious affirmation of the right of all New Yorkers to marry the person they love. I could not be more pleased that my own state has finally chosen to join the growing group of forward-looking states that have taken a bold, decisive, and just stand on civil rights for gay and lesbian citizens. In our nation's third most populous state, thousands of couples will now be able to receive the validation they deserve.

"But, of course, the federal government still lags behind. Now more than ever, we must pass the Respect for Marriage Act, my legislation to repeal the discriminatory DOMA, and allow New Yorkers and others who are -- or will be -- legally married to take part in the full measure of protections and obligations of federal law. Just last night in New York City, President Obama reiterated his belief that DOMA violates our Constitution and must be repealed.

"Today's historic moment comes after many years of hard work and advocacy by so many people. There are numerous people to thank, but special recognition goes to Governor Andrew Cuomo, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, Assembly Members Danny O'Donnell, Deborah Glick, Matthew Titone, and Harry Bronson, Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos, Senator Tom Duane, the courageous State Senators who switched their votes to an "aye,' and City Council Speaker Christine Quinn. History is on our side.

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