Marriage Equality Press Conference

Press Conference

Thank you all very much,…

We're joined here by a broad coalition of Marylanders, from the HRC to the NAACP -- community leaders, civil rights advocates, clergy, the faith community, and elected representatives.

We're here united in our belief in the dignity of every individual, and in our understanding that Marylanders of all walks of life want their children to live in a loving, stable, committed home -- protected under the law.

Our country's history is the ongoing story of a people who strive for a more perfect union, and who constantly improve its laws in order to protect fundamental freedoms more fully, for greater numbers of our citizens.

As a free and diverse people of many faiths, we choose to be governed under the law by certain fundamental principles or beliefs, among them "equal protection of the law" for every individual and the "free exercise" of religion without government interference.

Other states have found a way to protect both these rights. So should Maryland.

Therefore in the 2012 legislative session, I will sponsor legislation that protects religious freedom and equality of marital rights under the law.

I have tasked Joe Bryce, my Legislative Director, to coordinate efforts with this broad coalition represented today, as we work to get this passed.

Thank you. Senator Garagiola, would you like to say a few words?

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