Congresswoman Duckworth Participates in NOH8 on the Hill Event

Statement

Today, Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth (IL-08) released her photo from the NOH8 event on the Hill. The NOH8 On The Hill portraits feature members of Congress wearing duct tape over their mouths to symbolize the voices of equality being silenced by laws like DOMA and California's Proposition 8. In addition, the NOH8 face tattoo symbolizes solidarity with others standing up for equality.

Duckworth released the following statement:

Proposition 8 and the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) are inherently unfair and we must not rest until these discriminatory policies are overturned. The LGBT community is entitled to the same rights afforded to everyone else and our nation will not reach its full potential until all Americans are given the opportunity to marry the individual they love.

The Supreme Court and Congress need to grant all Americans - gay or straight - the ability to protect their partner. While I was recovering at Walter Reed after being shot down in Iraq, my husband Bryan was at my bedside every day. Not only was he offering love and support during such a difficult time, but he was also making critical decisions for me that improved my quality of life. Often, those decisions were contrary to what other family members would have decided, but as my life partner, my husband knew me better and made the correct choices for me when I could not. I support the freedom to marry because everyone deserves the same level of access, support and love.

It is crucial that we commit ourselves to providing equal access and opportunity to all Americans whether it be in marriage, employment, or service in the military. I look forward to getting back to work in Congress and standing up for every American's ability to achieve the American Dream.

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