The long march toward equality and civil rights for gay and lesbian Americans took a major detour in 1996, when the regressive and overtly discriminatory Defense for Marriage Act (DOMA) was signed into law and the forces of intolerance temporarily triumphed over rationality and compassion. But, while progress comes much more slowly than we want, our society’s feelings about gays and lesbians -- and their rights -- have thankfully changed dramatically in 15 years.
For one, President Bill Clinton, who signed DOMA into law, and former Congressman Bob Barr (R-GA), who authored that terrible legislation, have changed their minds and renounced DOMA and endorsed my legislation the Respect for Marriage Act to repeal it.
Today, we find ourselves at a crossroads, in which the majority Americans support the rights of gays and lesbians to marry, and in which President Barack Obama has boldly announced that DOMA is unconstitutional and that the Department of Justice will not defend it in court. Meanwhile, the House Republican Leadership appears more out of touch and remote from the needs and values of Americans than ever, pledging now to use the public's resources to continue to defend DOMA in court.
But today is a historic day: I have re-introduced the Respect for Marriage Act to repeal DOMA and remove the federal government from the business of discriminating against legally married gay and lesbian Americans. This legislation is the product of years of work and consensus among our nation's foremost LGBT advocates and leaders, along with elected officials who care about the rights of all Americans, and I am extremely proud to do my part.
Now, as we continue the struggle for equality, the question at hand is not IF Congress will repeal DOMA but WHEN. I can imagine the day when my future grandchildren will ask, "so what was the big deal about gay marriage anyway?" But, until we get there, we must continue to fight. Please say "I DO Support the Respect for Marriage Act"; sign my petition, and stay informed about my efforts toward marriage equality for all Americans. Thank you for all that you do to make equality a reality.