Moments ago, the Council of the District of Columbia passed Councilmember David Catania’s marriage equality bill by a vote of 11 to 2. This second successful vote now sends the bill to Mayor Adrian Fenty who has pledged to sign it. Congratulations to all of the advocates who have worked tirelessly to bring us to this historic day.
Said HRC President Joe Solmonese: “Today’s vote is a victory for all D.C. residents, whose relationships will soon be treated equally and fairly in the eyes of the law. This legislation is an important and historic step towards equal dignity, equal respect and equal rights for same-sex couples here in our nation’s capital, which also preserves the right of clergy and congregations to adhere to their faiths. The legislation the Council passed today reinforces the legal equality and religious freedoms to which all D.C. residents are entitled.
“Congratulations to the D.C. Council – particularly Councilmember David Catania who spearheaded this bill – Mayor Fenty and the many advocates of equality in our community who have worked so hard for, and will vigorously fight to protect marriage equality in D.C. We look forward to the Mayor’s signature and the day not too far off when same-sex couples in D.C. will be able to enjoy all the rights and responsibilities of civil marriage.”
The Human Rights Campaign's perspective on the news, issues and events affecting the every day lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people across the country.
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