The District joined amicus briefs in two cases urging the Supreme Court to strike down laws that discriminate against same-sex marriage. D.C. joined a brief filed by on behalf of 13 states and the District that asks the Court to recognize that a California law that bans marriages by same-sex couples violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution’s 14th amendment. The District similarly, joined a brief filed on behalf of 15 states and the District that challenges the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA).
Mayor Gray said, “As a longtime advocate for LGBT rights, I strongly support efforts to end discrimination. The District’s participation in these landmark cases shows our commitment to a policy of treating our LGBT brothers and sisters fairly and as full members of our society. We are proud to stand with the President, with our state partners, and with many civil rights groups, businesses and individuals in support of this important step toward the goal of justice.” While the Mayor was serving as Council Chairman, the District became one of the nation’s first jurisdictions to enact full marriage quality for same-gender couples. Read more.
Bates Area Civic Association 