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 Following President Obama’s historic statement in support of marriage equality, today the Human Rights Campaign announced an effort to encourage members of the House and Senate to join him in expressing their support.  Members will be asked if they agree with the following statement:

Gay and lesbian couples should not be denied the ability to pledge their love and commitment through the civil institution of marriage.  I believe that two committed adults of the same-sex should be able to receive a government-issued marriage license, while religious institutions retain their right to determine which marriages they will perform or recognize.

Public statements that express unambiguous support for marriage for gay and lesbian couples will be considered as responsive to the statement. In addition to making this information available on HRC’s website, support for marriage equality will be noted in HRC’s 112th Congressional Scorecard, along with key votes and bill sponsorships. LGBT individuals and families have many concerns that Congress needs to address like the lack of a federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act, protections from violence, and health and safety.

“The American public has expressed interest in where their elected officials stand on the issue of marriage for gay and lesbian couples,” said incoming HRC President Chad Griffin.  “The President has had the courage and integrity to speak out for marriage equality. Now is the time for Members of Congress to do so too.”

To date, through an initial survey of news reports, campaign and official websites and other publicly-available materials, HRC has identified public statements for marriage equality by 85 Representatives and 26 Senators.

“Since 1989, HRC has documented where Members of Congress stand on key issues of importance to the nation’s LGBT community. This is another important step in the direction of advancing our priorities,” said Griffin. 

 

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