NY Senator Schumer reverses position on marriage equality, rejects DOMA
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After a dinner with the Empire State Pride Agenda (ESPA) on Sunday, Senator Charles Schumer (NY) revealed his “evolved” support for marriage equality and a repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). As of 2004, Sen. Schumer supported only civil unions.
Sen. Schumer’s office confirmed his support this morning:
“It’s time. Equality is something that has always been a hallmark of America and no group should be deprived of it. New York, which has always been at the forefront on issues of equality, is appropriately poised to take a lead on this issue.”
ESPA Executive Director Alan Van Capelle issued the following statement:
“I want to thank Sen. Schumer for his support of marriage equality and the repeal of the so-called Defense of Marriage Act. Like a majority of New Yorkers, Sen. Schumer recognizes that only marriage equality provides same sex couples the status, protections and rights afforded to all other Americans. We look forward to working with him to win marriage equality in New York State and around the country.”
Sen. Schumer speaks below at the HRC Gala dinner earlier this year. While he doesn’t mention DOMA or marriage equality, he does voice support for hate crimes legislation, repealing “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” and passing ENDA.
March 23rd, 2009 at 1:48 pm
Overturning DOMA would be a quick first step in allowing same-sex partners to sponsor for immigration purposes. The INS/ICE/whatever they’re called now would have to accept petitions of sponsorships from “spouses” no matter the gender. Vermont may become a real popular honeymoon place as a result, but hey, if they’re still issuing marriage licenses, then more power to them!