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Statement On The President Signing Memorandum On Federal Benefits And Non-Discrimination

Statement

Date: June 17, 2009
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Civil Liberties and Civil Rights Marriage Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity

Statement on the President Signing Memorandum on Federal Benefits and Non-Discrimination

"President Obama's orders today will make a real difference in people's lives. Domestic partners, parents, and their children will now receive a number of meaningful benefits currently granted other federal employees.

LGBT Americans yearn for full equality. After last week's U.S. Department of Justice filing seeking to dismiss a challenge to the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), many in the LGBT community, myself included, were profoundly disappointed. After that disappointment, I was heartened to hear the President make a strong case today for the repeal of DOMA.

It was also gratifying to hear the President proudly announce his support for my Domestic Partners Benefits and Obligations Act of 2009. I look forward to working with him and House and Senate leaders as we work toward passage of this legislation that will extend to the same-sex partners of Federal employees all of the benefits currently enjoyed by the opposite-sex spouses of Federal employees.

President Obama said today that his Memorandum is just a start. I agree that it is an important step in the quest for full equality for LGBT Americans. I welcome the challenge and the President's support."


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