U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (D-Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL) cheered the end of discrimination against gay couples in Florida on this first, historic day of marriage equality. U.S. Rep. Castor credited equal rights advocates across Florida for progress and congratulated all of Florida's committed couples who have waited so long for marriage equality.
"Equal rights are fundamental to our American values. Today, Florida turns the page on an outdated, discriminatory policy against couples who are in committed and loving relationships," U.S. Rep. Castor said. "More than two-thirds of U.S. states recognize marriage equality. In Florida, we have fought steadfast for equal rights too, despite so much opposition from Republican state leaders who would prefer to keep the discriminatory status quo. I will continue to champion equal rights in Florida and throughout the country."