The Department of Justice today filed a brief in the case Smelt v. United States, which challenges the Constitutionality of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). People For the American Way President Michael B. Keegan issued the following statement:

“Today’s brief reaffirms the importance of repealing DOMA. I welcome the President’s renewed call and urge him to work with Congress on a clear road map to achieving equal justice for all people.

“Because of DOMA, legally married, same-sex couples are being denied benefits and protections that their neighbors take for granted. That’s unacceptable, and I am particularly disappointed by the Administration’s continued contention that discrimination against same-sex couples does not raise serious constitutional concerns.

“Today’s brief acknowledges that DOMA is discriminatory and it disavows the dishonest and offensive attacks that anti-gay forces have made against same-sex parents. The brief rightly points out that the children of same-sex couples are happy, well adjusted, and successful.

“Now it’s time to roll up our sleeves and repeal this misguided law. We look forward to the President’s leadership on this —and working with Congress — to ensure that all people have equal rights under the law.”

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Sign the Dump DOMA petition here.