Legislation to repeal the so-called “Defense of Marriage Act” (DOMA) was introduced in the House of Representatives today by Congressman Jerrold Nadler of New York. People For the American Way President Michael B. Keegan issued the following statement:

“The introduction of legislation to repeal DOMA is a necessary step in the direction of fairness and equality for all Americans. It’s long past time to get rid of laws designed specifically to discriminate against same-sex couples. In states like Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Vermont, same-sex couples who are legally married are being denied federal protections that their neighbors take for granted, and that causes real harm. Americans don’t want to hurt their friends and neighbors, but that’s exactly what DOMA does.

“As Congress continues to progress in passing legislation outlawing hate crimes, workplace discrimination and ending ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ it should also move as soon as possible to repeal DOMA so that LGBT Americans are afforded equality in America.

Take Action!

• Sign the petition to tell Congress that it’s time to Dump DOMA here.