Reaction to Prop 8 ruling

Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard: "Marriage is a human right, and today we took big steps toward equality for all. "Following today's Prop 8 ruling, we will soon see marriage equality in the state of California.

"DOMA was struck down today because of Edie Windsor's courage and tenacity. After more than 50 years of partnership with Thea Spyer, marriage equality became law in New York State, and Edie and Thea decided to make their long union legal. Upon Thea's death, Edie was responsible for over $300,000 in taxes due to the fact that the Federal government did not recognize their marriage. Edie fought for her rights, and as a result, today millions of gay couples have won theirs."

Rep. Linda Sanchez: "Today's ruling is a victory for civil rights. The Court brought our nation one step closer to equality for all Americans. DOMA and Proposition 8 did nothing but disparage the dignity of gay and lesbian couples.

"I am proud that all couples in California have the right to declare their love by legally entering into marriage and having that commitment recognized throughout our nation."

Gov. Jerry Brown: "After years of struggle, the U.S. Supreme Court today has made same-sex marriage a reality in California. In light of the decision, I have directed the California Department of Public Health to advise the state's counties that they must begin issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples in California as soon as the Ninth Circuit confirms the stay is lifted."

Pacific Justice Institute: "The decision by the United States Supreme Court not to rule in favor of proposition 8 is a slap in the face to the entire democratic process by which the will and voice of the people are respected by our courts. This is a terrible setback for not just the proper definition of marriage, but even more importantly to have the voice of the voters of California respected by their courts."

Assemblywoman Cristina Garcia: "The Court gave us another milestone today - it restored the freedom to marry in California.

"This week has been such an opportunity to talk about the history of this nation, how so many of our communities have been disenfranchised, and how people continue to rise up time and time again. "We have an opportunity to be more explicit about what our communities need and to politicize folks through the process."

Rep. Grace Napolitano: "Today's Supreme Court decisions on DOMA and Prop. 8 are a big step toward marriage equality. I will continue to fight for justice and equal rights for Californians and all Americans."

Assemblyman Ian Calderon: "DOMA and Prop. 8 are overturned! Let's celebrate this historic decision! #loveislove #equalityforall"

Assembly Speaker John A. Perez: "This is a tremendous victory, not just for the LGBT community, and not just for the large and growing majority of Americans who have embraced us, but a victory for justice itself.

"With the Court's action, Judge Vaughn Walker's decision is the law of the land in California, and that means that, for the first time in five years, LGBT Californians can walk the streets of California knowing that we are fully equal citizens in every respect."

Sen. Dianne Feinstein: "As author of the bill to repeal the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act, I am thrilled by today's Supreme Court decision. Because of inequities in the administration of more than 1,100 federal laws affected by DOMA, it is still necessary to introduce legislation to strike this law once and for all. I will introduce that legislation today with 39 cosponsors in the Senate.

"As a Californian, I am also thrilled by the Supreme Court's decision on Proposition 8. Marriage equality will finally be restored in California."

********** Published: June 27, 2013 - Volume 12 - Issue 11