This morning the U.S. Supreme Court handed down a historic ruling on the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and California’s Proposition 8, serving as a decisive victory for gay rights activists across the country. Both DOMA and Proposition 8 were ruled unconstitutional, upholding an earlier ruling by a San Francisco district court. Both decisions have received widespread support, especially among Washington's political and social leaders.
“I could not be more proud and excited to see the U.S. Supreme Court take a long overdue stand for equality, fairness and family," said Governor Jay Inslee in a statement. "Marriage is for two people in love and it is past time for our country to not just recognize that, but honor it. Washington state is a leader in marriage equality and today’s ruling means the benefits and recognition of marriage offered to couples here in our state will be offered equally across our nation.”
Openly gay Metropolitan King County Councilmember Joe McDermott also expressed his personal conviction and excitement. “I am filled with simply overwhelming pride today as the U.S. Supreme Court overturns DOMA!" he exclaimed. "This equality extends from military couples to seniors on Social Security, reaching so many hardworking families and providing them the security they deserve.”
