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Councilmember Says Victory Has Many Parents
Washington, D.C. – Today, Councilmember David Catania (At-large) along with Mayor Adrian Fenty, Chairman Vincent Gray and other Councilmembers attended the official signing ceremony of B18-482, the “Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Equality Amendment Act of 2009,” at All Souls Unitarian Church in Columbia Heights. Catania spoke to the packed congregation before the signing, explaining the history of his ancestors who fought for equal rights in his childhood state of Kansas. Catania went on to express his gratitude for the many people who worked to secure the successful passage of the legislation.
“Today’s victory has many, many parents”, said Catania. “I am honored to have been a part of this long march towards full equality for gays and lesbians. And I am lucky to live in a diverse city that has a long history of respecting the rights of all people.”
The “Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Equality Amendment Act” permits same-sex couples to marry in the District of Columbia and reaffirms religious protections under the U.S. Constitution. Specially, the bill states that no church or clergy member shall be required to perform or solemnize a marriage that is in violation of their religious beliefs. It also allows churches and religious organizations to refuse to offer their facilities, goods, or services for the solemnization or promotion of a marriage that is not recognized by their religious doctrine.
After the Mayor signs the bill, it is then transmitted to the U.S. Congress for a 30-day passive review period.
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