The Press Enterprise: GAY MARRIAGE Takano praises Prop. 8 ruling
U.S. Rep. Mark Takano praised the U.S. Supreme Court’s invalidation of Prop. 8, calling it “an enormous victory for the ideals of our nation.”
Takano, a Riverside Democrat who in November became the first openly gay member of Congress from California, was on the steps of the Supreme Court awaiting the decision with thousands of others. The crowd erupted in cheers when the court first struck down the 1996 federal Defense of Marriage Act, which barred federal recognition of gay and lesbian marriages, and then Prop. 8, the 2008 California ban on same-sex marriage.
“In the fullness of time, even people who are disappointed in the ruling will come around and see this as a victory for every American,” Takano said by phone. “Whenever the principles of freedom, equality and justice are upheld, every American’s stature is raised.”
Takano said the decision is monumental for same-sex couples in California who are waiting to wed.
“They can move on with their lives and pursue happiness just like every other person in this country,” he said. “The idea that one can love and be loved gives an individual moral stature. To say your love is non-existent or to mock it is a judgment that humiliates other people. Humiliation is the opposite of equality. Equality is respect.”
UPDATE: Takano talked with me by phone from Washington. Later in the morning, his office issued the following written statement:
“Today is a monumental day for families across America as we take a step closer toward full equality for LGBT Americans. By striking down Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act and allowing the Ninth Circuit court ruling to stand on California’s Proposition 8, the Supreme Court has brought full legal equality to thousands of married couples across the United States and restored marriage equality in California.
“But for individuals like Edith Windsor, this victory is about more than the benefits or tax credits they will receive. It is about the federal government finally recognizing their relationships as legitimate.
“The Supreme Court also did the right thing today in their historic decision regarding California’s Proposition 8. While this ruling is the narrowest decision the justices could have made, it returns marriage equality to California and is unequivocally a step in the right direction.
“The court today is not imposing a decision on the American people, it’s merely ratifying what has already been decided in the hearts and minds of the people.
“Even with these victories, the fight for equality is not over. Many legally married couples who now reside in states that do not recognize their marriages will not receive the full benefits of DOMA’s end unless Congress takes action. Millions more LGBT Americans live in states that give no recognition to their relationships whatsoever, and we must continue to fight to end this injustice.
“I remain committed to this movement and will explore all possible options to ensure that all Americans, regardless of who they love, are treated the same under the law.”