Congressman Smith on SCOTUS Marriage Cases: Make Sure Equality is a Reality for All Americans

Congressman Adam Smith, who represents Renton as part of Congressional District 9, released the following statement on the Supreme Court cases reviewing Proposition 8 and the Defense of Marriage Act this week: 

“No couple should be denied the right to marry and build a life together based on love, commitment, and mutual support. That is why I am a strong supporter of repealing the so-called “Defense Of Marriage Act.” I will continue to fight for the equal treatment and protection of all LGBT people and their families. This February, I introduced the Military Spouses Equal Treatment Act, and I will work with my colleagues to pass this bill that would allow equal standing for same-sex spouses of our servicemembers.

“The progress that has been made toward full marriage equality over the past decade is remarkable, but we have not reached our goal just yet. Marriage equality would be a critical step in recognizing the worth and dignity of our LGBT community. We must also be aware of and protect bullied teens, aggressively prosecute bias-based crimes, and fight against all prejudice whether it be based on a person’s sexual identity or expression of gender, or ethnicity, religion, sex, age or ability. I am committed to moving forward and making sure equality is a reality for all Americans.”

Congressman Adam Smith (D-WA9) is House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member. The Bellevue resident represents Mercer Island, Bellevue, Renton, Federal Way and parts of Seattle and north Tacoma.