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Same-Sex Marriage Update

May 20, 2009

Caucus Co-Chairs, Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Barney Frank (D-MA), and Jared Polis (D-CO), sponsored a briefing on same-sex marriage issues. Not only can same-sex couples legally marry in five states (Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, Iowa, and Maine), but New York and the District of Columbia now recognize these marriages. More states are poised to adopt pro-equality policies, the California Supreme Court is expected to rule on “Prop 8” any day, and a Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) lawsuit is making its way through the Massachusetts courts. With all of this recent news, the briefing was an ideal update for those who wished to hear succinct highlights from key experts. Participants included:

  • Mary Bonauto, Civil Rights Project Director, Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD)
  • Liz Seaton, Director of Projects and Managing Attorney, National Center for Lesbian Rights
  • Chris Edelson, State Legislative Director, Human Rights Campaign
  • Winnie Stachelberg, Senior Vice President for External Affairs, Center for American Progress
  • Rachel Laser, Culture Program Director, Third Way

You can see pictures of the briefing here and listen to a recording of the briefing here.