Langevin applauds Supreme Court on Marriage Equality

Landmark decision affirms equal protection under the law

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) is calling today’s Supreme Court decisions on the Defense of Marriage Act and Proposition 8 enormous victories for equal rights. Less than two months after legislation was signed to legalize same-sex marriage in Rhode Island, these rulings build momentum for supporters of marriage equality nationwide.

“Today’s decision to strike down DOMA will go down in history alongside other groundbreaking civil rights cases such as Brown v. Board of Education. There is simply no place for discrimination in our law or our society,” Langevin said. 

“I have met and heard from so many constituents affected by the fight for marriage equality. They represent loving, close-knit families, and this decision affirms the commitment they have made to their loved ones and their right to receive the same benefits and protections under federal law.”

Congressman Langevin expressed hope that the full federal recognition of same-sex couples will empower other states to follow suit.  

“Freedom and equality are cornerstones of Rhode Island and of America, and now is the time for our nation to stand up for those principles, ensuring equal rights for all,” he said.