Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) made the following statement on the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling extending the right to marry to same-sex couples nationwide:

“Today’s Supreme Court ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges​ is a momentous step forward in the fight for equality. I join the entire LGBT community, along with their friends and family, in celebrating this historic day. For far too long, same-sex couples have been forced to suffer discrimination and prejudice simply because of who they love.  The Court’s decision confirms what the majority of Americans already believe to be true – that same-sex couples deserve the same access to the security and dignity that come along with the institution of marriage.

“It is our responsibility to ensure that that our laws protect the rights of all of our citizens, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.  While today’s decision is indeed a significant victory, we must ensure that our nation as a whole will continue to work to implement comprehensive non-discrimination protections that recognize the equal rights of all Americans at the federal, state, and local levels of government.

Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Senior Member of the House Rules Committee, Ranking Democratic Member of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation.

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