Highlighting its commitment to advance gay rights around the globe, the United States of America today commended the U.S. the Supreme Court’s decision striking down an unconstitutional and discriminatory law and increasing freedom and equality for LGBT Americans.
The new ruling reportedly direct the federal government to provide equal treatment to gay spouses and also permit the resumption of gay marriages in California.
In his statement in Washington DC, Us Secretary of State John Kerry says he voted against DOMA in 1996 and argued that it was unconstitutional.
“As Secretary of State, I look forward to the work that now can and must be done to adjust rules and regulations that affect the many married Americans who were hurt by this law.” – Secretary Kerry
He acknowledges the relentless efforts of the State Department in ensuring equal benefits for its employees. However, he says there’s more to be done.
Secretary Kerry explains that to fully implement the requirements and implications of the Court’s decision, they will work with the Department of Justice and other agencies to review all relevant federal statutes as well as the benefits administered by this agency.
The State Department will work to swiftly administer these changes to ensure that every employee and their spouse have access to their due benefits regardless of sexual orientation both at home and abroad.
“I am proud of the progress we’re making in this arena, and particularly proud that I work for a President who has helped to lead the way forward.” – Secretary Kerry
Moreover, he says that from Stonewall to the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,’ despite setbacks along the way, the arc of US history on LGBTs isssue has bent towards inclusion and equality.
Reports say the justices struck down the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act. The DOMA has denied federal benefits to gay couples married under state law, and also ruled ‘unconstitutional’ the end of same-sex marriage in California.
The Obama administration has announced that same-sex married couples get the same tax and other benefits as heterosexual couples with the new ruling.
