DeGette Statement on DOMA Lawsuit

WASHINGTON– U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (CO-1) issued the following statement today inresponse to the filing of a federal lawsuit challenging the Defense of MarriageAct. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of current and former gay andlesbian service members who had been denied equal military family benefits, andRep. DeGette signed an amicus brief in support of this and other lawsuitschallenging the discriminatory law.

"Whilethe repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell was a monumental achievement for those ofus who have fought for equality in our armed forces, we cannot forget that gayand lesbian service members are still discriminated against by theunconstitutional Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). Americans, especiallythose who are bravely serving our country abroad, deserve equal treatment underthe law regardless of their sexual orientation, and I will be proud to submit an amicus brief in support of this lawsuit."

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