Freedom House Applauds the Obama Administration’s Decision to Stop Defending DOMA

Freedom House commends the Obama Administration for its decision today to stop defending the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA).

In a fundamental legal policy shift, President Obama ordered the Justice Department to end the defense of the federal gay marriage law.  Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr.sent a letter to Congress on Wednesday saying that the Justice Department will now adhere to the position in court that the act should be struck down as a violation of same-sex couples’ rights to equal protection under the law. The law, which bars federal recognition of same-sex marriage, was signed into law by former President Bill Clinton in 1996.

“This is an important step in ensuring that human rights protections are fully extended to all people whether they be gay or straight,” said Freedom House advocacy director, Paula Schriefer. “We are pleased to see the Obama Administration finally recognize and support equal rights for the LGBTI community.”

Freedom House is an independent watchdog organization that supports democratic change, monitors the status of freedom around the world, and advocates for democracy and human rights. 

Join us on Facebook and Twitter (freedomhousedc) and stay up to date with Freedom House’s latest news and events by signing up for our RSS feeds.