Yvette D. Clarke
12/08/2022 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/08/2022 11:19
CONGRESSWOMAN CLARKE ISSUES STATEMENT ON THE PASSAGE OF THE RESPECT FOR MARRIAGE ACT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
December 8, 2022
MEDIA CONTACT:
c: 347.387.5123
Washington, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) issued the following statement regarding the passage of the Respect for Marriage Act:
"The Respect for Marriage Act has passed, and history is made! This pivotal legislation preserves more than the right for gay and interracial couples to marry, but sends a powerful and resounding message that discrimination is unwelcome in our modern society. Today is a step forward for justice and a reminder that we must and will always stand up for what is right and stand against what is wrong - no matter any bulwarks or bigots blocking the way.
Allow me to send my heartfelt congratulations to the LGBTQ+ community, and to all those whose love is protected by today's progress. I understand how many of you have fought tirelessly and fearlessly for this moment. The passage of the Respect for Marriage Act is a testament to the power of your determination and will, and it is a victory that you should relish.
As we celebrate this momentous occasion and take pride in what it represents, let us also acknowledge the work that lies ahead. Our pursuit of a world where love and equality are the norm, and where no one has to fear discrimination, persecution, or bigotry must persist. Because let me be clear: this bill was necessitated only by the threat of partisan agitators and a hostile, activist Supreme Court working in unison to regress our nation and our communities. Today, they have failed. Today, marriage equality is the law of the land. And I will always rise to ensure it stays that way," said Congresswoman Clarke.
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Yvette D. Clarke has been in Congress since 2007. She represents New York's Ninth Congressional District, which includes Central and South Brooklyn. Clarke is a Senior Member of both the House Energy and Commerce Committee and House Committee on Homeland Security, where she serves as Chair of the Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Innovation Subcommittee.