Center for American Progress

Act Now To Protect Marriage Equality

In the U.S. Supreme Court's recent decision that struck down Roe v. Wade, Associate Justice Clarence Thomas issued a concurring opinion urging the court to overturn other fundamental rights, including the right to marriage equality. With this right potentially at risk, it is essential that Congress quickly take action to defend marriage equality for same-sex and interracial couples and protect the rights of millions of families and children across the country.

That's why Congress should pass the Respect for Marriage Act. This bill would repeal the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act, which for many years excluded legally married same-sex couples from accessing federal rights and benefits of marriage. It would also enshrine marriage equality in federal law and require nationwide recognition of all valid marriages without discrimination based on sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin.

Now is the time to ensure that marriage equality is and remains the law of the land. Share your support for this crucial piece of legislation!

Tell your senators: We need to pass the Respect for Marriage Act.

Dear Senator,

I am writing today as your constituent to ask that you support the Respect for Marriage Act (H.R. 8404) when it comes to the floor for a vote this fall.

The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision to strike down Roe v. Wade opened the door to roll back other fundamental rights. Associate Justice Clarence Thomas’ concurring opinion expressly invited a challenge to the right to marriage equality. With this right potentially under threat, it is essential that Congress take action to defend marriage equality for same-sex and interracial couples and protect the rights of millions of families and children across the country.

The Respect for Marriage Act is crucial legislation that will protect the right to marriage equality for same-sex and interracial couples. Specifically, the bill will repeal the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act, which for many years denied legally married same-sex couples equality under the law by excluding them from accessing federal rights and benefits of marriage. It would also enshrine marriage equality for federal law purposes and require nationwide recognition of all valid marriages without discrimination based on sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin.

Defending the right to marriage equality aligns with the values of the American people. An overwhelming majority of Americans—more than 70 percent [https://news.gallup.com/poll/393197/same-sex-marriage-support-inches-new-high.aspx]—support same-sex marriage, while 94 [https://news.gallup.com/poll/354638/approval-interracial-marriage-new-high.aspx] percent of Americans support interracial marriage. This summer, the House of Representatives passed this legislation with strong bipartisan support, making it the most pro-LGBTQI+ vote in congressional history.

Today, I am asking that you stand with Americans across the country and constituents such as me by advancing this critical piece of legislation. I urge you to defend the right to marriage equality for couples and families across the country by supporting and passing the Respect for Marriage Act.

Sincerely,

{user_data~Offered First Name~Your constituent}

Take Action:

First name*

Last Name*

Email Address*

Street*

City*

State*

Zip Code*

Country*

Cell Phone

c3 Digital Team Contact

Yes, sign me up for the latest updates from CAP.