Quigley Statement on Justice Department Ruling Defense of Marriage Act Unconstitutional

CHICAGO -- Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) issued the following statement after the Justice Department ruled the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) unconstitutional. The Defense of Marriage Act defines marriage as between a man and a woman and discriminates against legally married same-sex couples.

"I applaud today's decision by the Justice Department to stand on the right side of history and end its support of the disgraceful Defense of Marriage Act. We have made great strides toward equality in recent months by repealing 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' and legalizing civil unions in Illinois, and today another blow has been struck against bigotry and discrimination. It is my hope that this momentum carries us to a full dismantling of the Defense of Marriage Act and a new era of civil rights for every American."

Quigley, in his second term in Congress, is a co-sponsor of the Respect for Marriage Act, which would repeal (DOMA) and ensure that couples who assume the serious legal responsibilities of marriage are treated fairly under federal law.