DC Mayor Fenty signs historic marriage equality bill

Washington D.C. Mayor Adrian M. Fenty signs the District's historic marriage equality bill, clearing the way for the law to take effect in the spring after the mandatory congressional review period.

Fenty signed in front of 150 activists and same-sex couples--many of whom say they plan to marry--in the sanctuary of All Souls Unitarian in Mount Pleasant. "We knew this day would come," Fenty said. "I say to the world: An era of struggle ends for thousands in Washington, D.C. . . . Our city is taking a leap forward." Before he signed the bill, Fenty spoke of his interracial upbringing, noting it was illegal for his parents to get married 40 years ago. "This is one of the churches my parents would have brought me to when I was a boy," he said as his parents sat among advocates in a second pew. "Things have a way of coming full circle. When you're mayor."

The law to legalize same-sex marriage in the District of Columbia was introduced by D.C. Council Member David Catania, who is openly gay, and supported by an overwhelming majority of the council.

The District of Columbia becomes the only jurisdiction south of the Mason-Dixon line where same-sex marriage is legal. Our nation's capitol also becomes the only majority black jurisdiction where same-sex marriage is the law. Thank you Mayor Fenty, Councilman Catania and everyone who made this happen. Bravo and congratulations.

[Original Entry]