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New York's Schumer Flips, Backs Gay Marriage

By Harry Kimball,  Newser Staff

Posted Mar 23, 2009 11:55 AM CDT

(Newser) – Sen. Charles Schumer now supports full marriage rights for same-sex couples, the New York Daily News reports. The New York Democrat, who was on the record as a proponent of civil unions, also wants to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act, which he himself voted for. “It’s time,” Schumer said in a statement. “Equality is something that has always been a hallmark of America and no group should be deprived of it.”

“New York, which has always been at the forefront on issues of equality, is appropriately poised to take a lead on this issue,” Schumer continued. A marriage-rights bill is currently making its way through the New York legislature. Gay-rights activists were thrilled. “Like a majority of New Yorkers,” one said, “Sen. Schumer recognizes that only marriage equality provides same sex couples the status, protections, and rights afforded to all other Americans.”

Schumer on Capitol Hill.
Schumer on Capitol Hill.   (AP Photo)
Sen. Charles Schumer.
Sen. Charles Schumer.   (AP Photo)
Attendees of a gay marriage in San Francisco.
Attendees of a gay marriage in San Francisco.   (AP Photo)
Supporters of gay marriage.
Supporters of gay marriage.   (AP Photo)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 6 comments
Ucantusethatname
Jul 18, 2009 1:44 AM CDT
As I recall, no one has ever accused Schumer of having a brain. Is there a more irritating Senator than Schumer? I can't think of one.
freethemall
Mar 23, 2009 10:32 AM CDT
Thank you justapirate and Technicolor. I'm still a little confused, but I'll say this: Same sex couples should have equal rights, if that requires same-sex marriage, so be it.
justapirate
Mar 23, 2009 8:33 AM CDT
A civil union is exactly the same thing as a marriage, it is just given a different name. Also, marriages are not, I repeat, NOT a "church thing." If they were, then how are my atheist relatives allowed to be wed? Simple: it is a government thing. The religious element is only added in if the couple chooses to do so. And you are correct, the church does not have to wed a same-sex couple within their building, they are allowed to say no. So, why must we call a gay marriage something else if it is the same thing? History has shown us how flawed this "separate but equal" philosophy really is.

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