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DC Legalizes Gay Marriage

Bill passes 11-2, could be struck down by Congress

By the Associated Press

Posted Dec 15, 2009 2:21 PM CST
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(AP) – The Washington, DC, City Council voted today to legalize gay marriage in the nation's capital, handing supporters a victory after recent defeats in Maine, New York, and New Jersey. Mayor Adrian Fenty has promised to sign the bill, which passed 11-2, and gay couples could begin marrying as early as March. Congress, which has final say over Washington's laws, could reject it, but Democratic leaders have suggested they are reluctant to do so.

The bill had overwhelming support among council members and was expected to pass, though opponents have vowed to try to get Congress or voters to overturn it. David Catania, who introduced the bill and is one of two openly gay council members, called the bill a "matter of social justice" before the vote. Two members voted "I do" when their names came up, and when the vote finished a packed chamber erupted into cheers and clapping. The "no" votes included former mayor Marion Barry, now a council member.

In this Oct. 6, 2009, file photo, Ed Grandis, left, and Juan D. Rondon, hug after a bill allowing same-sex marriage in the District of Columbia was introduced at a city council meeting in Washington.
In this Oct. 6, 2009, file photo, Ed Grandis, left, and Juan D. Rondon, hug after a bill allowing same-sex marriage in the District of Columbia was introduced at a city council meeting in Washington.   (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)
In Oct. 6, 2009, file photo, Ed Grandis, left, and Juan D. Rondon, hold hands after a bill allowing same-sex marriage in the District of Columbia was introduced at a city council meeting.
In Oct. 6, 2009, file photo, Ed Grandis, left, and Juan D. Rondon, hold hands after a bill allowing same-sex marriage in the District of Columbia was introduced at a city council meeting.   (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 27 comments
Fondue
Dec 16, 2009 7:35 AM CST
Yes, Kentucky Fried Jelly
DieselDawg
Dec 16, 2009 5:33 AM CST
@Snarf- good back and forth again; its good to know that we can have a discussion about our differences with the same courtesy as if we were face to face! My only point on the constitutionality is that once a constitution is amended, it is very difficult to change. That said, we may have an entirely different make-up of those who represent us. We really don't know for sure. Things could change in a wholly different direction that nobody would have predicted. Love while you can..Cheers!
cognitivefilter
Dec 16, 2009 5:05 AM CST
a step in the right direction

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Congress • gay marriage • Washington DC • marriage • city council

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