The U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark decision mandating new federal recognition of gay couples is an important step toward ensuring all families have the same civil rights and opportunities for economic security.
CEA President Sheila Cohen said, “Federal laws should not treat some Connecticut workers differently because of whom they love and choose to marry. DOMA has caused Connecticut workers in same-sex marriages to be taxed more on their wages, to be denied federal benefits and protections, and to have less economic security than their colleagues in opposite-sex marriages. It also prevented married same-sex couples from being informed if his or her partner was wounded or killed in action. With the ruling, married same-sex couples in twelve states that allow such unions, including Connecticut, will now be subject to more than 1,000 federal laws and programs and start to receive federal benefits.”
Dennis Van Roekel, president of the nation’s largest union, representing more than 3 million educators, said the DOMA ruling is a “major milestone in American history.”
He continued, “Teaching the importance of diversity and respect for everyone in our community is strengthened when all Americans are afforded basic civil rights. And more families with increased stability and economic security can only help our children soar.”
“What we have witnessed is a monumental decision and a huge step forward for civil rights. As an educator, I cannot help but be moved by the thought of all of the children and students we serve whose families will now be made whole. I am reminded of the struggle, and I think of how far we, as a society, have come to let love overcome hate and bigotry. At the same time, the victory is tempered with the reality of the decision, which dealt such a horrible blow to the progress we’ve made in our journey to achieve racial equality. The fight for social justice goes on, and because of what we do and who we serve, we will always be on the frontline of this battlefield.”
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