Family Research Council Logo. (PRNewsFoto/Family Research Council)
WASHINGTON, DC UNITED STATES
WASHINGTON, March 3 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Family Research Council (FRC) President Tony Perkins released the following statement in response to a lawsuit filed in Massachusetts challenging the constitutionality of the federal definition of marriage established by Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). In 1996 DOMA was passed overwhelmingly in the House (342-67) and Senate (85-14) and then was quickly signed into law by President Bill Clinton.
"Back in 1996, most pro-family Americans were relieved to know that the institution of marriage had been protected by the Defense of Marriage Act, which passed overwhelmingly in both the House and Senate and was then signed by President Clinton. When urging DOMA's enactment, FRC attempted to ensure that Congress would define marriage federally as the legal union of one man and one woman as husband and wife. DOMA also contained provisions ensuring that no state would be required to recognize a same-sex 'marriage' license issued in another state.
"Thirteen years later, however, it is increasingly clear that DOMA is in the cross hairs of groups like Gay & Lesbian Advocates and Defenders (GLAD), the plaintiffs, but also of President Obama who repeatedly has stated his support for DOMA's total repeal. We even wonder if his Department of Justice will rigorously defend this federal law in this litigation.
"Recognizing the ongoing threat to marriage,voters in the last election continued to define marriage in their state constitutions as the union of one man and one woman. We advise the Obama Administration to fulfill its constitutional duties and defend DOMA energetically and competently. We also urge any federal courts that hear this case to dismiss it and preserve the right of the people to decide such important public policy decisions.
"Even more important are the implications for marriage and family. The social science confirms what history and common sense have long told us: That it is overwhelmingly, the best environment for children is a home with a mom and dad.
"DOMA is necessary, as is a Federal Marriage Amendment, to ensure a solid future for traditional marriage in this country and the well-being of our children."
