THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK
OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS
CITY HALL
NEW YORK, NY 10007
June 17, 2009
Release # 057-2009

Statement by Speaker Christine C. Quinn
Re: President Barack Obama Signing Memorandum on Federal Benefits and Non-Discrimination

“President Obama's decision to sign a memorandum which extends federal benefits to same-sex partners of federal employees is a first step in the right direction, and I commend him for making it.

“However, citing the Defense of Marriage Act as the reason, this decision does not include one of the most important benefits employees need - health insurance for their partners. This just affirms what the LGBT community and all fair minded Americans know - the Defense of Marriage Act must be overturned immediately.

“The LGBT community stood behind the President because we believed his message for change would make its way to our community - change that we have waited far too long for. Americans believe in the basic fundamentals of freedom and we must extend this ideal to all communities. I hope this first step will lead to many more comprehensive steps towards equality for all.”