Attorney General Eric Holder today issued the
following statement regarding the Supreme Court ruling on the Defense of
Marriage Act.
“Today’s historic decision in the case of
United States v. Windsor, declaring Section 3 of the Defense of
Marriage Act unconstitutional, is an enormous triumph for equal
protection under the law for all Americans. The Court’s ruling gives
real meaning to the Constitution’s promise of equal
protection to all members of our society, regardless of sexual
orientation. This decision impacts a broad array of federal laws. At
the President’s direction, the Department of Justice will work
expeditiously with other Executive Branch agencies to implement
the Court’s decision. Despite this momentous victory, our nation’s
journey – towards equality, opportunity, and justice for everyone in
this country – is far from over. Important, life-changing work remains
before us. And, as we move forward in a manner
consistent with the Court’s ruling, the Department of Justice is
committed to continuing this work, and using every tool and legal
authority available to us to combat discrimination and to safeguard the
rights of all Americans.”
