DC Mayor Adrian Fenty Signs Washington Gay Marriage Bill Leaving The US Congress As The Only Hurdle

The District of Columbia Mayor, Adrian Fenty, yesterday signed a bill which acts to make gay marriage in Washington legal. Taking place in a public ceremony at the gay friendly All Souls Church in Washington, this would, in most US states be the last step in the process, however in the case of the District of Columbia, the bill must now undergo a 30-day Congressional review.

Speaking about the signing of the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Equality Amendment Act of 2009, Michael Crawford, who is the co-Chair of the D.C for Marriage, an organisation campaigning for equal rights for same sex couples said:

“Having the right to legally marry will have an invaluable impact on gay and lesbian people and our families. Our work has always been about ensuring that every child and every parent in the District has the protection of full equality, so we can strengthen both our families and our community. We are excitedly looking forward to seeing the first couples and their joy as they are finally able to marry, here in the District.

With today’s bill signing, the District has once again proven its long-time commitment to social justice and equality. We have boldly blazed a trail for the rest of the country by creating a coalition of support among clergy representing many different faiths, and residents of every race, ethnicity and origin in this majority African-American city. Together, we have ensured that the first jurisdiction in the South to make marriage equality law is our nation’s capital.”

If Congress do not act to challenge the bill then gay marriages should be able to take place in the District of Columbia from as early as March 2010.

You can see the historic signing of the Marriage Equality Bill by Mayor Adrian Fenty below: