Local Voices: Supreme Court's Decision To Strike Down DOMA

By Eileen McNamara and Dirk Langeveld

In a major victory for gay rights activists the U.S. Supreme Court today, June 26, has struck down the federal Defense of Marriage Act.

As gay rights advocates rallied outside, the court this morning ruled 5-4 against the federal law in what experts are saying is a broad ruling that could doom state laws banning gay marriages. 

The court has also struck down Proposition 8, which banned same-sex marriage in California, according to the Huffington Post.

The much-anticipated ruling means the federal government must recognize gay marriages in the 12 states in the U.S. that have legalized gay marriages, including in Connecticut. 

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy today heralded the court's decision as a major advance in equal rights for gays.

“Although the State of Connecticut has recognized marriage equality for same-sex couples since 2008 ... DOMA prevented these legally married couples from being recognized by the U.S. government, thus being denied a host of rights that are afforded to all other married couples," Malloy said. “Having two different sets of laws for people based solely on their gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity is wrong ..."

Mayor Daryl Finizio of New London, who is openly gay, also praised the decision.

"Very proud of my community for maintaining this struggle for so long - we are not yet finished - and very proud of my country for finally beginning to embrace it," said Finizio. "Everyone matters equally. God bless America!"

There was celebration on the Facebook pages of O'Neill's Brass Rail and Frank's Place, New London's two gay bars. At the page for outCT, a group organizing LGBT pride events in New London, one resident said she was glad to see the decision but felt the LGBT community needs to continue its efforts.

"It's heartening to see a glimpse of sanity in the Supreme Court, but also scary that the margin for failure was so close," wrote Jasmine J. McTigue. "It just shows us in no uncertain terms that community efforts like are own are more important than ever. Visibility is essential."

The decision also came as a victory to Waterford couple Joanne Pederson and Ann Meitzen, who were part of a successful lawsuit in a lower court challenging the Defense of Marriage Act after Meitzen was denied benefits under Pederson's Federal Employees Health Benefits Program.

Several readers posted comments of support on the Montville Patch Facebook page. Reader Natasha Lee declared, "It is awesome and about time!" Joanne Matthew said, "Finally a big step forward!"

Other readers were opposed to the decision. "No comment. I believe in a man and a woman as I am a Catholic," posted Gerry Matthews. "Very sad day for the children of America," replied David Lalama.