GLAD lawsuit challenges portion of DOMA barring federal recognition of same-sex marriages
BOSTON — Gay marriage supporters in Massachusetts are urging President Barack Obama to honor a campaign promise to seek repeal of the federal Defense of Marriage Act.
A lawsuit by Boston-based Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders challenges a portion of the act, which bars the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriages.
A coalition of gay-rights groups wants supporters to send cards to the White House urging Obama to instruct the Department of Justice not to defend the law in court. Campaign organizer Paul Sousa says defending the Defense of Marriage Act would be tantamount to a flip-flop by Obama, who defers to states on gay marriage.
The Department of Justice typically defends laws passed by Congress. It has until the week of June 22 to respond to the lawsuit.