Statement on Supreme Court Ruling on the Defense of Marriage Act
Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
June 26, 2013
The U.S. Department of State applauds the Supreme Court’s decision striking down an unjust and discriminatory law and
increasing freedom and equality for LGBT Americans.
As a Senator, I voted against DOMA in 1996 and argued that it was unconstitutional. As Secretary of State, I look
forward to the work that now can and must be done to adjust rules and regulations that affect the many married Americans
who were hurt by this law. While I am incredibly proud of the job that the State Department has done in ensuring equal
benefits for our employees, there’s more to be done. To fully implement the requirements and implications of the Court’s
decision, we will work with the Department of Justice and other agencies to review all relevant federal statutes as well
as the benefits administered by this agency. We will work to swiftly administer these changes to ensure that every
employee and their spouse have access to their due benefits regardless of sexual orientation both at home and abroad.
I am proud of the progress we’re making in this arena, and particularly proud that I work for a President who has helped
to lead the way forward. From Stonewall to the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,’ despite setbacks along the way, the
arc of our history on this issue has bent towards inclusion and equality, perhaps never more so than today.
ENDS