DC Mayor Adrian Fenty Signs Washington Gay Marriage Bill Leaving Only Congress Standing In Its Way

Adrian Fenty, the District of Columbia Mayor, yesterday signed a bill to legalize gay marriage in Washington. Taking place in a public ceremony at the All Souls Church in Washington’s Ward 1, which has a gay-friendly Unitarian congregation, the signing would normally mark the last step in the process, however in the case of the District of Columbia, it 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 organization 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 taking place from as early as March next year.

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

Hat tip to FightHIVinDC (photo).