[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 105 (Wednesday, July 17, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1299]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        DEFENSE OF MARRIAGE ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. NYDIA M. VELAZQUEZ

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 11, 1996

       The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of 
     the Union had under consideration the bill (H.R. 3396) to 
     define and protect the institution of marriage.

  Ms. Velazquez. Mr. Speaker, too many Americans are worrying about how 
they are going to pay for their children's education and their parents' 
health care. Yet, instead of working for real change, we are voting on 
legislation that will do little more than increase the amount of hate 
and division in this country.
  The Defense of Marriage Act, H.R. 3396, will ban homosexual 
marriages. Proponents of this destructive legislation argue that same-
sex marriage is an assault on the sanctity and integrity of 
heterosexual marriages. The argument is irrational. Homosexual couples 
do not influence heterosexual marriage choices. Marriage protection 
proponents also argue that this legislation promotes tradition and 
family values. These arguments are strikingly similar to those raised 
less than 30 years ago in resistance to repealing miscegenation laws.
  Like its hate-driven predecessor, the Defense of Marriage Act sends a 
dangerous message to society. We are legitimizing hate and 
discrimination. Intense prejudice against lesbians and gay men remains 
prevalent in our society. Homosexuals are victims of extensive 
discrimination, prejudice, and violence due to their sexual 
orientation.
  Discrimination against gay people in such critical areas as 
employment and housing remains widespread in many jurisdictions. Even 
more alarming, high rates of antigay violence or hate crimes abound. 
Society communicates particular values and attitudes to its members in 
many ways, but primarily through laws. Instead of working to reduce 
discrimination, this body is pushing legislation that will reinforce 
intolerance and hostility toward gay people.
  Discrimination against homosexuals is unfair, unjust and appalling. 
Let's end this charade! I urge my colleagues to vote for fairness and 
equality and oppose this shameful legislation.

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