Catholic Lobby Celebrates “Yes” Vote on Respect for Marriage Act

For Immediate Release: November 29, 2022
Contact: Colleen Ross, cross@networklobby.org, 202-601-7877

Catholic Lobby Celebrates “Yes” Vote on Respect for Marriage Act
Mary J. Novak: “Respect and dignity should not be limited on the basis of race or sexual orientation.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This evening, the Senate passed the Respect for Marriage Act in a 61-36 vote. Inspired by the belief in the human dignity of all of God’s people and the importance of family, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice urges President Biden to sign this bill into law as soon as possible.

The Respect for Marriage Act would repeal the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act and codify the right to civil marriage, regardless of sexual orientation or race. As an earlier interfaith statement, which NETWORK supported, stated: “Within our communities, we approach matters of marriage, family, and identity differently. This bill recognizes this diversity of belief while ensuring that same-sex and interracial couples are treated with equal respect by federal and state governments.”

Following the vote, Joan F. Neal, Deputy Executive Director & Chief Equity Officer of NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, said:

“The NETWORK community celebrates today’s Senate passage of the Respect for Marriage Act that protects the legal right to marry for all people. The federal benefits and protections available to legally married couples promote stability for families, safety and health for individuals, and advance the common good. Today’s vote affirms our belief that discrimination on any basis has no place in our country.”

Mary J. Novak, Executive Director of NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, added:

“As we work to foster the ‘Beloved Community,’ the sanctity of the family must be protected and dignified. Respect and dignity should not be limited on the basis of race or sexual orientation. All of us at NETWORK express our gratitude to the Senators who voted to prevent discrimination and ensure equal treatment in federal law and look forward to this bill receiving President Biden’s signature.”

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NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice – advocates for justice inspired by Catholic Sisters – educates, organizes, and lobbies for economic and social transformation. With a 50-year record of accomplishment and more than 100,000 supporters across the country, NETWORK lobbies for federal programs and policies that support those at the margins and prioritize the common good. www.networklobby.org