Today, I was asked a direct question and gave a direct answer:
I believe that same-sex couples should be allowed to marry.
I hope you'll take a moment to watch the conversation, consider it, and
weigh in yourself on behalf of marriage equality:
 [url]
 
I've always believed that gay and lesbian Americans should be treated
fairly and equally. I was reluctant to use the term marriage because of the
very powerful traditions it evokes. And I thought civil union laws that
conferred legal rights upon gay and lesbian couples were a solution.
But over the course of several years I've talked to friends and family
about this. I've thought about members of my staff in long-term, committed,
same-sex relationships who are raising kids together. Through our efforts
to end the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, I've gotten to know some of the
gay and lesbian troops who are serving our country with honor and
distinction.
What I've come to realize is that for loving, same-sex couples, the denial
of marriage equality means that, in their eyes and the eyes of their
children, they are still considered less than full citizens.
Even at my own dinner table, when I look at Sasha and Malia, who have
friends whose parents are same-sex couples, I know it wouldn't dawn on them
that their friends' parents should be treated differently.
So I decided it was time to affirm my personal belief that same-sex couples
should be allowed to marry.
I respect the beliefs of others, and the right of religious institutions to
act in accordance with their own doctrines. But I believe that in the eyes
of the law, all Americans should be treated equally. And where states enact
same-sex marriage, no federal act should invalidate them.
 If you agree, you can stand up with me
here.
 
Thank you,
Barack
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