HONOLULU — Members of Hawaii’s Congressional delegation are uniting to express their support for marriage equality in Hawaii.
Sens. Mazie Hirono and Brian Schatz and Reps. Colleen Hanabusa and Tulsi Gabbard released statements of support, each urging Gov. Neil Abercrombie and the state legislature to pass the freedom to marry in Hawaii without delay.
“We’re on the brink of getting marriage equality in Hawaii and same-sex couples shouldn’t have to wait any longer for this fundamental civil right. Let’s get this done,” said Sen. Mazie Hirono.
“Equality goes hand-in-hand with Hawaii’s values and with what the majority of Americans hope to achieve,” said Sen. Brian Schatz. “Our country took an important step toward achieving marriage equality, and now it’s time for Hawaii to step up and allow same-sex couples to marry. I urge the Hawaii state Legislature to do what’s right and make marriage equality a reality.”
“It’s time for Hawaii to stand with the growing number of states across the country that offer full marriage equality to all of it’s citizens,” said U.S. Representative Colleen Hanabusa (CD1), “I encourage Gov. Abercrombie and our state legislators to prove their determination by swift, decisive action.”
And Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (CD2) stated “I disagree with a two-tiered, discriminatory government policy of ‘marriage’ and ‘civil unions.’ Government officials, judges, and bureaucrats should not have the power to declare one relationship ‘morally’ superior to another. As long as government is involved in the marriage business, it must treat all Americans as equal.”
This call from the federal delegation comes in the wake of a new poll showing majority support in Hawaii for marriage equality. The poll shows those opposed to gay marriage are diminishing quickly.
Thirteen states and the District of Columbia have legalized same-sex marriages. Hawaii has a civil unions law, but does not allow gay couples to marry.
Hawaii’s marriage equality advocates say the unity in the delegation is important. “Our Congressional leaders know that Hawaii serves an important role in our nation as a model of diversity and equality for all. Along with so many of our friends and neighbors, we are calling for full marriage equality right now, in 2013, without any more delays,” said Rep. Chris Lee, (D-51st District).
