Support Marriage Equality In New York State

April 29, 2011

This morning I was woken up to the endless coverage of the Royal Wedding. There was no way to avoid the coverage of the Royal Wedding. The Royal Wedding was regal and beautiful. I would like to send my congratulations to the happy couple. I wish nothing but the best for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

With the Royal Wedding now behind us, I hope that we can focus on something much more important to New Yorkers. Maybe now we can focus on FULL MARRIAGE EQUALITY for all New Yorkers.

I was encouraged by Governor Andrew Cuomo’s commitment to seeing that marriage equality is passed this year. This new push for marriage equality gives me hope that one day all New Yorkers, including myself will be able to marry their loved one no matter their sexual orientation.

A clear majority of New Yorkers now support full marriage equality. A recent poll revealed that 58% of New Yorkers support marriage equality for same-sex couples. Making marriage equality is not only the right thing to do, it’s also the smart thing to do.  With our state in a serious financial crisis every penny of revenue is greatly needed. A 2007 report by the New York City Comptroller said that marriage equality would add over $150 million dollars to New York City’s economy over the first three years after the law is enacted.

The New York Times reported today, that two dozen high profile business leaders in New York will release an open letter urging our state legislators to legalize same sex marriage. Leaders including, the CEO of Goldman Sachs and Chairman of Tishman Speyer Properties claim that full marriage equality in New York State would help companies attract and retain employees. This will only help to strengthen our economy.

Respecting the marriages of same-sex couples will strengthen relationships, foster stability and make families more secure, enabling them to take care of themselves so the government won’t have to.  When New York State finally provides legal recognition of same-sex relationships, it  will promote an environment of tolerance and acceptance for all of its residents. Marriage Equality will provide necessary protections for all couples and families, including rights related to property, state taxes, health care, family leave and adoption.

The momentum for full marriage equality is clearly on our side. Now is the time for action. I can see the finish line on the horizon, but we need everyone’s help if we are going to get there. Please call your State Senators today and urge them to support full marriage equality in New York State.

Matthew Silverstein is a Bay Terrace resident and is the Democratic State Committeeman for the 26th AD.