WASHINGTON - December 1 - The D.C. City Council today voted 11-2 to approve legislation that would allow same-sex couples to be married in the District of Columbia.  The legislation will be voted on again in two weeks, at which time it will be sent to Mayor Adrian Fenty, who has promised to sign it.

People For the American Way President Michael B. Keegan issued the following statement:

“I’m proud that our nation’s capital has moved a step closer to full equality for all its citizens and grateful to the members of the City Council who stood up for fairness for all people.  Local activists have been working for years to achieve this victory, and they should be commended for their tireless commitment to this cause.

“Today’s legislation includes important protections which ensure that the religious liberty of all people will be protected.  Churches can and will always have the right to decide which marriages they bless.  It has been disappointing to see right wing leaders and clergy members misrepresent the law in an effort to spread fear and score political points.

“I look forward to final passage of this legislation and to the day when all couples will be treated equally under the law.”

Reverend Kenneth Samuel, Senior Fellow at People For the American Way, issued a statement in advance of the vote.  You can read it here.