This week, President Obama made history by being the first-ever to mention gay rights in an Inauguration Speech. It was such an amazing moment to share with my son and brother, as we stood less than a mile away from the President while he emphasized the need for all of us to continue working together to promote equal rights for all.
While progress has definitely been made in the past decade, with about 13 states now recognzing gay marriages, we still have the issue of DOMA (the Defense of Marriage Act) that prevents gay couples from obtaining many federal privileges that so many of us take for granted. Thankfully, there are now two key cases pending Supreme Court review this Spring, which may lead to further progress on the gay rights movement.
I believe that the more people understand what is at stake here, the less conflict there will be about the need to support this cause, which seeks to provide equal treatment under the law for all. In that vein, it was an honor and privilege for me do my part this week by having Michele Zavos as a guest for my upcoming tv show. Michele has been a dedicated advocate for the LGTB community in the DC Area for over 30 years, and our segment will air next Wednesday and Thursday evening for Montgomery Municipal Cable. Hope you will all tune in!
By Regina A. DeMeo, Esq.
