Statement from the Office of Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Regarding the One-Year Anniversary of the Marriage Equality Act

In regard to the one year anniversary of the Marriage Equality Act, Governor Chafee said: “One year ago on May 2, Rhode Island made history with passage of the Marriage Equality Act. In so doing, we sent a remarkable message beyond our borders that Rhode Island is a community that chooses tolerance and freedom over discrimination. In addition, together as a community we furthered the principles of our forefathers who lived in pursuit of the words etched on our glorious State House, ‘to hold forth a lively experiment, that a most flourishing civil state may stand and best be maintained.’

“Today, across Rhode Island same-sex couples enjoy the celebration of a wedding. All loving, productive and valued members of our community are free to exercise their right -- which is a fundamental right -- to marry. We would not be ushering in this one-year milestone if not for devoted Rhode Islanders who fought for decades for basic civil rights. To those forward-thinking members of our community, I say thank you.

“Since before my inauguration, I have been unwavering in my support of marriage for all. It is what Rhode Island has been about from its early beginnings – a tolerant state – of liberty of conscience. Through marriage equality, we proved that our state continues to be a leader in diversity and welcoming to everyone. By having a reputation for tolerance and equality, talented and creative minds from all over the world will be attracted to our cities. I believe new employers will want to put down roots in a state where they can find the brightest and best professionals, who are free of the distraction and worry of inequality, because good business is about treating people equally and having laws that are inclusive.”