Newark - U.S. Senator Robert Menendez today reaffirmed his support for equal rights for all Americans in recognition of LGBT Pride Month. Just yesterday, the federal appeals court in Boston declared unconstitutional the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which defines marriage as a union of only a man and a woman. Menendez is a co-sponsor of the Respect for Marriage act to repeal DOMA.

"I strongly support the LBGT community, and am proud to count myself among a majority of New Jerseyans and millions of Americans who support marriage equality and equal rights for all," said Menendez. "No one should be discriminated against for who they are or who they choose to love, and no boy or girl growing up should feel that their parents are somehow less equal than their best friend's parents. During this LGBT Pride Month, we come together unified in our support and our determination to protect the expression of all individuals. And during this month - and every month hereafter - let us all redouble our efforts to ensure that we will someday soon live in a world where all relationships are embraced and all marriages respected."

On Sunday, June 3, Menendez will attend Jersey Pride's 21st Annual Pride celebration and parade in Asbury Park.

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