Berrios Responds to Historic Marriage Equality Legislation
November 19th, 2013
SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Rep. Maria A. “Toni” Berrios, D-Chicago, issued the following statement after voting to pass Senate Bill 10, the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act:
“Today, we witnessed our state take a historic step forward to ensuring all residents are treated equally under the law. Marriage equality is now one step closer to becoming a reality for a community that has fought long and hard to receive the same benefits as their neighbors. As a co-sponsor of the legislation, it was with great support from my community that I proudly cast my vote in favor of marriage equality.
“It is no longer a privilege for some, but a right with the security and stability that comes with marriage. Today is a testament to how far the state has come, and demonstrates that no one is a second-class citizen. This country was built on the idea that everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity or religious background is equal in the eyes of the law and by passing marriage equality today we proclaimed with one voice that everyone should have the freedom to marry whom they choose.
“It was a long and arduous road, but finally there is light at the end of the tunnel. I want to thank everyone who expressed their support along the way, and I look forward to the governor signing the bill into law. While there is much more work to be done in the state, today marks an incredible victory for the civil rights movement in Illinois and the country.”
For more information, please contact Berrios’ constituent service office at 773-736-3939 or email at repberrios39@gmail.com.
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