Washington, DC, July 9, 2010

The American Humanist Association applauded two rulings by a federal district court judge in Boston yesterday that the Defense of Marriage Act violates the constitutional rights of married same-sex couples and of states to grant benefits to their own citizens. The rulings, which were handed down by Judge Joseph L. Tauro, declared that same-sex couples should be afforded the same federal benefits that other married couples enjoy and that DOMA violates the 10th Amendment by intruding on areas of exclusive state authority.

"This is a victory for equality and a setback for religious conservatives who are so determined to oppose the acceptance of gays and lesbians in modern society," said David Niose, president of the American Humanist Association. "The AHA opposes efforts to impose religious standards in public policy, and the dispute over this legislation very much reflects that struggle."

Niose added:  "Affording same-sex couples equal marriage rights is good for the LGBT community, it's good for families, and it's good for society."

The American Humanist Association urged the Obama administration not to appeal the rulings. "This is a good opportunity for President Obama to show he's on the side of equality," said Niose. "An appeal would seem to contradict his claims of supporting LGBT rights. The administration should let these rulings stand."

The American Humanist Association (www.americanhumanist.org) advocates for the rights and viewpoints of humanists. Founded in 1941 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., its work is extended through more than 100 local chapters and affiliates across America.

Humanism is the idea that you can be good without a belief in God.

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