"Despite our strides, gay and lesbian couples even now can marry only in
nine states and the District of Columbia. The federal government doesn’t
recognize those weddings, meaning that in terms of taxes, military
benefits and matters of immigration, it treats gays and lesbians
differently than it treats other Americans. It relegates us to an
inferior class. The Supreme Court could soon change, or validate, that. There are
relevant cases before it. For his part Obama could show less deference
to states’ rights, be more insistent about what’s just and necessary
coast-to-coast, and push for federal protections against employment
discrimination when it comes to L.G.B.T. Americans. His actions over the
next four years could fall wholly in line with Monday’s trailblazing
words. My hope is real, and grateful, and patient." - Frank Bruni, writing for the New York Times.
