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Pelosi Statement on the Passing of Edith Windsor

September 12, 2017

Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released this statement on the passing of LGBT rights activist Edith Windsor, the lead plaintiff in the landmark United States v. Windsor court case that struck down the federal definition of marriage as applying only to opposite-sex unions:

"Today, we mourn a beautiful life and celebrate a legacy of love, strength and family. We pay tribute to a courageous woman who demanded the full respect her marriage deserved – and in doing so, advanced justice and equality for all.

"In the face of discrimination and bigotry, Edith Windsor bravely stepped forward to insist on her rights. With pride, grace and determination, she refused to accept the injustice leveled at the love of her life. Edith refused to be told that her union of 40 years was less worthy of the law's protections. Because of Edith's love and tenacity, the Supreme Court took a historic step toward full marriage equality for LGBT Americans.

"Let us honor Edie's legacy by redoubling our commitment to completing the march toward LGBT equality. Let us advance a future in which no person is denied their rights because of who they are or who they love. May it be a comfort to her wife, Judith Kasen-Windsor, and her friends and loved ones that so many share in their sorrow of her passing and in their celebration of her life."

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