Son of the Worse Homophobe in NY Senator Supports Gay Marriage
The younger Diaz, who is president of the Bronx borough in New York City, said in a blog post that he came to the decision after 'considerable deliberation and introspection.'
His announcement came on the day the United States Supreme Court held a hearing on the Defense of Marriage Act which prevents the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriages.
'Right now, the Supreme Court is preparing to decide on the constitutionality of the Defense of Marriage Act,' Diaz stated. 'I strongly believe that this law should be struck down. The marriages of thousands of New Yorkers and other LGBT individuals across the United States should be afforded the same federal rights, benefits, and recognition as my own marriage.'
He added: 'Individuals who love one another, regardless of their sexual orientation, should not be denied the benefits of marriage. It is time for the Supreme Court to overturn the Defense of Marriage Act.'
His father, Ruben Diaz Sr., represents the 32nd District of the New York State Senate. His opposition to same-sex marriage became public in 2007.
The elder has led rallies against same-sex marriage attended by thousands. At a 2009 rally, his lesbian granddaughter led a small counter-protest against him.
But during his speech, he called the granddaughter to the stage with him, hugged and kissed her and said: 'This is my granddaughter. I love her. I love her. I love her. I respect her decisions. She does what she wants.'
He voted against gay marriage bills in 2009 and 2011 but the bill passed the State Senate anyway the second time and gay marriage became legal in New York in July of that year.
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