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August 07, 2008

Obama Supports Right of Same-Sex Couples to Adopt

Obama Supports Right of Same-Sex Couples to Adopt

Barack Obama has expressed his support for same-sex couples' right to adopt children, according to the Family Equality Council. The group had sought to learn the presidential candidates' positions on the topic, and only Obama responded. However, John McCain has previously expressed his opposition to adoption by gays in a July 13 New York Times article.  

"We also have to do more to support and strengthen LGBT families," Obama wrote in his letter to the group, dated August 1. "Because equality in relationship, family, and adoption rights is not some abstract principle; it’s about whether millions of LGBT Americans can finally live lives marked by dignity and freedom. That’s why we have to repeal laws like the Defense of Marriage Act. That’s why we have to eliminate discrimination against LGBT families. And that’s why we have to extend equal treatment in our family and adoption laws."

Obama also touted his plans to expand the Family Medical Leave Act, pass laws to prohibit caregiver discrimination, and encourage businesses to allow more flexible schedules for workers.  

While McCain and his wife, Cindy, have an adopted child, he said to the Times, "I think that we've proven that both parents are important in the success of a family, so no, I don't believe in gay adoption. I encourage adoption and I encourage the opportunities for people to adopt children. I encourage the process being less complicated so they can adopt as quickly as possible. And Cindy and I are proud of being adoptive parents."

In McCain's home state of Arizona, any unmarried adult can petition to adopt a child; however, the law does not specifically provide joint adoption by same-sex couples, according to the Human Rights Campaign. There is also no explicit ban on allowing a same-sex partner to petition to adopt a child of the other partner. Florida is the only U.S. state that bans all forms of adoption by gays.

According to the Family Equality Council, same-sex parents are raising 4% of all adopted children in the United States as well as 3% of all children in foster care. (The Advocate)

Keywords:  Barack Obama 
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Reader Comments

These comments are reproduced as written by visitors to this Web site. They have not been edited for content, grammar, or spelling. The viewpoints appearing here are those of the writer, and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or views of advocate.com, The Advocate, or its affiliates.

  • Name: jeff
    Date posted: 2008-08-07 5:01 PM
    Hometown: aberdeen

    Comment:

    why is it ok to adopt but not same sex to get married i think that is race gender whatever or however you want to look at it . its discrination.


  • Name: Esther
    Date posted: 2008-08-07 12:50 PM
    Hometown: Oregon

    Comment:

    I'm definitely voting for Obama vs McCain, but why would Obama (or anyone) say gay couples should have the right to adopt, but then not also believe in them having the ability to marry and thus receive all the benefits my husband and I have had in raising our own children? Don't we need to protect these families as much as any other, adults and children alike?


  • Name: lilyjoe
    Date posted: 2008-08-06 11:32 PM
    Hometown: Carnifornia

    Comment:

    I think everything has two sides. Some ppl may like the same-sex marriage better. I know some ppl on BiLoves have such kind of marriage and they have a great life. So I think legal adoption for them is more fair.


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