NEWS RELEASE: Avakian on DOMA ruling: Oregon controls its own destiny

[Burr, Charlie]

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Press Release
For Immediate Release
June 26, 2013
CONTACT: Charlie Burr, (971) 673-0788, Bureau of Labor and Industries

Avakian on DOMA ruling: Oregon controls its own destiny

PORTLAND-Oregon Labor and Industries Commissioner Brad Avakian today praised the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling on the Defense of Marriage Act and the opportunity it presents for Oregonians:



"Earlier this morning, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned DOMA, affirming that all caring, committed couples who marry deserve equal treatment under law. Our country is changing - and the decision today represents an important step in that larger journey of understanding. Oregonians are fundamentally fair; we treat others as we want to be treated ourselves. And with today's ruling, it's clear that as a state, we control our own destiny and now have the chance to have our laws match our highest ideals. That unfinished business is strengthened by conversations taking place in living rooms and coffee shops around the state as more Oregonians open their hearts to civil marriage for all loving, same-sex couples."

As labor commissioner, Brad Avakian works to ensure that all Oregonians are treated fairly, including enforcement of the landmark 2007 Oregon Equality Act, a law to protect the rights of gays, lesbians, bisexual and transgender Oregonians in employment, housing and public places. As a legislator, Avakian championed the legislation and carried it on the Senate floor.

BOLI protects all Oregonians from unlawful discrimination, investigating allegations of civil rights violations in workplaces, career schools, housing and public accommodations, and enforces compliance with state laws relating to wages, hours, and terms and conditions of employment.

Earlier this year, Commissioner Avakian worked to successfully secure burial rights for the Nancy Lynchild, the spouse of Lt. Col. Linda Campbell. The couple were the first same sex couple to receive such a burial waiver from the US Department of Veterans Affairs.


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Charlie Burr
Communications Director
Bureau of Labor and Industries
800 NE Oregon St., Ste. 1045
Portland, OR 97232-2180
(971) 673-0788 wk.
(503) 913-5407 cell.

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