Washington - The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, today released a video of one of the first same-sex couples to legally marry in the District in honor of the anniversary of marriage equality in DC. On March 3, 2010, couples were able to apply for licenses and after a waiting period, legal marriages began on March 9, 2010.

In the video, Revs. Darlene Garner and Candy Holmes are shown talking about the difference that marriage equality has made in their lives and in the community, followed by a plea to the President to support equal marriage as well. The video is available at www.hrc.org/marriageDC.

"From the very first second after we were pronounced legally married, we felt different," says Garner in the testimonial. "There was an element of something deeper - an even more profound depth of commitment at that moment."

"We show the faces, we show the families, we show the children," adds Holmes. "You can't but help to know that there is a reason and a purpose for legislating freedom and liberation."

"The first year of marriage for all District residents has resulted in stronger families and stronger communities," said HRC President Joe Solmonese. "We send our congratulations to all of the loving couples now equally recognized under the law and thank them for their powerful example of what equality looks like."

On the issue of marriage equality, President Obama has said he's "evolving." Supporters of equal marriage can add their name to the petition calling on the President to speak out for equal marriage.

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.