WASHINGTON - Today, Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) announced his support for marriage equality for lesbian and gay couples and repeal of the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese released the following statement:

"The Human Rights Campaign commends Sen. Schumer for supporting marriage equality for committed lesbian and gay couples. With Sen. Schumer joining at least nine other U.S. Senators in support of marriage equality, he adds critical momentum to the fight. Momentum is also building for repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). As someone who voted for DOMA in 1996, Sen. Schumer sends a strong signal to other DOMA supporters that it is time to reevaluate and push for equal treatment of married couples."

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.