Rep. Keenan Reacts to Constitutional Convention Outcome

BOSTON, MA – Representative John Keenan (D-Salem) reacted after today’s Constitutional Convention, in which he voted against an amendment to take away the right to marry from gay couples.  The amendment passed the 50-vote threshold it required, by a final vote of 62-134.

“Our job now must be to win on the merits and convince thirteen of our colleagues that such a discriminatory provision should not be included in our Constitution,” said Representative Keenan, “More importantly, we must show them that such matters of civil rights should not be put out to popular vote.  I am confident we can still win in the next session and the victory will be even more meaningful if done on up or down votes on the merits.”

“The question of marriage equality may well be the defining civil rights issue of our generation,” Representative Keenan stated, “Decades from now, our history books will record the story of how Massachusetts stood as a pillar of justice, compassion, and equality.  The foundation of our legal system is equal protection of the laws.  There is no question in my mind that marriage equality is a civil right that should be enjoyed by all our citizens.”