This week, the DC City Council passed ground-breaking legislation legalizing same-sex marriage in the District.  JUFJ applauds this measure.  To read our full statement, go here.

"We are so pleased that love won out yesterday," said Rabbi Elizabeth Richman, JUFJ's Program Director and Rabbi in Residence.  "Winning marriage equality is an important step toward a more fair and just city, and an affirmation of the fact that we are all equal, both in the eyes of God and under the law.  As Jews, our sacred texts teach that all human beings are created b'tzelem elohim (in the image of God) and must therefore be treated as equals, deserving of dignity. "

Rabbi Elizabeth Richman is part of DC Clergy United for Marriage Equality, a coalition of more than 200 DC area clergy members who advocate equality for people of all sexual orientations as an important part of their faith.

Mayor Adrian Fenty has indicated that he will sign the bill.  The bill will then undergo a 30-day legislative review process by the US Congress. 

"We hope that the US Congress will respect the right of DC residents to govern themselves, and allow marriage equality to be implemented and fully funded in DC," said Rabbi Richman.  "To do otherwise would not only be giving in to hate and fear, but would be profoundly undemocratic."