Delegate Patrick Hope, running for Congress in Virginia’s 8th Congressional District, released the following statement after a federal judge ruled the Commonwealth’s ban on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional.
“Today is a great day to be a Virginian. For far too long our LGBT brothers and sisters have been treated like second-class citizens. There’s no place in a civilized society for discrimination of any kind, and as a member of Congress I will work towards nationwide marriage equality and push for sanctions on countries with poor human rights records.”
“While marriage equality is certainly a moral and civil rights issue, it’s also an economic issue. State-sanctioned discrimination causes many businesses and talented workers to choose homes in other states. While the appeals process is ongoing, I hope to soon see the day in Virginia where the only requirement for marriage is love.”
“On this particularly special day, Kristen and I wish couples all across Virginia a very happy Valentine’s Day. We are proud that we can now say that Virginia is for ALL Lovers.”
Delegate Patrick Hope was first elected to the General Assembly in 2009, and represents parts of Arlington County in the House of Delegates. Before being elected Hope served as chair of the Arlington Community Services Board. Hope also works as a healthcare attorney, aiming to increase access and affordability of healthcare. Patrick, his wife Kristen, and their three daughters live in the Buckingham neighborhood of Arlington County.
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Media Contact:
Jarrod A. Nagurka
jarrod.a.nagurka@gmail.com
703.473.5097
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