Today, Betsy Gotbaum joined Councilmember
Bill de Blasio on the steps of City Hall to call on the
Obama administration to recognize same-sex couples in the 2010 Census and include LGBT Americans in other federal surveys. Read More here [pdf].
Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum, long-time supporter of LGBT rights, said, "I am extremely disappointed that the 2010 Census will not ask about sexual orientation or recognize gay marriages—or any type of same-sex relationship, for that matter. A spokesperson for the Census Bureau explained that being gay is a “lifestyle” choice and does not belong in the Census. This is disturbing and wrong.
For years, I have been a strong, vocal supporter of marriage rights for same-sex couples. An accurate estimate of how many people are living in same-sex relationships will strengthen the case for marriage equality.
Without marriage equality for all, same-sex couples are denied many of the rights of married couples—such as, a right to decision-making for a partner, custody and visitation rights, access to insurance, and inheritance protections.
And, as I argued earlier this year, New York City will receive a huge boost in revenue if marriage rights and benefits are extended to same-sex couples. A study conducted by the Comptroller’s office found that marriage equality would bring $142 million into the City in the three years following its legalization.
I strongly support passage of this resolution calling for the federal government to recognize legally married same-sex couples in the 2010 Census; and to count lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans in other surveys.
It is long past time for the federal government to acknowledge the LGBT community in its Census.
Let’s fight for a change in this senseless Census policy."
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