WASHINGTON, DC - Following the New York State legislatures' historic passage of marriage equality last night, Mary Kay Henry, International President of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) issued the following statement:

Last night's vote was not just a victory for gay and lesbian New Yorkers, but a victory for anyone who counts equality among the basic tenets of a free and just America. The New York State senators who voted to legalize same-sex marriage remind us that we cannot live up to our promise as a nation until we extend equal rights to all. And they remind us that as Americans, the continued dream of equality is our birthright, our heritage and our promise.

"While last night's vote marks a bold moment in history, our work has only just begun. Across this country, right-wing Republican politicians are seeking to divide us with attacks on immigrants, the middle class, female health, the environment and the LGBT community - but last night's bipartisan vote for marriage equality is the latest reminder that it doesn't have to be this way. We are called to meet this moment with the same courage as the New York State legislature and with commitment to work across party lines.

"In New York State may we find inspiration to fight harder and to dream bigger - all with the knowledge that equality is possible when we stand up and speak out.

"I want to acknowledge the incredible work of our brothers and sisters at 1199SEIU, SEIU Local 32BJ, Workers United and the New York State Public Employees Federation who dedicated countless hours leading the fight for marriage equality in New York. Their leadership speaks to the deep-seated commitment of SEIU members across this country to achieving equality for all LGBT people. From the union's endorsement of same-sex marriage in 2004 to winning contracts that extend healthcare coverage to same-sex partners and winning parity for domestic partners in family leave policies - the rights of LGBT people are at the core of SEIU's work."

With 2.2 million members in Canada, the United States and Puerto Rico, SEIU is the fastest-growing union in the Americas. Focused on uniting workers in healthcare, public services and property services, SEIU members are winning better wages, healthcare and more secure jobs for our communities, while uniting their strength with their counterparts around the world to help ensure that workers--not just corporations and CEOs--benefit from today's global economy.

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