Catholic Church Gives Washington DC an Ultimatum
The Catholic Archdiocese of Washington DC has threatened to stop providing all social services unless the DC City Council drops plans for a gay marriage bill.
Under the bill, headed for a council vote next month, religious organizations would not be required to perform or make space available for same-sex weddings. But they would have to obey city laws prohibiting discrimination against gay men and lesbians. Church officials say Catholic Charities would have to suspend its social services work for the city, rather than provide employee benefits to same-sex married couples or allow them to adopt.
Jim Graham (D-Ward 1), one of two openly gay members of the council, said Thursday morning that he hoped to reach a compromise with the Church. He noted that it is a major provider of services for immigrants in his ward.
Late Thursday, however, Graham said he had changed his mind after reviewing same-sex marriage laws in New Hampshire, Connecticut and Vermont. He asked why the Church has not abandoned services in those states.
“If the Catholic Church has been able to adjust in Connecticut, I think they can certainly adjust here,” Graham said.
Frank says: