Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed today stated his support for marriage equality for same-sex couples, capping off a controversy that has dogged him since his 2009 mayoral race.
Reed made the announcement via a lengthy press release about his decision to sign a marriage equality resolution passed Dec. 3 by the Atlanta City Council. The resolution, approved by the council by a vote of 11-2, was sponsored by Council member Alex Wan, who is openly gay.
“Today marks an important day as I announce my support for marriage equality,” Reed said in the press release. “It is well known that I have gone through a good bit of reflection on this issue, but listening to the stories of so many people that I know and care about has strengthened my belief that marriage is a fundamental right for everyone. Loving couples, regardless of their sexual orientation, should have the right to marry whomever they want.