Student Association at Binghamton, NY endorses same-sex marriage

In the New York legislature, an ongoing fight has emerged on legislation proposed by Governor David Paterson to legalize same-sex marriage. While the Assembly is likely to pass the bill, the state senate is struggling to find the votes to pass it.

Last night, the Student Association at Binghamton University in upstate New York, unanimously passed a policy statement supporting same-sex marriage on behalf of its student body. I was proud to be a sponsor of the policy statement and a special thanks to Phil Calderon for authoring the legislation.

The policy statement is below:

Whereas the University prides itself on having a very diverse culture and atmosphere for its students;

Whereas all of the different departments on campus of Binghamton University also strive to endure they are meeting the needs of diverse lifestyles;

Whereas Binghamton University is recognized as a leader amongst SUNY schools due to its academics and diverse student body;

Whereas the city of Binghamton, along with the mayor, unanimously showed their support of the same-sex marriage bill which was reintroduced by Governor Paterson,

Therefore be it resolved:
1. That the Student Assembly join the Binghamton City Council in supporting the same sex marriage legislation
2. That the Student Assembly join the mayor of Binghamton in supporting same-sex marriage legislation
3. That the Student Assembly here at Binghamton University position the university as a leader in this very important social issue.
4. That this Assembly show its support of the lifestyles that are within its own members and constituents and support same-sex legislation which was reintroduced by Governor Paterson to the state assembly and senate.

Dan Levin is the President-Emeritus of the College Democrats of New York