Gay marriage is currently not legal in the state of Virginia. Richard Bolger, who is a democratic candidate for congress for the 10th congressional district in Virginia, is hoping to change that.
Richard believes that same-sex marriage is a constitutional issue where everyone should have equal rights.
“The courts are finally coming down in part because democrats nationwide are behind it,” says Bolger.
Bolger has been a practicing lawyer for 30 years, and has handled cases involving LGBT rights, including a custody case for a gay man, and helping a lesbian couple buy a house, set up wills, and navigate health care issues.
He has four children, and one of his sons happens to be gay. “All four of my kids were raised in the same environment, and yet they are all very different people. Sexual orientation is not a choice, and being gay is part of my son’s very being and how he is. As a parent, I love all of my kids unconditionally,” states Bolger. “My son won’t live in the state of Virginia because of laws that don’t grant people equal rights. For example, in Virginia, someone can get fired based on sexual orientation. Also, taxation laws don’t apply to same sex couples.”
The state of Virginia has not been at the cutting edge of social issues. But the demographics are changing and people are adapting as they understand more. Bolger believes that five years from now, same-sex marriage will no longer be an issue.
“Politics is a participatory process. It gives us the ability to organize and petition. Discrimination violates the constitution. The federal government has to provide leadership to protect people’s rights under the United States’ constitution. Providing leadership and support in this regard is the reason why I am running for congress,” concludes Bolger.
