Dec. 18, 2009, 3:30 p.m. - D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty, joined by members of the District of Columbia City Council and residents, signed into law historic legislation granting all residents the legal rights and privileges of marriage. 

“Marriage inequality is a civil rights, political, social, moral, and religious issue in this country and many nations,” said Fenty.  “And as I sign this act into law, the District from this day forward will set the tone for other jurisdictions to follow in creating an open and inclusive city.” 

The measure now goes to Congress for a 30-day review period. Congress is not expected to interfere with the new law.

The Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Equality Amendment Act of 2009, introduced last month, confirms that marriage between two people in the District will not be denied on the basis of gender. 

The signing ceremony took place at All Souls Church in Northwest Washington.