Here in Pittsburgh, we do not yet know if our mayor, Luke Ravenstahl will sign on or not. But below, is what Philadelphia’s mayor had to say:

“We respect everyone’s right and everyone’s wish, certainly in the birthplace of freedom, liberty and democracy, the city of Philadelphia, and the commonwealth of Pennsylvania should do the same,” Nutter said. “I encourage our members of Congress to support this great effort. It’s the right thing to do. It’s the American thing to do.”

Gloria Casarez, the city’s director of LGBT affairs, said Nutter’s backing is integral, considering his leadership as vice president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

The statement that the mayors have been asked to sign on to states:

“We stand for the freedom to marry because it enhances the economic competitiveness of our communities, improves the lives of families that call our cities home and is simply the right thing to do,” the statement reads. “We look forward to working to build an America where all people can share in the love and commitment of marriage with the person with whom they share their life.”

In addition to my posting an open letter to Mayor Luke, here on my blog, I have written to him directly requesting a meeting. I eagerly await a reply, however, the mayor has never accepted a request to meet from me in the past, so I am not sure what will happen.

I especially appreciate the focus of this statement on the economic impact of Equality. Civil Marriage is a Civil Right. Equality.

via PGN-The Philadelphia Gay News. Phila gay news. philly news – Nutter joins marriage equality mayors.