Cindy McCain Stands Up for Gay Marriage

For those of you who might have missed it, Cindy McCain -- wife of 2008 Presidential candidate John McCain -- has publicly decided to stand with supporters of marriage equality in a new ad campaign.

As this NPR post details, McCain was photographed for the NOH8 Campaign, with NOH8 painted on her cheek to show her solidarity with the marriage equality advocates, and with tape over her mouth, illustrating that supporters of marriage equality aren't being adequately heard -- as well as the silencing effect that withholding marriage rights has on LGBT individuals and families throughout the United States.

While a poll on the NPR site registered disappointment with McCain for not coming forward with her views during her husband's campaign, the fact that she's willing to step forward now is a positive for marriage equality supporters -- most certainly a case of better late than never. It's further indication that marriage equality support doesn't have to be a position held by a single party -- Republicans and Democrats should be able to come together to support a position that strengthens families and moves us closer to an America that treats all its citizens equally.

It's also worth noting that Meghan McCain, daughter of John and Cindy (who has emerged from the '08 election as a respected blogger and political commentator), has been a visible supporter of the NOH8 campaign. Certainly, mother joining daughter in this campaign came as a surprise to many -- but it's a welcome surprise, and we applaud her for making her support known.