Number of gay couples who adopt tripled over last decade

I found this article fascinating. With so many more gay couples adopting kids from failed straight marriages, Congress really needs to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act NOW.  These kids deserve to have their gay parents recognized. Gay couples that adopt are saving the lives of these children and giving them loving homes that they never had. It's time for Congress to recognize that and allow federal protections to all married couples.

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A four-year study cites an easing of restrictions by some states, including rules that allow adoptions from foster care.

Associated Press

October 21, 2011

The number of gays and lesbians adopting children has nearly tripled in the last decade despite discriminatory rules in many states, according to an analysis of recent population trends.

"It's a stratospheric increase. It's like going from zero to 60," said Miami attorney Elizabeth Schwartz, who has coordinated more than 100 adoptions for gay and lesbian families in the last year. "I think many really dreamed of doing this but it wasn't something they ever thought would become a reality."

About 21,740 same-sex couples had adopted children in 2009, up from 6,477 in 2000, according to the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law. About 32,571 adopted children were living with same-sex couples in 2009, up from 8,310 in 2000. The figures are an analysis of newly released Census Bureau estimates.
FULL STORY: http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-gay-adoption-20111021,0,4860124.story