May 2, 2011 | Sex & Society

New York business leaders want gay marriage

Some of New York's top executives have joined the fight for gay rights, signing a letter asking state politicians to legalize same-sex marriage. From the head of Goldman Sachs to the CEO of Thompson Reuters, the leaders of industry say that same-sex marriage is not only fair, but also makes good business sense.  

"As New Yorkers and business leaders, we believe that attracting talent is key to our state's economic future," the letter reads. "We strongly urge New York State to enact marriage equality legislation to help maintain our competitive advantage in attracting the best and brightest people the world has to offer.

"Increasingly, in an age where talent determines the economic winners, great states and cities must demonstrate a commitment to creating an open, healthy and equitable environment in which to work and live," it continues.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo is already on board. "Same-sex couples deserve the right to join in civil marriage, and it is simply unfair to deny them the freedom to make this decision for themselves and their families," he said in March.

In 2009 a bill to legalize gay marriage was stopped by the state Senate. But when money talks, politicians often listen.

Business moguls pen letter endorsing same sex marriage [CNN]