New York Sen. Chuck Schumer came out in favor of full marriage equality for same-sex couples at a private dinner with gay and lesbian leaders and elected officials at Gramercy Tavern Sunday. The state's senior senator also said he backs a full reversal of he Defense of Marriage Act, the NY Daily News reported.

Schumer, who formerly backed civil unions but not full marriage, reversed his opinion in a statement:

"It's time. Equality is something that has always been a hallmark of America and no group should be deprived of it. New York, which has always been at the forefront on issues of equality, is appropriately poised to take a lead on this issue."

Empire State Pride Agenda Executive Director Alan Van Capelle and philanthropist Jeff Soref, who was board president for the Gay Men's Health Crisis from 1991 - 2004, and a past ESPA co-chair, organized the dinner.

"I want to thank Sen. Schumer for his support of marriage equality and repeal of the so-called Defense of Marriage Act," said Van Capelle.

Van Capelle added, "Like a majority of New Yorkers, Sen. Schumer recognizes that only marriage equality provides same sex couples the status, protections and rights afforded to all other Americans. We look forward to working with him to win marriage equality in New York State and around the country."