Proud of my Governor
On Saturday, we sent this email from Charlene Strong to our email list. On Wednesday, Governor Gregoire announced legislation that will bring marriage equality to our state.
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Dear Friend,
Today more than ever, I am proud to call Christine Gregoire my Governor.
Wednesday morning, Governor Gregoire announced legislation that, when passed, will make Washington one of only a handful of states to recognize the right of same-sex couples to marry.
As the Governor stated: "It is time, it's the right thing to do."
Now is the time to embrace equality in Washington state. Whether you are straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, it is time to stand as one people and one state for equal rights for all families.
This fight is about treating all families with the dignity their love and commitment deserves.
In 2006, I lost my partner of 9 years, Kate, to a tragic accident. During her final moments in the hospital, I had to receive permission from an out of state relative to be at her side, despite sharing our lives together for almost a decade.
No one should be subject to the pain that I faced.
The voices of intolerance and bigotry are as loud today in some places as they were in the 1960s, but the Governor and I both know that the people of Washington are on our side in this battle.
But make no mistake this will be a fight.
The voices of intolerance are well organized and vocal in both our state and this nation, and they will do everything they can to prevent marriage equality for all citizen of Washington. That is why we need each person who supports the Governor’s view of civil rights for all to stand with us now.
We should all be proud of Governor Gregoire for taking a bold step towards equal rights for all citizens and families.
But now it is on us. Will you stand with us? Can we count you on the side of equality today?
Sincerely,
Charlene Strong