SGN February 10, 2012 - Section 1

Issue 06 Volume 40

Celebrating 39 Years!

FRIDAY February 10, 2012 FREE! 25¢ in bookstores & news stands

BRANDON WHITE p. 8

COURT CANDIDATES p. 9

DIVA jim james p. 31

Seattle Gay News SEATTLE’S LGBT NEWS & ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY

Prop 8 unconstitutional, WA House Reps. vote YES, 9th Circuit confirms

The 9th Circuit panel was unanimous in finding that Walker did not need to recuse himself from the case because he is Gay and in a same-sex relationship. They also ruled unanimously that Prop 8 supporters had standing to appeal Walker’s decision.

On the main issue – whether Prop 8 did, in fact, violate the rights of same-sex couples – the panel split 2-1.

Judges Stephen Reinhardt, a Carter appointee, and Michael see prop 8 page 17

see house page 20

JCPenney ignores bigots, sticks by Ellen DeGeneres AP Photo | MICHAEL BECKER

Ellen DeGeneres

AP Photo/Elaine Thompson

reuters

Prop 8 – the California ballot measure that took away equal marriage rights for same-sex couples – is unconstitutional, a three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit Court decided on February 7.

The ruling in Perry v. Brown confirms the decision of U.S. District Court Judge Vaughn Walker.

In August 2010, Walker found that Prop 8 violated the due process and equal protection clauses of the U.S. Constitution.

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor With the nation looking on, the state House of Representatives – after two hours of respectful and intense debate – voted 55 to 43 on February 8 to make Washington the seventh state to legalize marriage equality.

“This is truly a historic day in Washington state, and one where I couldn’t be more proud,” Gregoire said in a statement following the vote. “With today’s vote, we tell the nation that Washington state will no longer deny our citizens the opportunity to marry the person they love.”

Gregoire is scheduled to sign the bill into law Monday morning at 11:30 a.m. at a ceremony in Olympia. The law would then take effect 90 days after the session ends next month, but opponents have promised to take their fight to the ballot box and put the issue up for popular vote in a November election. In order to do that, marriage

Same-sex marriage supporters celebrate the 9th Circuit Court’s ruling.

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

Gov. signing Bill on Monday

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor Ellen DeGeneres, who was recently signed on to be a spokesperson for JCPenney, recently came under attack from conservatives asking for people to boycott the retail company until they fired DeGeneres from the position.

Not one to have sand thrown in her face, DeGeneres spoke out to her haters on The Ellen DeGeneres Show regarding their call for people to boycott the store because she is a Lesbian. She thanked her fans and supporters and announced that JCPenney officials were not about to cave to right-wing pressure and fire an LGBT person simply because of their sexual orientation.

“We share the same fundamental values as Ellen,” noted the company’s president, Michael Francis.

“At JCPenney, we couldn’t think of a better partner to help us put the fun back into the retail experience.”

The anti-Gay group OneMillionMoms.com – a project of the American Family Association – launched a campaign demanding that the retailer fire Ellen simply

Governor Chris Gregoire (l) is embraced by Representative Jamie Pedersen after the House voted to legalize Gay marriage in Washington state.

GSBA responds to big business endorsements of marriage equality

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor

Marriage equality got a major endorsement by some power players in recent weeks.

No, we’re not talking about Lady Gaga or other Hollywood stars. We’re talking about the stars of big business, the superstars at Nike, Microsoft, and Amazon, to name a few. While endorsements from individuals – famous or unknown – are needed, never before has the LGBT community received such support from corporate America. While the long-term impact remains to be seen, the initial reaction from the general public is promising. With each passsee ellen page 20 ing week, our movement toward

proud to Be Different

We are conveniently located on-site at Lifelong AIDS Alliance below the Thrift Store.

marriage equality – in Washington state and around the nation – receives one important endorsement after another. It would seem that big business got the memo: marriage equality is coming.

Louise Chernin, executive director of the Greater Seattle Business Association (GSBA), the LGBT and allied business and professional chamber of commerce, knows all too well the importance of business owners endorsing political and social issues in favor of the LGBT community. Chernin and her team work with thousands of business owners and professionals – both LGBT and heterosexual – see business page 20

Call us at 206.568.2486

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Classifieds - Thursday at noon Calendar - Tuesday 6pm Display Ads: Space Reservation - Monday 5pm Ad copy (non-camera ready) - Tues. 5pm Ad copy (camera ready) - Wed. 5pm Letters to the Editor - Tuesday 5pm Obituaries - Call the SGN office All others - Tuesday 5pm

Editor In Chief George Bakan Associate Editor Shaun Knittel

CNN analyst suspended for homophobic tweets file photo

Editorial Assistant Nick Ardizzone Production William Creswell Calender Editors Mike Andrew and Rick McKinnon Travel Editor George Bakan Advertising Manager Marty Weisbrod Advertising Department Maggie Bloodstone Executive Assistant Mike Andrew Staff Writers George Bakan, Albert S. Rodriguez, Nick Ardizzone, Shaun Knittel, Miryam Gordon, Anthony Greer Contributing Writers

Rev. Barbara Allen, Mike Andrew, Eric Andrews-Katz, Madelyn Arnold, Maggie Bloodstone, Beau Burriola, Jessica Davis, Ron Anders, Jessica Price, Milton W. Hamlin, Scott Wittet, Nevin Jefferson, Jason A. Miller, Liz Meyer, Rod Parke, Don Paulson, Scott Rice, Leslie Robinson, Richard Kennedy, Rex Wockner

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Nick Ardizzone, Nate Gowdy, Joseph P. Herron, Shaun Knittel National Advertising Rep. Rivendell Media (212) 242-6863 Website Designer Barry Thorsness/Digital Team Works Seattle Gay News is published weekly by Frogs and Ink, Inc. © 2012, Frogs and Ink, Inc., all rights reserved. Reprints by permission.

Publication of names, photographs or likenesses of any person, organization, event or business in this publication cannot be taken as any indication of the sexual orientation of the person, organization, event or business.

Opinions expressed in bylined articles, columns, and letters are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the staff or management of this paper.

Seattle Gay News welcomes unsolicited material, including letters to the editor, but reserves the right to edit or reject material. All rights revert to authors upon publication.

We assume no liability for loss or damage of materials, solicited or not. We invite feedback, please write.

And please play safe.

It is our policy that no money shall be refunded if you choose to cancel your subscription or ad. However, credit towards any size ad will be given for the balance owed. No exceptions.

Roland Martin

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor When will entertainers, politicians, and news personalities realize that Twitter and Facebook can land you in hot water just minutes after typing or tweeting an anti-Gay remark?

CNN’s Roland Martin is the latest commentator to fall victim to the curse of social media blathering. The political pundit has been suspended by CNN after he sent several messages on Twitter which seemed to support violence against people perceived to be Gay. While sending out tweets (text messages sent out on the popular social media tool known as Twitter) on Super Bowl Sunday,

In Loving Memory Of

Steve Foiles, Scott Roger Alpert, Cookie Andrews-Hunt, James Leland Moore, Randy Peters, Lee Richeson, Shaun Shelton, Jim Tully, James Arnold

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February 10, 2012

Martin wrote that a man wearing pink should be visited by “teamwhipdatass,” then told his followers, “If a dude at your Super Bowl party is hyped about David Beckham’s H&M underwear ad, smack the ish out of him!”

Naturally, the Gay media watchdog group, GLAAD – whose slogan is “Words and Images Matter” – called for CNN to immediately take action. The cable news giant responded by suspending Martin on February 8.

“Roland Martin’s tweets were regrettable and offensive,” said CNN officials in a statement to GLAAD. “Language that demeans is inconsistent with the values and culture of our organization, and is not tolerated.

We have been giving careful consideration to this matter, and Roland will not be appearing on our air for the time being.”

The National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs has found that violence against LGBT people was up 23% last year. Seventy percent of the victims murdered were people of color, and 44% were Transgender women.

Roland Martin and CNN have both now made statements telling their audiences that there is never a reason to advocate violence against people who are (or are perceived to be) Gay, no matter what the intent.

“CNN today took a strong stand against anti-LGBT violence and language that demeans any community,” said GLAAD spokesperson Rich Ferraro. “Yesterday, Martin also spoke out against anti-LGBT violence. We look forward to hearing from CNN and Roland Martin to discuss how we can work together as allies and achieve our common goal of reducing anti-LGBT violence as well as the language that contributes to it.”

Since the controversy began, however, some have insulted Martin’s personal character and the fact that he is a black American when discussing this issue. GLAAD strongly condemns these attacks. “There is no excuse for race-based attacks or hate speech,” said officials.

Bloggers, advocates, and thousands of supporters joined GLAAD in calling for the

network to take action and stand up against statements of violence towards people perceived to be LGBT. “Even if he meant it in a jovial manner, Roland Martin’s words carry a real impact on the everyday lives of black LGBT people, especially our youth,” said Sharon LettmanHicks, executive director of the National Black Justice Coalition, the nation’s largest black LGBT civil rights organization. “Given the number of rash murders, attacks, and violent acts involving LGBT people of color, we cannot let statements such as this go unchecked. Silence is a form of acceptance and only perpetuates the problem.”

But not everyone is pleased with GLAAD’s call for justice. Many expressed their sentiment that GLAAD officials are stirring up a hornets’ nest over a non-issue.

Some have wondered whether Martin’s comments were really all that bad.

“I think it is sad that this organization has decided to essentially turn into a bully,” wrote user tjam04999 on GLAAD’s website (www.glaad.org) on February 8. “A bully is a person that punishes people for not believing in what they believe in or not doing what they want them to do. I have looked at Roland’s tweet and couldn’t help but think this is ridiculous. This is the same argument that was used against rappers. Since a rapper raps ‘kill him if he steps on your shoes’ if a person does it then it is the rapper’s fault.

Freedom of speech is something that makes America different from other countries.”

In a post entitled “Ridiculous,” commenter skynana10 wrote, “Since when did pink suits and an underwear commercial become a Gay slur? Metrosexuals should call for the firing squad against him. GLAAD, you are so wrong and beginning to resemble everything your founders fought against. Was it a stupid statement? Yes. Was it an anti-Gay slur? No. I am not impressed.”

Still, GLAAD officials remain steadfast in their conviction that words do hurt and can have a negative impact – sometimes resulting in violence.

“Just one day after Martin made his comments, a video of a black Gay man in Atlanta being brutally beaten went viral. The 30-second (very graphic) clip shows a group of men kicking and punching the unsuspecting young man outside a convenience store, while repeatedly using anti-Gay slurs,” said GLAAD officials. “This is what it looks like when someone gets their ‘*ss whipped’ or has the ‘ish smacked out of them’ just because they’re perceived to be Gay.” GLAAD officials report that they have “reached out to both CNN and Roland Martin” and have “offered to meet with both parties to discuss ways we could work together to increase awareness and further the dialogue about violence against the LGBT community.”

Celebrating 39 Years!

Sen. Patty Murray defends reproductive healthcare

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

Washington Senator Patty Murray strongly defended women’s access to contraception under President Obama’s Affordable Care Act at a press conference February 8.

“This is a fight to protect the rights of the millions of Americans who do use contraceptives – who believe that family planning is the right choice for them – and who don’t deserve to have an extreme minority’s ideology prevent them from getting the coverage they deserve,” Murray said.

She appeared with Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D- N.Y.) to counter charges by Republicans that the president’s health care reform violated the rights of religious institutions by requiring all employers to offer a full range of health care options – including contraception – to their employees.

Roman Catholic hospitals and charities have claimed that offering insurance policies that cover contraception would violate their religious principles.

Murray, on the other hand, said that the is-

BILL WON’T PROTECT ALL PARTNERS I am excited that the bill will be voted on tomorrow. I do have one concern about the bill. The bill will recognize a foreign domestic partnership (say from Idaho – one can dream can’t they?) only for a year after a couple become residents of Washington state. People in domestic partnerships moving to Washington may believe that they are fully protected when they move here and they will not take the step of getting married here in Washington. This oversight on their part may be very costly to an individual who’s partner dies in Washington state, say 15 months after moving to the state. What happens in that situation if the couple did not execute wills and the family of the deceased are hostile to same sex relationships?

Doesn’t this expose the surviving partner to the possibility of not inheriting the other partner’s property. We know that many, many people do not have a will and rely on the protections provided by marriage and/or domestic partnership.

For Washington domestic partners who do not dissolve their partnership or get married, the law, under the marriage bill, will deem them married after a short implementation period. Why can’t this protection be extended to couples coming from out of the state to live here? Couples who marry outside Washington state do not need to marry again when they move here, why should couples who created a legal relationship that approached marriage (but was not called that in their home jurisdiction for whatever reason) be denied the protection of our laws? I would hope that the legislature would correct this, either in this bill, or in subsequent legislation next year.

David Anderson FEELINGS ABOUT GAY MARRIAGE I have been thinking a lot about the Gay

sue was women’s right to access all health care options, including contraception.

“You know – with the combined years of experience of all those on stage here today,” Murray said, “I can tell you that we have seen a lot of political attacks on women’s rights.

“Each time those attacks come – each time those on the other side attempt to exploit women’s rights for their own political gain – we hear the same excuses. Every time we hear that it’s not really an attack on women’s health care – it’s always about something else.

“Well, we have news for the Republicans – this is about contraception. And if they think it isn’t, we’d love to hear them tell the women whose access to contraception is on the line that it’s not.”

Noting that “the vast majority of Catholics utilize contraception services,” Murray told the stories of two women, employees at Catholic hospitals, who may lose contracepSenator Patty Murray smiles as she speaks during a news conference at tion coverage if the president’s plan is sucPlanned Parenthood, a not-for-profit family planning agency, on February 3 in Seattle. cessfully challenged.

She also accused Republicans of “making requires insurers that cover prescription fordable Care Act, churches are exempt, drugs to also provide coverage for any but church-owned or operated hospitals, political hay” out of the issue.

Like 25 other states, Washington already FDA-approved contraceptive. As in the Af- schools, or charities are not.

advantage somehow. I am not a politician or an activist but I do want to marry the person that I love in the near future.

In conclusion, I fully support the Gay marriage bill and I intend to vote for it this fall. I moved to this area to live a more fulfilling live as a Gay man and it is my hope marriage bill and how the religious right is that I will be able to soon without fear of going to fight it. I have been doing some retribution. looking at how organized religion views we the GLBT minority as individuals and I Eric Hall am stunned to learn that the hate that the far right has was written in the one book that MARRIAGE VS. they profess to believe in. They want to hate, DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIPS they need to hate. If they don’t hate they are not good Christians. I find this aspect of reWhat was Rosa Parks’ problem? The ligion repulsive. The God that I believe in back of that bus went to the same place as does not allow the singling out of one small the front of the bus. And the water in the aspect of society to repress and hate. The “Whites Only” fountains was the same as religious right says that they love all, but I the “Colored”; it’s all H2O! And that lunfind that hypocritical when they profess to cheonette food served at the tables tasted follow the word of God and that book states the same as the food served at the counters. that the GLBT community is to be excluded Why couldn’t Rosa Parks and Gays just be from that love. The god that I know loves all satisfied they were even let on the bus! and does not discriminate against anyone.

Why….

And I challenge any person of the religious right to deny that their beliefs are based on Greg Clinkingbeard the culture of love when that love is only given when the individual in question believes the way that they do. This does not allow for the freedom of expression and the freedom of speech or the freedom to live the life that you choose; not what someone else chooses for you. I was born Gay and I am a proud member of the GLBT community and I say that we have the right to live our lives as we see fit.

Repression by the religious right is a tool used to dictate how others are to believe and is responsible for all sorts of wars throughout the millennia of human history. If we bow down to the religious right and fail to fight for our rights we will be living a lie only to satisfy others who do not know how we live and function in society. All we want is to live our lives in peace.

God wants us to live life fully as upstanding citizens who can live in peace and happiness without the fear of retribution. You will be able to find out more information on how the religious right believes by searching the internet. I found gigabytes of info on the topic. Just Google “how many organized religions are there in the world.” We, as proud citizens of the GLBT community, need to use this freely available information to our

WE NEED A STATE BANK! Washington state definitely needs a state bank like North Dakota has.

Many LGBT people are students, many are small business owners. Many are struggling like everyone else (except that 1%!) to keep themselves and their families afloat in today’s menacing economy. A state bank (in this and every state) would be a boon and a blessing.

In ND, having a state bank has proved its worth over and over again! There is absolutely no need for extended “studies” by “committees” and blah blah blah blah blah!

NOW is the time to FLOOD YOUR LEGISLATORS with every means of communication to get this project off the ground! The same ones who are for marriage equality ought to be in support of a state bank, and along with equality, there is nothing at the state level more potentially beneficial to the community….

Barbara Tomlinson

Come meet Tim and Matt and join the family.

Go 1605 12th Avenue at Pine, Seattle (In liquor store parking garage.) Seattle Storm!

206-838-6027 or 206-898-4306 Visit us online www.sgn.org

February 10, 2012

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by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer Illinois became the fourth state to have marriage equality legislation under consideration this year when three state representatives introduced a marriage bill on February 8.

The Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act, provides that “all laws of this State applicable to marriage apply equally to marriages of same-sex and differentsex couples and their children; parties to a marriage and their children, regardless of whether the marriage is of a same-sex or different-sex couple, have the same benefits, protections, and responsibilities under law.”

“I do not delude myself into thinking this will be an easy process,” Rep. Greg Harris, one of the sponsors of the bill, told Chicago’s Windy City Times in a January interview.

“But we need to take the first step.”

Harris’ sentiment was echoed by Equality Illinois CEO Bernard Cherkasov.

“We commend these leaders for taking yet another step toward full equality for Lesbian and Gay families in Illinois, and we are grateful to them for their leadership,” Cherkasov said.

“This is just the beginning. The road to marriage equality is sure to be long, but it is one that we must travel together.”

Harris was the sponsor of Illinois’ civil unions law, passed in January 2011. It pro-

leah jones

Illinois lawmakers introduce marriage equality bill vides many of the same protections afforded married couples. According to Equality Illinois, more than 3,700 Illinois couples have applied for civil union licenses over the last six months.

The Windy City Times reported in January that Harris, Deb Mell, Kelly Cassidy – the three sponsors – and other state lawmakers were in preliminary talks with pro-equality groups including Equality Illinois, Lambda Legal, and The Civil Rights Agenda (TCRA) to bring full marriage equality to Illinois as early as 2013.

“Over the past year, we confirmed what we always suspected to be true: that creating a separate institution to provide substantially the same rights did not add up to full equality under the law,” Cherkasov said in a statement.

“Separate is not equal. And we at Equality Illinois will not rest until Gay and Lesbian couples in every corner of the state – who are equal in love – are also equal in marriage.”

“We at TCRA supported the Civil Union bill as an initial step to providing rights and benefits to same-sex couples, but separate is never equal,” Anthony Martinez, executive director of The Civil Rights Agenda, agreed.

Democrats control both houses of the Illinois legislature, with a 64-54 majority in the House and a 35-24 majority in the Senate.

Most Illinois legislators are still uncommitted on the issue of marriage equality, however. courtesy the episcopal diocese of olympia

Bishop Gregory H. Rickel

Illinois State Representative Greg Harris

Episcopal bishop supports marriage equality

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer In sharp contrast to the state’s Roman Catholic bishops – who issued a pastoral letter opposing marriage equality legislation – Seattle’s Episcopal Bishop Gregory H. Rickel says he supports the measure.

In a letter released February 1, Rickel described the marriage bill as “a conservative proposal.”

“I am for it,” he wrote, “and I hope we will finally make way for this to happen, not only in our society, but also in our church.”

Rickel said in his letter that the Episcopal Church will consider an endorsement of same-sex marriage at its summer General Convention.

“It seems to me we have held our Gay and Lesbian brothers and sisters in a catch-22,” Rickel writes.

“We say they cannot live up to our values because they cannot be married, or even blessed in their union. While many of them have begged for this, it is still not possible.

“What they ask of us, the church and the government, is to put boundaries around their relationship, to hold them in the same

regard and with the same respect, which would also mean that we expect the same from them. They are not asking for special treatment. They are asking for equal treatment.”

The Episcopal Church in the United States, part of the worldwide Anglican Communion, has wrestled with inclusion of LGBT clergy and members over many years, gradually accepting Gay and Lesbian clergy and agreeing to provide church blessings for same-sex couples.

The church’s evolving position has generated serious opposition, however, particularly following the 2003 election of Gene Robinson, who is openly Gay, as the Episcopal bishop of New Hampshire.

Several parishes have since withdrawn from the Episcopal Church, and the dioceses of Pittsburgh, Fort Worth, and San Joaquin have proclaimed themselves Anglicans and severed ties with the parent church.

A few parishes, and one prominent Episcopal bishop, have joined the Catholic Church.

Episcopalians make up less than 1% of Washington residents. In contrast, Roman Catholics make up almost 12%, and Mormons another 3%. Some 31.45% of the state’s residents identify with some religious denomination.

The Episcopal bishop of Washington, D.C., Mariann Edgar Budde, has also endorsed marriage equality legislation in Maryland.

“The scriptural argument against samesex marriage is based on seven references in the Old and New Testaments that condemn homosexual activity,” she wrote.

“Each one of those passages, however, condemns exploitative sexual activity that is the antithesis of loving, committed relationships. The Bible is silent on the subject of same-gender monogamous relationships.”

Rich Full-Bodied Cafes Savory Homestyle Soups & Sandwiches 6

Seattle Gay News

February 10, 2012

Celebrating 39 Years!

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NEWS

compiled by Rick McKinnon SGN Staff Writer

VOICES RISING! – BEREND MCKENZIE PERFORMS EXCERPTS FROM NGGRFG On Friday, February 10, door at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m., at Washington Hall (153 14th Ave.), Voices Rising! presents acclaimed actor-playwright-producer Berend McKenzie performing excerpts from his award-winning one-man show Nggrfg (aka Would You Say the Name of this Play?).

Storme Webber will share new work from her experimental memoir, Noirish Lesbiana (working title), about growing up in preStonewall Queer community, time travel, rough joys and redemption. Hosted by the fabulous artist-writer-performer-activist Stephany Koch-Hazelrigg. Tickets: $10$25, sliding scale. QUEER YOUTH ADMITTED FREE. www.brownpapertickets. com/226898. For more information: 206579-4815; voicesrising@gmail.com.

WINTER PRIDE WHISTLER, BC FEBRUARY 5-12 www.gaywhistler.com 2012 NW FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW – “A FLORAL SYMPHONY” FEBRUARY 8-12 www.gardenshow.com

On Sunday, February 12, at 7 p.m., at Renton Ikea Performing Arts Center (400 S. 2nd St., Renton), join Seattle Women’s Chorus for their Friends & Family Preview Concert of “Shot Through the Heart,” a concert of contemporary and classical love songs and love songs from the Great American Songbook. Tickets: 206-388-1400.

The concert will also be performed on Saturday and Sunday, February 18 and 19, at 2 p.m., at Seattle’s Benaroya Hall (3rd Ave. & University St.) and on Sunday, February 26, at 3 p.m., at Bremerton’s Admiral Theater (515 Pacific Ave., Bremerton).

For more info: www.flyinghouse.org.

COMMUNITY CELEBRATION OF THE SIGNING OF THE MARRIAGE EQUALITY BILL On Monday, February 13. at 10:30 a.m., Governor Christine Gregoire will sign the Marriage Equality Bill at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia. Seattle Gay News and Washington United for Marriage invite you to attend the signing, which is open to the public.

Later that day, from 5-7 p.m., join Seattle Gay News and Washington United for Marriage in celebrating Marriage Equality with a toast at any of the following Seattle area establishments: R Place, Neighbours, OutWest, Poco Wine Room, Diesel, Grill on Broadway, The Lobby Bar, Purr, Wildrose, Madison Pub. At 7:30 p.m.,at Plymouth Congregational Church (6th Ave. & University St.), Seattle Gay News and Washington United for Marriage join Seattle Men’s Chorus for an all community celebration of the signing of the Marriage Equality Bill, featuring music by Seattle Men’s Chorus. FREE.

A GLBT SOCIAL AFTERNOON FOR MEMBERS OF OPEN & AFFIRMING CHURCHES On Saturday, February 11, at 2 p.m., at Trinity Parish (Episcopal) Church (609 8th Ave.), Theatre 9/12 presents a world-premiere matinee performance of A Shade of Green, by Charles Waxberg, followed by a social hour in the church library for memVOLUNTEER PARK bers of Open and Affirming Churches in CONSERVATORY HOSTS the area. For those interested, the afternoon WINE & CHOCOLATE TASTING continues with Happy Hour at Primo up the On Tuesday, February 14, from 5-7 p.m., street. For more information, call 206-384- at Volunteer Park Conservatory (14th Ave. 3411 or email formation@trinityseattle.org. E. & E. Galer St.), kick off your Valentine’s Day celebration with a delightful, delicious “CUPID’S HEAT 2” and de-lovely wine and chocolate tasting.

On Saturday, February 11, from 8 p.m.- Take a romantic stroll through the Consermidnight, at R Place (619 E. Pine St.), the vatory’s five houses: The Bromeliad House, Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, the Abbey the Palm House, the Fern House, the Cacof St. Joan, presents a Valentine’s benefit tus House, and the Seasonal Display House. for Rise n’ Shine, a community organization Tasting stations in the Conservatory will that supports children impacted by HIV/ be offering four varieties of wine carefully AIDS, with your hostess Lady Chablis. matched with chocolate. Patterned after www.risenshine.org.

London’s Crystal Palace, the conservatory was completed in 1912 and celebrates its IMPERIAL COURT OF SEATTLE – centennial anniversary this year. Tickets for VOTING DAY the tasting are $10 and can be purchased in On Sunday, February 12, from 11 a.m.-6 advance at www.brownpapertickets.com/ p.m., at the Richmark Building (12th Ave. group/277399 & E. Pine St., entrance next to the liquor store), residents 18 years of age and older in ROSEHEDGE HOUSE – King and Island Counties are encouraged to “LOVE BEYOND BOUNDARIES” cast their ballot for the Imperial Court of SeVALENTINE’S DAY BANQUET attle’s candidates for Emperor and Empress.

On Tuesday, February 14, at 6 p.m., at Valid ID required. www.imperialcourtofse- Renaissance Seattle Hotel (515 Madison attle.com St.), Rosehedge/Multifaith Works presents “Love Beyond Boundaries,” a dinner, dance IMPERIAL COURT OF SEATTLE – and silent auction benefiting the men and IN-TOWN SHOW & AWARDS women served by Rosehedge/Multifaith On Sunday, February 12, door at 6 p.m., Works. Tickets: $150. www.rosehedge.org/ show at 7 p.m., at R Place (619 E. Pine St.), lwb. join the Imperial Court of Seattle for their annual In-Town Show & Awards, an eveTACOMA LESBIAN CONCERN – ning of fine drag entertainment and a preFORT FLAGLER RETREAT lude/kick-off for Coronation Week. (For On February 15-20 (or 17-20) Tacoma complete details, see SEATTLE CORO- Lesbian Concern hosts their annual retreat at NATION 2012 listing below.) The In-Town Fort Flagler on Whidbey Island. According Show will feature Seattle-based performers to their newsletter, the event is unique: each paying tribute to the reigning monarchs and woman basically customizes the experience the reigning monarchs recognizing the con- to suit her own interests and abilities. tributions that individuals have made to the Some of the hardier, more able-bodies Court this past year. (No cover for the In- women spent a lot of time hiking the beach Town Show.) www.imperialcourtofseattle. and exploring the outdoors. Others take full com. advantage of the opportunity to curl up with a good book and read to their hearts content.

SEATTLE WOMEN’S CHORUS – Some play cards, games and do jigsaw puz“SHOT THROUGH THE HEART” zles. Others spend much of their time talkFRIENDS & FAMILY PREVIEW ing and getting to know everyone better.

CONCERT IN RENTON TLC will be reserving two buildings to provide comfy accommodations for every-

Visit us online www.sgn.org

IMPERIAL COURT OF SEATTLE – one to cook, eat, sleep and socialize. Costs SEATTLE CORONATION 2012, will be shared by those who reserve – probTHE PRESIDENT’S BALL: ably close to $25 per person plus pitching “CHANNEL 41: in some food. Some financial assistance A YEAR TO REMEMBER” is available. Day visitors are welcome.

On Saturday, February 18, door at 5 p.m., For complete information, visit www.tacoronation pageant at 6 p.m., at Seattle comalesbianconcern.org.

Renaissance Hotel (515 Madison St.), the Imperial Sovereign Court of Seattle and SEATTLE GAY & LESBIAN the Olympic and Rainier Empire presents BOOK CLUB – WE THE ANIMALS The Seattle Gay & Lesbian Book Club Seattle Coronation 2012, the President’s meets every Wednesday, at 6 p.m., at Seattle Ball “Channel 41: A Year to Remember.”

Area Support Groups Community Center Join Their Most Imperial Majesties Rainier (303 17th Ave. E. at E. Thomas St.) Febru- XXXVII Mark Surreal and Olympia XL ary’s selection is Fritz Peters’ pioneering Precious Cargo with many local and out-ofGay novel of 1951, We the Animals, by Jus- town visiting dignitaries for an evening of fine drag entertainment and pageantry paytine Forres. ing tribute to the Imperial Sovereign Court of Seattle, its reigning monarchs and title NEW GROUP FORMING: holders, past and present, visiting dignitarFOR ALL SCHOOL EMPLOYEES ies from the Olympic and Rainier Empire TO DISCUSS and beyond, culminating in the crowning of LGBTQI DIVERSITY ISSUES the Imperial Court of Seattle’s new reigning FOR ADULTS WORKING IN THE Emperor and Empress for the coming year.

K-12 SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT On Thursday, February 16, from 4-6 p.m., Tickets: $50. www.imperialcourtofseattle.com.

On Sunday, February 12, from 11 a.m.-6 at Roy Street Coffee (700 Broadway E.), a new social and discussion group for all p.m., at the Richmark Building (12th Ave. K-12 school employees will be meeting to & E. Pine St., next to the liquor store), the share coffee, tea, and resources concerning Imperial Court of Seattle holds Voting Day. LGBTQI diversity issues related to adults Residents 18 years of age and older in King working in the K-12 school environment. and Island Counties, are invited to vote for You are invited to lend your spirit and hand the Imperial Court of Seattle’s 2012 candito this venture. RSVP not required. For more dates for Emperor and Empress. Valid ID information, contact Doug at 206-329-5676 required.

On Sunday, February 12, door at 6 p.m., or Jill at jilldavidson53@gmail.com.

The group will be meeting the third Thurs- show at 7 p.m., at R Place (619 E. Pine St.), day in February, March, no meeting in April, the Imperial Court of Seattle presents the starting up again in May and June, with no In-Town Show & Awards featuring Seattle-based performers paying tribute to the meetings over the summer. reigning monarchs and the reigning monarchs recognizing the contributions that in“STAND OUT” – dividuals have made to the Court this past GSBA BUSINESS & year. (No cover for the In-Town Show.)

HUMANITARIAN AWARDS On Thursday, February 16, at 7 p.m., at BANQUET On Thursday, February 16, at 5:30 p.m., at R Place, the Court presents the Denver/ Seattle Marriott Waterfront (2100 Alaskan Salt Lake Show, featuring performers and Way), join GSBA members, with MC Gary dignitaries from Denver and Salt Lake City.

Tucker, for “StandOUT,” a gala evening (No cover for the Denver/Salt Lake Show.)

On Friday, February 17, at 7 p.m., at R in celebration of the recipients of the 2011 GSBA Business & Humanitarian Awards Place, the Court presents the Out-of-Town and their noteworthy success in business, Show, featuring performers and dignitaries outstanding philanthropy and commitment from out-of-town near and far. ($10 suggestto the LGBT community. With special guest ed donation for the Out-of-Town Show.)

On Sunday, February 19, at 10:30 a.m., at Christine Gregoire. Tickets: $140-members, $160-nonmembers, $100 students. 206-363- Seattle Renaissance Hotel, the Court presents the Seattle Coronation 2012 Victory 9188; www.thegsba.org.

Brunch, celebrating the newly crowned Rainier XXXVIII and Olympia XLI. ($25 GAY CITY HEALTH PROJECT’S for the Victory Brunch.)

PROJECT BUILD OUT On Sunday, February 19, at 3 p.m., at C.C. COMMUNITY ADVISOR Attle’s (1701 E. Olive Way), the Court presMEETINGS ents the Alaska Bird-Water Party featurFEBRUARY 16 & 17 Gay City Health Project is in the process ing visiting guests from Alaska. (No cover of creating a new home. Their vision is to for the Alaska Bird-Water Party.) create a resource hub and social destinaSEATTLE tion for the LGBT community in Seattle – a RED DRESS PARTY place to gather and connect. Part of their viOn Saturday, February 18, from 9 p.m.-2 sion is to create a home for LGBT literary and performance art on Capitol Hill. Please a.m., at Fremont Studios (155 N. 35th St.), join representatives from Seattle’s LGBT join the incomparable Gaysha Starr with arts community for an Arts Advisory Round special guest performer Deborah Cox in her Table to share your vision and dreams for Seattle debut at the Seattle Red Dress Party with DJs Brian Gorr and Almond Brown. such a space.

Community Advisory Meetings will be Proceeds from the evening will benefit Gay held on Thursday, February 16, from 6-7:30 City Health Project, Lifelong AIDS Allip.m., and Friday, February 17, from 3:30-5 ance, Multifaith Works, and Rise ‘n Shine. p.m., at 517 E. Pike St. (at Belmont Ave.). Tickets on sale now: $40-general admission Additional community meetings will be advance ($60 at the door), $100-VIP adscheduled in March. Join us! To learn more vance ($120 at the door, if available). Must about Project BuildOUT, visit www.gaycity. be 21+ and MUST wear a red dress to attend. www.seattlereddressparty.org. org/buildout.

SEATTLE WOMEN’S CHORUS – “SHOT THROUGH THE HEART” On Saturday and Sunday, February 18 and 19, at 2 p.m., at Benaroya Hall (3rd Ave. & University St.), join Seattle Women’s Chorus for “Shot Through the Heart,” a concert of contemporary and classical love songs and love songs from the Great American Songbook. Tickets: $22-$52. 206-3881400; www.flyinghouse.org.

The Seattle Women’s Chorus will also be presenting a Friends & Family Preview Concert on Sunday, February 12, at 7 p.m., at Renton Ikea Performing Arts Center (400 S. 2nd St., Renton; 206-388-1400) and an out-of-town concert on Sunday, February 26, at 3 p.m., at the Admiral Theatre (515 Pacific Ave., Bremerton; 360-373-6743).

For more info: www.flyinghouse.org.

February 10, 2012

BOOK LAUNCH – AT SECOND GLANCE On Sunday, February 19, at 2 p.m., at the University Bookstore (4326 University Way NE), join Gay City and several local authors/contributors for an afternoon of readings from Gay City’s fourth literary anthology, At Second Glance. “There are always at least two viewpoints to every story….”

FREE. www.gaycity.org.

SEATTLE RAINBOW CONTRA DANCE On Sunday, February 19, free lesson at 3 p.m., dance 3:30-6 p.m., at Dance Underground (340 15th Ave. E.), join Seattle Rainbow Contra Dance for an afternoon of live music and gender-free dancing for LGBTQ folks and friends and all who want to dance. Cost: $10 general admission.

Seattle Gay News

7

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor Brandon White, the young Gay man attacked and beaten amidst a hail of anti-Gay slurs outside a southwest Atlanta, Georgia, neighborhood last Saturday, bravely spoke out February 8 about the ordeal.

White, 20, was leaving a convenience store on February 4 when the assault occurred. His attackers kicked and punched White to the ground while yelling anti-Gay slurs, recorded the incident, and posted a video online. The unidentified men are allegedly part of a local gang called “Pittsburg Jack City,” named for the neighborhood in which they reside.

At a February 8 press conference, White said he wasn’t going to call the police after his attack, but then he learned a video of his beating was posted online and had gone viral.

“At first I was embarrassed,” he said. “But if they are willing to put it out there, I’m going to face it.”

“I feel that I was very violated. I thought that … if a straight person could walk to

courtesy gyantunplugged.com

Brandon White speaks out the store and not have a problem I should be able to do the same thing,” said White.

“I shouldn’t have to worry about whether or not I should have to look over my shoulder or if this person is going to attack me or that person is going attack me for just being a Gay male.”

Before the attack, White said he never felt unsafe in his neighborhood, but felt he should come forward now that the public was aware of this violent act.

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed has offered a $10,000 reward for anyone who provides information leading to the arrest of the alleged attackers. Atlanta City Councilmember Cleta Winslow said she would donate $1,000 toward the award.

No arrests have been made, but the FBI is working with Atlanta police to track down the three suspects seen in the video.

White said he thought the attack was Gaybashing and deserved federal hate crime charges, which are being considered.

“It’s clearly stated in the video why they did it,” he said. “I just want to see justice done.”

Marriage equality in NJ would have a big effect on couples, children

Brandon White

Danielle Austen/The New York Times

are an estimated 16,875 same-sex couples in New Jersey, of whom 4,447 identify as spouses. In addition, more than 3,300 of the same-sex couples in New Jersey are raising children – nearly 6,650 children in total. Nationally, an estimated 110,000 samesex couples are raising children, more than 200,000 in total.

Also in the statistics released this week, approximately 50,000 same-sex couples have entered into legal marriages in the United States.

Williams Institute officials found that allowing same-sex couples to marry will have positive effects on the New Jersey economy and tax revenues. Over three years, weddings by resident New Jersey couples alone will generate between $48 million and $119 million for the state economy, generating over $3 million to $8 million in new tax revenues. These estimates do not include spending by out-of-state couples.

Also, same-sex couples prefer marriage to civil unions or registered domestic partnerships, even when those non-marriage statuses extend all or almost all of the rights and obligations of marriage under state law, reports Williams Institute. An average of 30% of same-sex couples married in the first year that their state allowed them to marry,

while only 18% entered into a civil union or broad domestic partnership in the first year their states offered these statuses.

The opportunity to marry also has positive health consequences for same-sex couples: • Same-sex couples gain social support from their families and a greater level of commitment to each other when they can marry.

• Although lesser forms of legal recognition for one’s same-sex relationship had positive health effects for the Gay men studied, being legally married boosted emotional health to a greater extent than being in a legally recognized domestic partnership or civil union.

• The stress that comes from social exclusion and stigma can lead to adverse health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and suicide attempts.

The Williams Institute on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Law and Public Policy advances law and public policy through rigorous, independent research and scholarship, and disseminates its work through a variety of education programs and media to judges, legislators, lawyers, other policy makers, and the public. For more information, go to http://williamsinstitute.law. ucla.edu.

New Jersey legislature sets dates for marriage votes Gay marriage supporters outside the New Jersey Supreme Court in 2006

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor As the New Jersey legislature approaches a vote on the legalization of marriage for same-sex couples, the Williams Institute, a

8

Seattle Gay News

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

The New Jersey legislature has set the leading research institute on sexual orientation and gender identity law and policy, re- date for its vote on marriage equality.

The New Jersey Senate will vote on the leased statistics and references to illustrate measure on February 13, and the Assembly the potential impacts of the bill.

According to the 2010 Census, there will take up the bill three days later.

Both legislative chambers are controlled

by Democrats, and the bill is expected to pass. Republican Governor Chris Christie has promised to veto it, however, A similar bill was defeated two years ago when some Democrats joined Republicans to oppose it.

Senate President Stephen Sweeney abstained in 2010, helping to defeat marriage equality, but this year he is leading the drive to pass the marriage bill. He “made a mistake” to oppose it, he said, and now realizes that marriage is a civil rights issue.

Sweeney says he has the votes to pass the

February 10, 2012

bill and will try to override Christie’s veto if necessary.

New Jersey has allowed same-sex civil unions since 2007. A recent Quinnipiac University poll found New Jersey voters support same-sex marriage by a 10-point margin, 52% to 42%.

The Washington legislature has passed a marriage bill, and Governor Christine Gregoire is expected to sign it on February 15. Marriage legislation is also pending in Maryland, where Governor Martin O’Malley has made the measure the centerpiece of his legislative agenda.

LGBT rights activists in Maine hope to put a marriage initiative on the ballot this November.

In New Hampshire, Republican leaders – who control the legislature since the 2010 election – dropped plans to bring up a bill repealing their state’s same-sex marriage law.

Celebrating 39 Years!

OFFICIAL LETTER OF INTENT FOR THE POSITION OF EMPEROR 38 IMPERIAL SOVEREIGN COURT OF SEATTLE

OFFICIAL LETTER OF INTENT FOR THE POSITION OF EMPRESS OF SEATTLE OLYMPIA 41 It is my absolute honor to be able to respectfully submit my official application to run for the position of Olympia 41, Empress of Seattle!

Tonight it is my honor and pleasure to announce to the Board of Directors, College of Monarchs, and General Membership and also to the community, my desire to run for the title of Rainier 38, Emperor for the Imperial Sovereign Court of Seattle.

always able to get in contact with. To respect everyone involved and everyone I meet daily, whether in our city or traveling representing our Court and city. Everyone I engage with, I want them to know the fun that can be had within the organization and the many charities we can help raise money for. How we can make an impact on the lives we touch and the good we can bring to the city and other organizations.

There is so much out there, we just need to grab it and run with it.

My involvement with the International Court System began many years ago in the early 1980s in Everett, Washington. I sat and watched for a few years, then became fully involved by being elected as the very first King of Hearts for Everett.

In fact, my 25-year anniversary as King of Hearts is this year. I then became Imperial Prince, and then was elected as Emperor #12. I cherish the fun times and the friendships of those times. That will continue and never change. In fact, some of my closest friends to this day, I have met through the International Court System, 25-28 years ago.

I ask you to vote for Rick Peters Lake, to be your next Emperor, Emperor #38.

Voting will be held on Sunday, February 12, from 11:00 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Richmark Building, 12th Ave. & E. Pine St., on Capitol Hill. Lifetime Members, Citizens for Life and residents 18 years of age and older from King and Island Counties are eligible to vote with valid ID. I also ask that you join the Imperial Court of Seattle and the Olympic and Rainier Empire for Coronation 2012, February 18, at the Seattle Renaissance Hotel. Tickets and more information are available at: www.imperialcourtofseattle.com

My desire to run is based on the path that many great Emperors and Empresses of the city have paved the way for thus far.

I hope to continue on that path, and help represent our Court and the City of Seattle in a positive way and professional manner at all times. Being approachable and

Thank you for your time, Rick Peters Lake

Contractors would protect millions of LGBT workers

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor A federal executive order that requires contractors to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity would protect up to 16.5 million more workers than are already protected by state or private anti-discrimination policies, according to a new study, “The Impact of Extending Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Non-Discrimination Requirements to Federal Contractors,” published by the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law this week.

“This study highlights both the power-

ful impact of a federal policy that prohibits LGBT discrimination, as well as the continued progress already made toward protecting LGBT workers through state law and voluntary corporate policies,” said the study’s author, M.V. Lee Badgett, Williams Institute research director and professor of economics and director of the Center for Public Policy and Administration at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Currently, state laws or private policies already protect 61% of federal contractor employees from sexual orientation discrimination and 41% from gender identity discrimination.

I have dreamed and aspired to become the Empress of Seattle since I attended my first Seattle Coronation for James and Nicole.

Now that’s just a few days ago! To me, being allowed to join the ranks of the Olympias is an incredible honor and privilege. I have loved and counted as friends so many of our past Empresses, such as Scotty, Sofonda Peters, Kristen Dior, Winnie, Nicole, Cha Cha, Crystal Lane, Nasty Weathers – oh, the list can go on and on! I’ve respected and learned from these people who have molded our Court’s wonderful past. This is why, if I am lucky enough to wear our state crown, it will be worn with such reverence and respect for all our wonderful Empresses that have worn it before me. It really means that much to me! We are nowhere without our past!

I come to the table with considerable experience. I’ve been an Empress in Everett, Washington twice, I have had the honor of being a Member for Life of the Court of Seattle, given to me by Michael and Sofonda Peters. Currently, I hold the title of First Lady in Waiting to Olympia 40, Miss Precious Cargo. I have held other titles such as Queen of Hearts and Imperial Princess and President of the Board of Directors twice within the empire of Everett. I will always cherish my time in Everett. But now I am really excited and ready to run for Empress here in our beautiful city, Seattle! Seattle is my home!

community! Additionally, I want to extend an invitation to all persons and organizations to join our beloved Court of Seattle! We have some incredible titleholders this year. I want to be a motivator and supporter for each of them as they navigate their way through their reigns!

I also intend to be approachable, fun and supportive within our community. Lastly, if I’m elected Empress of Seattle, I promise that I will also represent our beautiful city with style and elegance as I travel to other cities within the International Court System.

Please vote for Beverly Peters Lake for Empress of Seattle on Sunday, February 12, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Richmark Building, 12th Ave. & E. Pine St., on Capitol Hill. Lifetime Members, Citizens for Life, and residents 18 years of age and up from King and Island Counties are eligible to vote, with valid ID. Please join the Imperial Court of Seattle for Coronation 2012: “Choose Your Channel,” on February 18, at the Seattle Renaissance If elected Empress, I intend to con- Hotel. Tickets are available at www.impetinue supporting the importance of fund- rialcourtofseattle.com. raising. My personal focus will be our Scholarship Fund. I am a huge believer With Love and Respect, in education, especially within our own Beverly Peters Lake Further, among federal contractors, 45% of their employees already have access to health care coverage for a same-sex partner. While a federal mandate would extend coverage to an additional 14 to 15 million workers, it is likely that only an additional 40,000 to 136,000 employees would sign up a same-sex partner for coverage.

“Given the small number of employees who would take advantage of domestic partnership benefits across the tens of thousands of federal contractors, the ultimate burden on business for providing these benefits would be minimal,” said Badgett.

Research also suggests an executive order would not disproportionately burden defense and small business contractors.

Among the largest private defense contractors, state laws or private policies already cover 95% of employees against sexual orientation discrimination, 69% of employees against gender identity discrimination, and provide 81% of employees with access to

benefits for a same-sex partner.

In other words, no heavier burden is placed on small businesses, because existing anti-discrimination policies already equally cover employees in small, medium, or large federal contractors, with the exception of higher rates of coverage for Fortune 1000 employees.

The findings in this study are based on 2009 data from the Equal Employment Opportunities Commission’s EEO-1 reports.

These reports are required for private-sector federal contractors with 50 or more employees and a contract of at least $50,000, and for non-contractor employers with 100 or more employees. This dataset captures more than half of all private-sector employees and includes firms that receive the majority of federal contracting dollars.

For more information on this study, visit http://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/ wp-content/uploads/Badgett-EOImpactFeb-20121.pdf.

Come meet Tim and Matt and join the family.

Go 1605 12th Avenue at Pine, Seattle (In liquor store parking garage.) Seattle Storm!

206-838-6027 or 206-898-4306 Visit us online www.sgn.org

February 10, 2012

Seattle Gay News

9

10 Seattle Gay News

February 10, 2012

Celebrating 39 Years!

Visit us online www.sgn.org

February 10, 2012

Seattle Gay News 11

All community celebration of the signing of the Marriage Equality Bill Featuring music by Seattle Men’s Chorus

Plymouth Congregational Church 6th Ave. and University St. Downtown Seattle February 13, 7:30 p.m.

Free

12 Seattle Gay News

February 10, 2012

Celebrating 39 Years!

Visit us online www.sgn.org

February 10, 2012

Seattle Gay News 13

14 Seattle Gay News

February 10, 2012

Celebrating 39 Years!

MoSS Alley MotorS, Inc. SpecialiStS in VolVo, Honda, toyota and Subaru

932 12th ave.

Seattle, Wa 98122 (206).325--.3992 www.mossalley.com Seattle’s most progressive auto shop!

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February 10, 2012

Seattle Gay News 15

Lambda Legal who have been fighting for marriage equality for decades, from our efforts in Hawaii almost 20 years ago to our Former San Francisco victories before the California Supreme Mayor and current Court in 2008 and the Iowa Supreme Court California Lieutenant in 2009, to our ongoing lawsuit in New JerGovernor Gavin Newsom “To- sey. It is inevitable that marriage equality day’s decision by the Ninth Circuit Court of will be won across the nation through either Appeals stands as a victory for the funda- the legislative or judicial process.” mental American principle that all people are equal, and deserve equal rights and treatHuman Rights Campaign ment under the law. This is the biggest step President Joe Solmonese that the American judicial system has taken “Today’s decision affirms what we all to end the grievous discrimination against know to be true – our Constitution protects men and women in same-sex relationships the basic civil rights of all Americans, inand should be highly praised.” cluding Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender people. Proposition 8 does nothing to Mayors for strengthen or protect any marriage. Instead, Freedom to Marry it singles out thousands of loving California “As Mayors for the Freedom to Marry, families for different treatment, simply bewe know how important marriage is to our cause they are Gay and Lesbian couples. neighborhoods, our cities, and our nation.

“We thank the courageous plaintiff couWhen committed couples are able to pledge ples, the American Foundation for Equal their love to one another and share in the re- Rights, and attorneys Ted Olson and David sponsibilities and protections of marriage, Boies for their years of work leading to toour communities flourish and our cities are day’s decision.” more competitive.

“Today’s decision by the 9th Circuit reafPeople for the firms that the American Dream is possible American Way for everyone and brings us one step closer “Today’s ruling is a major victory for to ending marriage discrimination once and equality and for the thousands of California for all. We look forward to a day when all of couples who saw their marriage rights disour citizens will be able to share fairly and appear four years ago. Proposition 8 hurt equally in the freedom to marry.”

Californians. It took away the freedom of

Håvard Holme/Rafto Foundation

Reactions to Prop 8 ruling Compiled by SGN Staff

California Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom

courtesy HRC

National Center for Lesbian Rights “It is a unique and honored position to be an eyewitness to history. The Ninth Circuit’s ruling finding that Proposition 8 violates the Constitution of this nation marks the first time a federal appellate court has held that a law excluding same-sex couples from the right to marry runs counter to our highest ideals of equality and fairness. With today’s ruling we are a giant step closer to the day when the promise of our Constitution squares with the lived reality of LGBT people.”

rent generation, and I sincerely doubt the Court has the stomach for preempting the policy judgments of the states on such a contentious matter, knowing the lingering harm it caused by that ruling.”

Mitt Romney “Today, unelected judges cast aside the will of the people of California who voted to protect traditional marriage. This decision does not end this fight, and I expect it to go to the Supreme Court. I believe marriage is between a man and a woman and, as president, I will protect traditional marriage and National Organization appoint judges who interpret the Constitufor Marriage tion as it is written and not according to their “We have anticipated this outcome since own politics and prejudices.” the moment of San Francisco Judge Vaughn Walker’s first hearing in the case. Now we Liberty Counsel head have the field cleared to take this issue to the Mat Staver U.S. Supreme Court, where we have every “This is a travesty of justice and it underconfidence we will prevail. mines the legitimacy of the judiciary. When “This issue is the Roe v. Wade of the cur- judges find that there is a constitutional right file photo

Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese

Freedom to Marry “This monumental appellate decision restores California to the growing list of states and countries that have ended exclusion from marriage, and will further accelerate the surging nationwide majority for marriage.

“By growing the majority for marriage, winning more states, and tackling federal discrimination – Freedom to Marry’s ‘Roadmap to Victory’ – we maximize our chances of winning when one case or another finally reaches the U.S. Supreme Court.”

committed couples to legally marry, to raise children in security, to visit each other in the hospital, and to provide for each other in old age. It hurt Gay and Lesbian Californians, and it hurt their friends and families. Proposition 8 wasn’t just unconstitutional – it was simply wrong.”

GLAAD Acting President Mike Thompson “Today’s historic decision reflects the growing support for marriage equality among a majority of Americans who believe all couples should have the same opportunity to take care of and be responsible for Lambda Legal each other. Though the road to securing full “The tide is not turning; it has turned, and equality for every American remains long, we are glad to see the Ninth Circuit join the we are deeply encouraged by today’s rulright side of history. This is an exciting day ing.” for all of us, and especially for those of us at

16 Seattle Gay News

February 10, 2012

Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney

Celebrating 39 Years!

courtesy ADF

Brian Raum

to same-sex marriage, it’s absolutely absurd. This is, I think, an illustration of why the judiciary has lost the confidence of the American people.”

Alliance Defense Fund Senior Counsel Brian Raum “We are not surprised that this Hollywood-orchestrated attack on marriage–tried in San Francisco–turned out this way. But we are confident that the expressed will of the American people in favor of marriage will be upheld at the Supreme Court. Every pro-marriage American should be pleased that this case can finally go to the U.S. Supreme Court.”

Family Research Council head Tony Perkins “This ruling substitutes judicial tyranny for the will of the people, who in the major-

prop 8

continued from cover Hawkins, appointed by Bill Clinton, voted to strike down Prop 8. Bush appointee Randy Smith dissented.

In his majority opinion, Reinhardt was blunt.

“On [November4, 2008] the People of California adopted Proposition 8, which amended the state constitution to eliminate the right of same-sex couples to marry,” he wrote.

“We consider whether the amendment violates the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution. We conclude that it does.

“Although the Constitution permits communities to enact most laws they believe to be desirable, it requires that there be at least a legitimate reason for the passage of a law that treats different classes of people differently. There is no such reason that Proposition 8 could have been enacted.”

Reinhardt scornfully dismissed the argument that Prop 8 was meant to advance the state’s interest in childrearing, “for it had no effect on the rights of same-sex couples to raise children or on the procreative practices of other couples.”

“All that Proposition 8 accomplished was to take away from same-sex couples the right to be granted marriage licenses and thus legally to use the designation of ‘marriage,’ which symbolizes state legitimization and societal recognition of their committed relationships.

“Proposition 8 serves no purpose, and has no effect, other than to lessen the status and human dignity of Gays and Lesbians in California, and to officially reclassify their relationships and families as inferior to those

ity of states have amended their constitutions, as California did, to preserve marriage as the union of one man and one woman.

However, we remain confident that in the end, the Supreme Court will reject the absurd argument that the authors of our Constitution created or even implied a ‘right’ to homosexual ‘marriage,’ and will instead uphold the right of the people to govern themselves.”

Concerned Women for America “Our experiences have shown us, as science proves, that the best environment for children to develop as productive members of our society is in a home where there is a mother and a father who love them and each other unconditionally. Yet with a stroke of the pen these three judges have undermined the foundations of the family and liberty.

Shame on them.”

tion of ‘marriage,’ and Proposition 8’s only effect was to take away the important and legally significant designation, while leaving in place all of its incidents.”

Because of the particular circumstances of the Prop 8 case, Reinhardt said, the court can make a ruling without tackling the bigger issue of whether the 14th Amendment might actually require equal marriage rights for all couples.

What now?

The 9th Circuit left in place the stay on Judge Walker’s 2010 ruling pending appeals, meaning that California couples still cannot legally marry.

If Prop 8 supporters wish to appeal, they must follow a specific process. According to the National Center for Lesbian Rights, “The supporters of Prop 8 have 15 days to ask the Ninth Circuit panel to reconsider its decision or to ask for reconsideration by a larger panel of judges on that court. Alternatively, they have 90 days to request that the Supreme Court of the United States review the case.”

Most legal observers believe that the full 9th Circuit would uphold the panel’s decision. In spite of Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s statement that “I expect it to go to the Supreme Court,” many experts have questioned whether the Supreme Court would agree to take the case.

According to NCLR attorney Shannon Minter, the Supreme Court would have to break with its own longstanding practice to take an appeal in the Prop 8 case.

“Given the reasoning of the Ninth Circuit’s decision and its focus on the specific circumstances that led to the enactment of Prop 8 in California, it may be a tall order for the supporters of Prop 8 to persuade the Supreme Court to take the case,” Minter

said in a statement on February 8.

“The Supreme Court normally only accepts cases when different federal appellate courts have reached opposite conclusions on the same legal issues, or where a decision has broad national implications. The Ninth Circuit’s California-focused decision presents neither of those circumstances.”

CNN legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin agreed.

“This might well be the last word on the case,” Toobin said.

“I think the narrow approach in today’s decision makes the case less likely to be reviewed by the Supreme Court. The court applies general principles that apply across the United States. Because this case only deals with the unique circumstances in California, I think the Supreme Court is less likely to review it.

“So the good news for same-sex marriage supporters is this decision may mean that a conservative Supreme Court will decide not to take the case.”

Anti-equality groups were outraged by the decision and predicted that the Supreme Court would reverse the 9th Circuit. “[The] Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals is the most overturned circuit in the country, and Judge Stephen Reinhardt, the author of today’s absurd ruling is the most overturned federal judge in America,” NOM said in a statement.

In a 2008 interview with California Lawyer, Reinhardt admitted he “was a liberal from a very young age. I think I was born that way.”

“The Supreme Court changes the law regularly,” he continued. “And this Supreme Court – which is the most activist Court there has ever been – is constantly changing the law. So if you really are faithful to the law, you’re likely to get reversed because it [the Court] has cut back on rights.”

of opposite-sex couples. The Constitution simply does not allow for ‘laws of this sort.’

Romer v. Evans, 517 U.S. 620, 633 (1996).”

In Romer v. Evans, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Colorado’s Amendment 2, forbidding any government institution in the state from recognizing LGBT residents as a protected class.

In the majority opinion Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote that such anti-discrimination laws do not grant LGBT persons “special rights.”

“To the contrary,” he wrote, “the amendment imposes a special disability upon those persons alone. Homosexuals are forbidden the safeguards that others enjoy or may seek without constraint.”

Echoing Kennedy, Reinhardt wrote that taking away marriage rights that had previously been recognized by the California Supreme Court “imposes a special disability” on same-sex couples and therefore violates their rights to due process and equal protection.

What the court did not say While the 9th Circuit found that same-sex couples may not have their right to marry taken away, they did not find a positive right for same-sex couples to marry. In fact, Reinhardt explicitly steered away from that topic.

“Whether under the Constitution samesex couples may ever be denied the right to marry, a right that has long been enjoyed by opposite-sex couples, is an important and highly controversial question,” he wrote in his opinion.

But, he added, “We need not and do not answer the broader question in this case… because California had already extended to committed same-sex couples both the incidents of marriage and the official designa-

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Seattle Gay News 17

Grace Branson (formerly Herbert Branson) Leslie Robinson hasn’t yet written her own and Melinda Branson on Saturday, Septem- wedding invitation. Email her at lesarobinber 8th, 2012, at 6:00 p.m. at their home in son@gmail.com, and visit her blog at www.

Olympia. Still going strong after 35 years generalgayety.com for daily LGBT funnies. and a few twists and turns!

You are invited

by Leslie Robinson SGN Contributing Writer

Benjamin Paul Corday and Jack Simon Mikkelsen request the pleasure of your company in celebrating their union of marriage on Saturday, the nineteenth of May, two thousand and twelve, at one o’clock in the afternoon, at Tacoma Lutheran Church.

Unless the pastor changes his mind again.

Jim and Arlene Trent and Stu and Suzy Levy invite you to the wedding of their daughters, Sarah Elizabeth Trent and Candace Opal Levy, on Saturday, the eighteenth of August, two thousand and twelve, at six o’clock at Golden Gardens Park, Seattle.

Dinner, dancing, and writing thank-you

Sally Ann Miller and Deborah Casey Putnam request the honor of your presence as we marry for a fourth time. No gifts, please.

We’re out of space.

file photo

I’m thinking of starting a new career.

With the state of Washington on a path to legalizing same-sex marriage, it’s the right time here in the Evergreen State to get into the wedding invitation business. For a modest fee, I plan to offer specialized invitation text, suited just for the couple.

I’ve knocked out some examples. Imagine unsealing a hand-lettered envelope and withdrawing a regal invitation graced with one of the following announcements:

notes to legislators to follow.

Uganda revives anti-Gay bill, but drops death penalty

Barry Edward Miller and Archibald Chi Wong invite you to join them in celebrating their marriage in the card room of the Westhaven Retirement Home 10 minutes after Gay marriage becomes legal.

Mr. and Mrs. Alan Slater hold their noses and invite you to join them as their son David Riley Slater marries that man on Saturday, the seventh of July, two thousand and twelve, at five o’clock in the evening, Bellevue First Congregational Church.

Dinesh and Chandra Gupta request the honor of your presence and blessings on the auspicious occasion of the wedding ceremony of our daughter Ahanti to … a man! Our girl fooled us again.

Peter O’Malley and Mark Shaughnessy invite you to their wedding on the steps of St. James Cathedral in Seattle on Sunday, June 10th, at 10:00 in the morning. Dress for possible arrest.

Cynthia Simmons Bartlett and Moonstone request that you get your butts over here to our place on Lummi Island for the mother of all union celebrations to take place on the summer solstice. Potluck.

David Bahati

by Mike Andrew Abigail Sage Hernandez-Martin invites SGN Staff Writer you to join her in celebrating the marriage of her Daddy and her Papa at her house in David Bahati’s notorious anti-Gay bill has Spokane. She will look unbearably cute, so been reintroduced into Uganda’s parliament, you should bring your cameras. but without the death penalty provisions.

The bill was shelved last year after an inThe honor of your presence is requested ternational outcry. at the reaffirmation of wedding vows of According to BBC, members of parliament applauded and chanted “Our bill! Our bill!” when Bahati reintroduced the measure on February 7.

Bahati confirmed to BBC correspondent Joshua Mmali that the draft legislation has changed in one fundamental way.

People convicted of “aggravated homosexuality” – when one of the participants in Gay sex is a minor, HIV-positive, disabled, or a “serial offender” – would no longer face the death penalty.

Because these categories were to be executed in the original version of the bill, it has come to be known as the “Kill the Gays”

bill.

A parliamentary committee recommended the revision, after the original legislation was condemned by Western leaders, who threatened to cut off aid to Uganda.

President Obama labeled the bill “odious.”

“We may disagree about gay marriage,” Obama told the 2010 National Prayer Breakfast, “but surely we can agree that it is unconscionable to target Gays and Lesbians for who they are, whether it is here in the United States or … more extremely, in odious laws that are being proposed more recently in Uganda.”

Bahati introduced the bill in 2009, after an international anti-Gay conference convened by American evangelicals in Kampala, Uganda. It has never been brought to the floor of parliament for debate.

He told Associated Press last year that he would be willing to drop the death penalty provision if that would help pass the bill.

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February 10, 2012

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Celebrating 39 Years!

Genesis of the marriage movement

by Michael Raitt SGN Contributing Writer You’ve heard the news; we are at the edge of historic social reform formalized by the legal recognition of marriage for Gay and Lesbian partners in Washington state. The community has arrived at this place through the tireless work of many for many years.

The legal recognition and the rights afforded through law are very important from many practical perspectives. However, let us not lose sight of the genesis of the movement for legalized marriage: love.

Love is a core, hard-wired emotion that humans experience. It is the fundamental building block that creates bonds in all societies. It is so important that it begins, for the majority of people, in the very early stages of life. Under healthy circumstances, the love bond between a mother and baby is natural and unbreakable. Love creates connection in many other configurations: parents and children, siblings, friends, love of country, romantic love between adults, and love of God. Love forms families, families underlie community, and communities make a strong nation. For eons, lovers, scholars, and leaders have been extolling love in song, picture, and poetry. Scientists are only now in the infancy of beginning to understand love, as its true nature has been elusive. Love is so

natural that you find it in every corner of the world. There is nowhere you can go where love doesn’t exist in healthy humans.

Love releases hormones that make us feel wonderful. Love decreases stress. Love makes us act in ways that promote a better society. Love is powerful.

Let me be crystal clear: Being Gay or Lesbian is NOT about sex! It is misleading and completely wrong to minimize it as a “sexual orientation.” Being Lesbian or Gay is really an emotional orientation. Any Gay man or Lesbian woman will tell you that they are Gay because they have the capacity to experience romantic love toward another of the same gender. This love bond – romantic love – is as strong as any romantic love experienced and lived out by our peers who, as we know, marry! This is a fact. No man passionately in love with a woman is going to describe his experience any differently than how I would describe the romantic passionate love I’ve felt for another man. Just because certain people don’t understand this doesn’t mean it can be denied or made about something else.

Marriage is a ceremony acknowledging romantic love. All cultures have ceremonies that punctuate important values and stages of life within their community. In our society, romantic love between adults is revered and we celebrate this romantic love

through marriage. Marriage brings families and neighbors together. This togetherness strengthens community ties.

I don’t know of one parent of sound mind and heart who doesn’t dream that their child will one day experience true romantic love.

I don’t know of one child who doesn’t look forward to being loved when they become an adult. I don’t know of one dear friend or close brother or sister who isn’t ecstatic for one they care about being in love. Families and friends rejoice and celebrate love between people in their community. I don’t know of one religion or philosophy that says love is wrong! In support of legal marriage, it’s time we remember what we are really supporting: love, families, and community.

Those who rally against marriage for Gay men and Lesbian women pathologize the act of sex and use that, almost solely, as their argument against marriage for us. They cannot reasonably argue against love because what they use to pathologize us with – religion – is built upon principles of love, family, and community. How can you be an advocate of love and families while pushing to destroy families and communities by splintering them with hatred? They are denying love.

Love has never destroyed one single family or community. Hatred has!

There is no denying that Gay men and Lesbian women will benefit in practical ways from the legal recognition that “marriage” will provide. I thank everyone, from all political sides, who have put their name behind legalizing marriage for Lesbian women and Gay men. Please remember that what you are doing is much bigger than legal rights. You are recognizing us in the values that are important to our families and communities. You are cementing bonds and strengthening families in your understanding, acknowledgment, and acceptance that we as Gay and Lesbian men and women are much more than an act of sex. We are loving people looking to be in love and be loved by a significant other, our parents and siblings, and our community.

Michael Raitt, M.A., LMHC, is a therapist and a contributing writer to SGN. If you would like to comment on this column, ask a question you’d like him to write about, or suggest another topic of interest, please contact him at askingmichael@comcast. net.

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February 10, 2012

Seattle Gay News 19

business

continued from cover on issues ranging from marketing to the role of business in community building.

Like many in the community, Chernin was pleased with the recent round of corporate America’s endorsement of marriage equality in Washington state. “This sets an example and encourages – and gives courage to – smaller and mid-sized businesses to step up as well,” she told Seattle Gay News.

“It sends a message to elected officials that there is widespread support from those who are a major part of our economic engine.”

In addition, Chernin says it also sends a message to those opposed to marriage equality “that there will be power and financial support to maintain this hard-fought legal right.”

Importantly, Chernin pointed out, these endorsements also give a message to the thousands of employees who work at these major corporations that their employers value them. “This kind of thing will attract more prospective and talented LGBT employees to move to Washington state.”

As head of the GSBA, Chernin oversees the largest business chamber of its kind in the U.S. More than a chamber, GSBA is a vibrant community organization with a broad and diverse membership base.

Although the organization is the “LGBT chamber,” the GSBA is not exclusive to the LGBT community. In other words, Chernin and company do not discriminate on the ba-

sis of sexual orientation. And neither should any other business chamber, she said.

“In GSBA, our allied partners are true partners,” Chernin told SGN. “They join GSBA certainly to access the LGBT community but also to support our work to achieve equality. Our allied businesses have nondiscrimination policies, which include sexual orientation and gender identity and also offer domestic partnership benefits to their LGBT employees.”

“By joining GSBA, they send a message to their employees and customers that they are promoting equality in the workplace,” she said.

On a broader scale, Chernin said, “Civil rights cannot and have not ever been achieved solely by whatever minority group has been the victim of discrimination, for the very reason that they are in the minority.

To change laws, one needs to change hearts and minds, and to accomplish that means making connections, working in coalitions, and then standing by those who support you and stand with you for your battle to achieve equality.”

As an individual, Chernin supports marriage equality because it is “about fairness and equality under the law. It is intolerable to allow any group to be considered secondclass citizens.”

“Marriage, whether you wish to marry or not, is a way that this country has determined as a way to validate loving relationships, and provide legal protections to families. Certainly, LGBT families cannot be excluded from accessing these protections

under the law,” she said.

For businesses, however, in order for them to succeed in this world, “they must recog- continued from cover nize the value of equality, diversity, and inbecause she is Lesbian. In all, they asked clusion,” Chernin said.

“This is no longer a world in which their supporters to petition the department straight white men control everything. If store, remove Ellen as their representative you wish to attract the most talented em- and boycott the stores.

“By jumping on the pro-Gay bandwagon, ployees, have employees who will be loyal and productive, and bring in a diverse cus- JCPenney is attempting to gain a new target tomer base, it is imperative for businesses to market and in the process will lose customcreate an inclusive culture in which all em- ers with traditional values that have been ployees have the same rights and are treated faithful to them all these years,” said OneMillionMoms.com officials in a statement respectfully.”

“This cannot happen if the person’s identi- to their supporters. “They have made a poor ty is not accepted for who they are and their decision and must correct their mistake fast families are not afforded the same access to to retain loyal customers and not turn away potential new, conservative shoppers with protection and benefits,” she added.

Chernin said that equality is good business the company’s new vision.”

This isn’t the organization’s first stab at and “marriage equality is an opportunity to raise important revenue for our wedding in- what they perceive as the “pro-Gay banddustry businesses, our tourism industry, and wagon.” OneMillionMoms.com have also protested the television shows Glee, Modour entire state.”

“More weddings, more folks from out-of- ern Family, and Dancing With the Stars.

DeGeneres fired back on February 8, town attending weddings or traveling here to get married – all this means hotels, florists, telling her viewers, “They wanted to get photographers, caterers, DJs, accountants, me fired and I am proud and happy to say estate attorneys, and many other profession- JCPenney stuck by their decision to make me their spokesperson, It’s great news for als will benefit,” she said.

In addition, Chernin pointed out that me because I need some new crew socks, increased revenue and tourism means in- and I’m really gonna clean up with this discreased tax revenue as well. “Research count.”

DeGeneres, who has been an out Lesbian shows that the states that have approved marriage equality have raised over $88 mil- for the past 15 years and is often referred lion in new revenue in a three-year period – to as “America’s favorite talk-show host,” added, ““First of all, being Gay or pro-Gay a nice byproduct of doing what’s right.”

When speaking with Chernin about the is not a bandwagon. You don’t get a free ride GSBA, you can tell that, as the organiza- anywhere. There’s no music, and occasiontion’s executive director, there is no one ally we’ll sing ‘We Are Family,’ but that’s prouder of the chamber than she. “GSBA about it.”

Although DeGeneres seemed jovial about members have always been courageous and taken a leadership role around equal- the situation, she – and GLAAD – both ity, starting with our founding 31 years ago. agree that having JCPenny stick by her side As an LGBT chamber we know that equal- is a great message from corporate America ity is right and fairness is essential, but as a that discrimination in the workplace for business chamber we also know that equal- LGBT employees is no longer the social ity is good for business,” she said. “Many norm.

“Today, more people than ever celebrate straight-owned businesses have courted the ‘pink dollar’ but now we are asking them to the love of every family – Gay or straight – not only want access to our resources but to and know that no person should be ridiculed, stand with us and support our equality. These much less fired, simply for being who they are. Even today, Americans can be fired in are exciting times for our community.”

There are still many challenges around the 29 states for being Gay and in 34 states for country and on the federal level, reminded being Transgender,” said GLAAD officials Chernin. “GSBA is actively working to in a statement of support for DeGeneres.

Support for the Gay and Lesbian commuoverturn the Federal DOMA and working with our Congressional delegation on fed- nity has been demonstrated in many polls.

“A 2011 Gallup poll showed that 53% of eral tax equity issues,” she said. “As LGBT families, we expect all the rights and ben- Americans support marriage equality, and efits still currently enjoyed by everyone else data continues to reflect an American public that wants to ensure that all loving couples in the country.”

“We’d also like to protect our partners/ are able to marry, regardless of sexual orispouses and be able to leave them our Social entation,” said GLAAD. Security; or not have to pay extra taxes for our domestic partnership benefits; not pay unfair transfer-of-property taxes, and on and continued from cover on,” Chernin concluded. “We are not there yet but the victory in Washington state and California is a huge step in our journey for equality opponents must turn in more than equality. Today, we celebrate. Tomorrow, 120,000 signatures by June 6 if they want to it’s back to organizing.” challenge the proposed law. Although they

ellen

house

Legal Services www.sgn.org www.sgn.org 20 Seattle Gay News

February 10, 2012

Celebrating 39 Years!

are expected to gather the signatures needed, on the off chance that they fail at their endeavor, same-sex couples could wed as early as June.

Same-sex marriage is legal in New York, Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Washington, D.C. THE DEBATE Throughout the debate on the House floor on Wednesday, more than one legislator brought up the fact that the marriage equality issue was one of the most difficult issues put before the body. Lawmakers said they had to face their conscience, religious beliefs, and more when asked to cast their vote.

Gregoire watched the House vote from the wings with the bill’s Senate sponsor, Ed Murray. The public viewing gallery was packed with marriage equality supporters and many more watched streaming video of the debate at home or in their offices.

Rep. Jamie Pedersen, who sponsored the bill in the House, cited Tuesday’s ruling by the San Francisco-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals when he addressed fellow legislators before the vote. Pedersen quoted, “marriage is the name that society gives to the relationship that matters most between two adults,” during his speech.

Two Republicans crossed party lines to support the bill.

“Someone made the comment that this is not about equality,” said Maureen Walsh, a Republican legislator who voted in favor of the measure. “Well, yes, it is about equality.”

Walsh told fellow lawmakers that after her daughter came out as a Lesbian to her she

thought she “would agonize about that.”

“But nothing is different,” she said. “She’s still a fabulous human being and she’s met a person who she loves very much and someday, by God, I want to throw a wedding for that kid. I hope that’s what I can do.”

Rep. Glenn Anderson, a Republican from Fall City, said, “separate by name and act is not equal” before casting his vote in favor of marriage equality.

“This is about families, this is about kids, this is about love and commitment,” said Rep. Laurie Jinkins, an out Lesbian Democratic lawmaker from Tacoma. “It is about standing before family and friends and making the commitment of a lifetime.”

Countering the religious right’s view that all Christians should be against marriage equality, Rep. Drew Hansen (D-Bainbridge) said his pastor urged him to vote for the measure.

“We have a lot of Gay brothers and sisters in church, you know,” he said.

In all, only three Democrats voted against the legislation.

Opponents of the bill argued religious objection to the proposed law and said their constituents were confused as to why the House was debating a social justice issue when the state is in financial trouble.

Rep. Jay Rodne (R-North Bend) said the issue of marriage equality is “not about civil rights.”

“As it is today, there is coequal treatment under the law of domestic partnership and marriage,” he argued.

Rep. Jim McCune (R-Graham) warned, “God would hold us all accountable for our actions here today.”

McCune said, “Washington state has truly separated God from government.”

Arguing that the bill goes against traditional marriage, Rep. Rodne said the legislation “severs the cultural, historical, and legal underpinnings of the institute of marriage.”

At the end of the debate it was marriage equality that won over religious objection and so-called traditional marriage. With a 55-43 vote, Washington state took one more step towards true equality.

“Freedom to Marry is proud to be a lead coalition partner in Washington United for Marriage, which worked tirelessly to educate legislators and citizens about why marriage matters to Gay couples and their families,” said Thalia Zepatos, director of public engagement at Freedom to Marry. “Today’s win also comes as the result of dedication from elected officials like Rep. Jamie Pedersen, whose courageous leadership paved the way for this bill’s passage in the House.

Freedom to Marry is prepared to see this victory through so that loving and committed couples in Washington are free to exercise their freedom to marry.”

Zach Silk, campaign manager for Washington United for Marriage, the coalition working to bring marriage equality to Washington state in 2012 said, “There was cheering and hollering in the gallery. It was a great moment. Marriage equality is about to become law.”

BALLOT MEASURES Opponents of marriage equality have already promised to challenge the measure at the ballot with a referendum, which would ask voters whether they want to uphold or overturn it.

In a University of Washington poll, released in October 2011, researchers found

an increasing number of people in the state support marriage equality. About 43% of respondents said they support Gay marriage – up from 30% in the same poll five years earlier.

Of particular interest to marriage equality supporters, the poll found that if a challenge to marriage equality law appeared on a ballot, 55% said they would vote to uphold the law. And 38% said they would vote to reject the law.

Stephen Pidgeon, an Everett attorney and marriage equality opponent, filed an initiative last month seeking to change the current state statute, which says that marriage is a civil contract “between a male and a female.” Pidgeon wants the wording to be changed to “between one man and one woman.”

Pidgeon says he will push for his initiative effort in spite of the fact that other conservative groups are forming a coalition to move forward with their signature-gathering effort to put marriage equality up for popular vote.

In other words, in November, Washington voters could face two ballot measures concerning marriage equality.

To qualify for the November ballot, Pidgeon must submit a minimum of 241,153 valid signatures from registered voters by July 6.

Although no official organization has stepped forward to support the referendum to overturn the marriage equality bill, several groups involved say there could be an announcement made as early as next week.

To qualify the referendum for the ballot, more than 120,000 signatures would need to be submitted by June 6.

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February 10, 2012

Celebrating 39 Years!

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