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Seattle Gay News SEATTLE’S LGBT NEWS & ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY
Approve R-74 up by six points Respected Washington Poll results give real reason for optimism by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer Referendum 74 is now leading by 6.3 points, the prestigious Washington Poll says. The Washington Poll is a widely respected electoral survey directed by UW Associate Professor
ror for these samples are 3.5% and 3.9%, respectively. “These results suggest that Referendum 74 is on track to be approved in a few weeks,” a post on the Northwest Progressive Institute blog said. “The divisive Reject campaign is kicking into high gear, but they
margin of victory for those campaigns,” NPI notes, because respondents are aware of what answer is “socially desirable.” To rectify this, the polling team included two questions designed to measure social desirability bias. They first asked respondents if they had lied on the survey, and
“Support for marriage equality has been steadily building over the years, driven by young people, who are clearly shifting public opinion in a healthy, progressive direction.” have a tough hill to climb. Support for marriage equality has been steadily building over the years, driven by young people, who are clearly shifting public opinion in a healthy, progressive direction.”
then asked if any of the questions had made them uncomfortable. “Both groups of people in the Yes on 74 and the No on 74 camp reported lying at rates that did not differ from the sample average,” the pollsters reported. TAKES LYING They then subtracted Approve INTO ACCOUNT voters who reported being uncomBarreto used an innovative tech- fortable with discussing sexual nique in weighting the raw data orientation, and adjusted the Reto correct for what polltakers call ject numbers to include undecid“social desirability bias.” eds who admitted to lying. “Ballot initiatives on marriage equality tend to over-report the see poll page 21
Getting out the vote James whitely / seattle gay news
WUM volunteers Sam Wilson (r) and Rhiannon work to bring marriage equality to Washington State.
by James Whitely SGN Staff Writer On Thursday, October 18, Washington United for Marriage (WUM), the broad coalition working to Approve Referendum 74, announced a statewide push to contact one million voters and make sure they return their ballots. The group plans to reach this goal by knocking on doors and by shifting the main focus of its phonebanking efforts from persuasion to get-out-the-vote (GOTV) messaging, although WUM says it will not cease its persuasion efforts entirely. Currently, the campaign operates over 100 phone banks across the state, seven days a week. Volunteers, whose numbers now approach 6,000, are placing more than 42,000 calls a night to undecided voters. In the past month volunteering has tripled, with more than 13,000 volunteer hours recorded by the campaign. “Marriage has been an issue that I’ve been interested in for over 10 see WUM page 22
A young supporter at Seattle’s March for Marriage on October 6
Ballots are in the mail ERW and SEAMEC make endorsements for LGBT and allied voters Both groups rate candidates on issues of particular interest to the LGBT community. New voters have until October 29 to register in person at one of several locations. If you still need to register, visit www. k i n g c o u n t y. gov/elections/ registration. aspx to find the location nearest you. ERW spokesperson Josh Suzan DelBene is running to represent Friedes urged Washington state’s 1st Congressional District. voters to mail by Mike Andrew in their ballots as soon as possible. SGN Staff Writer ABOVE ALL, APPROVE R-74! As this issue of SGN goes to “Approve Referendum 74 is press, general election ballots have been mailed to King County our top priority, and all available voters, ballot drop-boxes are open, resources are going to that,” Frieand ERW (Equal Rights Washing- des told SGN. “Who and what you ton) and SEAMEC (Seattle Met- vote for is secret, but the fact that ropolitan Elections Committee) have issued their endorsements. see ballots page 19
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Washington United for Marriage aims to reach 1 million pro-LGBT voters
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Matt Barreto. It is conducted only once a year, and because its findings have historically correlated very strongly with actual election results, it is considered extremely credible. In numbers released October 18, the poll found 52.9% of respondents ready to Approve R-74, with 46.6% saying they would reject it. The 2012 Washington Poll began sampling on October 1 and ended October 16. The samples included 782 registered voters and 644 likely voters. Margins of er-
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Marriage equality: A Jewish perspective
Contributing Writers
Rev. Barbara Allen, 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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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.
In Loving Memory Of
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by Rabbi Aaron Meyer Special to the SGN Your attention, please! Would Aaron Meyer please report to the Guidance Office? Aaron Meyer to the Guidance Office! Me?!? A boy who still held his mother’s hand to cross the street at age 15? My sense of doom was eventually assuaged when I realized it was simply my turn to flip through college scholarship possibilities. After viewing some 200 offerings for various groups of students, I grew flustered: “Isn’t there a scholarship for average, middleclass, Caucasian males from the suburbs?” It wasn’t until some years passed that I realized how misguided I was. I recently had the opportunity to spend an interfaith summer with students from Andover Newton Theological School, affiliated with the United Church of Christ. We studied a number of texts, but none were so personally influential as Peggy McIntosh’s essay Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack. Privilege, she says, is like an invisible, weightless knapsack that we carry on our backs, stuffed full of all of the unearned assets upon which we rely throughout our lives. After studying this article, I began to enumerate those privileges that I enjoy – I began to unpack my own invisible knapsack. Foremost in this discussion, as a heterosexual male, my partner and I had the privilege of getting married last November. As a religious person – as a rabbi – I believe that our prayers inspire us, our sacred scriptures challenge us, and our shared Jewish values obligate us to stand for justice and equality for everyone created in the image of God.
Temple de Hirsch Sinai
Mike Andrew, Miryam Gordon, Anthony Greer, Shaun Knittel, Albert Rodriguez, James Whitely
op-ed
Rabbi Aaron Meyer, Temple De Hirsch Sinai
OUR SACRED SCRIPTURES CHALLENGE US When we pull individual Biblical lines out of context, we do violence to the text and to Jewish tradition. When we uphold these distorted texts above all else, we do violence to each other. Will we, as religious people, lift up those verses that seem to put down homosexuality – all four out of 23,000 of them in the Hebrew Bible – or will we stand in support of those that affirm the humanity and equality of all people?
OUR VALUES CHALLENGE US Judaism is a religion that challenges adherents to work for the betterment and perfection of this world. Driven by our belief in one God and inspired by the history and traditions of our people, we all endeavor to live our lives in accord with our highest values, including the rabbinic notion that we are all equals in God’s eye – encouraging dignity and respect for all human beings, and loving our neighbors as ourselves. Rabbi Aaron Meyer is a member of the clergy of Temple De Hirsch Sinai, a Reform community in Seattle.
OUR PRAYERS INSPIRE US When Jews pray the words of Hashkiveinu, “Shield and shelter us beneath the shadow of Your wings,” we ask for God’s shelter of peace over all of us, regardless of the color of our skin, our gender, or our sexual orientation. When we pray the words of Oseh Shalom, asking God to bring shalom – peace, wholeness, completeness – for us and for all humankind, we do so without discrimination. When I pray to a God who loves righteousness and justice, I also pray that I have the strength to stand for that justice in the world.
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Local news
by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor The LGBTQ community’s love/hate relationship with the Human Rights Commission (HRC) is something that I suspect will never change. HRC’s approach is too slick and professionalized for some, and just right for others. Either way, they are here to stay and, regardless of which side of the activist
HRC
HRC stepping up support for marriage equality lot this fall – Minnesota, Maryland, Maine, and Washington – and in many cases, parishioners may not even be aware that their dollars are being used to fund discrimination. The new report from HRC finds that the church has spent at least $1.1 million as part of its broader effort to deny loving, committed couples the right to marry. In addition, a close ally of the church and past co-
“The Catholic Church hierarchy has positioned itself as the leading religious organization funding discrimination against LGBT people.” coin you fall on, you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who would say they are sitting the current battle for marriage equality in four states (Main, Maryland, Minnesota and Washington) out. Next week, Seattle Gay News will run an exclusive interview with HRC President Chad Griffin. This week, we wanted to keep our readers up to date on the work HRC is doing to help Washingtonians win the right to the freedom to marry.
HRC President Chad Griffin
Much of this funding likely came without the knowledge of parishioners – and as diocesan schools and important programs like soup kitchens struggle for resources, the Catholic Church has instead chosen to fund hateful, misleading political campaigns targeting loving, committed couples. “The Catholic Church hierarchy has positioned itself as the leading religious organization funding discrimination against LGBT people,” said Griffin. “Perhaps most
disturbing is the number of local parishes redirecting the hard-earned dollars of its members in the name of discrimination. The majority of Catholics support equality for LGBT people – they want their dollars funding things like soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and domestic violence programs, not discrimination against people several states away. The church hierarchy owes see HRC page 15
New Miss UTOPIA 2012-2013 crowned
Charles Trevor Logan January 8, 1946 – October 6, 2012
Trevor passed away on Saturday, the 6th of October, 2012, at his residence, The Gaslight Inn, in Seattle, Washington in the arms of his lifelong best friend and business partner, Stephen Bennett. His sister Linda and dear friends were by his side. Born in Vancouver, B.C., to the late John and Ruby Logan, Trevor is survived by his
sister Linda Molloy and brothers Robert and Bruce Logan. While working on cruise ships to Alaska in the summers, Trevor completed two years at Simon Fraser College. In the 1960s he moved to San Francisco, where he perfected what would become his profession of quality interior color design and painting. In 1970 he decided to move to Seattle, where he could own a home and surround himself with pets. Trevor fulfilled his dreams by saving and bringing back to life five traditional homes; starting and operating a quirky restaurant, Animal Crackers; and forming and operating a professional painting and interior color business. In addition to those accomplishments, he created The Gaslight Inn on Capitol Hill, which has become a Seattle tradition in the bed-and-breakfast industry. Trevor’s life was filled with love, and he felt so blessed and honored to have each and every friend in his life. He will be missed by each person whose life he touched, but his spirit will live in the memories carried by all who loved him. In lieu of flowers please make memorial gifts in Trevor’s name to the Lopez Animal Protection Society, PO Box 474, Lopez Island, WA 98261.
nate gowdy / seattle gay news
JUST THE FACTS, PLEASE The leadership at HRC understands that the voters who face marriage equality ballot measures do not want a bunch of spin. Most of the press coming out of HRC these days revolves around polling information and facts. On October 18, HRC officials told the media that the Catholic Church is funneling unprecedented dollar amounts into the four states where marriage equality is on the bal-
conspirator, the National Organization for Marriage, has spent nearly $1.4 million on the four ballot measures. In the aggregate, the church and NOM are the single largest funders of discrimination, responsible for funding nearly 60 percent of all anti-equality efforts in Minnesota, Maryland, Maine, and Washington. According to the press release, a significant portion of the Catholic-affiliated funding – more than $640,000 – comes from the Knights of Columbus, a fraternal organization within the church. The Knights of Columbus have an established history of using their money to fight marriage equality dating back to 2005. Equally Blessed, a coalition of pro-LGBT Catholic groups, will be releasing an extensive report in partnership with HRC today detailing the Knights’ longstanding financial support for anti-equality measures (see story, page 15). In Minnesota alone, the opposition to marriage equality has received more than $180,000 from dioceses across the nation.
Marion Malena (third from left) was crowned the 2012-13 Miss UTOPIA Seattle on October 13.
by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor Congratulations to Miss UTOPIA Seattle 2012-13, Marion Malena. On October 13, Marion was crowned the new Miss UTOPIA (United Territories of Pacific Islanders Alliance) at the organization’s third annual pageant in Renton at the IKEA Performing Arts Center. Marion was joined by some of the most talented drag queens, queens, and Transgendered women, along with last year’s Miss UTOPIA Seattle, Tanya Rachinee, for “Love is a Battlefield,” this year’s theme, which recognizes
the struggle for marriage equality in Washington state and across the U.S., and the landmark repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” Contestants wowed the audience in categories such as National Couture (representing any of the hundreds of Pacific Island cultures in this category, these ladies will give you true Mana of the Pacific magic), Swimwear, Talent, Evening Gown Extravaganza, and Question & Answer. The Miss UTOPIA Seattle 2012-13 Pageant was hosted by Miss Tiare Fidow and Chase Silva. Congratulations to Marion Malena from all of us at Seattle Gay News.
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Marriage equality: good for families, good for business Approve R-74 campaign counters opponents’ tired myths by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor The campaign to Approve Referendum 74 in Washington state is going strong, spearheaded by the central campaign, Washington United for Marriage, and augmented by
not stop there. Washington United for Marriage has promised to continue pounding the pavement, knocking on doors, and making phone calls to ensure that undecided voters become pro-marriage equality supporters, and registered voters who need a little push to fill out their ballots and mail them in actu-
“We believe people have wised up to these lies and understand that extending marriage to all loving couples is about fundamental fairness. Simply put, our law hurts no one, and better protects all loving couples and their families.” the Pride Foundation, Freedom to Marry’s “Why Marriage Matters Washington” voter education campaign, and the newly formed Social Outreach Seattle (SOSea), which I head. The most important news item this week, with regard to the looming November 6 general election, is the fact that Washingtonians will soon begin to receive their mailin ballots. This can make for an interesting campaign landscape because many voters, who have already decided how to vote on marriage equality and the presidential and gubernatorial races, will fill out their ballot and send it back almost immediately. But it is important to note that campaigning will
ally get that push. But we aren’t the only ones ratcheting up support. The bigots’ PR machine has gone into overdrive, too. Luckily for us, they lie. We know this because most of what they say is nonsensical rhetoric and is easy to pick apart. BUSTED! On October 11, Washington United for Marriage slammed Preserve Marriage Washington for its television ad that lays out old, false, and misleading claims about the freedom to marry. “They are busted,” said Washington United for Marriage campaign manager Zach
A still from one of Preserve Marriage Washington’s misleading campaign ads
Silk. “There is nothing new here, nothing that they haven’t dredged up before, and nothing that’s held up to the light of day. This is about one thing only – misleading and scaring voters. We believe people have wised up to these lies and understand that extending marriage to all loving couples is about fundamental fairness. Simply put, our law hurts no one, and better protects all loving couples and their families.” Additionally, many of the most respected advocates of families and children have concluded that children fare just as well in homes headed by Gay or Lesbian parents and that by allowing those parents to marry, children are better protected.
For example: • The American Psychological Association wrote: “Overall, results of research suggest that the development, adjustment, and well-being of children with Lesbian and Gay parents do not differ markedly from that of children with heterosexual parents.” • The American Academy of Pediatrics “recognizes that a considerable body of professional literature provides evidence that children with parents who are homosexual can have the same advantages and the same expectations for health, adjustment, and development as can children whose parents see campaign page 18
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DOMA dealt another blow Court applies ‘heightened scrutiny’ test in declaring the act unconstitutional by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer
A three-judge panel of the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that DOMA is unconstitutional in the case of Windsor v. U.S. The 2-1 decision, announced October 18, marks the eighth time a federal court has struck down the Defense of Marriage Act. According to a statement from the ACLU, which represented plaintiff Edie Windsor in the case, the ruling is especially significant because it is “the first federal appeals court decision to decide that government discrimination against Gay people gets a more exacting level of judicial review, known as ‘heightened scrutiny.’” “Heightened scrutiny” is a stiffer legal test than the “rational basis review” that previous court rulings have applied in finding DOMA unconstitutional, because it takes into account the history of discrimination DISCRIMINATION COSTLY against LGBT people as a specific group. Edie Windsor, the plaintiff in the case, “Rational basis review” only requires that the law not be completely arbitrary or capri- sued the federal government for refusing to recognize her marriage to her partner, Thea cious. Spyer, after Spyer’s death in 2009. Windsor and Spyer, who were a couple DOMA FAILS THE TEST “In this case,” the Second Circuit wrote in for 44 years, were married in Canada in its decision, “all four factors justify height- 2007, and were considered married by their ened scrutiny: (a) homosexuals as a group home state of New York. Nevertheless, have historically endured persecution and when Spyer died, Windsor was forced to discrimination; (b) homosexuality has no pay $363,000 in federal estate taxes that she
BLAG goes broke
House DOMA defenders have maxed out their budget
bryan smith / zuma press
relation to aptitude or ability to contribute to society; (c) homosexuals are a discernible group with non-obvious distinguishing characteristics, especially in the subset of those who enter same-sex marriages; and (d) the class remains a politically weakened minority.” The ruling was written by Chief Judge Dennis Jacobs, who was appointed by President George H. W. Bush. Judge Chester Straub dissented from the majority ruling, saying that courts should not intervene in politically controversial issues. “Whether connections between marriage, procreation, and biological offspring recognized by DOMA and the uniformity it imposes are to continue is not for the courts to decide,” Straub wrote in his dissent, “but rather an issue for the American people and their elected representatives to settle through the democratic process.”
Edith Windsor
Mandel Ngan, AFP/Getty Images
would not have had to pay if she had been married to a man. In her lawsuit, Windsor argued that DOMA violates the equal protection guarantee of the U.S. Constitution because it requires the government to treat legally married same-sex couples as strangers. “This law violated the fundamental American principle of fairness that we all cherish,” Windsor said. “I know Thea would have been so proud to see how far we have come in our fight to be treated with dignity.” A federal district judge ruled in favor of Windsor in June, but the House Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group (BLAG) appealed that decision. BLAG filed the appeal because the U.S. Department of Justice, which normally defends the constitutionality of
federal laws, had determined that DOMA was unconstitutional and said it would no longer defend it.
in an FBI corruption investigation.
dustbin of history once and for all.” Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), primary sponsor of the Respect for Marriage Act, which would repeal DOMA, called on Boehner to support his measure. “Speaker Boehner has wasted more than a year, and more than $1.5 million taxpayer dollars, defending DOMA,” Nadler said.
NOT REALLY BIPARTISAN In February 2011, Boehner convened the group to hire attorneys to defend DOMA after President Obama and the U.S. Justice Department determined that the federal law is unconstitutional. Although the group is bipartisan in the sense that both Republicans and Democrats serve on it, Republicans control both the House as a whole and its committees. The decision to defend DOMA was a strict party-line vote. Since BLAG’s contract with its attorneys is nearing its cap, the House will have to
SUPREMES STILL SILENT On July 16, Windsor’s attorneys filed a petition asking the U.S. Supreme Court to review the case without waiting for the Second Circuit decision, because Windsor is 83 years old and in poor health. To date, the Supreme Court has neither accepted nor rejected the petition. Including Windsor, four DOMA cases have been referred to the Supreme Court. At least four of the nine Supreme Court justices must vote to take a case for the whole court to consider it, but the justices need not take any case referred to them.
BOEHNER 0-FOR-5 “So far, he has lost five cases in a row, as every court has ruled that there is no legitimate justification for this law. Every day, DOMA harms thousands of American couples and their children. Instead of wasting
“Speaker Boehner has wasted more than a year, and more than $1.5 million taxpayer dollars, defending DOMA.”
Republican House Speaker John Boehner
The so-called Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group (BLAG), charged with defending DOMA by Republican House Speaker John Boehner, has spent a total of $1,447,996.73 to date. Its contract with the outside attorneys who actually handle court arguments is capped at $1.5 million.
BLAG is technically a standing committee of the U.S. House of Representatives, which supervises the House General Counsel. BLAG may be convened when the House leadership wants to give direction to counsel in a particular case. Before taking on the defense of DOMA, it was last active in 2006, when it directed the General Counsel to file a petition for the return of documents seized from Rep. William Jefferson
10 Seattle Gay News
October 19, 2012
by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer
vote additional funding if Boehner wants taxpayer money defending this unjust law to continue fighting lawsuits to overturn in court, Speaker Boehner should join us in our effort to repeal it.” DOMA. HRC Legislative Director Allison Herwitt said that continuing to defend DOMA runs DEMOCRATS RESISTANT The top two Democrats in the House, Mi- counter to the changing tide in public opinnority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Minority ion on marriage equality. “In poll after poll, we see that voters do Whip Steny Hoyer, have criticized Republican leaders for wasting taxpayers’ money not view marriage equality as a critical isdefending the law when every court that has sue for lawmakers, likely because a good ruled on it to date has found it unconstitu- majority of the country already supports it,” Herwitt said. tional. “The American people need job creation “The American people should no longer have to foot the bill for Speaker Boehner’s and infrastructure improvements. Instead of campaign to appease the most conservative focusing on the real problems that impact forces within the Republican Party,” Pelosi people’s livelihood, Speaker Boehner and House Republicans are funneling money said in a statement released October 16. “It is time for the Speaker and Congres- into an issue that does nothing to improve sional Republicans to drop their frivolous, conditions for the millions of Americans taxpayer-funded lawsuits without any de- in need of help, and actually harms loving lay. When they do, we will all look forward and committed same-sex couples looking to to the day when DOMA is relegated to the start their own families.”
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Trinity Parish Matthew Shepard
Join us Sunday, October 21 for our 11th annual
An Open & Affirming Episcopal Congregation 609 8th Ave., Seattle, WA 98104 206-624-5337
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Memorial Sermon
This year our guest preacher will be the Revd. Stan Fowler, who will preach on "Marriage Equality is the Gospel mandate for our time .” Bring any of your friends and family who may be undecided: our message is that Christians can and should support marriage equality.
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Catholic bigots raid the collection plate Church pouring cash into anti-Gay campaigns
KNIGHTS FUNDED WITCH HUNT According to media reports cited in the Equally Blessed report, the Knights helped fund an investigation into the work of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR), the largest group of U. S. nuns. That investigation preceded a further inquest by the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, which resulted in the appointment of Seattle Archbishop J.
DignityUSA and a leader with the Equally Blessed coalition, noted that the majority of those sitting in the pews every week support equality. “Our Catholic social teaching calls for us to work for a more loving, compassionate, and justice-oriented world for all,” she said. “It does not call on us to discriminate against anyone. Unfortunately, the anti-LGBT activities of the Church hierarchy stand
“Our Catholic social teaching calls for us to work for a more loving, compassionate, and justice-oriented world for all ... unfortunately, the anti-LGBT activities of the Church hierarchy stand in direct opposition to the values of the majority of Catholics.” Peter Sartain to discipline the LCWR. The LCWR, many of whose members are strong advocates for economic justice, represents 80% of Catholic nuns in the United States. The Vatican criticized the group for seeming to challenge positions taken by bishops “who are the church’s authentic teachers of faith and morals.” Archbishop William Lori of Baltimore, the Knights’ chaplain, reportedly called for the investigation into the LCWR. The Knights also contributed $265,000 to the Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious, a smaller, but more conservative group of nuns. Marianne Duddy-Burke, a lay Catholic who serves as the executive director of
in direct opposition to the values of the majority of Catholics.”
HRC
the newly appointed Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone was one of the chief architects of Proposition 8. Under his guidance, Catholic organizations in California led the charge in financing the Prop 8 campaign. In Newark, New Jersey, Archbishop John J. Myers has called on supporters of marriage equality to abstain from receiving Communion. And in Minneapolis-St. Paul, parishioners have walked out of services as pastors read letters against marriage equality from Archbishop John C. Nienstedt.
continued from page 4 by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer The Roman Catholic Church has poured millions of dollars into anti-Gay campaigns between 2005 and the present, and is taking a leading role in funding anti-marriage ballot measures in four states, according to new reports by HRC and the pro-equality Catholic coalition Equally Blessed. “The Roman Catholic Church and its affiliate, the Knights of Columbus, are leading the charge against marriage equality in the four states where marriage is on the ballot,” HRC said in its report, released October 18. “Dioceses from across the country are sending money directly from their pews to out-of-state campaigns fighting marriage equality. It’s doubtful that the parishioners fueling these contributions have any idea that their money is being used for this discriminatory purpose. “Ultimately, the Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus are responsible for more than a quarter of the funding going into the pockets of anti-equality organizations.” BALLOT CAMPAIGN PUSH The HRC report also details Catholic contributions funding anti-Gay ballot campaigns in Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, and Washington. “Marriage equality opponents across the four states have, to date, raised roughly $4.1 million,” HRC says. “The Catholic Church’s contributions make up 27 percent of that total figure. When you add in the contributions of Church ally NOM, the reality of the coordinated effort becomes clear: the Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, and NOM are responsible for funding nearly 60 percent of all anti-equality efforts in Minnesota, Maryland, Washington State, and Maine.” In Washington, HRC says, the opponents of marriage equality have raised more than $1.6 million. Of that total, the Church and
its ally NOM have poured in over 55% of the funding. The Catholic Church has donated $260,000 – a figure that includes $250,000 from the Knights of Columbus, $5,000 from the Seattle Knights chapter, and $5,000 from St. Monica Parish. NOM, meanwhile, has given $675,939 to the fight against marriage equality. SHOCK TROOPS According to the Public Religion Research Institute, nearly 60% of American Catholics support marriage equality, and 83% say they do not feel bound to follow their bishops’ political recommendations. Nevertheless, the Equally Blessed report shows that conservative Catholics have used the Knights of Columbus, a lay fraternal organization, as shock troops to move their political agenda. According to the Equally Blessed report, the Knights have bought significant influence within the Roman Catholic Church through large contributions to the Vatican and to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The organization uses that influence, Equally Blessed says, to advance a conservative political and theological agenda, sometimes at the expense of other U. S. Catholics. Since 2009, the Knights have charged each of their 1.8 million members $2 per year to help fund their “Culture of Life” initiative, which includes its campaign against marriage equality. Many Catholics who support Knights of Columbus charities in their parish or diocese are unaware of the organization’s involvement in “culture war” issues both inside and outside the church, Equally Blessed charges. The Knights contributed $1.5 million to the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, which has mounted legal challenges to marriage equality on the grounds that it infringes on religious freedom, and more than $1.1 million to the Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Ad Hoc Committee for the Defense of Marriage.
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the laity an explanation as to why they are spending this much money on discrimination, and at what cost to other crucial church programs.” CATHOLICS SUPPORT EQUALITY The anti-LGBT activity of the hierarchy stands in direct opposition to the values of the majority of Catholics. A 2012 Public Religion Research Institute poll found that nearly 60% of Catholics support marriage equality. In fact, polling indicates marriage equality is one of the least important issues Catholics are currently concerned with. That same poll, from Belden Russonello Strategists, found that 83% of Catholics feel their bishops should not influence their vote. “Our Catholic social teaching calls for us to work for a more loving, compassionate, and justice-oriented world for all. It does not call on us to discriminate against anyone,” said Marianne Duddy-Burke, a Catholic leader with Equally Blessed and executive director of DignityUSA. “Unfortunately, the anti-LGBT activities of the church hierarchy stand in direct opposition to the values of the majority of Catholics.” The report (available at www.hrc.org/ catholicreport) breaks down publicly reported in-kind and cash expenditures from the church hierarchy and the Knights of Columbus to the four ballot states. In Minnesota, the church has funded over 50 percent of the effort to write discrimination into the state constitution, spending over $608,000. That figure includes significant investments from the Knights of Columbus, as well as thousands of dollars from small parishes all across the country. The Knights of Columbus also have made sizable contributions in Maryland and Washington State, dropping $250,000 in each state on efforts to prevent loving, committed same-sex couples from starting families. The hefty financial investments from the Catholic Church come as bishops in some of the largest faith communities in the country speak out with increasing frequency against LGBT people. In San Francisco,
October 19, 2012
PERVERTING SOCIAL JUSTICE HRC spokesperson Dr. Sharon Groves added that the anti-Gay activities of U.S. Catholic bishops represent a break from traditional Catholic teaching on social justice. “The Catholic Church’s social teaching, when put in action, is one of the most inclusive theological teachings on the planet,” Groves said. “The Church hierarchy is instead redirecting this teaching in the name of discrimination, and in the process they are tarnishing the very values that so many Catholics hold dear.”
MONEY MATTERS On October 12, HRC furthered its commitment to marriage equality, announcing an additional $1 million in the four states facing marriage-related ballot measures in November. The announced investments bring HRC’s contributions to the four ballot measures to $4.4 million, and $7.3 million overall during this election cycle. “There’s no doubt that 2012 is the year of marriage equality. When you have momentum on your side, you don’t slow down, you double down – and that’s exactly what we’ve done,” said Griffin. “Our movement is about loving and committed families who deserve nothing less than full equality under the law. HRC is proud of our many volunteers and donors who have raised and donated additional resources to fuel this fight.” Throughout the campaigns HRC has provided financial contributions as well as inkind contributions of staff and research to support the state efforts. “Our adversaries have bragged that marriage equality has never won at the ballot box. This November, we will take that talking point away once and for all,” added Griffin. “In 2012, fair-minded Americans – and particularly residents of Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, and Washington – will support their LGBT friends, family members, and co-workers.” The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve LGBT equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. For more information on the group, visit www.hrc.org.
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northwest news
REGISTER TO VOTE The deadline for mail-in and on-line voter registration and changes of address has past. If you moved since the last election and haven’t submitted a change of address, contact the Washington State Elections Office, 360-902-4180 to find out what your voting options for the November 6 election are. The FINAL deadline for NEW Washington State voter registration is Monday, October 29. The only option to register to vote in Washington State after October 8 is to go in person to your county elections office. Seattle/King County voters have TWO options. King County Elections Offices are located at both the King County Administration Building, 500 4th Ave. in downtown Seattle and at 919 SW Grady Way in Renton. The Snohomish County Elections Office is located at 3000 Rockefeller Ave. #505, Everett, WA 98201. The Pierce County Elections Office is located at 2501 S. 35th St., Tacoma, WA 98409. For other county locations contact the Washington State Elections Office, 360-902-4180. The 18-day mail-in voting period for the 2012 General Election is October 20-November 6. Ballots must be postmarked no later than Tuesday, November 6. If you mail your ballot on Tuesday, November 6, be sure to put your ballot in the mail box before that mail box’s last scheduled pick up of the day, to ensure that your ballot is postmarked November 6. (Earlier voting is recommended.) If your ballot is postmarked after November 6, your ballot will not be counted. Your county elections office can also provide you with locations where you can drop off your ballot in person. The November 6 General Election has several important candidates and issues on the ballot – including President of the United States, Governor of the State of Washington, Attorney General of the State of Washington, Referendum 74 to APPROVE Marriage Equality (LGBTQ Marriage) in Washington State, and Initiative 502 to Decriminalize Marijuana in Washington State. For more information on the 2012 election, contact the Washington State Elections Office, 360-902-4180; 800-448-4881 (voter hotline); www.vote.wa.gov. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – WASHINGTON UNITED FOR MARRIAGE CAMPAIGN TO APPROVE REFERENDUM 74 Washington United for Marriage is seeking volunteers to help with a myriad of tasks to ensure passage of Referendum 74. If approved, the referendum will uphold the decision made by the Washington state legislature and signed by Christine Gregoire to legalize Gay marriage, marriage equality, the freedom to marry for all couples. To get involved, email volunteer@washingtonunited.org, phone 206-486-0359, or stop by the Capitol Hill Action Center (517 E. Pike St.). There are volunteer opportunities around the state. To find out how you can get involved, visit www/washingtonunitedformarriage.org or call 425-954-3252. SEATTLE LESBIAN & GAY FILM FESTIVAL OCTOBER 11-21 www.threedollarbillcinema.org
$25. 1-800-838-3006; www.brownpapertickets.com/event/265661. Credit card purchases through Brown Paper Tickets; cash and check sales ONLY at the door. NORTHWEST BEARS POTLUCK On Saturday, October 20, from 6-8 p.m., at The Cuff Complex (13th Ave. & E. Pine St.), the Northwest Bears hosts their Northwest Bears Potluck. For more information, visit www.nwbears.com. “LET’S PLAY! RATED E FOR EVERYONE” – RAINBOW CITY BAND IN CONCERT On Saturday, October 20, at 7 p.m., at Edmonds Center for the Arts (410 4th Ave. W.), join the Rainbow City Band for an evening of video game music. Anne Kreider will debut in her new role as Artistic Director and Rainbow City Band Conductor. She will lead the symphonic band as they perform exciting new arrangements from popular sell-out video games including Halo, Final Fantasy, World of Warcraft, Civilization, Kingdom Hearts, Myst, and more. Conductor Jerilynn Harris-Kilgore will also lead the orchestra in her own arrangements of music from Assassin’s Creed 2, Legend of Zelda, and Tetris. The night promises to inspire an audience of all ages with magical and captivating music from the video game world. Tickets: $20-general admission, $15-seniors and youth. 425-275-9595 or http:// ec4arts.org. www.rainbowcityband.com.
TRINITY PARISH – MATTHEW SHEPARD MEMORIAL SERMON On Sunday, October 21, at 8 a.m.(said) and 10:30 a.m. (choir and organ), Trinity Parish Church (609 8th Ave., at James St.), an open and affirming Episcopal congregation, hosts a Mass of Hope & Reconciliation, their fourteenth annual celebration of Holy Eucharist (Holy Communion) commemorating the death and life of Matthew Shepard. Reverend Stan Fowler will deliver the serman “Marriage Equality is the Gospel Mandate of Our Time.” This is a church service and, of course, is free of charge. All are welcome at the Lord’s Table for Holy Communion. For more information, visit www.trinityseattle.org or phone 206-6245337. The Episcopal Church welcomes All! No Exceptions! Not because it’s politically correct, but because it’s what Jesus teaches. SEATTLE MEN IN LEATHER – LEATHER BRUNCH On Sunday, October 21, at 11 a.m., at CC Attle’s (1701 E. Olive Way), join Seattle Men in Leather for their monthly Sunday brunch. All members of the leather community are invited to attend. www.seattlemeninleather.org. SEATTLE PRIME TIMERS MONTHLY POTLUCK On Sunday, October 21, at 2 p.m., at Seattle First Baptist Church (1111 Harvard Ave., enter through the Harvard Ave. glass doors). There is a $4 per person door fee to help pay the cost of renting the hall. Please bring a dish to share that will serve eight or more people. The #2 Metro bus route stops right next to the church and is within walking distance of bus routes 10, 11, 12, 49 & 60. www.seattleprimetimers.org.
“MEN IN DANCE “ On Friday, October 19, at 8 p.m., Saturday, October 20, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, October 21 at 2 p.m., at Broadway Performance Hall (1625 Broadway), Men in Dance concludes a two week-end festival showcasing male dancers. Male dancers from major dance organizations such as Cornish College of the Arts, Pacific Northwest Ballet and the University of Washington will be participating, along with many local community choreographers and three out-of-state choreographers. Tickets: $20-
OCTOBER 22 NATIONAL DAY OF PROTEST TO STOP POLICE BRUTALITY On Monday, October 22, gather at 5 p.m. at Westlake Park (4th Ave. & Pine St.), rally begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by march. “An epidemic of police murder and beatings, courts of injustice, mass imprisonment, the demonization of Black and Latino youth – all this is not just still going on, it’s getting worse.... October 22, 2012 is the 17th National Day of Protest to Stop Police Brutality, Repression and the Criminalization of a Generation. This is a day for people all over the U.S. to take to the streets, act in many creative ways, and let it be known: We will NOT TOLERATE the epidemic of police
16 Seattle Gay News
October 19, 2012
EARSHOT JAZZ FESTIVAL OCTOBER 13-NOVEMBER 4 www.earshot.org
compiled by Rick McKinnon SGN Staff Writer
brutality and murder. Say NO to police bruOn Saturday, October 27, from 8 p.m.-2 tality, mass incarceration, and political re- a.m., at Fremont Studios, 155 N. 35th St., pression.” 206-264-5527; oct22seattle@ho- see and be seen at this alluring night of tmail.com; Facebook; www.october22.org. amazing music and dancing, enticing performances, lavish erotic art showcase, sulSEATTLE WEAVER’S GUILD try interactive installations, and, of course, ANNUAL SHOW AND SALE lots of delicious eye-candy, plus costume OCTOBER 25-27 contest with over $3,000 in prizes. Tickets: Thursday, October 25, 5-8 p.m., Friday, Individual - $28 limited tier 2 advance, $40 October 26, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday, Oc- when tier 2 sells out and at the door or $115 tober 27, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Bloedel Hall at St. Velvet VIP; Couple - $50 limited tier 2 adMark’s Cathedral (lower level), 1245 10th vance, $75 when tier 2 sells out and at the Ave. E. http://seattleweaversguild.com. door or $200 Velvet VIP. Plus after-party from 1-5 a.m. at Center for Sex Positive “VOICES UNITED FOR Culture. Last year Seduction drew 1500 of MARRIAGE” – Seattle’s sexiest and most creative people. SEATTLE MEN’S CHORUS/ www.seattleerotic.org. SEATTLE WOMEN’S CHORUS ON TOUR GAY CITY PRESENTS The SMC and SWC are showcasing their BUMP! 2012 HALLOWEEN PARTY support for marriage equality with a series On Saturday, October 27, from 9 p.m.of free concert events (no tickets required) 2 a.m., at Neumos (925 E. Pike St.), Gay in five cities throughout Western Washing- City presents Bump! 2012 with DJ Almond ton. Each program will feature a 90-minute Brown, DJ Spaceotter, Honey Bucket, the set of music, stories, and speakers devoted cast of Rocky Horror Picture Show, and to building awareness and engaging audi- their famous $1,000 costume contest. Adence members to help Approve Referendum vance tickets: $30-general admission; $65 74. VIP. Must be 21+/ID required. Tickets: Concerts have already been held in Taco- www.gaycity.org/bump. ma, Edmonds and Olympia. The remaining concert schedule is: NORTHWEST NETWORK Bellingham: Sunday, October 21, 3 p.m., MIMOSA BRUNCH & Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial 25TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY St. On Sunday, October 28, from 11 a.m.-1 Seattle: Friday, October 26, 8 p.m., Cen- p.m., at Southside Commons (3518 S. Edter for Spiritual Living, 5801 Sand Point munds St.), join Northwest Network for a Way NE. scrumptious biscuit bar and raise a glass to the amazing community that has sustained SEATTLE BUTOH FESTIVAL Northwest Network through a quarter cenDAIPANbutoh Collective presents Se- tury of survivor-centered work. Price: $50. attle Butoh Festival 2012 from October The Northwest Network of Bisexual, Trans, 22-28, a week of workshops, performances Lesbian and Gay Survivors of Abuse works and community conversations with two top to end violence and abuse by building lovinternational Butoh masters, and the artists ing and equitable relationships for our comin the collective and workshop participants. munity and across the country. 206-568On Friday, October 26, at 8 p.m., at Ve- 7777; www.nwnetwork.org. locity Dance Center (1621 12th Ave.), SUEN Butoh Company from Sweden and BISHOP GENE ROBINSON – DAIPAN members Kaoru Okumura, Helen “STRAIGHT TALK Thorsen, and Will Fredo perform. ABOUT GAY MARRIAGE” On Saturday, October 27, at 8 p.m., at VeAT TOWN HALL locity Dance Center, Atsushi Takenouchi On Monday, October 29, at 7:30 p.m., (Jinen Butoh) and DAIPAN members Joan Town Hall (8th Ave. & Seneca St.) presents Laage, Kaoru Okumura, Diana Garcia-Sny- Bishop Gene Robinson, one of the world’s der and Maureen “Momo” Freehill/Sheri leading religious spokesmen for Gay rights Brown perform. and Gay marriage. On Sunday, October 28, at 6 p.m., at VeThe bishop of the Diocese of New Hamplocity Dance Center, DAIPANbutoh pres- shire in the Episcopal Church, Robinson ents the “BUTOH OPEN” featuring experi- was the first openly Gay person to become a enced butoh students from this year’s festi- bishop in the historic traditions of Christenval workshop series. dom. He wore a bulletproof vest to his 2003 Tickets: Fri/Sat: $25-at the door, $22 pre- consecration and quickly stepped onto the purchase (student/seniors $15); Sun: $10; world stage. In 2009, he delivered the invoand workshop registration: www.brownpa- cation at the opening inaugural ceremonies pertickets.com/event/273073. www.daipan- for President Barack Obama, and a featurebutoh.com. length documentary on Bishop Robinson’s ministry, Love Free or Die, premiered at the ONE LOVE WEDDING SHOWCASE Sundance Film Festival in 2012. As a man On Saturday, October 27, from noon-5 who holds the Bible holy, the author of God p.m., at the Renaissance Seattle Hotel (515 Believes in Love makes the case for sameMadison St.), One Love Wedding Showcase sex marriage using a religious argument – presents more than 60 vendors providing and personal insight: Robinson was married products and services to same-sex couples to a woman for two decades and has been for every aspect of creating a life together married to a man the last four years. Tickets: – from planning a wedding, to legal and fi- $5 at www.townhallseattle.org or 888-377nancial support, real estate advice and more. 4510 and at the door beginning at 6:30 p.m. One Love is presented in association with GSBA and Washington United for Mar“EMERGING FROM THE riage. www.oneloveseattle.com. MARGINS: MARRIAGE EQUALITY & SEATTLE CENTER FESTAL – THE CHANGING LIVES OF DIA DE MUERTOS CELEBRATION LGBT OLDER ADULTS” OCTOBER 27-28 On Tuesday, October 30, from 5:30-7:30 On Saturday, October 27, from 12 noon- p.m., at the UW School of Social Work, 8 p.m., and Sunday, October 28, from 12 Room 305 (4101 15th Ave. NE), Karen noon-6 p.m., at Seattle Center’s Armory/ I. Fredricksen-Goldsen, Ph.D., Professor Center House, Taller Mexicano Para la Cul- and Director of the Institute for Multigentura y Las Artes presents their annual “Dia erational Health at the UW School of Social de Muertos” / “Day of the Dead” celebra- Work, addresses the important issues in the tion with a program of arts and entertain- lives of LGBT older adults in her lecture, ment, display of memorial altars and a stun- “Emerging from the Margins: Marriage ning tapete (monumental sand painting.) Equality and the Changing Lives of LGBT www.tallermexicano.org. Older Adults,” including key findings from the first national LGBT health and aging SEATTLE EROTIC ART FESTIVAL project, “Caring and Aging with Pride.” AtPRESENTS “SEDUCTION” – tendance is FREE, but RSVP is required at SEATTLE’S SEXIEST 206-543-7704. This lecture is co-hosted by HALLOWEEN Senior Services and SAGE Seattle.
Celebrating 39 Years!
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October 19, 2012
Seattle Gay News 17
campaign
continued from page 7 are heterosexual.” • The National Association of Social Workers said, “Legislation legitimizing second-parent adoptions in same-sex households should be supported. Legislation seeking to restrict foster care and adoption by Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, or transgender people should be vigorously opposed.” These researchers and organizations join several other professional organizations that have drawn the same conclusions. “It’s ironic to us that our opponents, who claim to oppose the freedom to marry on behalf of children and families, would actually seek to treat one set of children differently from another,” added Silk. “If they really cared about doing all that we can as a society to help kids succeed and thrive, then they should embrace marriage for those parents so that all families are treated equally and fairly.”
CLAIMS VS. FACTS Among the “busted” claims in the antiequality ad are these: CLAIM: “Gays and Lesbians already have the same legal rights as married couples.” FACT: While domestic partnerships are legal in Washington, states that have passed such laws have found them to be fundamentally unequal and harmful. As the Supreme Court of Connecticut wrote in 2008 when it struck down a statute that prohibited samesex marriage, civil unions and marriage “are by no means ‘equal.’” The court explained in its opinion: “Despite the truly laudable effort of the legislature in equalizing the legal rights afforded same-sex and opposite-sex couples, there is no doubt that civil unions enjoy a lesser status in our society than marriage.” CLAIM: Marriage “was created for the care and well-being of the next generation.” FACT: Many households headed by same-sex couples in the U.S. are raising
children. According to the U.S. Census, approximately 20 percent of same-sex couples are raising nearly 250,000 children. Children being raised by loving, committed same-sex couples – like all children – deserve the protections that come from allowing their parents to marry. CLAIM: “When laws like [R-74] have occurred elsewhere, people who disagree have faced lawsuits, fines, and punishment.” FACT: A Seattle Times national investigation “failed to turn up any evidence that same-sex marriage had produced a rash of suits involving businesspeople.” The newspaper “also checked with human rights commissions in four of the six states where [same-sex] marriage is legal; the commissions said there was not an increase in discrimination findings or suits involving same-sex marriage.” FOR THE RECORD On October 17, Washington United for Marriage announced that more than 30 children and family advocacy organizations across the state have endorsed the group’s work, noting that by affirming the law, Washington will show that it fully values and supports all families. The endorsing organizations, which work with tens of thousands of families and children statewide, include the Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (WCAAP), the Washington Academy of Family Physicians, and the Children’s Alliance. These leading family advocates concluded that giving all parents the ability to marry helps protects children and families in Washington. They are committed to the health, safety, and general well-being of children and their families, and provide services ranging from medical and mental health care, to legal and legislative advocacy, to primary and secondary education. “There is growing evidence in the medical literature that marriage has health benefits both for the married adults and especially for their children,” said Dr. Anne Montgomery, president of the Washington Academy of Family Physicians. “The Washington Academy of Family Physicians supports Referendum 74 because we work for optimal health for all families.” Another endorsing organization is WCAAP, which has a long history of advocating for Washington’s children, their families, and their health care providers. Nearly 1000 pediatricians, including general pediatricians, sub-specialists, and hospitalists, are
members of the WCAAP. “The WCAAP joins the national American Academy of Pediatrics and a number of other state chapters in concluding that marriage promotes equal health, developmental opportunities, and the general well-being of all children,” said F. Curt Bennett, M.D., president of WCAAP. “One of the core values of this state is promoting healthy, strong children and families because all children deserve stable, loving parents,” said Washington State Rep. Ruth Kagi, chair of the House Early Learning & Human Services Committee, which considers issues relating to early childhood education and a broad array of other issues affecting children and families. “After looking at this issue for many years, and hearing from constituents all across our districts about why marriage matters to their families, supporting the freedom to marry was an easy vote for me and many of my colleagues.” “Children of same-sex couples are in schools, playgrounds, and neighborhoods throughout Washington,” said Jon Gould, deputy director of the Children’s Alliance. “We know that all parents want a safe and supportive environment for their children to grow up in. That is why the Children’s Alliance encourages all voters to vote Approve on Referendum 74 and affirm the value of every family and every child.” “These leading advocates recognize that in Washington, we care about all children, and that means supporting the freedom to marry, which helps protect parents and their families from whatever may come their way,” said Washington United for Marriage campaign chair Lacey All. “They know that Washington’s kids grow up in all kinds of families and that supporting Referendum 74 means valuing and respecting all families.” R-74 WOULD BOOST THE ECONOMY Also this week, the campaign to Approve Referendum 74 chastised opponents for making a false business case in their effort to overturn the bipartisan marriage law that simply gives all loving couples the freedom to marry. “With 488 business endorsements ranging from small, downtown shops to iconic Washington employers like Microsoft, Starbucks, REI, Nordstrom, Google, Amazon, and Alcoa, as well as leading business organizations like the Seattle Chamber of Commerce, opponents are clearly seizing on arguments that fly in the face of real-life business experience and contradict studies
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www.sgn.org 18 Seattle Gay News
October 19, 2012
www.sgn.org Celebrating 39 Years!
which show that same-sex marriage would immediately contribute to the economic engine of the state,” officials said in a press release. According to the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, about 9,500 samesex couples would marry within the first three years of the law, creating an $88 million boost to the state and local economy, with a $57 million boost the first year alone. In addition, the Institute concludes that those marriages would add $8 million in tax revenue to state and local coffers, with an additional $5 million in the first year. “To assert that just one social indicator illustrates the fate of a state’s economic strength or weakness is to oversimplify all that should be taken into account to paint a clear picture of a region’s vitality,” said George Allen, senior vice president for government relations at the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber regularly reaches out to employers and as such knows full well that fostering an open, inclusive, and inviting workforce is one of the pillars to job creation and economic vibrancy.” “This is just gobbledygook,” said Silk about opponents’ claims that states without the freedom to marry fare better economically. “If this were all about static economic charts, then the leading businesspeople and corporate leaders throughout the state would not be standing behind our effort to defend the state’s marriage law and approve Referendum 74. With no one standing with them, I guess the next best thing is to throw some malarkey up against the wall and hope it sticks.”
sex marriage generated $259 million in eco- record on LGBT issues, but he was innomic activity for New York City alone. strumental in moving the Equal Marriage Act out of the Rules Committee for a floor vote,” Friedes explained. “And [Bill] Finkbeiner’s 2006 Senate vote was what passed the Anderson-Murray civil rights bill.” continued from cover SEAMEC gave Finkbeiner a solo endorsement, with a “4” rating. For attorney general, neither group made you did vote is not. Once we see that you an endorsement. SEAMEC rated Democrat did, in fact, vote, then we don’t have to call Bob Ferguson “4” and Republican Reagan you or mail you to remind you to vote Ap- Dunn “3” – “meets expectations.” prove on 74. That saves us a tremendous “Ferguson has been a longtime champion amount of resources we can use where we of LGBT rights,” Friedes noted. “Reagan really need it.” Dunn has nowhere near his record, but ERW’s endorsements can be found at the we were delighted with his [King County Progressive Voters Guide, www.progres- Council] vote for marriage equality.” sivevotersguide.com. SEAMEC’s are on In what Friedes called a “tough race,” page 9 and at www.seamec.org. ERW is endorsing Secretary of State candiWhile SEAMEC does not usually endorse date Kathleen Drew. presidential candidates, ERW has endorsed Barack Obama for re-election. “We should be enthusiastic about voting for Obama,” Friedes said, “because of what he’s done for the LGBT community. Romney would be a disaster – for so many segments of the LGBT community, notably women.” Both ERW and SEAMEC have endorsed U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell’s re-election bid. SEAMEC gave Cantwell a “4” rating, indicating that she “exceeds expectations.” “She is an outspoken supporter of LGBT rights,” Friedes added.
ballots
“She is passionate about LGBT civil rights,” he said. SEAMEC rated Drew a “4” while her opponent, Kim Wyman, received a “3” rating. UNSUNG HEROES Among other statewide candidates, Friedes singled out incumbent Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler for special praise. “He really deserves our support. He’s been an all-star,” Friedes told SGN. “He’s worked hard to interpret the laws to make sure that insurance providers recognize LGBT relationships as much as possible.” SEAMEC also endorsed Kreidler. In addition, Friedes noted that Public Lands Commissioner Peter Goldmark “made sure the rules governing public restrooms meet the needs of Transgender people.”
STOP KOSTER ERW also endorsed congressional candidates Suzan DelBene in the First District, Rich Cowan in the Fifth District, Derek Kilmer in the Sixth, and Denny Heck in the Tenth, along with incumbents Rick Larsen (2), Jim McDermott (7), and Adam Smith (9). About the neck-and-neck First District race, Friedes said categorically, “We do not want [John] Koster in Congress!” SEAMEC has also endorsed incumbents McDermott and Smith. For statewide offices, both ERW and SEAMEC have endorsed Jay Inslee for governor. “Inslee really is an all-star on LGBT civil rights,” Friedes told SGN. “Inslee has an impressive understanding of the needs of the LGBT community, especially the Trans community. He has an understanding of the kinds of services people need. “McKenna has been hostile to the LGBT community, on marriage in particular. I don’t understand how any LGBT person could vote for McKenna given his position on marriage.” SEAMEC has rated Inslee a “4” – “exceeds expectations.” McKenna was rated “2” – “needs improvement.”
SMALL BUSINESSES AND R-74 In addition, small business has lined up behind Referendum 74 because they believe it best reflects their community and sends a message to both customers and employees alike. “I support Referendum 74 because the marriage law treats everyone fairly and equally under the law and that means a lot to both my customers and the people who work for me,” said Alison Collins, who owns Boots Bakery & Lounge in Spokane and employs 12 people. Added Don Orange, owner of Hoesly Auto and Tire in Vancouver, which supports four family-wage jobs, “From a business perspective, this will draw business to our state. I am in Vancouver, and I’m right across the Oregon border. When marriage was legal in California, people went there to get married and I fully expect folks to do the same right here in Vancouver, and that will help all of us.” More specifically, Iowa and New York, two states that recently passed laws allowing the freedom to marry, have seen an immediate uptick in revenue as a result. In NO CLEAR CHOICE FOR #2 the first year after Iowa legalized same-sex Friedes says that for the first time in marriage, wedding arrangements and tourism generated $12 million to $13 million ERW’s history, the group issued a dual enin economic activity and nearly $1 million dorsement in the race for lieutenant goverin tax revenue. In the year following New nor. “Brad Owen has had a less-than-stellar York’s passage of marriage equality, same-
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“Citizens United – corporations are not people,” he told CNN. “And if you look at our current election, we’re spending over a billion dollars to decide who our next president is going to be, and to me, that says that money has an overriding influence in our politics right now.”
Chris Kluwe ‘shows’ his support in OUT Magazine poll
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Chris Kluwe on the cover of OUT Magazine
continued.
by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor Minnesota Vikings punter Chris Kluwe, an outspoken straight ally to the LGBTQ community, posed for pictures in the current issue of OUT Magazine. Kluwe, who strongly supports the freedom to marry, recently told CNN, “To me, this fight is about equality and human rights. The fact is there are Americans who pay taxes and serve in our military – who defend this country – who do not receive the same legal protections as the rest of us. To me, that’s flat-out discrimination. That’s the
same as segregation or [women’s] suffrage.” “I will defend to the death your right to say or do whatever you want, as long as it does not oppress other people,” he said. The pro football player told OUT Magazine’s Cyd Zeigler he has “always relished breaking that stereotype of the dumb jock athlete because while I enjoyed athletics growing up, I also enjoyed reading and video games, and athletic sport is not what defines me as a person.” “I think as more and more generations start rising through the NFL, a lot of these kids see that it’s OK to be something other than an athlete,” he
“This resulted in a point estimate of 52.9 to 46.6 – a 6.3-point difference,” the pollsters concluded. CONSISTENT WITH EARLIER POLLS The crosstabs show results that match previous polling by other organizations. Voters in Western Washington are far more supportive of marriage equality than voters who live to the east. A plurality of voters in every age group support marriage equality, but young voters and boomers approaching retirement are more enthusiastic than seniors and younger middle-age voters. In the 18-29 age group, 68.2% of respondents said they would Approve R-74, compared to only 26.1% who would reject it. Among those aged 30 to 44, the numbers were 50.2% Approve, 39.1% reject. In the 44-65 age bracket, 59.1% said they would Approve and only 34.3% would reject R-74. The most senior age group, those 66 and over, divided roughly along the same lines as the 30-44 group.
Kluwe says he’s merely reaching out to speak for those he feels are not properly represented. “It shouldn’t be news when someone speaks out for equality. It should be news when someone speaks out against it.” INSLEE HOLDS NARROW LEAD In other poll results, President Obama is well ahead of challenger Mitt Romney in Washington, with 51.8% of registered voters saying they are certain or planning to vote for Obama, and only 41.3% are certain or planning to vote for Romney. The numbers are not so different for the sample of likely voters – 51.9% Obama, 42.9% Romney. The governor’s race is much closer. Jay Inslee has a narrow lead, one that is within the margin of error. Among registered voters, Inslee leads 47.9% to 44.7%. Among likely voters, Inslee leads 48.3% to 45.1%. The U.S. Senate race looks like it will be a blowout for Maria Cantwell, with 58.3% certain or leaning towards her. Michael Baumgartner’s share of the vote is only 34.8%. Among likely voters, Cantwell’s share drops to 57.7% and Baumgartner’s increases to 35.4%. I-502, the initiative to legalize, tax, and regulate marijuana, has a respectable lead among registered voters, with 50.9% total yes, compared to 40.8% total no, but the measure′s overall lead among likely voters is not as impressive, with 47.1% total yes to 40.1% total no.
ATTITUDES ARE CHANGING “I think there is a much more tolerant atmosphere in the NFL now,” he told CNN, when asked if an openly Gay player would be accepted in the league. “[But] until someone comes out, we never will know.” Kluwe has also said via his Twitter account that he’s ready and willing to debate any Minnesota politician on the same-sex marriage issue. In fact, according to Yahoo! Sports, he recently sent 10 debate invitations to prominent local Republicans, and has not received a response.
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WUM
continued from cover years and now it’s come to fruition,” said John Wilkinson, who volunteers at the front desk of WUM’s Capitol Hill Action Center. “If I didn’t do something to forward the cause I’d be embarrassed and ashamed.” A DIFFERENT APPROACH Sam Wilson, a WUM volunteer who recently moved to Seattle from California to be with his boyfriend, is calling his com-
mitment to volunteer a “second try.” Wilson phone-banked during the Prop 8 campaign and spoke to SGN about the difference between volunteering for persuasion phone banks and GOTV phone banks. “I think there’s some nervousness in regards to phone-banking, especially with the persuasion phone-banking,” said Wilson. To Wilson, GOTV phone-banking is a lot more approachable because volunteers are talking to people who already support the issue. “But persuasion phone-banking can be a lot more rewarding. It’s always good to feel like you’ve changed people’s minds,” Wilson told SGN. GOTV phone banks will reach out to voters in Seattle, Shoreline, Bellingham, Bellevue, Tacoma, Langley, Yakima, Ellensburg, and the Tri-Cities.
your time), will headline WUM’s statewide GOTV effort. Door-to-door activities will take place in neighborhoods in Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane the next three Saturdays (October 20 and 27, and November 3). In addition to encouraging supporters to vote, WUM has launched a 24-hour hotline to assist voters with questions about how to secure a ballot, how to fill it out, where to drop it off, and more. The toll-free number for the hotline is 1-855-564-2668. And recently, alongside coalition partners, WUM also recently helped register 50,000 new voters on college and university campuses statewide. Together, the phone-banking and doorto-door efforts will operate out of 12 locations statewide, where, for the next three Saturdays, volunteers will work from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. – all driving toward the goal CAN YOU SPARE A DAY? of reaching one million voters. WUM’s shift The door-to-door effort, called “Donate to GOTV tactics coincides with the mailing a Day for Marriage” (i.e., donate a day of of ballots to voters across the state.
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