Seattle Gay News
Issue 40, Volume 37, October 2, 2009
SGN Special section Approve Referendum 71
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all photos Shaun Knittel
A message from the Approve 71 campaign
by Washington Families Standing Together
IMPORTANCE OF DONATION A donation to Approve 71 is a donation for all families in the state of Washington. Monetary gifts to this campaign are crucial to keeping the domestic partnership law in Washington. As a nonprofit, volunteer-run initiative, the campaign to approve Referendum 71 has no regular source of income, meaning that it relies completely on the generosity of third parties and people like you to ensure all families in Washington have the protections they need to care for one another, particularly in times of crisis. Challenges: Only certified in September, the campaign has a very short window to raise a lot of money. Unlimited contributions are allowed, except that after October 12, no one individual or donor can contribute more than $5,000 (cumulative) through Election Day. Here is what your gift will make possible: Buying TV ads on broadcast and on cable, direct mail to voters, live phone calls to voters, automated phone calls to voters, presence at community events, and materials to explain the importance of approving Referendum 71. lurleen
Seattle Gay News
October 2, 2009
“Social networking presents the opportunity to petition a vast audience for support, raise awareness, and influence mainstream media, as well as raise funds,” says Joe Mirabella, member of the Approve 71 coordinating committee and volunteer driver of the campaign’s social media efforts. “Our Facebook and Twitter pages have expanded our support exponentially.” Facebook and Twitter have the advantage of millions of users, resulting in a widespread target audience and potential for a viral response. These sites have become a popular activism interface because they are free, easy to use, and reach millions of people. These websites have jumpstarted interest in worldwide issues, issues that would otherwise be unheard of, and have resulted in massive outpourings of support through wall posts, becoming a fan, changing profile pictures to represent a group or cause, posting up-to-the-minute microblogs, and submitting donations. Additionally, social networking campaigns have become invaluable in encouraging young people to vote. That is why these social networking platforms are so vital to the campaign to Approve Referendum 71, which asks voters to approve expanding domestic partnership rights in the state of Washington. Thus far, Approve Ref. 71 has over 13,000 fans on Facebook.
HRC dinner gala a huge success for Ref. 71
Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese
by James Whitely SGN Contributing Writer On September 26, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) held its Pacific Northwest 10th anniversary dinner at the downtown Westin Hotel. The theme of the $200/plate dinner gala was “Speak!” Members of the HRC extended the invitation to all members of the community. The suit and tie affair was a night of silent auctions, speakers, and fundraising. Taking place an hour before dinner, the silent auction, which was full of items donated to the HRC by local and national businesses, had a very posh feel to it. Those in attendance sipped cocktails and bid on art, vacations, and beauty packages. The dinner featured HRC President Joe Solmonese giving a motivational speech about the importance of speaking up, speaking out, and speaking proud. Representative Rick Larsen (D-Wash.) spoke on Referendum 71 and what it will take to win it.
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about ensuring that all of Washington’s families are treated equally and fairly under the law. • Donate to Approve Referendum 71 at www.approve71.org/donate.
james whitely
The Approve 71 campaign recently released polling data that shows the campaign to protect all of Washington’s families and keep the state’s domestic partnership law promises to be a tough fight that hinges on strong voter turnout. Following certification of R-71 on September 2, 2009, the Approve 71 campaign commissioned Greenberg Quinlan Rosner (GQR) to conduct a statewide survey of voters likely to vote in Washington’s upcoming general election. “We have seen over the years that an increasing majority of Washingtonians support equality under the law for all Washington families,” said Anne Levinson, Approve 71 campaign chair. “But we know that in an off-year election voter turnout trends to older, more conservative voters, and as much as half of the general population won’t be voting, so we wanted to ask just likely voters about specific ballot language.” The poll result numbers strongly suggest it will be a close election. When voters are read the exact ballot language, they divide 51 percent “approve” and 44 percent “reject.” “The poll suggests the same trend we’ve seen across the country: the highest margins of support are among younger voters and those who vote less frequently, particularly urban voters,” Levinson said. “The R-71 election is likely to have a very narrow margin and since the measure was certified so late, we only have a few weeks to reach voters to explain what the domestic partnership law is and how it protects families. It is critical that those who support the law turn out
to vote.” Further complicating matters is the fact that when voters are unsure of what a measure is about, they tend to vote “no.” With R-71, supporters of domestic partnership laws have the approve position. “Every voter who cares about ensuring that all Washington families have equal protection under state law must talk to their friends and family about the importance of voting approve on R-71. Thousands of families across the state are counting on us,” Levinson said.
CHANGE IS EASY AND FREE with facebook and twitter If you have a Facebook or Twitter account, you can change the world – starting by preserving Washington’s domestic partnership law. There is no doubt about it: social networking websites like Facebook and Twitter are taking the internet by a storm. Luckily for nonprofit activists, these wildly successful social networking sites are also revolutionizing grassroots activism. With over 300 million people actively using Facebook – including 1.5 million in Washington state alone – and 11.5 million people using Twitter, the potential for nonprofits to reach a widespread and rapidly expanding audience is virtually boundless. That is where you come in. As social networking users, you have the power to influence mainstream media and spread the word about important causes, like approving Ref. 71. Here’s how you can help: • If you already have a Facebook page, become a “fan” of Approve Referendum 71 at www.facebook.com/approve.referendum.71. • Also on Facebook, friend “Approve Referendum 71” and join the group • Change your Facebook status to “I am voting to Approve Referendum 71” or “I am voting for Washington’s families – yes on 71.” • Tweet about conversations you have about Approving Referendum 71 • Direct your friends on Facebook and Twitter to the Approve Referendum 71 website (www.approve71.org) so they can learn
The fundraiser also featured Lesbian comedian Dana Goldberg, who emceed the evening, and professional charity auctioneer April Brown. Members of the community were also afforded the opportunity to donate any amount of money they chose directly to Washington Families Standing Together for the Approve Referendum 71 campaign. Although there was only one taker at the $5,000 level, almost all the smaller donation levels ended up exceeding it. There were more than 20 takers at the $500 level. All in all, $71,200 was raised for the Approve Referendum 71 campaign in a matter of minutes. The last speaker was actress and activist Kathy Najimy. Certainly the most entertaining speaker of the night, she shared stories and goodwill as the evening came to a close. The gala was certainly a night to remember for those that were in attendance. Everyone seemed to leave with a strong sense of energy and hopefulness.
Celebrating 36 Years!
What you can do to help Approve Ref. 71 With ballots arriving in mailboxes by Oct. 17, there are ten things that everyone in Washington can do to help Approve Referendum 71. Commit to do all 10. 1. Phone bank at a call center to spread the word by emailing volunteer@approve71.org or calling 206-324-2570. If you live outside the Seattle/Tacoma Metropolitan area, go to www.approve71.org to phone bank from home or find a phone bank near you. 2. Donate online to support the Approve 71 campaign at www.approve71.org/donate (or write a check payable to Washington Families Standing Together, and mail it to: Washington Families Standing Together, 603 Stewart St Suite 819, Seattle, WA 98101). 3. Knock on voters’ doors in Seattle and Tacoma. Our big push will be on Oct. 17 and again on Oct. 31 when we’ll team up with The Washington Bus for Trick-or-Vote. That’s right, canvassing in costume! To sign up, check out our events listing on the Approve 71 website Link: http:// fusewashington.org/page/event/search_simple> 4. Change your Facebook photo to the Approve 71 icon and talk about Approving 71 in your status messages. If you run a website or blog, please link to Approve71.org with both a text and graphic link. This will be a big help to the campaign to create awareness for the site. 5. Link to Approve 71 from your email signature and change your voicemail message to tell your friends and family to Approve Referendum 71. 6. Print out and distribute informative handouts from our website. www. approvereferendum71.org/handouts 7. Help win over public opinion by writing a Letter to the Editor telling your story, and why your neighbors should Approve Referendum 71. Get started using our online letter writing tool at www.Approve71.org 8. Ask the President or the Board of Directors of any organization in which you are a member to endorse the Approve 71 campaign. 9. Talk to all your friends, family members and neighbors about the importance of voting to Approve Referendum 71. Think of how many people you interact with everyday, and think of how many conversations you can have about Ref 71. Ask people to take the pledge to Approve Referendum 71. 10. And, more than anything: make sure you vote. This election will really hinge on who actually mails in their ballots – so make sure you’re one of those that does mail in your ballot. Oct. 5 is the deadline for online and mail in registration. To check your status visit: http://wei.secstate.wa.gov/osos/en/ voterinformation/Pages/RegistertoVote.aspx
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October 2, 2009
Seattle Gay News
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Shaun Knittel
Efren Chacon, host of Caliente Fridays at Neighbours Underground, appealed to the LGBT Latino community to Approve Referendum 71 this November. Efren, a POCAAN employee and Gay advocate, is a strong supporter of equal rights.
Referendum 71 and the Latino community by Efren Chacon Special to the SGN Toda la gente en el estado de Washington que se beneficiaría de la aprobación del referéndum 71 tiene exactamente la misma meta, que es disfrutar de las derechos que
October 17, 2009 to Memorial Day 2010, over 2000 hand blown glass floats will be hidden on the beach for you to find and keep!
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All people in the state of Washington who would benefit from the Approval of Referendum 71 have exactly the same goal, which is to enjoy the rights that Washington State offers all its citizens and to do this without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sexual orientation or nationality. We must vote YES on Referendum 71, to uphold the new law giving same-sex couples registered as domestic partnerships the same rights and privileges under state law as married heterosexual couples with the exception of legal marriage. The GLBT Latino community, our friends and families must stand and have our voices heard. How can you help? 1) Ensure you are registered to vote and encourage friends and family to sign up. The deadline to register to vote is October 5. Go to http://wei.secstate.wa.gov/osos/en/voterinformation/Pages/RegistertoVote.aspx for more information on how to get registered. 2) Contact organizations in the Latino community and volunteer your time to help get the word out. 3) Ensure that your address with the voting regulatory agency in your community is current so that your ballot reaches you in time. 4) Tell people that care about you, but are not on board with how this law will affect you, that you need their vote. 5) Support your local representatives, who work tirelessly to pass legislation that is inclusive of all its citizens. There are a number of organizations – POCAAN being one of them – grounded in the Latino community whose mission is to build unity across all racial and economic sectors, to organize, empower, and defend our most vulnerable and marginalized populations, and to bring justice, dignity, equality, and freedom to all the peoples of the Washington State, and, eventually, the world. This includes the Latino GLBT communities. Contact one of these groups in your town and please get involved. Do not let all the hard work that has been done to advance the rights of the minority go to waste by not getting involved. As citizens of this country and state, we each have a civil obligation to participate in the process. Remember, we are the ones who are affected by this law, and we must continue to fight for our place in society. When we voted in the national presidential election to bring a new voice to the White House, the GLBT community made a difference. Let’s do it again! courtesy art ruiz
Finders Keepers
el estado de Washington ofrece a todos sus ciudadanos y hacer esto sin consideración alguna hacia la raza, el credo, el color, la religión, la orientación sexual o la nacionalidad. Debemos votar SÍ sobre el referéndum 71, mantener la nueva ley que da a las
parejas del mismo sexo registradas como sociedades domésticas los mismos derechos y privilegios bajo la ley estatal que parejas heterosexuales casados a excepción de la unión legal. La comunidad GLBT Latinos, nuestros amigos y las familias DEBEN colocar y hacer que nuestras voces sean escuchadas. ¿Cómo puede usted ayudar? 1) Asegúrese que le coloquen para votar y para animar amigos y a la familia a la inscripción. El plazo a colocarse para votar es el 5 de octubre. Vaya a http://wei.secstate.wa.gov/osos/en/voterinformation/Pages/RegistertoVote.aspx para más información sobre cómo conseguir colocado. 2) Entre en contacto con las organizaciones en la comunidad del Latino y ofrézcase voluntariamente su hora de ayudar. 3) Asegúrese que su dirección correcta con la agencia reguladora de votación en su comunidad sea actual de modo que su balota le alcance a tiempo. 4) Diga a gente que el cuidado sobre usted pero no está a bordo y cómo esta ley le afectará, eso que usted necesita su voto. 5) Apoye a sus representantes locales que trabajen incansable para aprobar la legislación que es inclusiva de todos sus ciudadanos. Hay un número de organizaciones puestas a tierra en la comunidad del Latino, cuya misión es construir la unidad a través de todos los sectores raciales y económicos, para organizar, autorizar, y defender nuestras poblaciones más vulnerables y marginadas y traer la justicia, la dignidad, la igualdad, y la libertad a toda la gente del estado de Washington, y eventual del mundo una de ellas es POCAAN. Esto incluye las comuni-
dades LGLBT Latino. Entre en contacto con a uno de estos grupos en su ciudad y consiga POR FAVOR implicado. No deje todo el trabajo duro que se ha hecho para avanzar las derechas de la minoría, van a perder no consiguiendo implicado. Como ciudadanos de este país y estado, cada uno tenemos una obligación civil de participar en el proceso. Recuerde, nosotros somos los afectados por esta ley y debemos continuar luchando para nuestro lugar en sociedad. Cuando votamos en la elección presidencial nacional para traer una voz a la casa blanca, la comunidad LGBT. ¡Vamos otra vez!
Oct 3: Mushroom Cook-off Oct 3: Cascade Head Music Festival Oct 10-11: Fall Kite Festival Oct 17: Glass Float Gala Oct 31-Nov 1: Glass Galore Art Fair Nov 14: Seafood & Chowder Cook-off Nov 14: Restoration Pow Wow Nov 19-22: Native American Art Festival Dec 26-Jan 1: Whale Watch Week
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Seattle Gay News
October 2, 2009
Celebrating 36 Years!
What does approving Referendum 71 mean to our community, and does it really matter? by Rob Morrison, Attorney at Law Special to the SGN
tation in hospitals, the right to participate as a spouse would in medical care decisions, and access to health care information. It also allowed one domestic partner to administer the other’s estate in the absence of a will; recognition of a partner on the deceased partner’s death certificate; the ability to sue for wrongful death of a partner; and the right to inherit property from a partner. In 2008 the scope of the law was expanded to provide registered domestic partners the same rights and obligations as spouses under Washington State laws regarding dissolutions, community property, estate planning, taxes, court process, service to indigent veterans and other public assistance, conflicts of interest for public officials, and guardianships. On this year’s November ballot, voters will face the decision to approve or not approve Referendum 71. If it is approved, the prior registered domestic partnership laws will be expanded to equate the rights and obligations of state-registered domestic partners with the rights and obligations of married people under the laws of the State of Washington. What effect would approving Referendum 71 have on registered domestic partners? Here are some of their stories. Audrey and Marge have been a couple for 18 years and have a 9-year-old son and 6-year-old twins. Audrey pointed out that the new law would allow registered domestic partners to be treated equally with married couples when going through the adoption process. For her, “to be treated equally with a married couple in all ways is a matter of care and respect. Being treated the same also matters to our children. Each of our kids has expressed how important it is
that people are always asking him about it. He is aware of the stigma and has to decide what to tell people. He would like it to be over with so that he can get on with his life. For kids, this is hard. Adults know about it and would like it to be different, but for kids it is hard. I wouldn’t care as much if I didn’t have kids.” Rae and her partner, Cheryl, live in Shoreline and have been together since 1998. They also registered as soon as the first law passed in 2007. Cheryl is 56, is disabled and has chronic health problems. Rae knows the fragility of having a partner who is not a legal spouse. “I remember what it was like when domestic partners were not recognized by hospitals even if they had the proper legal documents. The parents or siblings who disagreed with their lifestyle could stop a partner’s visitation.” They see the new law as a psychological boost. According to Rae, “I feel it would help to give us a deeper layer of responsibility to each other and a sense of security to our relationship.” Rae recounted that recently they were trying to buy a car and when the underwriter for the loan discovered they are not married, their assets and debts were treated differently and it was more difficult for them to get the loan. Being treated equally under the law, according to Rae, “would make our lives more certain.” For another registered couple who asked not to be named, “one of the greatest benefits [of Referendum 71 being approved] is predictability. Knowing how the law will apply to us in estate planning, real estate transactions, employment benefits, and the dozens and dozens of other areas where the government provides specific rights or responsibilities to married couples, is a big relief. One practical benefit we’ve already
received from the 2008 law is not having to pay excise tax when we added [the second partner’s] name to the title of our home. It’s also nice to know our rights are protected in emergency situations, even though we may not have our powers of attorney immediately accessible.” When asked if the new law will make them feel more secure, one responded: “I don’t know that it would make us feel more secure, but it would definitely make us feel less marginalized. Fortunately, I am self-employed and my partner works for a supportive employer, but we know not everyone is so lucky.” Curtis and Brad have two adopted boys, ages 5 and 3. They have been together since 1992 and had a commitment ceremony in 1997. Curtis is concerned that without the new law, people will not think of his partner and children as a “real family.” “Our kids are so young that they have only been surrounded by loving, supportive people. They have never experienced anything other than us being a ‘real family,’ but what if that got into their brains? What effect would that have on them?” Curtis also described the
lurleen
In 2007, Washington’s first domestic partnership law opened the door for domestic partners to have many of the same rights and obligations as spouses. Registered domestic partners were allowed rights of visi-
that our family be treated the same as families with legally married parents.” Marge added, “The new law would help to give legitimacy to our relationship. Our 9-yearold son picked up on us being treated differently right away. When he heard a story about racial minorities, he told me that he knows what it is like to feel like an outsider;
to protect [our friend’s] child. Would that happen for us? Is there a chance we would not be treated as well? The laws take care of them. Are we at risk?” Heather and Joan live in Magnolia with a beautiful view of Puget Sound. They have been together since 2003 and became registered domestic partners in July of 2007, just after the first domestic partner registration law came into effect. When asked what difference the approval of Referendum 71 would make in their lives, Heather said the level of responsibility, accountability, and security in their relationship would all be enhanced by being recognized under the law as equal to being married. “We are lucky enough to be able to afford good legal representation and have the protections of the appropriate legal documents but not everyone has these kinds of protections. We would feel that being seen as the same as married, would help if we were hurt and needed medical attention in a part of the state that wasn’t as liberal as Seattle.” Joan added that it would be “being treated equally under the law.” When we fill out our November ballots, we need to think about what impact approving Referendum 71 would have on the lives of registered domestic partners. Might it add to the responsibility, accountability and security of their relationships? Might it allow registered domestic partners to be treated equally under state law, grant them more care and respect and assist them to feel less marginalized? Might their children feel more like a ‘real family’ and feel better protected? Are these values that we should
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financial impact of equal treatment with married couples. He and Brad are both self-employed and have their own health insurance plans. Curtis recently received a letter from his insurance company informing him that the insurer will cover domestic partners which will save them $6,000 a year in premiums. He also recalled a sad experience with some close married friends. The husband died unexpectedly and the surviving wife and young child were immediately recognized as the beneficiaries of his life insurance and social security benefits. Even though he recognizes that the approval of Referendum 71 will not affect federal rights like social security, the experience of his friends made Curtis wonder what would happen to his family if they experienced a similar catastrophe. “There are many laws
October 2, 2009
encourage in the Gay community and our greater communities? The answer to all of these questions is clearly: Yes. Remember, voting to approve Referendum 71 is voting to give registered domestic partners all of the rights and obligations of married couples under the laws of Washington State. Rob Morrison is an attorney who for over 20 years has been offering legal planning, counsel, and document preparation services to clients with a focus on Wills, Estate Planning, Probate, Trusts, Domestic Partnership Agreements, Adoptions, Assisted Reproduction Agreements, and Guardianships. He can be reached at (206) 223-3920 or rmorrison@scblaw.com; or visit www.MorrisonLegal.com for more information.
Seattle Gay News
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Personally and as public policy,
I strongly support r-71
Families are the cornerstone of a strong and durable society. Domestic partnership laws allow all families the ability to protect their loved ones. We should actively encourage that. Whether relationships are between people of the same sex is irrelevant; America should be gender-blind as well as color-blind towards people in love. By voting to Approve Referendum 71, we are voting to keep the domestic partnership law, which helps ensure that all families in Washington are treated fairly and equally. R-71 should be approved. Our State will be the better for it. Please join me in supporting R-71 by voting “approve.”
Paid for by Rosencrantz for City Council, Harriet Bakken, Treasurer, 2316 - 18th Ave. East, Seattle, WA 98112-2113 6
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October 2, 2009
www.RobertRosencrantz.com Celebrating 36 Years!
Local candidates and officials issue statements on Ref. 71 Compiled by James Whitely SGN Contributing Writer
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susanhutchison.com
Our continued progress in Olympia on protecting all families depends on winning this battle. I know that we can win this, but our This week, SGN asked local elected of- success depends on strong turnout and on ficials and local candidates to give statements to our readers regarding Referendum 71. Below are statements from Mayor Greg Nickels, Representative Jamie Pedersen (D43), Mayoral Candidate Michael McGinn, Mayoral Candidate Joe Mallahan, County Executive Candidate Dow Constantine, County Executive Candidate Susan Hutchison, and Seattle City Council Candidate David Ginsburg.
Dow Constantine I’m confident that Washington voters will stand up for fairness and uphold the state’s domestic partnership bill. That bill recognizes the right of committed domestic partners to the legal benefits of marriage. As a leader of the House Judiciary Committee, I fought against many similar efOur democracy is built on equality, and forts to deprive some Washingtonians of together we can protect the rights of all citi- the rights the rest of us take for granted, inzens. cluding attempts by right-wing legislators to deny partner benefits at the University of Washington. We won that fight, and we can win this one too. Protect our core values. Uphold basic rights. Work to support the passage of Referendum 71.
shaun knittel
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Susan Hutchison Greg Nickels
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Greg Nickels The path to civil rights and equal justice is never direct or easy. It is a struggle, but one that we bear collectively. I am a passionate believer in equality and fairness, and I am convinced the voters of this state will affirm the rights of Gay and Lesbian families. Now is the time for renewed energy, optimism and confidence. The basic question we consider is simple: should any committed couple willing to shoulder the responsibilities Joe Mallahan of a loving partnership also enjoy the same Michael McGinn rights we all take for granted? The answer is an unqualified “Yes.” There is much work to making sure that people understand the right Joe Mallahan be done, and I will lend my voice, my hands way to vote. Please help! In Washington State, there are 12,000 and my heart to this important cause. people registered in domestic partnerships. Michael McGinn Approving Referendum 71 will protect famThe threat posed by opponents to civil ily/medical leave for sick loved ones, will rights cannot be underestimated, and it will protect health insurance coverage for a famtake a smart and dedicated campaign to pass ily and will provide protections for children R-71. I look forward to working closely with if a parent dies. If we do not approve Ref. Senator Ed Murray and other leaders in our 71, these protections will be taken away. city to make sure we do everything possible Seattle’s LGBT community has honored to maximize the vote coming out of Seattle me with their highest ranking (five straight for this important A’s) in the maymeasure. oral campaign R-71 expands and their support the rights and rehelped me win sponsibilities of the primary. domestic partners I urge Seattle registered in our voters to approve state. This legReferendum 71. islation brings Taking away famus closer to full ily protections are equality and repnot my values, resents a step forand I know they ward for our sociaren’t your valety. ues, either. That’s In 2004 I read why I am asking Jamie Pedersen the decision of you to join me in Jamie Pedersen Judge William approving ReferDo you want to live in a state that treats Downing of King endum 71. all families fairly and equally? Or do you County Superior We need to want to live in a state where a group of reli- Court, which ruled spread the word gious fundamentalists can use their narrow that it was unconthat this will be worldview to strip Gay and Lesbian couples stitutional to deny a tough fight. We and their families of basic protections? marriage to same need to get out That is what you will get to decide on the sex couples. His the Seattle vote to November ballot, when Washington voters ruling was clear, show that Washwill have the chance to decide the fate of unequivocal, and ington is a place Dow Constantine the latest domestic partner law. I hope that signaled a new that treats all famyou will vote to APPROVE Referendum 71 age. I was disappointed when the State ilies fairly and equally. and will work to make sure that all of your Supreme Court overturned that decision Please join me approving Referendum friends, neighbors, co-workers, and family in 2006 on grounds that do not stand up to 71. members VOTE and vote to APPROVE. scrutiny.
Susan Hutchison I will mark my ballot “approve” for R-71. I believe the state law which passed by wide margins in Olympia this year was appropriate action by the legislature to address a number of remaining legal issues for domestic partnerships and I don’t believe it should be overturned. King County has strong domestic partnership protections in place as well. As your county executive, I will ensure the county upholds the laws that provide fairness and equality in the workplace and beyond.
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David Ginsberg
David Ginsberg The legislature did the right thing in passing the “everything but marriage” legislation, and this attempt to turn back the clock and repeal rights that were granted by the legislature is reprehensible. My partner Mike and I have 7-year-old twins. Our family deserves to have the same rights as any other family. Our kids deserve the same legal protections that are provided to any other family. We must stand together and show the forces of hatred and fear that they are in the minority and a dying breed. I’ll fight for those rights just as I’ve fought for equality and social justice for my whole life.
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by David Zimmerman Special to the SGN Seattle Gay News asked two progressive religious leaders how Referendum 71 is being considered in their pews, and how they size up the referendum’s biggest opponent, the religious right. David Zimmerman conducted the interview. David Zimmerman: Ray Neal, you are the pastor at Metropolitan Community Church. Who worships there? Do you incorporate LGBT issues in your sermons? Ray Neal: MCC Seattle is the original welcoming, inclusive, affirming congregation of the Pacific Northwest, founded by and for persons in the LGBT community in 1972. We welcome all persons of sexual orientation or gender identity. The congregation is made up of Gay men, Lesbian women, Transgender and Bisexual persons, and our straight supporters. LGBT issues are strongly addressed through Biblical teachings specifically gauged to refute the fundamentalist religious right’s claims against the LGBT community. Zimmerman: Karla Fredericksen, you’re the pastor at the Des Moines United Methodist Church. When did the church start welcoming the LGBT community? How did it change the dynamic at the church? Karla Fredericksen: The Church officially became a “Reconciling” (also known as open and affirming) congregation in September 2008. The church is very welcoming overall of the LGBT community and has been for several years, with a few openly Gay persons who were members. My leadership with this congregation started in July 2008. We announce LGBT events without wondering if someone is going object, and we introduce people and their entire family,
their partners, etc. We also have had some new members to the community who have come because of our open stance – straight, Gay and Transgendered, too. Zimmerman: One of the staples of the religious right is to quote biblical text in their assertion that being Gay or Lesbian is a sin. Where do you go in the Bible to refute those claims? Fredericksen: I go to the gospels, which should be the very core of our Christian faith. I go to Jesus and his teachings about love. Jesus said, “Love one another as I have loved you.” I also go to Leviticus and name all the laws that we don’t look to, such as tearing down our mildewed walls and burning them at the city dump; and not eating shellfish and shrimp! I ask, why do we take one reference to homosexuality from Leviticus and hold it up as a standard, when 95% of laws alongside it are scorned and thought of as laughable? Neal: In the one incident recorded in the Bible when Jesus came into contact with a Gay man, he told the man that he hadn’t met anyone with such faith. The man had asked for Jesus to heal his lover (Matthew 8:5-13). The Bible is full of stories that demonstrate God’s love for all persons regardless of whether those persons meet the purity codes that some hold in such high regard in the Bible. Jesus refuted the Pharisees and Sadducees and the religious lawyers of his day. Jesus’ words of rebuttal echo down through the ages, telling us that the religious right is as wrong as the Pharisees and religious lawyers of his day were. They are misusing and abusing the word of God meant to bring peace and love to all persons. They replace God’s word of love with words of hate. Zimmerman: Because of the religious right, many in the LBGT community have stayed away from organized religion.
APPROVE REF.71 PARTY AT
Presented in conjunction with Thursday, October 15th, 8 PM – Midnight NO COVER Featuring Elysian Night Owl Pumpkin Ale and Leavenworth Oktoberfest Bier on Draft! 100% OF THE PROCEEDS OF ALL DRAFT SALES GO DIRECTLY TO APPROVE REF.71 ( WASHINGTON FAMILIES STANDING TOGETHER). Preserve the domestic partnership law! Have a beer – or The Skyy 71 cocktail – and support this crucial organization.
VOTE! VOTE! VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!
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Seattle Gay News
October 2, 2009
Shaun Knittel
Progressive pastors weigh in on Referendum 71
Metropolitan Community Church Pastor Ray Neal
Fredericksen: Come and see us! There are so many faith communities now who will accept you, value you, love you just as you are. And we will not try to make you something you are not. Zimmerman: Ray, you are Gay and a pastor. What would you tell these people? Neal: I’d certainly stay away from anyone who told me “God hates fags” or more politely asked me if I knew that “Gay and Christian” were incompatible facts of life. Why go where you aren’t welcome? Why stay in a place where you are constantly being bombarded with hate-filled speech? If that happened to me, you better bet I’d be up and out of my seat and headed for the door as fast as possible. Churches can provide a wonderful place of community for us, provided they are churches where the love of God is taught as paramount, and differences between persons is seen as a challenge to love more and grow together to build the kind of community that Jesus and the Jewish Old Testament taught us was possible. We should follow God’s teachings about community, love, and hospitality toward the stranger. Zimmerman: As a reporter, I often run into progressive religious leaders who embrace equal marriage rights, yet it seems the religious right dominates the discussion. Are they more organized than the religious left? How can you change that? Neal: When Communism died, the religious right turned toward the Gay community to wage its war against sin. They encourage their followers to send money. They’ve been very successful with this ploy to sway emotions. I‘ve heard my own father quote some of his religious heroes’ twisted facts and untruths about the LGBT community. My father sent money to fight “the homosexual menace.” Knowing I was a Christian minister, my Dad would forward their propaganda to me, not once thinking I was a Gay minister and would find it objectionable. I finally told him to, please, stop sending it to me. I could not believe the lies they were telling about our community. It was simply shocking. Fredericksen: Apparently they have been better organized – until now! We are finding our voice, although the secular progressive movements are doing a better job so far, than the religious. Our denomination’s Reconciling Ministries Network is very active – however, it is very much working toward change and acceptance within our own denomination first. Zimmerman: What are you and other progressive leaders doing to help approve Referendum 71? Fredericksen: I include references to Referendum 71 in preaching, and we have an information table set up next Sunday in
our narthex. As far as the impact these small contributions have to the debate, I believe that there is a ripple effect in the universe, and we may never know just what our small pebbles thrown in the pond might do in the long term. Neal: I would encourage all pastors and lay-leaders of congregations in Seattle and Washington State who support equal rights for all persons to boldly tell membership and friends to approve Referendum 71. Some leaders don’t want to rock the boat within their churches. But by not standing up for equal rights in bold speech and clear writings, we are helping to defeat our hope and keeping the walls of separation and hate in place. It’s time to “tear down the walls and build up hope” for all people! It’s time to stand up and speak out for God and for God’s people. Pastors and lay-leaders can have a big influence in how this election process plays out. Zimmerman: Are you affecting the debate? Neal: I speak out boldly within my congregation and the community in as many different ways as possible. I write letters to the editor and share my beliefs over coffee with others. I preach the truth to my congregation and asked them to share the issue with family, friends, and co-workers. I go to rallies and march for justice and equality. My congregation is a supporting organization for [the campaign to] approve Referendum 71. I encourage all progressive leaders in our religious communities to do the same. Speak up, speak out! Zimmerman: How important is approving Referendum 71 in both its immediate outcome – rights for domestic partners – and in the broader LGBT rights movement? Fredericksen: Immediately, it would just plain be fair and moral. In a broader view, people have to recognize basic rights, even for those they may despise or undervalue, before they can come to terms with putting aside other animosities and learn to accept all people as they are. Basic rights are a step toward broader and inclusive and equal rights. Zimmerman: Marriage as an institution has changed throughout American history. Women were denied a host of rights when they entered marriage far into the 20th century. Until 1967 when the Supreme Court struck down anti-miscegenation laws in Loving v. Virginia, it was illegal in some states for people of different races to marry. How does the modern day equal marriage movement play into this history? Fredericksen: One more wall needs to be broken down so that all may have equal rights and freedoms. This interview was edited and condensed.
Celebrating 36 Years!
Growing up, my Father always told me “Life Isn’t Fair”. I would always ask “But Why Not?” We now have a chance to change that. PURR Cocktail Lounge supports the fight. The fight for Equality. The fight to “Make Life Fair.” Approve REF 71. We will always be on your side. The side of Fairness and Equality. Your Friends,
PURR Cocktail Lounge Barbie
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October 2, 2009
Seattle Gay News
9
Pride Foundation wants you to Approve Ref. 71
by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer The Pride Foundation announced September 25 it helped to raise $35,000 for the Approve Ref. 71 campaign. One hundred percent of contributions will go directly to the campaign, said Pride Foundation officials. “Although there is still much more work to do to approve Referendum 71, today I feel hopeful and proud to be a part of a community that comes together and gives so generously to defend fairness and equality,” said Audrey Haberman, Pride Foundation’s executive director. On September 21, the board of directors of the Pride Foundation, a Seattle-based LGBT philanthropic organization, voted to contribute $15,000 to the Approve Ref. 71 campaign. Haberman asked foundation supporters to raise another $10,000 to make a powerful statement by the Pride Foundation community. The organization’s supporters listened, contributing $20,353 to bring the total amount to a $35,353 contribution. Haberman thanked everyone for his or
her contribution in a September 25 e-mail. “This is an incredible statement,” she said. “I thank each of who gave to this effort and all of you who encouraged your friends to give alongside you. Your efforts this week have re-affirmed what I know of the Pride Foundation community – that you are a committed group of people who always respond quickly and generously to ensure LGBT equality.” Additionally, the message to Pride Foundation community members contained a reminder for everyone to register to vote, make sure their voter registration information is correct, and to vote to approve Referendum 71 this November. “I really appreciate all the organizations and people that have come together to help the Approve Ref. 71 efforts. The urgency of this vote is being felt by people all over the state,” Haberman told SGN. “I am not at all surprised that Pride Foundation’s supporters came together and contributed so heavily to this work. I am honored that, together, we are able to contribute $35,000 to the Approve Ref. 71 campaign.”
Referendum 71: Freedom and family
by Teri Bednarski Vice President of Tacoma Lesbian Concern On November 3, in a non-presidential election year, a 114-page referendum will appear on our ballots. Who is going to take the time to read these 114 pages? To tell the truth, I have been involved in the issue since March, and I still have not read it. My teenage daughter has done artwork for a “Decline to Sign” poster, I have volunteered at Decline to Sign events, helped here and there behind the scenes, and worked half a day monitoring the signature verification process in Olympia. While what I have done pales in comparison to the amazing efforts of people like Laurie Jenkins and all the very dedicated and seemingly tireless volunteers in Pierce County and their peers across Washington State, will it be enough? Will the effort be enough to communicate to our neighbors and family that behind all the words of these 114 pages, the result, if Referendum 71 is rejected, boils down to simple bigotry? I have witnessed the trials that the Transgendered experience and the damage that occurs when they are not allowed to express their true selves. Many times they hide because they are so terrified of this very type of bigotry and the need to support their family in a culture that would not support them if they stayed with a partner of the same sex. I grew up facing the bigotry that existed prior to the Kennedy administration and the resulting damage to my family because my sister has Down Syndrome. I can only 10
Seattle Gay News
October 2, 2009
guess what many children face today whose gender identity or sexual orientation is not supported in our culture, but who have the courage to show it. We have heard of the hardships experienced by Gay men and Lesbians who defend our country that have to keep their window shades drawn when they are home to hide their relationships. What are we teaching their children, to whom their love is so obvious and their dedication to our country beyond reproach? The one point on which the opposition and I agree is this: Referendum 71 is not only about issues around how we define adult relationships, but maybe, more importantly, what we are teaching our children. I want my son and daughter to feel they have a choice, a choice to pursue a relationship that is not defined by how society defines gender, but by the values, morals and connection they have with the person with whom they wish to share their lives. A choice I did not even know existed when I was growing up. I do not want that choice to be constrained by anything but their hearts. I trust that I have taught my children the tools to discover their own path though life. I have no desire to constrain or interfere with the parenting done by those whose viewpoints match those of the opposition, but then again, I do not want mine constrained, either. This referendum is all about freedom. It is all about family. How much effort are we as individuals and as a community willing to put forth to fight for our rights to care and support those we love? Will those that follow us see it as enough?
Celebrating 36 Years!
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October 2, 2009
Seattle Gay News 11
we need your help. Washington Families Standing Together is hosting phone banks out of the Equal Rights Washington Office in Seattle, every Monday thru Thursday. Many shifts are available, so please consider donating your time to make a difference in the lives of thousands of families across the state. Log on to: www.approve71.org for more details.
Volunteers needed