June, 06 2012, 03:37pm EDT
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Angela Dallara
Communications Associate
646-430-3925
angela@freedomtomarry.org
Anti-Marriage Advocates in WA Submit Signatures Putting Law on 2012 Ballot
WASHINGTON
Today marriage opponents in Washington state have submitted signatures to bring the freedom to marry to a vote on the November ballot following the passage of a marriage bill earlier this year, which was signed by Governor Chris Gregoire and scheduled to go into effect later this week.
Marc Solomon, National Campaign Director of Freedom to Marry, released the following statement:
"During the week in which loving and committed same-sex couples in Washington were preparing to share in the joy of the first marriage ceremonies in the state, anti-gay advocates have decided instead to submit signatures forcing them to put a hold on their happiness and fend off a referendum on whether or not they can get married.
"We know that Washingtonians believe in freedom and fairness, and a majority want to see all people share in the joy and responsibilities of marriage. As an active partner in Washington United for Marriage, Freedom to Marry will work tirelessly to ensure that voters hear the stories, and learn about the lives of, loving and committed same-sex couples from Washington. We are confident that, as they do, they will conclude that a vote to take away their freedom to marry is out of sync with the Golden Rule values that all Washingtonians hold."
Washington is part of Freedom to Marry's Win More States Fund, which will raise and spend at least $3 million in crucial marriage campaigns in 2012. These funds contribute to grassroots organizing, television and radio spots, new media programs, and public education.
Freedom to Marry is the gay and non-gay partnership working to win marriage equality nationwide. Headed by Evan Wolfson, one of America's leading civil rights advocates and lawyers, Freedom to Marry brings new resources and a renewed context of urgency and opportunity to this social justice movement.
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