I was watching the interviews on The Ed Show about today's unfathomable court decision about the PA Voter ID law, and getting more depressed by the minute. I frantically and furiously started looking online to see what I can do. As I pounded away at the keyboard, this ad, which always makes me smile, came on the TV. My breathing slowed and I felt myself relax as I remembered there are good things happening in the world along with the dark things. I thought I'd pass it forward.
As you may know, marriage equality is on the ballot in WA State in November. It was passed by the legislature a few months ago, but before the new law went into effect, it was blocked due to the filing of a referendum.
Historically, ballots and marriage equality haven't been the strongest of allies. I suspect this time may be different. The time is right. The place is right. The iconic regional businesses are backing marriage equality. And if money means anything in issue elections, this one should be a blowout:
Former Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum, an outspoken, longstanding critic of gay rights, will appear in Bellevue and Spokane this fall, as ballots that include a same-sex marriage referendum get mailed to Washington voters. . . .The opponents of same-sex marriage are likely to need the boost late in the campaign
Washington United for Marriage, which supports marriage equality, has raised $5.759 million and has yet to spend three-quarters of the money. The Pride Foundation began running pro-gay marriage TV spots during the London Olympics.
By contrast, Preserve Marriage Washington -- the best-funded of anti-same-sex marriage groups -- has taken in $381,944 and has $168,000 in the bank, according to records at the Washington Public Disclosure Commission.
Same-sex marriage has gone 0-for-32 in statewide elections. But polls show marriage equality ahead in three states -- Washington, Maryland and Maine --” that will vote on the issue this fall.
Plus, there's a great ad campaign going on. Here's my favorite:If you want to read more about this family's story, here's the link. The most interesting part, for me, was that they have not one but two gay sons, and Rev. Rossing would like to officiate at his sons' weddings, as he did at those of their two straight daughters.