Dear Editor,

I moved here 15 years ago from Texas because Washington exemplified to me the perfect place to live, raise my family and contribute successfully through my work and taxes to society.

Although my legal rights related to distribution of my estate and medical visitation by my partner when hospitalized came much later here, I chose to contribute through my work, taxes and
service to Washington State knowing that she could be "a shining beacon on a hill."

Domestic partnerships are a first step in increasing the rights of those of us who are treated unequally. However, the domestic partnership registry system provides none of the federal
protections of marriage like social security survivor's benefits, Veterans benefits, equal treatment under the IRS tax code and immigration rights.

I am writing to be a voice for justice and equality by asking for full equal rights under the law. Full marriage rights for gays and lesbians do not rob anyone of their freedom.

In these times of economic crisis, it is even more important that Washington offer equal rights and protections to all of its families. My partner, our son and I have to live every day without the safety nets and protections that most families simply take for granted. I ask other Washitonians to join with me in continuing to support a place as diverse and beautiful as the landscape where all can thrive. That is true American freedom. God Bless our home!

Jonakan O'Steen