Dear Editor,

Domestic partnerships are a start – a good start – toward true equality under the law for all families.

Now, let’s take the next step together. Following in the footsteps of Iowa, Vermont, California and D.C., let Washington join the vanguard, and give all couples - straight or gay - full marriage equality.

In these uncertain times, when people are losing jobs or taking lesser ones, when medical benefits are scarce, when children are frightened and parents are worried, let us wrap all families in the security, the protection, the responsibilities, and the rights that come from true marriage equality.

Please don’t listen to the lies and the fear. Please listen to the commitment, the respect, and the love my gay and lesbian friends have for each other and their children. Please support full, true, legal equality for gays and lesbians who wish to marry.

Kathy Byrd
Ballard