Sen. Ed Murray Issues Statement Regarding Anti-Marriage Equality Advocates Turning in Signatures Thi

In response to Referendum 74 proponents turning in signatures today, State Sen. Ed Murray, issued the following statement:

“Today’s announcement that anti-marriage forces have apparently turned in sufficient signatures to qualify Referendum 74 for the ballot is a disappointing, though not unexpected, development.

“Joined by so many others, gay and straight, I have fought for years to ensure that the promise of equal treatment under the law extends to all Washington State families, including gay and lesbian families. For me, this is more than an issue of policy. It is personal. For the last 20 years, I have been in a committed relationship with my partner, Michael Shiosaki. When our state’s historic marriage equality law goes into effect, Michael and I will finally be able marry, just like any other couple. 

“That all loving couples, whether gay or straight, will now have the opportunity to marry is a good thing, both for the institution of marriage and for our society more generally. Make no mistake: it is truly a setback for families, for all families, that a minority among us is trying to divide our state by restricting the ability of gay and lesbian couples in loving relationships to marry and start a family.

“But I do not believe their effort will succeed. I am confident that Washington voters will come together this November to reject the politics of division by voting to approve Referendum 74, thus upholding our marriage equality law. Together, we will win this vote in November, proving that we are one state and one people, and that we want all families to be treated fairly and equally.”