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This just in from The Seattle Times
Gov. Chris Gregoire is expected to announce her support for gay marriage at a news conference Wednesday morning, according to sources close to the discussions.The governor’s office won’t comment except to say there will be an 11 a.m. news conference on Wednesday to discuss “marriage equality.”
Leaders of Washington United for Marriage, a coalition of gay-rights, civil-liberties, labor and religious groups, announced in November they plan to pressure the Legislature this coming session to pass a marriage equality law in 2012.
You can watch a live webcast of Gov. Gregoire’s news conference here on TVW.
The 2012 legislative session starts on Monday, January 9th. Here’s what you can do to help make marriage equality a reality in Washington state:
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It just occurred to me that Chris Gregoire is a Roman Catholic. She could advance the cause for equality even further by prefacing her remarks with something like “As a Catholic…”
A few quotes from the press conference:
“Same sex couples…have a right to be equal.”
“It has been a battle for me, with my religion.”
“…not OK for the state to discriminate.”
“I feel so much better today than I have for the last seven years.”
“I believe in equality.”
“It’s time for Washington state to step up.”
Gov. Gregoire made clear that religious institutions may choose whom to marry, the state won’t dictate; she specifically separated religious beliefs from state responsibilities.
Regarding the bill, she and Sen. Ed Murray said there were enough votes in the House, but still a few votes short in the Senate. However, she firmly believes the votes will be acquired and the bill will come to her desk for signature.
Throughout her tenure, Gov. Gregoire has fought for equality, including speaking at a rally on the statehouse steps for anti-discrimination laws, and being the first sitting governor in WA to participate in a Pride celebration.
She also made clear that this action has nothing to do with her choice not to run again, everything to do with doing what is right.
However, we will need a very solid win. Right now, Attorney General Rob McKenna (R) is heavily favored to with the gubernatorial campaign, and he has a history of opposing equal rights for our community.
WA residents may call 360-902-4111 (number shown at the end of the vid) to express their views.