West Seattleites watch as governor signs marriage-equality bill

(Photo by KING 5’s Drew Mikkelsen, via Twitter)
Minutes ago in Olympia, Governor Gregoire signed the marriage-equality bill. West Seattleites there to witness history included King County Executive Dow Constantine and Anne Levinson, who shared this photo:

Constantine’s official statement:

This is an historic day for our state, as we finally recognize the equality and protect the rights of all the people of Washington.

We can all take pride in our status as the seventh state in the U.S. to recognize that marriage is a basic civil right.

This legislation has been fully and fairly debated. I congratulate Governor Gregoire for signing it into law.

No doubt this law will be challenged. I will work in whatever capacity I can to ensure its approval by Washington voters, just as I fought against the so-called “Defense of Marriage Act” more than a decade ago.

I look forward to the day when I can sign King County’s first marriage license for a same-sex couple.

A referendum petition drive is expected, which would mean no weddings until and unless voters upheld the law in November. Meantime, other reaction includes this from West Seattle-residing City Councilmember Tom Rasmussen: “”This achievement is the result of decades of tenacious and courageous work by people throughout Washington. I especially want to thank Sen. Ed Murray, who has worked tirelessly for fairness and equality for the passage of this landmark law.”

ADDED 2:11 PM: We’ve also heard from West Seattle’s King County Councilmember Joe McDermott, who shared the photo above:

“Arriving at today’s bill signing was a long road. It took almost three decades to ensure that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered individuals had the same basic civil rights and protections as every other Washingtonian.

“But that hard work and years of debate brought us to today.

“Business, faith, civic and labor organizations, straight allies, and gay and lesbian advocates worked together and demanded equality. This morning their applause echoed through the Capitol.

“I commend Governor Gregoire for sharing her own personal journey and championing this historic legislation. She, like many people, realized marriage equality is about fairness and justice.

“Washington now joins only six other states granting lesbian and gay couples the same legal right to a marriage license as straight couples. And I look forward to marrying my partner, Michael, in the great state of Washington.”

He and Michael are in this photo with Executive Constantine and Anne Levinson (who were also shown above):

More details on today’s signing, and what’s next, in this Seattle Times (WSB partner) story.

Silly Goose February 13, 2012 (12:25 pm)

It is about time this happened!! Way to go Govenor Gregoire!!

jiggers February 13, 2012 (12:28 pm)

Goody. Time to move onto more important issues now.

interrobang February 13, 2012 (12:42 pm)

@jiggers Way to be passive-aggressive, jerk. Civil rights are always of the highest priority for most Americans.

Very proud of Washington State today. :)

Always confused February 13, 2012 (12:48 pm)

Human rights are important. As part of an interracial marriage that was still illegal in many states during my lifetime (yikes), I feel strongly, as should the masses, in asserting that human rights cannot and should never ever be brushed aside and thought of as “fluff” or a distraction. Yay for everyone doing the right thing!!! Phooey on the rest of you.

JanS February 13, 2012 (12:49 pm)

interrobang..in the spirit of goodwill, try to refrain from calling people “jerks” on here…let’s keep it civil.

and yes, this is a good thing today..I agree..

Aman February 13, 2012 (12:50 pm)

One additional positive step forward.

interrobang February 13, 2012 (1:12 pm)

@JanS Really? Because someone just said my rights aren’t important. Jerk is about as civil as I can keep it when people start that crap.

Jiggers February 13, 2012 (1:19 pm)

I guess I honestly don’t care so lets move on….

MB February 13, 2012 (2:08 pm)

You could always spend that precious time of yours commenting on articles you do in fact care about then, Jiggers. Just sayin…your lack of interest really doesn’t dictate…well…anything.

Very proud of my state today!

– the “Original” MB

ScottA February 13, 2012 (2:39 pm)

Never really thought about taking pride in my state – until today. I felt a lot of pride as I watched the signing ceremony.

Jiggers February 13, 2012 (2:40 pm)

Not with you at least MB..just sayin..:) There is freedom of speech.

realist February 13, 2012 (3:09 pm)

There is also freedom of knowing when to shut up.

B-squared February 13, 2012 (3:23 pm)

So when do the locusts descend on us? I’ve got a few dozen “no-pest” strips up. will that be enough?

ILoveWestSeattle February 13, 2012 (3:33 pm)

Don’t feel too bad, interrobang, I, too, was remonstrated a few days back on WSB (in the context of the marriage-equality issue)for using the words “right-wingers” and (I guess?) “ilk” . That language was deemed “inflammatory” and best left to the forums of Craigslist by the arbiter of civility and decorum who scolded me.
Perhaps being treated as a 2nd Class citizen and politcal whipping-boy/football engenders that horrible, extreme, “inflammatory” response in me. Ha!

Dave February 13, 2012 (3:40 pm)

The liberals should like this, but so should conservatives. They’re ALWAYS talking about freedom and how government should leave everyone alone. So this is a perfect bill. It doesn’t require you to have a gay marriage, but gives you the FREEDOM/OPTION to have one. If your religion doesn’t like gay marriage, or bacon, or working on the Sabbath, or alcohol, or electricty…feel free NOT to have a gay marriage, or bacon, or alcohol, or use electricity. You’re FREE to choose to do those things or not…isn’t that America’s ideal? Freedom? And isn’t banning gay marriage an attack on religion? MY church allows gay marriage. So if you ban it because it’s against YOUR religion, you’re saying your faith should legislated against my faith and by popular vote, so whoever’s religion is bigger gets to mandate rules for the smaller faiths? Since when? If you don’t like it, or it’s against your religion, then don’t do it. Problem solved. Next issue.

interrobang February 13, 2012 (3:45 pm)

@Jiggers So, you commented because you don’t care? Way to troll; you’re worse than I thought.

interrobang February 13, 2012 (4:03 pm)

@Dave Well said!

marty February 13, 2012 (4:03 pm)

interrobang: ENOUGH! Sheesh!

interrobang February 13, 2012 (4:13 pm)

@ILoveWestSeattle It’s just odd to me — by saying I (and those like myself) don’t deserve equal rights because, it’s not important enough, or because it’s against one persons religious p.o.v, it’s apparently civil discourse.
However, calling someone a “jerk” for this, not just because of the opinion stated, but for also how they stated this opinion is “bad.” Go figure.

interrobang February 13, 2012 (4:13 pm)

@Marty Um. No?

Jiggers February 13, 2012 (4:33 pm)

Look. I’m sorry if I sound like I really don’t care. I’m a minority myself ethnically and I’m happy this passed through for more equality. I’m feeling a bit punchy today that’s all. Peace!

Norma February 13, 2012 (4:59 pm)

Yes! We can be proud of our state.

billie February 13, 2012 (5:40 pm)

next stop polygamy

BKRD February 13, 2012 (5:44 pm)

I know this won’t be popular to say, but I am disappointed that the marriage relationship could be redefined in our state. I respect that others have differing opinions, but I support a referendum on this bill.

Snow Wimp February 13, 2012 (6:12 pm)

This is a no-brainer.

Yet some people hate this, particularly old people, 80 plus. Not all oldsters, but many. And, of those, especially christians. Evangelicals and old catholics. This is the end of civilization, as THEY know it.

Plus, the youngsters in the Mars Hill crowd often despise this. Their “loving pastor” has told them this is against god’s will.

Some of you younger folks have no idea the prejudice that still exists. Especially among the christian oldsters. Some of them say their prayers nightly, but their hearts are brimming with hate. For anyone who is not white.

And I am white.

Delete this, TR, if you want. But I have personally witnessed this enough that I am totally embarrassed at the disgusting prejudice that still exists in February, 2012.

WSB February 13, 2012 (6:38 pm)

Snow Wimp, you didn’t break any rules. This is an issue on which, unlike many things, we have taken a public stand. It’s a matter of civil/human rights. Period. That doesn’t mean that those who feel otherwise are not welcome to post here but they can’t use hate speech (which is our same position for other things such as racism, sexism, sizism, etc.), I won’t give examples but we know it when we see it. – TR

ikahana February 13, 2012 (7:12 pm)

This makes me proud to be a resident of WA state. Very exciting news.

I know that means this is likely to go on a ballot. Have to say I’m dreading that. Having experienced before people voting on my right to be EQUAL is a horrible, horrible feeling – no matter what the outcome. I hope most folks will not have to experience what that is like, although perhaps these types of things would become a non-issue if everyone had to experience it.

SJ2 February 13, 2012 (7:31 pm)

As a gay person in a healthy long term relationship, I have no plans or desire to get married but do support gay marriage in our state. It makes no sense to deny people the right to marry and it makes no sense for the state to be involved in the decision about who can marry who. Marriage is not a religious ceremony unless you choose to make it one.
Those who do not support gay marriage, fine, but then lets really protect marriage and keep it between one male and one female. If you get a divorce, cheat, etc.. that is it. No more marriage for you. If you want to protect marriage, you really can’t have it both ways. Sorry.

miws February 13, 2012 (7:39 pm)

next stop polygamy

Yes, billie, that’s the logical next step.

But wait! It’s only gonna get worse!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4anFpVsbSw

Mike

datamuse February 13, 2012 (7:52 pm)

Biblical, even!

RJB February 13, 2012 (8:02 pm)

@SJ2…you could not of said it any better. You cannot have your (wedding) cake and eat it too!! I am very proud of Washington State today and this might not be “PC” but think of all the revenue this will bring the state. People will be coming to/staying in Washington to get married. Congrats to all…!!

interrobang February 13, 2012 (8:12 pm)

@Billie man… you caught me! I’m actually planning a polygamist household made up of only female animals! The actual plot is for the LGBT community to help the polygamists and beastialit…ists? So we can ruin your day!
Or… maybe, if I find a lady I love I can marry her and we can have a nice home together and raise a child (or children) and we can tell them about the day we got married when they ask about it…instead of explaining what a commitment ceremony is and why its a lot like being married, but its’s different because we’re only allowed to have a domestic partnership.
Being bi… I don’t know who I will fall in love with, I don’t feel like I have a choice in that… but I know if it’s a woman who I want to marry I want to have the same rights and viewed in the eyes of the state (maybe the nation) just the same as if I fall in love with a man.
Also, http://winningateverything.com/8327…

Jody Rodgers February 13, 2012 (8:20 pm)

Well said Dow and Joe! This is a great day in the history of equality. So proud of our great state and our leaders.

Nicole February 13, 2012 (9:00 pm)

So proud of our state! Civil rights should not be up for a vote, but if it is – please make sure that those who believe in marriage equality get out the vote.

datamuse February 13, 2012 (9:04 pm)

interrobang: so you’re planning to become a crazy cat lady then? ;)

interrobang February 13, 2012 (9:36 pm)

@datamuse not so much of a cat lady… but puppies? Aw man, I actually want to be crazy puppy lady… well… perhaps not crazy, but there’s only so many meds they can give me ;)
… though perhaps I can get crazy puppies and the label still works… *ponders*

1000amys February 13, 2012 (9:54 pm)

You know, I guess I can sort of see Jiggers’s point. Because I have way better things to do with my time than spending another summer trying to convince people not to sign a petition for a referendum vote, and then another fall trying to convince people to vote for a referendum that we didn’t want on the ballot in the first place, and convincing my second seven-year-old (the first one is ten now) that if the referendum fails her moms will not have to split up, divide the children and the cats, and live apart. I could be spending my time helping my kids recover from the trauma and abuse their original, straight parents inflicted upon them before we met them. Instead, I constantly have to waste my time figuring out our complicated income-tax filings (everything is joint, but must file separately), explaining to the customer service people that I am covered under my wife’s insurance (your what?), and explaining to the kids why the government doesn’t understand that their parents are really married. So, yes, please; let’s stop debating my marriage and work on some more important issues! I’ve been ready to stop talking about it for years! Suspend the signature-gathering campaign, and you’ll never have to talk about it, ever again!

WSB February 13, 2012 (9:55 pm)

Comment of the week! If not the month.

datamuse February 13, 2012 (10:10 pm)

1000amys: +1!

really February 13, 2012 (10:14 pm)

To all of you planning to stand behind a referendum to fight this. Really? The church is against it yet it is acceptable for priest after priest throughout the US to molest and take advantage of young children, usually of same sex. We have famous coaches molesting young boys in the US, look at Penn State for reference. We have a national divorce rate greater than 50%. Clearly, the straight, religious folks that so many think are righteous due to their beliefs in this country are forgiven for these acts yet same sex marriage is so bad. We are not gay for reference. We do believe that two individuals in love, regardless of race or ethnicity should be allowed to marry. Wake up and smell the coffee…your way is not the only way. Love should rule and who are you (we) with our current divorce rate to judge anyone else.

really February 13, 2012 (10:22 pm)

BTW, it’s a shame we still live in a society where this is an issue, where loving someone is not acceptable b/c the church or some blind-minded folks think it’s unholy. Get off your high horses folks…take a look at your own footsteps, we bet they’re not that pure. Thank you 1000amys for your thoughtful comments. There are a lot of children that have gone through experiences they never should have been through under straight relationships. Stop judging those that don’t fit within ‘your norm’ and give loving, caring people regardless of sex or ethnicity fair, equal rights within our society.

Kayleigh February 14, 2012 (5:17 am)

It seems to me the only honest argument against this is “It infringes on my hetero privilege and hegemony, and it makes me feel less special. Also I’m uncomfortable with an expression of sexuality that does not mirror my own.”
.
Not saying I feel that way—I support gay rights. I’m just trying to see the other side here. And that’s all I see.

WSC February 14, 2012 (7:03 am)

pathetic.

S February 14, 2012 (8:13 am)

I can’t wait to sign the Referendum to shot this down. You all had the same rights and had to push the word marriage. To all you spouting out about the divorce rates and Human rights that is lame and has nothing to do with this issue. You had the same rights in this state and up to this point.

Jiggers February 14, 2012 (9:10 am)

Like I say.. Why should gay people be happy, let them get married if they want to..:) Ahh rite… I shut up again..

datamuse February 14, 2012 (9:12 am)

See that comment by Kayleigh just above yours, S?
.
Read it again.
.
Slowly.
.
Out loud if necessary.
.
When you’re done, contemplate this question: if said rights are REALLY the same, why do you care enough to sign the petition?

sun*e February 14, 2012 (9:14 am)

@miws – Uh oh, I love bacon too. Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that – If you love it then why don’t you marry it? – whatever “it” is. ;-)
.
With that said, I do support the marriage between two loving human beings…there’s no guarantee that any of us will stay married, gay or not, but we all deserve the right to marry the one we love.
.
Happy Valentine’s Day, Y’all!

miws February 14, 2012 (10:30 am)

I can’t wait to sign the Referendum to shot this down. You all had the same rights and had to push the word marriage. To all you spouting out about the divorce rates and Human rights that is lame and has nothing to do with this issue. You had the same rights in this state and up to this point.

Oh god, my head hurts…..

Mike

interrobang February 14, 2012 (12:24 pm)

@S
1) I think you mean “shoot,” not “shot.”
2) It’s “spouting off,” not “spouting out.”
3) Holy grammar, punctuation, and spelling carnage, Batman!
3) You’re still wrong — and not only are you wasting tax-payer money with your ignorance, you’re also inhibiting a possible “boom” to our economic growth. Someone will be getting a lump of coal for Christmas next year.
…troll.

WS commuter February 14, 2012 (12:29 pm)

S … you might have more persuasive power if you could use correct grammer and such. But then again, your inability to do so pretty much evidences why you take what others percieve to be an ignorant and bigoted position. Hence, you validate what we already suspect about too many opponents of marriage equality. Nicely done.

As a supporter of marriage equality, I think the long view is to not be afraid of the referendum. But that campaign has to be defeated at the polls this November. To be sure; they will get their 120,000 signatures and we will be voting on it. If/when that occurs and if marriage equality is approved by a majority of voters as I suspect it will be, then the bigots have no ammo left to use.

My own parenthetical … Rob McKenna’s excellent chance to be our next governor is now perhaps in jeopardy. He needs King Co/Puget Sound to win … but can he get those votes and still be opposed to equality? And if he comes out for equality … he loses the right-wind base. Tough spot for him.

Paul February 15, 2012 (4:00 pm)

I don’t want to hear from any church until they start paying taxes. FREELOADERS !!! btw I am a str8 man, I shoot and eat animals and I do beleive there is a god or higher power. And somehow unlike many others I don’t judge other peoples life style

Greenlakeslover February 16, 2012 (5:26 pm)

It seems to me that underlying the marriage equality discussion is the issue of normalcy. I think one of the reasons why religious conservatives are fighting gay marriage so vehemently is because it is an important, if not the final, step to removing the “aberrant” label from homosexuality. As someone who has many long-time cherished friends and colleagues who are gay, I am very happy to see this law come about and I look forward to the day when we will recognize this time as an important historical turning point.

Sorry, comment time is over.