http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/opinion/2010219375_ryan08.htmlThe gay and lesbian community broke through another barrier to equality last week with the approval of Referendum 71. The struggle for equal rights has been a long, frustrating battle for lesbians and gays. This victory is a major step toward equality but there is still work to be done.
Before that work begins, the gay and lesbian community should take a moment and enjoy what happened last week. It is no small thing that Washingtonians believe that gays and lesbians are owed basic rights granted to heterosexual couples. It was only 11 years ago that the Legislature instituted the Defense of Marriage Act, which limits marriage to heterosexuals. Only three years ago, the Washington state Supreme Court upheld the discriminatory law.
This campaign was not about marriage equality. This campaign was about ensuring all families are treated equally. R-71 upheld Senate Bill 5688, which was passed by the Legislature and signed by the governor. The "everything but marriage" bill expands domestic-partnership rights to lesbians, gays and elderly couples.
Even though R-71 wasn't about gays and lesbians marrying, it is a building block upon which marriage equality will happen.
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We're not where we should be but we can at least now see where we need to be. Enjoy the moment but know that the last push for equality might be the toughest....