The Stranger: GOD WAS WITH THEM
March 31, 2005
Last June three men from rural Washington jumped out of a pickup truck and, wielding a broken vodka bottle, attacked a gay man in Seattle. This week all three were found guilty of a hate crime, bringing an end to a story that has been covered here—when it has been covered at all—as a clash of opposites: rural versus urban, straight versus gay. But a look into the pasts of the victim, Micah Painter, and his three attackers reveals that a single force shaped all four young men: Evangelical Christianity.
A religious revival was underway in America. It was the 1740s, and itinerant preachers crisscrossed the land, frightening crowds with tales of an everlasting damnation in the afterworld. These preachers read the Bible literally, and in their minds the words were there, plain as day, in the Book of John, chapter 3. To get into Heaven, one must be "born again." The idea caught on fast, spawning a mass of conversions—or rebirths—that came to be known as the Great Awakening.
...
They had come into Seattle to spend the sunny hours of this Saturday at Alki beach. There, they had sipped champagne, built a bonfire, and after dark had gone to a downtown club, where there was more drinking. Outside the club, one girl's shoe broke, and anyway it was getting to be time for the girls to go home to Kent. Everyone climbed back in the truck. They were driving around, looking for a freeway on-ramp, when the entire group noticed a young man dressed in tight white pants and no shirt. The man was walking, people in the truck that night would recall, like a girl.
The man they thought walked like a girl was named Micah Painter.
A religious revival was underway in America. It was the 1740s, and itinerant preachers crisscrossed the land, frightening crowds with tales of an everlasting damnation in the afterworld. These preachers read the Bible literally, and in their minds the words were there, plain as day, in the Book of John, chapter 3. To get into Heaven, one must be "born again." The idea caught on fast, spawning a mass of conversions—or rebirths—that came to be known as the Great Awakening.
...
They had come into Seattle to spend the sunny hours of this Saturday at Alki beach. There, they had sipped champagne, built a bonfire, and after dark had gone to a downtown club, where there was more drinking. Outside the club, one girl's shoe broke, and anyway it was getting to be time for the girls to go home to Kent. Everyone climbed back in the truck. They were driving around, looking for a freeway on-ramp, when the entire group noticed a young man dressed in tight white pants and no shirt. The man was walking, people in the truck that night would recall, like a girl.
The man they thought walked like a girl was named Micah Painter.
KIRO TV: 3 Whatcom County Men Convicted Of Beating Gay Man
Three Whatcom County men were convicted Wednesday of felony malicious harassment and assault in an attack on a gay Seattle man last June.
Vadim Samusenko, 21, David Kravchenko, 20, and Yevgeniy Savchak, 18, were convicted in King County Superior Court in a June 27, 2004, attack on Micah Painter.
Samusenko was convicted of two counts of second-degree assault; Kravchenko and Savchak were each convicted of fourth-degree assault for being accomplices.
Prosecutors had charged all three with first-degree assault.
Vadim Samusenko, 21, David Kravchenko, 20, and Yevgeniy Savchak, 18, were convicted in King County Superior Court in a June 27, 2004, attack on Micah Painter.
Samusenko was convicted of two counts of second-degree assault; Kravchenko and Savchak were each convicted of fourth-degree assault for being accomplices.
Prosecutors had charged all three with first-degree assault.
KOMO: Guilty Verdicts In Hate Crime Beating
March 30, 2005
Three Bellingham men accused of a hate crime have been found guilty of assault in attacking a Seattle man on Capitol Hill last June.
Prosecutors were certain the men set out to beat and stab Micah Painter simply because he is gay.
The jury agreed, convicting 21-year-old Vadim Samusenko, 20-year-old David Kravchenko and 18-year-old Eugene Savchak of a hate crime against Micah Painter.
[video included]
Prosecutors were certain the men set out to beat and stab Micah Painter simply because he is gay.
The jury agreed, convicting 21-year-old Vadim Samusenko, 20-year-old David Kravchenko and 18-year-old Eugene Savchak of a hate crime against Micah Painter.
[video included]
Seattle Times: Editorial: Fair is fair on gay rights
March 27, 2005
This is the year. After decades of haggling over the gay-anti-discrimination bill, the Legislature should pass fair-minded legislation without further hesitation, fear or political gamesmanship.
In our state, it is illegal to discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, gender, marital status, mental o physical handicap. The legislation would add sexual orientation to the list. That should not be too tall an order.
The bill does not confer special rights to gays or lesbians. It does not allow quotas or preferential treatment in hiring. Nor does the bill have anything to do with gay marriage.
In our state, it is illegal to discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, gender, marital status, mental o physical handicap. The legislation would add sexual orientation to the list. That should not be too tall an order.
The bill does not confer special rights to gays or lesbians. It does not allow quotas or preferential treatment in hiring. Nor does the bill have anything to do with gay marriage.
Seattle P-I: There's a time to quit political fight and still win
As in other forms of theater, the temptation in politics is to portray themes in sweeping yet simplistic terms -- heroes and villains, good and evil, black and white. But as in real life, the reality in legislative politics is that there are few true villains and even fewer true heroes. Most of it's about pretty good and not so bad. Gray is a more common color than black or white.
The more emotionally charged the issue, the greater the temptation to portray subtle reality with kabuki-mask blatancy.
It's been known for some time that hopes for expanding state civil rights law protection to include gays and lesbians could hinge on the resistance of a single Democratic legislator, Sen. Jim Kastama of Puyallup. Kastama describes himself as a conservative Democrat but is hardly a knuckle-dragger.
The more emotionally charged the issue, the greater the temptation to portray subtle reality with kabuki-mask blatancy.
It's been known for some time that hopes for expanding state civil rights law protection to include gays and lesbians could hinge on the resistance of a single Democratic legislator, Sen. Jim Kastama of Puyallup. Kastama describes himself as a conservative Democrat but is hardly a knuckle-dragger.
SGN: Trial of accused bashers enters fourth week
March 25, 2005
The trial of three men accused of the brutal Gay bashing of Micah Painter last summer stalled this week. King County Superior Court Judge Jeffrey M. Ramsdell had twice delayed the trial – on Monday and again on Wednesday — after one of the 12 jurors sought treatment for a reoccurring medical condition. The trial now heads into its fourth week.
The jurors have been asked to decide the guilt or innocence of Yevgeniy Savchak, 18, David Kravchenko, 20, and Vadim Samusenko, 21, who face 12-15 years in prison for their roles in the attack. After an exhaustive jury selection process, moments of intensive courtroom drama and two full weeks of testimony, the jurors were to have heard closing remarks on Monday.
The judge said the juror “suffer[ed] from fluid in the lungs,” but that she is expected to be “available 100 percent to us” on Monday, March 28.
The jurors have been asked to decide the guilt or innocence of Yevgeniy Savchak, 18, David Kravchenko, 20, and Vadim Samusenko, 21, who face 12-15 years in prison for their roles in the attack. After an exhaustive jury selection process, moments of intensive courtroom drama and two full weeks of testimony, the jurors were to have heard closing remarks on Monday.
The judge said the juror “suffer[ed] from fluid in the lungs,” but that she is expected to be “available 100 percent to us” on Monday, March 28.
SGN: Hopes remain high following Senate hearing on Anderson-Murray Anti-Discrimination Bill
A Senate hearing on the Anderson-Murray Anti-Discrimination Bill was held Tuesday before the Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection Committee in Olympia. The chambers was at standingroom only - members of the Christian Coalition and other anti-Gay fundamentalists who came to speak against the bill, and against Gay people across the board, were shoulder-to-shoulder with Gay activists, religious and business leaders who, in contrast, came to deliver eloquent testimony in favor of passing this long overdue legislation. In total, 64 people signed up to testify on the bill with 10 testifying against it.
The bill, which passed out of the House in February, faces an uncertain future in the Senate. Gov. Chris Gregiore has promised to sign the bill into law provided it makes it to her desk. The bill has stalled in committee for the past 30 years, but observers and organizers say that this year things may be different.
Sen. Darlene Fairley (D-Lake Forest Park) told the Seattle Post-Intelligencer Tuesday that the bill is only one or two votes shy of a majority in the Senate. “I am very optimistic,” she said. “It’s the right thing to do.” Sen. Fairley, however, would not speculate on when it might come to a vote on the Senate floor.
The bill, which passed out of the House in February, faces an uncertain future in the Senate. Gov. Chris Gregiore has promised to sign the bill into law provided it makes it to her desk. The bill has stalled in committee for the past 30 years, but observers and organizers say that this year things may be different.
Sen. Darlene Fairley (D-Lake Forest Park) told the Seattle Post-Intelligencer Tuesday that the bill is only one or two votes shy of a majority in the Senate. “I am very optimistic,” she said. “It’s the right thing to do.” Sen. Fairley, however, would not speculate on when it might come to a vote on the Senate floor.
Gonzaga Bulletin: MTV follows students to gay marriage proceedings
Twelve Gonzaga students were featured on MTV's famous spring break coverage, but don't expect to see your typical bikini contests and game shows. Ryan Olson, Sarah Olson, Michael Gleeson, Julia Suenaga, Jeff Bovee, Katie Vincent, Allie Orr, Amber Gladney, Hillory Kingsmen, Krista Smith and alumnus Bryce Hughes traveled to Olympia with a camera crew in tow to support 19 gay and lesbian couples battling the Washington State Supreme Court for their right to civil unions.
MTV sent out an e-mail to GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bi-sexual and Transgender) centers at universities all over the nation looking for interesting spring break documentary opportunities. Ryan Olson, president of the Gonzaga club Helping Educate Regarding Orientation (HERO), responded to the e-mail and the Gonzaga students were chosen to be included in a program slated to air on MTV's college-based station MTVU.
"They ended up following us for the whole trip," Olson said. "It was really a great educational thing and it will be a great thing for the nation to see."
MTV sent out an e-mail to GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bi-sexual and Transgender) centers at universities all over the nation looking for interesting spring break documentary opportunities. Ryan Olson, president of the Gonzaga club Helping Educate Regarding Orientation (HERO), responded to the e-mail and the Gonzaga students were chosen to be included in a program slated to air on MTV's college-based station MTVU.
"They ended up following us for the whole trip," Olson said. "It was really a great educational thing and it will be a great thing for the nation to see."
Daily World (Grays Harbor): Time for a law protecting gays against discrimination
March 24, 2005
After almost 30 years of trying, the Legislature may be close to passing a law that would make it illegal to discriminate against someone because of their sexual orientation. House Bill 1515 has already passed the House and a companion bill is expected to make it out of a Senate committee as early as today. Gov. Gregoire has said she'll sign it into law if it reaches her desk.
Supporters say they are within a vote or two in the Senate, but that could prove to be a big hurdle. Senate Democrats are looking at Jim Hargrove of Hoquiam and Jim Kastama and Marilyn Rasmussen as possible swing votes. All 23 Republicans can be counted on to vote against the bill, and Sen. Tim Sheldon, D-Potlatch, has said he'll vote "no," too. Hargrove said Wednesday that he hasn't changed his position in 20 years and isn't inclined to now. He's against a law that provides protection against discrimination based solely on someone's "behavior." If someone is a certain way through no choice of their own - a racial minority or a handicapped person - he said they need the protection against discrimination that the law affords. But he believes homosexuals are homosexual by choice.
We respect the senator, but part company there.
Supporters say they are within a vote or two in the Senate, but that could prove to be a big hurdle. Senate Democrats are looking at Jim Hargrove of Hoquiam and Jim Kastama and Marilyn Rasmussen as possible swing votes. All 23 Republicans can be counted on to vote against the bill, and Sen. Tim Sheldon, D-Potlatch, has said he'll vote "no," too. Hargrove said Wednesday that he hasn't changed his position in 20 years and isn't inclined to now. He's against a law that provides protection against discrimination based solely on someone's "behavior." If someone is a certain way through no choice of their own - a racial minority or a handicapped person - he said they need the protection against discrimination that the law affords. But he believes homosexuals are homosexual by choice.
We respect the senator, but part company there.
King Couty Journal: Protect sexual orientation from discrimination
March 23, 2005
It's illegal in our state to fire or refuse to hire a person based on sex, race, creed, color, national origin, marital status or physical disability. That also includes access to public accommodations, real estate transactions, insurance and commerce.
The State House has passed a bill (HB 1515) adding sexual orientation to that list and the Senate should also approve the measure.
People can make a personal decision as to whether or not they approve or disapprove of a person's sexual orientation but they should not have the right to discriminate against individuals in business, commerce or access to areas otherwise open to the public.
Currently, the state anti-discrimination law contains language that protects nonprofit religious or sectarian organizations from having to accept a policy that goes against their deep-held beliefs. None of that is changed in the House bill. The bill also provides exemptions in some real estate transactions involving the sharing, rental or sublease of a dwelling.
The House bill passed with a strong 61-37 majority. The Senate should now step up and complete the task of providing fair treatment for everyone in the state.
The State House has passed a bill (HB 1515) adding sexual orientation to that list and the Senate should also approve the measure.
People can make a personal decision as to whether or not they approve or disapprove of a person's sexual orientation but they should not have the right to discriminate against individuals in business, commerce or access to areas otherwise open to the public.
Currently, the state anti-discrimination law contains language that protects nonprofit religious or sectarian organizations from having to accept a policy that goes against their deep-held beliefs. None of that is changed in the House bill. The bill also provides exemptions in some real estate transactions involving the sharing, rental or sublease of a dwelling.
The House bill passed with a strong 61-37 majority. The Senate should now step up and complete the task of providing fair treatment for everyone in the state.
Seattle P-I: Public comments favor gay rights bill
A gay civil rights bill is one or two votes shy of a majority in the Senate, Sen. Darlene Fairley said Tuesday after a hearing on the measure.
"I am very optimistic," said Fairley, D-Lake Forest Park. "It's the right thing to do."
The state House has already approved the bill, and Gov. Christine Gregoire has said she will sign it into law if the Legislature passes it.
Public opinion at Fairley's committee hearing ran six-to-one in favor of the bill, though some opponents warned of deep-seated opposition across the state.
"I am very optimistic," said Fairley, D-Lake Forest Park. "It's the right thing to do."
The state House has already approved the bill, and Gov. Christine Gregoire has said she will sign it into law if the Legislature passes it.
Public opinion at Fairley's committee hearing ran six-to-one in favor of the bill, though some opponents warned of deep-seated opposition across the state.
Olympian: Chat with Gov. Christine Gregoire
March 18, 2005
James, Lilliwaup: While you've expressed your willingness to sign a law that would provide anti-discrimination protection for gays and lesbians (HB 1515/SB 6069), is there anything else you can or will do to get this passed this session?
Gregoire: Yes, I've indicated in particular to Sen. Brown that when she's prepared to bring the bill to the floor for a vote, and if she thinks I'll be of help, I'll talk to any Senators who have questions about it. I don't think Washington state should have discrimination in any way or form. I would welcome the bill onto my desk and will help to make that happen.
Mike, Olympia: What is your personal opinion on legalizing homosexual marriage.
Gregoire: You know, the issue is before our state Supreme Court, it was argued there recently. I'm going to respect the decision of the court. Right now I'm simply asking those with strenouous opinions on whichever side to honor and respect the difference of opinion there may be. I think it's our job to be the model state to accept diversity and different views and I will respect the decision of the court.
Gregoire: Yes, I've indicated in particular to Sen. Brown that when she's prepared to bring the bill to the floor for a vote, and if she thinks I'll be of help, I'll talk to any Senators who have questions about it. I don't think Washington state should have discrimination in any way or form. I would welcome the bill onto my desk and will help to make that happen.
Mike, Olympia: What is your personal opinion on legalizing homosexual marriage.
Gregoire: You know, the issue is before our state Supreme Court, it was argued there recently. I'm going to respect the decision of the court. Right now I'm simply asking those with strenouous opinions on whichever side to honor and respect the difference of opinion there may be. I think it's our job to be the model state to accept diversity and different views and I will respect the decision of the court.
Tacoma News Tribune: Passing anti-discrimination law is the right thing to do
March 17, 2005
While same-sex marriage gets the headlines and Olympia rallies, an even more important issue for the state’s sexual minorities is being decided by the state Legislature: ending discrimination in employment, insurance, public accommodations and housing on the basis of one’s sexual identity.
House Bill 1515, which would prohibit such discrimination statewide, passed the state House in early February. But its companion b0ill in the Senate, SB 6019, is on thin ice. With only a razor-thin majority, Democratic sponsors need every vote they can find to finally pass this important legislation, which has been rejected for the past two decades. Gov. Christine Gregoire has said that she will sign it if the Legislature passes it.
Legislators should recognize that the ability to get a job and find a place to live are basic human rights. While several cities and counties (including Tacoma, Spokane and King County) prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual identity , it’s still legal in many parts of the state to deny an apartment to a person because he or she is gay – or even because the landlord thinks that might be the case. In some workplaces, gay employees feel compelled to hide photos of their partners for fear of being fired.
House Bill 1515, which would prohibit such discrimination statewide, passed the state House in early February. But its companion b0ill in the Senate, SB 6019, is on thin ice. With only a razor-thin majority, Democratic sponsors need every vote they can find to finally pass this important legislation, which has been rejected for the past two decades. Gov. Christine Gregoire has said that she will sign it if the Legislature passes it.
Legislators should recognize that the ability to get a job and find a place to live are basic human rights. While several cities and counties (including Tacoma, Spokane and King County) prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual identity , it’s still legal in many parts of the state to deny an apartment to a person because he or she is gay – or even because the landlord thinks that might be the case. In some workplaces, gay employees feel compelled to hide photos of their partners for fear of being fired.
Seattle Weekly: Double-Zing Ceremony
March 16, 2005
Here's the box score on gay marriage: Two justices are in favor, one is opposed, four are undecided, and the inclinations of two cannot be determined. After oral arguments in the landmark gay marriage case before the nine justices of the state Supreme Court March 8, it sounds like Justices Bobbe Bridge and Susan Owens would vote to legalize same-sex marriage, Justice Jim Johnson would be opposed, and Justices Gerry Alexander, Charles Johnson, Barbara Madsen, and Richard Sanders haven't made up their minds. Two justices, Mary Fairhurst and Tom Chambers, were too quiet to give us any real sense of their views.
The cases before the justices, Andersen et al. v. King County and Castle v. State of Washington, have been consolidated after separate Superior Court decisions that found Washington's 1998 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) unconstitutional. Nineteen gay and lesbian couples are the plaintiffs in the combined case challenging DOMA's definition of marriage as being between a man and a woman. Outside Olympia's Temple of Justice, thousands of religious conservatives faced off with hundreds of supporters of the freedom to marry, highlighting the importance of the case to Washington and the nation.
The cases before the justices, Andersen et al. v. King County and Castle v. State of Washington, have been consolidated after separate Superior Court decisions that found Washington's 1998 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) unconstitutional. Nineteen gay and lesbian couples are the plaintiffs in the combined case challenging DOMA's definition of marriage as being between a man and a woman. Outside Olympia's Temple of Justice, thousands of religious conservatives faced off with hundreds of supporters of the freedom to marry, highlighting the importance of the case to Washington and the nation.
Seattle Times: Letters: Without this ring (reactions to Archbishop's editorial)
March 15, 2005
Editor, The Times:
Seattle Archbishop Alexander J. Brunett's "Defending marriage, rejecting injustice and discrimination" (Times guest commentary, March 10) may have clarified the issue in ways he didn't intend. In pointing out the church's "understanding that marriage was created by God," he characterized marriage as a religious institution. To the extent that this is accurate, the state should be constitutionally barred from entering the debate; its legislative or judicial pronouncements, lacking any religious authority, should be irrelevant to the meaning of marriage for the faithful.
Seattle Archbishop Alexander J. Brunett's "Defending marriage, rejecting injustice and discrimination" (Times guest commentary, March 10) may have clarified the issue in ways he didn't intend. In pointing out the church's "understanding that marriage was created by God," he characterized marriage as a religious institution. To the extent that this is accurate, the state should be constitutionally barred from entering the debate; its legislative or judicial pronouncements, lacking any religious authority, should be irrelevant to the meaning of marriage for the faithful.
KOMO TV: The Other Side Of The Gay Marriage Debate
March 11, 2005
I believe gay marriage should be legalized.
A lot of people don't.
In fact, a good portion of the e-mail I got in response to my latest commentary on this issue (read it here) can be summed up with: "Don't like it; Don't want it; Won't accept it."
Ken Rosencrantz: "It's a very small (gay) minority demanding civil rights for a lifestyle choice, demanding the majority accept their views...They are not normal and never will be."
Roger LaRue: "Why should modern society attempt to normalize (homosexual) behavior by recognizing the marriage of pairs of these sick people?"
A lot of people don't.
In fact, a good portion of the e-mail I got in response to my latest commentary on this issue (read it here) can be summed up with: "Don't like it; Don't want it; Won't accept it."
Ken Rosencrantz: "It's a very small (gay) minority demanding civil rights for a lifestyle choice, demanding the majority accept their views...They are not normal and never will be."
Roger LaRue: "Why should modern society attempt to normalize (homosexual) behavior by recognizing the marriage of pairs of these sick people?"
Seattle Times: Opinion: Defending marriage, rejecting injustice and discrimination
March 10, 2005
[by the Roman Catholic Archbishop of W. Washington]
As the leader of nearly 1 million Catholics in Western Washington, it is my responsibility to uphold church teaching that supports marriage between a man and a woman because this understanding of marriage is ordered for the good of children and society.
In our faith tradition, personal relationships have a social as well as a private dimension. These relationships are bound up with issues of poverty and justice, the equality and dignity of women and men, and the protection of children.
The three Catholic bishops of Washington state will soon release a statement of principles regarding marriage to help Catholics understand the totality of church teaching on this issue. Our statement will urge Catholics to defend the definition of marriage as a union between one man and one woman. It also will reject any form of disrespect for persons, "gay bashing," or denial of legitimate rights accorded by the state to its citizens. All persons, including those of homosexual orientation, are made in the divine image and share the full dignity of humanity.
As the leader of nearly 1 million Catholics in Western Washington, it is my responsibility to uphold church teaching that supports marriage between a man and a woman because this understanding of marriage is ordered for the good of children and society.
In our faith tradition, personal relationships have a social as well as a private dimension. These relationships are bound up with issues of poverty and justice, the equality and dignity of women and men, and the protection of children.
The three Catholic bishops of Washington state will soon release a statement of principles regarding marriage to help Catholics understand the totality of church teaching on this issue. Our statement will urge Catholics to defend the definition of marriage as a union between one man and one woman. It also will reject any form of disrespect for persons, "gay bashing," or denial of legitimate rights accorded by the state to its citizens. All persons, including those of homosexual orientation, are made in the divine image and share the full dignity of humanity.
The Stranger: FIRST COMES LOVE...Bible-Thumping Rhetoric Inadmissible in Supreme Court
"Children are entitled to a mother and a father who honor their marriage vows and live together in complete fidelity."
So said Val Stevens, a conservative state senator from northwest Washington, who was ripping into same-sex marriage as I wandered the grounds of the State Capitol on Tuesday with Amy Jenniges, my lesbian coworker and lawfully wedded wife. (We married last year to demonstrate the absurdity of Washington State's anti-gay-marriage laws--I can't marry the man I've lived with for 10 years and adopted a child with but I can marry a woman I've never kissed.) Amy and I were surrounded by thousands of anti-gay demonstrators on an unusually sunny day. There were full-scale wooden crosses, Christian flags, and mobs of families with small children. One of the most common signs at the rally was one that read, "God's Plan: One Man + One Woman = Marriage." There was no shortage of Bibles at the rally outside the Temple of Justice, home of the Washington State Supreme Court, but I doubt many in the crowd were familiar with the bits of the Old Testament that endorse polygamy or advocate stoning adulterers.
So said Val Stevens, a conservative state senator from northwest Washington, who was ripping into same-sex marriage as I wandered the grounds of the State Capitol on Tuesday with Amy Jenniges, my lesbian coworker and lawfully wedded wife. (We married last year to demonstrate the absurdity of Washington State's anti-gay-marriage laws--I can't marry the man I've lived with for 10 years and adopted a child with but I can marry a woman I've never kissed.) Amy and I were surrounded by thousands of anti-gay demonstrators on an unusually sunny day. There were full-scale wooden crosses, Christian flags, and mobs of families with small children. One of the most common signs at the rally was one that read, "God's Plan: One Man + One Woman = Marriage." There was no shortage of Bibles at the rally outside the Temple of Justice, home of the Washington State Supreme Court, but I doubt many in the crowd were familiar with the bits of the Old Testament that endorse polygamy or advocate stoning adulterers.
Seattle P-I: Court hears arguments on same-sex marriage
March 9, 2005
Outside the state Supreme Court, thousands came to rally for fairness, equality and loving commitments, or to discuss what kinds of relationships are best for raising children and honoring God.
But inside the muggy courtroom, state Supreme Court justices heard far more technical arguments about the legal issues that will ultimately determine whether same-sex couples can marry in Washington.
But inside the muggy courtroom, state Supreme Court justices heard far more technical arguments about the legal issues that will ultimately determine whether same-sex couples can marry in Washington.
Seattle Times: Gay-marriage fight in state high court
The campaign for gay rights trained its hopes for marriage equality on nine men and women inside the Temple of Justice here yesterday.
Attorneys for 19 lesbian and gay couples, their expectations high, made their case for state-sanctioned civil marriage before the Washington Supreme Court as the state, King County and a group of intervenors argued that the traditional look of marriage should not change.
The celebrated occasion became a spectacle on the Capitol campus as thousands of demonstrators, the majority of them religious opponents of same-sex marriage, filled the air with chants and gospel music. Gay-marriage advocates also turned out, forming a human chain to give some of the plaintiff couples access to the courtroom and later applauding as they left.
Attorneys for 19 lesbian and gay couples, their expectations high, made their case for state-sanctioned civil marriage before the Washington Supreme Court as the state, King County and a group of intervenors argued that the traditional look of marriage should not change.
The celebrated occasion became a spectacle on the Capitol campus as thousands of demonstrators, the majority of them religious opponents of same-sex marriage, filled the air with chants and gospel music. Gay-marriage advocates also turned out, forming a human chain to give some of the plaintiff couples access to the courtroom and later applauding as they left.
Tacoma News Tribune: Same-sex marriage debate hits state Supreme Court
Lawyers turned their focus to the state’s children Tuesday as they debated the value of same-sex marriage before Washington’s Supreme Court.
Arguments over the constitutionality of a state law that confines marriage to heterosexual couples came down to this: Can the state forbid same-sex marriage, thereby discriminating against homosexuals, in order to promote child-rearing among married couples composed of one man and one woman?
Lawyers for King County, the state and Washington Evangelicals for Responsible Government said yes.
Arguments over the constitutionality of a state law that confines marriage to heterosexual couples came down to this: Can the state forbid same-sex marriage, thereby discriminating against homosexuals, in order to promote child-rearing among married couples composed of one man and one woman?
Lawyers for King County, the state and Washington Evangelicals for Responsible Government said yes.
Olympian: Gay marriage backers see a question of rights
As the state Supreme Court heard arguments about the constitutionality of same-sex marriage, about 100 people at a nearby church listened to live audio of the hearing, hoping the argument would persuade the court to rule in favor of same-sex unions.
Although they were largely outnumbered by the 5,000 people at the Capitol opposed to gay marriage, their optimism didn't fade.
Olympia resident Terry Waldron said after the hearing that she doesn't know how the court will rule on the case, which was filed on behalf of 19 gay and lesbian couples seeking to be married in Washington state. But she's confident change will come to the state's definition of marriage.
"It just seems like it's a matter of time before we have equal rights," said Waldron, who is in a lesbian relationship. "I just hope it's sooner instead of later."
Although they were largely outnumbered by the 5,000 people at the Capitol opposed to gay marriage, their optimism didn't fade.
Olympia resident Terry Waldron said after the hearing that she doesn't know how the court will rule on the case, which was filed on behalf of 19 gay and lesbian couples seeking to be married in Washington state. But she's confident change will come to the state's definition of marriage.
"It just seems like it's a matter of time before we have equal rights," said Waldron, who is in a lesbian relationship. "I just hope it's sooner instead of later."
Olympian: Many at rally invoke God in opposition to change
Pastors led the group in opening and closing prayers. While they invoked the Bible and Jesus Christ, they did not frame their opposition as being against homosexuality. Instead, they voiced concerns that changing the marriage law would erode the sanctity of marriage, much like the acceptance of no-fault divorce.
The Rev. Joseph Fuiten, president of Washington Evangelicals for Responsible Government, reminded the crowd that their demonstration was not based in hatred for one group of people.
"It is about a husband's love for his wife and the collective right of their children," Fuiten said.
The Rev. Joseph Fuiten, president of Washington Evangelicals for Responsible Government, reminded the crowd that their demonstration was not based in hatred for one group of people.
"It is about a husband's love for his wife and the collective right of their children," Fuiten said.
Tacoma News Tribune: Kids needs a mom and a dad, opponents say
H.R. Huntsman and roughly 35 members of his Tacoma-based church were among an estimated 5,000 people who rallied Tuesday on the state Capitol lawn in Olympia to oppose same-sex marriage.
“We’re not out here to oppose or defame anybody. We’re very loving, but we have to draw the line somewhere,” said Huntsman, 39, pastor of the Real Life Family Center, a nondenominational church that meets in Puyallup. “We want people to recognize that the vast majority of Washingtonians stand for the law the way it’s written.”
The group Washington Evangelicals for Responsible Government organized the rally partly to get the attention of the nine elected Supreme Court justices hearing arguments in the case, in which 19 gay couples are challenging the act.
“We are here to show public support for preserving authentic marriage – marriage between a man and a woman,” Washington Evangelicals president Joseph Fuiten told people at the rally.
“We’re not out here to oppose or defame anybody. We’re very loving, but we have to draw the line somewhere,” said Huntsman, 39, pastor of the Real Life Family Center, a nondenominational church that meets in Puyallup. “We want people to recognize that the vast majority of Washingtonians stand for the law the way it’s written.”
The group Washington Evangelicals for Responsible Government organized the rally partly to get the attention of the nine elected Supreme Court justices hearing arguments in the case, in which 19 gay couples are challenging the act.
“We are here to show public support for preserving authentic marriage – marriage between a man and a woman,” Washington Evangelicals president Joseph Fuiten told people at the rally.
KOMO TV: Gay Marriage: A Matter Of Dignity
March 8, 2005
Defending marriage by refusing to let people get married.
I don't get it.
And I can't accept it.
As the State Supreme Court hears arguments on whether gay and lesbian couples have the legal right to get married, it's clear to me that this is really about those who want to impose their religious interpretations on society.
I don't get it.
And I can't accept it.
As the State Supreme Court hears arguments on whether gay and lesbian couples have the legal right to get married, it's clear to me that this is really about those who want to impose their religious interpretations on society.
KOMO TV: Gay Marriage Debate Goes To The State Supreme Court
The State Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday in a case that could fundamentally change how our state defines marriage.
The court is deciding whether gays and lesbians in our state have the right to get married. Meanwhile, thousands of people rallied for and against the cause outside the courthouse.
But the justices of the Supreme Court are supposed to be insulated from all of this outside pressure. They're just focusing on the letter of the law.
[report features video]
The court is deciding whether gays and lesbians in our state have the right to get married. Meanwhile, thousands of people rallied for and against the cause outside the courthouse.
But the justices of the Supreme Court are supposed to be insulated from all of this outside pressure. They're just focusing on the letter of the law.
[report features video]
Seattle Times: Official resigns over gay remarks
March 4, 2005
A businessman who made derogatory comments to an AIDS-awareness group at the Capitol has resigned from his position as first vice president for the Rental Housing Association of Puget Sound.
"Looks like it's anal-sex week," Lou Novak remarked as a group from the Lifelong AIDS Alliance walked though the state House office building.
The group included a 13-year-old girl and a 16-year-old boy.
The Rental Housing Association's executive board held an emergency meeting yesterday, after The Associated Press reported on the incident. Board members asked for Novak's resignation as first vice president, and he resigned from the association, which represents 3,500 landlords across Washington state.
"Looks like it's anal-sex week," Lou Novak remarked as a group from the Lifelong AIDS Alliance walked though the state House office building.
The group included a 13-year-old girl and a 16-year-old boy.
The Rental Housing Association's executive board held an emergency meeting yesterday, after The Associated Press reported on the incident. Board members asked for Novak's resignation as first vice president, and he resigned from the association, which represents 3,500 landlords across Washington state.
Olympian: Gay marriage debate must be conducted with civility
Google the term "gay marriage," and you'll turn up more than 5 million page hits. So much is said and written on the issue that I needn't waste this space on the usual talking points available elsewhere.
My sense is that most people who oppose same-sex marriage aren't keen to intrude upon the freedoms or sexual relationships of others. But we do respond to activism that seeks to refashion our culture according to an opposing worldview. Many Americans are frustrated as they watch an honored and cherished institution redefined and co-opted by a vocal minority.
For many, it's sufficient that God's word disapproves of same-sex intimate relationships -- as do many non-Christian faith communities. From a purely scientific standpoint, even to those who doubt the existence or authority of an intelligent creator, it's plain that the incompatible physiology runs counter to nature.
My sense is that most people who oppose same-sex marriage aren't keen to intrude upon the freedoms or sexual relationships of others. But we do respond to activism that seeks to refashion our culture according to an opposing worldview. Many Americans are frustrated as they watch an honored and cherished institution redefined and co-opted by a vocal minority.
For many, it's sufficient that God's word disapproves of same-sex intimate relationships -- as do many non-Christian faith communities. From a purely scientific standpoint, even to those who doubt the existence or authority of an intelligent creator, it's plain that the incompatible physiology runs counter to nature.
Longview Daily News: Legislators demand apology for official's anti-gay remark
March 3, 2005
Legislators are demanding an apology from a businessman who made anti-gay comments to a group visiting the Capitol for an AIDS awareness day.
"Looks like it's anal sex week," Lou Novak loudly remarked as a group from the Life Long AIDS Alliance walked though the state House office building.
The group included a 13-year-old girl and a 16-year-old boy. The boy's family had recently been forced to move because of anti-gay prejudice in his neighborhood.
Novak is first vice president of the Rental Housing Association of Puget Sound, a landlords' organization.
The leader of the AIDS awareness group, Suzie Saxton of Yakima, followed the man into the public Capitol cafeteria and asked him what he'd said. She said Novak repeated his comment and told her people shouldn't engage in irresponsible sex and ask for public money.
"Looks like it's anal sex week," Lou Novak loudly remarked as a group from the Life Long AIDS Alliance walked though the state House office building.
The group included a 13-year-old girl and a 16-year-old boy. The boy's family had recently been forced to move because of anti-gay prejudice in his neighborhood.
Novak is first vice president of the Rental Housing Association of Puget Sound, a landlords' organization.
The leader of the AIDS awareness group, Suzie Saxton of Yakima, followed the man into the public Capitol cafeteria and asked him what he'd said. She said Novak repeated his comment and told her people shouldn't engage in irresponsible sex and ask for public money.
Seattle Weekly: To Love, Honor, and Be Gay
March 2, 2005
The United States' first great civil-rights struggle of the 21st century has arrived in Washington. On March 8, the state Supreme Court will hear oral arguments about the legality of gay marriage. A few brave Supreme Court justices in other states have allowed us to glimpse the freedom to love—in Hawaii, Vermont, and Massachusetts. The resulting backlash has been frightening, both for the depth of its virulence and the vastness of the contagion. Since 1996, when President Bill Clinton and the U.S. Congress started the hate train rolling with their gleeful codification of discrimination against people based on whom they love, 38 states have passed Defense of Marriage Acts (DOMA), including Washington in 1998 (the Legislature had to override former Gov. Gary Locke's veto to do so). Last November, President Bush and his Republican allies skillfully exploited deeply held prejudices against same-sex couples by passing, in 11 states including Oregon, a constitutional amendment outlawing the freedom to marry.
