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Log Cabin Republicans of Washington State Pledge to Continue Push for Civil Marriage Equality

Personal Stories and Education Will Help Gain Support in Legislature and Among American Public

July 26, 2006

(Olympia, WA) – "Log Cabin Republicans of Washington are committed to educating citizens and lawmakers about the importance of enacting civil marriage equality in this state," said Ken Nielsen, the President of Log Cabin's Washington State chapter.

The Washington State Supreme Court ruled 5-4 to uphold the state's 1998 Defense of Marriage Act that denies marriage to gay or lesbian couples.

"Log Cabin of Washington thanks those courageous couples who joined this case. Their personal stories of commitment and love show why it's so important to provide basic fairness for gay and lesbian families. We also thank the Northwest Women's Law Center, Lambda Legal, Equal Rights Washington, Freedom to Marry, and all the other organizations that worked so hard to make the case for marriage equality," said Nielsen.

"Log Cabin will work with other organizations in the years ahead to educate and lobby lawmakers about why civil marriage equality should be enacted. Sharing our stories and explaining why all families deserve basic protections and responsibilities will help move more citizens and lawmakers to our side. Civil marriage equality for gay or lesbian couples is truly a conservative goal that will improve the lives of all Americans," said Nielsen

"This decision highlights what we already recognize – the journey to full equality for all families, including gays and lesbians, will take work not only in the courts, but also in legislatures and with our neighbors as we work to change hearts and minds," said Nielsen.