NOT IN WASHINGTON

Dear Friend,

There are certain moments that test what kind of people we are, both as individuals and as a community and a country. Do we believe that all people are created equal, or not? How important is fairness? Will we defend our civil rights? Our co-workers' or friends' civil rights? Or not.

We are at such a moment in Washington State. In Washington, committed same sex couples and families now enjoy the same legal protections granted to married couples under state law.

The radical right just filed a referendum - Referendum 71 -- to repeal many of those protections and benefits.

They need two things from you to succeed: your signature, and your silence.

Don't give them either. Join thousands of people across Washington in saying no to discrimination by pledging: "Yes! I decline to sign!" Please put your name on our pledge not to sign this referendum. Then forward this email to your friends and ask them to sign as well.

Yes! I decline to sign!

http://www.fusewashington.org/page/s/declinetosignFWD

Your pledge is powerful. Three years ago, these same folks tried to repeal a law that banned discrimination based on sexual orientation. That effort came up 6,000 signatures short and they never made it to the ballot.

We can do it again. We are working with our friends at Equal Rights Washington and other partners to protect domestic partnerships. The fight to keep this referendum off the November ballot will be close. But we can stop it, if we work together. Please sign our pledge today and join the effort.

State law cannot extend the over 1,000 federal protections of marriage to same sex familes -- like social security survivors' benefits. But we can - and have -- extended benefits like the right to collect a deceased partner's pension if the deceased was a public sector employee. We cannot afford to go backwards on our commitments to fairness and equal rights.

Put your name on the Yes! I Decline to Sign Pledge NOW!

http://www.fusewashington.org/page/s/declinetosignFWD

Thanks for all you do,

- Erik and the entire Fuse team


www.fusewashington.org

Fuse helps you make a difference by making your voice heard on the most important issues when the decisions are being made. Real people generating stronger progressive leadership from elected officials -- that is the power of Fuse.
Together for Progress
Join us at
www.fusewashington.org

Support our member-driven organization: Fuse depends on the support of our members. If you'd like to support our work, you can give now at: www.fusewashington.org/donate

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