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This morning, six same sex couples applied for marriage licenses at King County’s Licensing Services. The applications were denied in accordance with state law that defines marriage as “a civil contract between a male and a female who have attained the age of 18 years and who are otherwise capable.”
(RCW 26.04.010) The couples, following procedures specified by state statute (RCW 26.04.020)
filed an appeal to the King County Superior Court, claiming discrimination under the state’s equal protection
law. Article XXXI Section 1 of Washington State Constitution states “equality of rights and
responsibilities under the laws shall not be denied or abridged on account of sex.”
Executive Sims’ statement is as follows:
“I will not issue marriage licenses to same sex couples as long as state law prohibits it. But equal protection for all under the law is the basis of our nation. Over the centuries in this country, we have fought to expand equal protections to all. Every civil rights issue that we pursue and win makes us a stronger people and a stronger country – not just for that affected group, be it people of color, women or in this case loving couples who want to marry – but for all of us and for our country.
“Today, we have asked the court to determine whether current state law regarding same sex marriages violates the state’s equal protection guarantee. I believe that the law prohibiting same-sex marriages is wrong, but the courts must decide this issue. Equality to all cannot be achieved if equality for some is denied.
“Discrimination or favoritism in the law is wrong. It is imperative that we ensure all people their due civil rights and civil liberties. Our goal is to ensure everyone has equal protection under the law. I support any effort that further guarantees these inalienable rights of equality for all under the law.”
Related information:
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March 8, 2004 - Lisa Stone, Executive Director of the Northwest Women's Law Center, holds up a copy of the lawsuit that was filed today.
» Enlarged view
March 8, 2004 - Executive Sims addresses the media after six same sex couples applied for marriage licenses at King County’s Licensing Services and were denied in accordance with state law.
» Enlarged view
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