Our hearts have cause for optimism this Valentine's Day.
The Washington state Legislature just passed a marriage equality bill which passionate equality-advocate Gov. Chris Gregoire signed on Monday. Similar bills moving forward in New Jersey and Maryland have an excellent chance of passage. Another marriage equality bill has been introduced in Illinois. And, one week ago today, a federal appeals court upheld Judge Vaughn Walker's ruling that California's Prop 8 is unconstitutional.
While opponents of fairness will continue their attempts to repeal and block marriage equality at the state and federal levels, the historical trajectory is in our favor. As the "Los Angeles Times" noted in their Sunday op-ed, "Why gay marriage is inevitable," a large majority of young people now believe that same-sex couples should have the freedom to honor their love through marriage.
Perhaps the most universal Valentine's Day message was delivered by state Rep. Maureen Walsh during the marriage-bill floor debate in Washington. After movingly recalling the bond she had with her husband of 23 years, who died 6 years ago, Walsh argued, "How could I deny anyone the right to have that incredible bond with another individual in life?" She then expressed hope that her lesbian daughter will not have to feel like a second-class citizen if she chooses to marry the woman she loves.
As we individually celebrate this February 14th with our spouses and sweeties, friends and families, let's pledge to work united to ensure that each new Valentine's Day is not only a celebration of love but also a celebration of greater equality.
Happy Valentine's Day to you and your loved ones.