the equality issue
TRANSCRIPT
A Q U A R T E R LY P U B L I C AT I O N F R O M S E AT T L E ’ S
L E S B I A N , G AY, B I S E X U A L , T R A N S G E N D E R
A N D A L L I E D C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E
S T R E N G T H E N I N G O U R M E M B E R S H I P A N D
C O N N E C T I N G O U R C O M M U N I T Y T H R O U G H
E F F E C T I V E , I N F O R M AT I V E C O M M U N I C AT I O N
SPRING 2012
perspective
continued on page 4
inside
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GSBA Scholarship Story PAGE 3 Uniting to Thrive PAGE 4 Marriage Equality Update PAGE 8
A Heart-Felt Passion to Serve PAGE 9 Groundbreaking Exhibit PAGE 11
THE EQUALITY ISSUE
B Y G A I L B E N Z L E RE D I T O R - I N - C H I E F
A Conversation with Gov. Chris Gregoire
Separate but Equal is Not Equal
GOVERNOR CHRIS GREGOIRE needs no introduction. Washingtonians have made great strides in the fight for equal-ity under her watch and on February 13, the she signed full marriage equality into law, just in time for Valentine’s Day. A few days later, Governor Gregoire made a remarkable speech at GSBA’s Business and Humanitarian Awards Dinner. What a week!
For Chris Gregoire, marriage equality is about families. LGBT
families, she believes, are no different from any other family. The governor acknowledges the role her deep Catholic faith has played in her decision
to lead on equality. “The underpinning of my faith is that I respect all people and I will lift them up as best I can,” she says.
I asked Governor Gregoire about marriage equality and how the landscape for LGBT businesses has changed during her tenure
in your BusinessGSBA BOARD OF DIRECTORSExecutive OfficersMark Rosén, Chair, Salon Ciba [email protected] Brister, Vice Chair, Three Dollar Bill Cinema [email protected] Blackburn, Secretary, Coldwell Banker Danforth [email protected] Friedt, Treasurer, TAAS, [email protected] Davis, Scholarship Fund Chair, City Lights Sign Company, [email protected] Bowman, Strategic Plan Chair, Jonathan Bowman Attorney at Law, PS, [email protected] Smith, Public Policy Chair, Mona Smith PLLC [email protected]
DirectorsRoen Ako, Newman Dierst Hales, PLLC [email protected] Aquila, Allan Aquila & Associates, LLC [email protected] Bohnert, Windermere Real Estate/Wall Street, Inc [email protected] Collins, [email protected] Dallas, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney [email protected] Downs, Sky River Mead [email protected] DuCharme, Attorney at Law [email protected] Dugdale, [email protected] Evans, Starbucks Coffee Company [email protected] Gaspari, Windermere, [email protected] Haslett, Embassy Suites, [email protected] Huguenin, 2008 GSBA Scholarship Recipient [email protected] Kinney, [email protected] McDonell, Watson & McDonell, PLLC [email protected] Mirabella, Social Media & Online Marketing Consultant [email protected] Neidhart, Renaissance Hotel [email protected] Ness, 1st Security Bank , [email protected] Norberg, Seabold Group [email protected] Plaid, MCW Events, [email protected] Sarchet, Precision Garage Door Service [email protected] Simison, Ernst & Young, [email protected]
StaffLouise Chernin, President & CEO, [email protected] Rachel Chernin, Operations Manager [email protected] Joshua Rumley, Office [email protected] Swetin Membership Services Coordinator [email protected] Tapado, Director of Marketing & External Relations, [email protected] Thanos, Program Manager, [email protected] Wootten, Development Associate & Scholarship Manager, [email protected]
ContractorsGail Benzler, Editor-in-Chief [email protected] Matt Ketcham, Ketcham Design, Designer & Publisher [email protected]
GSBA’s The Perspective is published quarterly by and for the members of the Greater Seattle Business Association, 400 E. Pine, Suite 322, Seattle, WA 98122, printed by Girlie Press and mailed from Seattle, Washington 98122. Opinions expressed in Perspective do not necessarily represent the views of the association, its members, or its Board of Directors. Deadline for submission of all ads and articles for each issue is the 1st of the previous month. Established in 1981, GSBA is a business chamber serving the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and allied business and professional community. As expressed in our Mission Statement, GSBA is committed to “To combine business development, leadership and social action to expand economic opportunities for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community and those who support equality for all.” Membership is open to any business or individual who subscribes to the purposes of the association. For more information, contact GSBA at (206) 363-9188, or visit our Website at thegsba.org.
board chair’s Column
BY LOUISE CHERNINPRESIDENT & CEO
BY MARK ROSÉN
THE EQUALITY TWO-STEP, you know it well; two-steps forward and one back. How many years have we worked, passed a signif-icant life changing law and popped a cork to celebrate, only to have to defend every gain again? It took 29 tries to pass the Anderson Murray Anti-discrimination bill and finally it passed in the 30th year. We were moving
Let’s Not Skip a Beat in the Fight for Equality
I AM SOMETIMES ASKED WHY the GSBA Board of Directors takes certain positions on political issues affecting our state and community. The businessmen who founded GSBA did so three decades ago to strengthen the LGBT community. Today, more than 30 years later, our collective voice is stron-ger and we have a much more active civic presence.
Right now, we are taking a very active role as we move forward to ensure that the marriage equality bill passed by our legisla-ture and signed by Governor Chris Gregoire, becomes lasting law in Washington state. The GSBA Board represents over 1,000 members and we understand that laws like marriage equality improve the business
Making Sure Marriage Equality is Here to Stay
our feet pretty well around the dance floor during the next few years – we even passed the “everything but marriage” bill. Then we were forced to take a step back to defend the new law, this time at the ballot box. Justice prevailed and R-71 passed.
This year, history was made once again when our elected officials passed, and our governor signed, a bill giving civil mar-riage equality to same-sex couples. What a moment it was, celebrating what some of us never thought we’d see in our lifetimes – the recognition that our families and relation-ships would now be treated equally under the law, at least in Washington state. We had a full five days dancing to the beat of marriage equality when we were once again forced to take a step back.
As expected, a referendum was filed which could overturn civil marriage equality
in November. To further create voter confusion, an initiative has also been filed, trying to define marriage so that only some loving relationships in our state will be equally recognized and protected.
Lest we feel that the LGBT community is the only community forced to learn and relearn the two-step, let’s remember that the ERA (Equal Rights Amendment), guarantee-ing equality under the law for women, was never ratified. And as I type this, there is a movement to rethink access to birth control. Really, are we going to dance that far back-wards? Dizzying, isn’t it?
So, if you don’t think elections mat-ter, check out who is running for office and picture how far our hard-fought rights can be rolled back. I believe justice will again prevail. We know how to organize, educate and tell our stories. We have taken years of dance lessons and we will glide forward along this dance floor, never skipping a beat until equality for all is a reality. Don’t be complacent: organize, donate, endorse and Approve R-74.
climate and civic life for all of our members, as well as for the community at large.
We listen to our members. When your board is asked to weigh in on an issue, or when we feel it is important to take a stand, we want to hear how our members feel. We do this by listening to your feedback, polling members or by holding focus groups.
With an issue such as marriage equality, we know that it is vitally important to take a position of support and we back that up as an organization. Your GSBA Board has made a matching gift to the Washington United for Marriage Campaign and is working in cooperation with them and Equal Rights
continued on page 10 3
Making a Difference Today and TomorrowGSBA Scholarship Stories
Donors Know GSBA Scholarships Change Lives“WE ARE INSPIRED BY THE SCHOLARS’ STORIES. We like that the GSBA Scholarship Fund supports the LBGT community and does not discriminate against any students. We need programs that foster inclusion and at the same time support people in need. This is important because this is how equality is created. We wish more scholarships could be given out. Quite often, there are more quality students than funds available.”
Scholar Ryan Digges Comes Full CircleB Y J E S S I C A W O O T T E N , G S B A D E V E L O P M E N T A S S O C I A T E & S C H O L A R S H I P M A N A G E R
SMILE EASILY MEETS Ryan Digges’s face as he recalls getting
“the call” back in 2003. As a high school senior at Lakewood High School, Ryan founded the School’s first Gay-Straight Alliance and even took his boyfriend to the prom. Ryan remembers feeling on top of the world when he was awarded a GSBA Scholarship. “Getting a GSBA scholarship affirmed the countless hours of sweat and tears and pride that was the culmination of my life as a high school senior, and afforded me the opportunity to get out of a small town and pursue some big dreams,” he says.
In search of his dreams, Ryan headed to the University of Washington to study
communications. While at UW, he was an active member of Delta Lambda Phi – a fraternity for Gay, Bisexual and Progressive Men. At the fraternity, he built a strong community and a love for philanthropy. This led Ryan back to the GSBA Scholar-ship Fund, where he has been a member of the GSBA Scholarship Alumni Committee. Ryan feels fortunate to be giving his time to the Fund that helped him achieve so much. “I had been looking for a place to put my energy, and my journey with the GSBA Scholarship Fund has come full circle.”
As part of the Alumni Committee, Ryan has visited with local high schools to encour-age them to apply. “It is so encouraging to
hear from our future generation,” he adds. “These young people are so engaged and continuously working for equality.” For the first time this year, Ryan is also volunteering as a Scholarship interviewer.
Ryan is now an account manager for online company EducationDynamics in downtown Seattle. He lives with his partner, Ryan, on Capitol Hill. They enjoy spend-ing time with their friends and family and challenge anyone to a friendly board game competition. To learn more about the GSBA Scholarship Fund, please contact Development Associate & Scholarship Manager, Jessica Wootten at [email protected].
RENE NEIDHART & ARTHUR DAVIS, GSBA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONORSTE
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and what she believes the future holds. She’s proud of her accomplishments and I know you are proud of her, too. Let’s let the governor’s words speak for themselves.
Gail Benzler: How did it feel to put your signature on marriage equality legislation after all of the hard work you put into the bill and its passage? Why was it so impor-tant to introduce and get marriage equality passed in this legislative session?
Governor Gregoire: Signing the marriage equality bill into law was one of the proudest moments of my career. This has been a very emotional and personal journey for me. For several years, Washington has been on the path of advancing equality in our state. In 2007, I signed legislation granting domestic partnerships rights to same-sex couples, and in 2009, I signed the domestic partnership bill affording same-sex couples the same rights and protections afforded to mar-ried couples. For me, this is about our families. We can’t tell the children of same-sex families that their parents’ relationship, that their love, is not the same as other families’. It is.
Benzler: Even with passage of the mar-riage equality bill, there are still obstacles to achieving equality. For example, there is a patchwork quilt of marriage, civil union and domestic partnership laws throughout the U.S. Same-sex marriages are not recognized at the federal level, in part because of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), yet polls show a majority of Americans favor mar-riage equality or civil unions. Do you foresee a time when DOMA will be repealed?
Gregoire: I do think DOMA, at the federal level, will be repealed. Washington and seven other states have demonstrated that the principles and definition of DOMA do not provide equal rights to the citizens of
this generation. Like the conversations happening in every state, this will take time. This administration has concluded that DOMA is unconstitutional and has directed the Attorney General not to defend the statute in legal cases. There are signs of progress across the country, and more and more Americans support marriage equality, as you said.
Benzler: How can others lead on this issue – at home, in business, in public life – as you have done? How has your faith played a
Cover Story: Separate but Equal is Not Equal – continued from page 1
Separate but Equal is Not Equal
supplier diversity contracts with the state. How has the landscape for LGBT equality and business changed during your tenure as governor and what is the economic impact of equality for Washington state?
Gregoire: The landscape has changed dramatically during my tenure as governor, and I’m proud of that. We’ve had several great legislators and many great community leaders who have helped immensely on this issue. We’ve gone from a state that passed a DOMA bill in the dark of night to one whose Capitol building overflowed with families
when I signed the marriage equality bill this February. It’s been a long journey, and it’s been the right one.
Study after study has shown that equality for the LGBT community helps businesses and helps our state. That’s why corporate leaders such as Microsoft, Vulcan, Nike, Starbucks, Group Health and so many others, stood up for this bill.
In fact, a recent study by the UCLA School of Law estimates that the economic impact of weddings and tourism-related visits in Washington state will top $88 mil-lion in the first three years. [The economic impact study the governor mentions was completed by the Williams Institute. Williams Distinguished Scholar Gary Gates will talk about why marriage equality is good for business at the GSBA Business Luncheon on June 13.]
A special commission created by the state of New Jersey recently did a study about the potential impacts of same-sex marriage. It found that the economy of Mas-sachusetts truly benefited, and continues to benefit, from the change in the law. Among other findings, the study found that profes-sional same-sex couples continue to move to Massachusetts, bringing their credentials, their children and even extended families with them. I expect the same will happen here in Washington.
role in the way you have led on equality?
Gregoire: To lead on marriage equality, we have to be respectful and courteous of one another. The debate in our House and Senate was respectful and thoughtful. Hav-ing gone through a personal journey myself, I think it’s important to allow others to evolve on their own time and be sensitive to that. The story that Rep. Maureen Walsh, a Republican, told about her daughter coming out as a lesbian was brave and it was honest. As more people hear the stories of commit-ted, loving couples, they understand the need for equality and fairness. They realize that two committed, loving people want the opportunity to take a vow in front of their family and friends to say “I do.”
My faith is important to me and as a Catholic, I’ll admit, this was a journey. But I came to realize that “separate but equal” is not equal. The bill we passed provides broad religious protections, yet it does not allow the state to be in the business of dis-criminating against whom we issue marriage licenses to. The underpinning of my faith is that I respect all people, and I will lift them up the best I can.
Benzler: GSBA has led on a number of issues important to business including the City of Seattle’s Sick Leave ordinance, group health benefits for small businesses and the inclusion of LGBT owned businesses in
Benzler: GSBA is a business chamber with a diverse membership: national and mul-tinational corporations, small businesses, individuals, philanthropists, students – LGBT and allied. We like to say that we are more than a business chamber. Giving back has always been part of the association’s business model. You spoke so powerfully at GSBA’s Business and Humanitarian Awards Dinner earlier this year. What does it mean to a community when businesses, as part of their core values, care about business issues as well as quality of life issues? How can businesses continue to make a difference and become good corporate citizens?
Gregoire: When businesses care, their employees care. When employees care, that attitude flows into entire communi-ties. Businesses can continue to make a difference by encouraging their employees to become active in their neighborhoods and communities. During these difficult economic times we desperately need a strong sense of community. People need to know that if they run into trouble, some-one will be there for them. I’d urge busi-nesses to lead by example, to show their employees that it’s necessary for us all to volunteer or donate when we can to ensure every citizen is taken care of. GSBA and its members have been leaders in doing well by doing good. I thank you for that!
New GSBA Member Benefit!Get health insurance plans at competitive group
rates with the new Business Health Trust.
To take advantage of this new member benefit, call:
Kris Larsen, Larsen Benefit Professionals 206-352-0225
Ann Paris LUTCF, Paris Insurance Services 425-643-0733
or Jodi Hensley, ProBenefits of Washington
425-753-7000
HAT IS THE NEXT EVOLUTION of the LGBT
community? In the last century we’ve progressed from struggling
to survive and fighting for visibility to working for equality. Our sense of
identity as a community is changing now that living freely as “out” individuals is gaining acceptance legally and socially.
The strange and wonderful thing about the LGBT community is that we are united by our differences. More often than not, we do not share the same sexual orientation as
our parents or siblings. Our gender expres-sion may not conform to restrictive stereo-types. By celebrating our own uniqueness, we find and celebrate each other. We have a connection point that spans background, creed and language in a way no other group in the world is privileged to have. The ques-tion is, now that these differences are less
shocking to most of the mainstream, do we risk falling into apathy because the need to unite is less pressing?
The LGBT community is no longer vis-ible only in the gay ghetto where rainbow flags fly. We’re pursuing our dreams and interests with less risk of oppression or ex-clusion based on our sexual orientation. It’s a fantastic beginning to an era where LGBT individuals visibly make a difference in areas that matter to them, including in the areas of green sustainability. We want our values to matter – not just our values around
Uniting to Thrive marriage equality. One value that seems almost universal
is our desire to make a difference, to make the world a better place for each other, and the next generation of LGBT kids.
This value can be termed “sustainabil-ity.” It’s where my sense of self steers my actions; actions that impact the environ-ment, setting a tone for society that influenc-es the identity of the next generation. When we unite to thrive, it isn’t just our own lives we’re enhancing; it’s also setting the stage for amazing progress to come.
Find OUT for Sustainability on the web at out4s.org.
B Y G E R O D R O D Y , F O U N D E R O F O U T F O R S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y
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Uniting to Thrive – continued from previous page
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ARTS&
communityA Star is Born: Three Dollar Bill
Cinema Dinner and AuctionFriday, April 13
threedollarbillcinema.org
SHINE: Camp Ten Trees Dinner and Auction
Saturday, April 21camptentrees.org
Lifelong AIDS Alliance Dining Out for Life
Thursday, April 26llaa.org/diningoutforlife
Seattle Men’s Chorus & Seattle Women’s Chorus
Black Tie & Sequins: 16th Annual Dinner, Dance and Auction
Saturday, May 5flyinghouse.org
Women’s Funding Alliance Art of Dining
Thursday, May 10wfalliance.org
NARAL Pro-Choice Washington PAC
Power of Choice LuncheonMonday, May 14
prochoicewashington.org
GSBA Scholarship Awards DinnerFriday, May 18
thegsba.org
Hide/SeekThrough June 10
TacomaArtMuseum.com
NARAL Pro-Choice Washington PAC
Run for Your RightsSaturday, June 23
prochoicewashington.org
Rainbow Women’s Health FairSaturday, June 23
healthaccess-ywca.com
Seattle Pride WeekendJune 23-24
seattlepride.org
The TASTE of GSBASaturday, November 17
thegsba.org
We Are Advocating for Financial WellnessVisit our Broadway Neighborhood Financial Center 401 Broadway ESeattle, WA 98102
WHILE PARENTS ARE GENERALLY CAREFUL to keep their children up-to-date on immunizations, many of us are not as meticulous about getting ourselves vaccinated – or making sure we’re up-to-date on our vaccines. If a flu shot is the only vaccine you’ve had in recent memory, it’s quite possible that you are missing some critical immunizations.
Even if you’re sure you received all of your childhood immunizations, be sure to ask your primary care provider to check your records – you may be due for a booster. Your provider can advise you about which shots you need. Vaccines such as those for Tetanus and diphtheria must
be repeated (“boosted”) every 10 years. In addition, some newer vaccines, such as those for Human Papillomavirus (HPV), shingles, pneumococcal and flu, are advised for certain adults depending on their age, medical profile and exposure to the general public.
Whooping cough (pertussis) and diphtheria may sound like afflictions from the Dark Ages, but they still exist. In fact, according to the Na-tional Foundation for Infectious Diseases, more than 50,000 adults in the United States die from vaccine-preventable infections each year. That’s more than die from HIV/AIDS, breast cancer or traffic accidents. Unfortunately, there has been an increase in some of these vaccine-preventable diseases recently. The number of whooping cough cases in Washington has been increasing in the last two years, for example.
Keeping up-to-date on your vaccinations is an important component for protecting your overall health, just like eating right and getting proper exercise. Vaccines protect you – and the coworkers and family members you come in contact with – from life-threatening diseases and infections.Lisa Sieberson, DNP, ARNP is a Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner at PacMed’s Lynnwood location. Lisa specializes in women’s health,
pediatrics, adolescents, health promotion and health behavior change. PacMed accepts most major insurance plans and same–day appointments are available. To make an appointment with Lisa, call 425-744-7153.
L I S A S I E B E R S O N , D N P , A R N PP A C I F I C M E D I C A L C E N T E R S
Immunizations: They’re Not Just for Kids
Immunizations most commonly recommended for adults
• Fluvaccine – every year. An annual flu shot is specially important for those who have contact with the very young or very old. It can be done as a nasal mist for those between the ages 11-49.
• Tetanus-diphtheria(Td) – booster every 10 years. A tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap) is recommended once for those between the ages of 11 and 64.
• Shingles(Zoster)vaccine – once at age 60 or above
• Pneumococcal(Pneumovax) vaccine – once at age 65 or above (or earlier if recommended by your provider)
What a Night!
LEFT TO RIGHT: SEN. ED MURRAY, REP. JAMIE PEDERSEN, GOV. CHRIS GREGOIRE, ANNE LEVINSON
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GOVERNOR CHRIS GREGOIRE brings the house down as GSBA celebrates its StandOUT GSBA Business and Humanitarian Awards recipients.
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We can’t wait to celebrate Pride – and hand out the Guide!The GSBA Briefcase Brigade, floats, food, festival and fun. Experience it all with your GSBA family Sunday, June 24.
Want to volunteer? Call the GSBA office at 206-363-9188 today.
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401(k) plans aren’t just for large corporations. If you are your business’ sole employee — or if it employs only you, your co-owners and spouses — you can take advantage of an Owner-Only 401(k) plan. Get higher contribution limits than SIMPLE or SEP IRAs in addition to annual catch-up contributions of up to $5,500 if you’re 50 or older.Call today to find out if an Owner-Only 401(k) plan is right for you and your business.
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Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2012 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved. 1110-0259 [74026-v2] A1145
ELIZABETH BERNS has been a proud GSBA member since 2004 and she’s a judicial candidate for the King County Superior Court. An experienced attorney with 19 years of experience, she divides her time between practicing family law and estate planning and probate, focusing on business law and complex transac-tions and intellectual property as well as serving as a pro tem judge.
Although GSBA does not endorse any candidate for public office, it’s important to shine the spotlight on community leaders like Elizabeth. I wanted to share some of my conver-
sation with her about judicial elections and access to justice.
Q: What is the role of a pro tem judge and what types of cases have you presided over?
A: A pro tem judge sits at the invitation of the court when a judge is unable to preside over his or her calendar. I preside over criminal
Pro Tem Judge Elizabeth J. Berns A Heart-Felt Passion
to ServeB Y M O N A S M I T H
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matters in Municipal and District Courts, including jury trials, and all civil matters in Superior Court.
Q: What should citizens know about judicial elections?
A: We have about 425 judges in the state of Washington and our communities benefit by having a more diverse judiciary. About 14 are African Americans, 12 are Asian, 11 are Latinos and 10 are LGBT. Voting for judges gives us a voice and the ability to make a difference. This year, in King County Superior Court, we have four open positions.
The best way to learn about a candidate is to talk with them, to re-view candidate ratings by their colleagues and to look at candidate endorsements by community organizations and key community leaders. The voters’ pamphlet has information about a candidate’s qualifications and experience.
Q: What are the top qualities a judge should possess?
A: A judge should have a demonstrable commitment to democracy and due process, clear, competent and compassionate decision-making, and the ability to apply the law to the specific facts and circumstances presented.
Q: Why do you want to become a judge?
A: My passion to serve my community as a judge is heart-felt. I am running because I am passionate about modeling clear, competent and compassionate decision-making in our courts and being a positive reflection of the diversity that makes King County so unique. I care about the people appearing before me.
Q: What are three top access of justice issues facing the judiciary?
A: A growing diversity in our community, an increasing indigent population with critical needs and the strength of our support of an aware and engaged judiciary directly impact access to justice. When we fall short of embracing diversity, we have a greater potential to foster bias. It is imperative that we support decision-making and legal procedures that dispel bias.
Q: How have you worked to improve access to justice and how will you work to improve access in the future?
A: I have presided over matters involving many indigent people, people of varying ethnic, racial, and sexual minority groups amongst others. Each opportunity allows me a very important period where I can improve access to the judicial system through education and clear and simple explanation of our procedures and our laws. This past year, I volunteered to update the materials that our pro tem judges use in King County District Court including eliminating bias and discrimination in the courtroom.
I will continue my practice of service, not only through my commitment on the bench, but also through my commitment to my community.
HEN THE 2012 legislative session began, no one could
have anticipated that the marriage equality bill would be
vigorously championed by Governor Chris Gregoire, make it through the legislature and be signed into law.
The opponents of equality are ready-ing petitions to overturn this landmark legislation. As a result, Washington United for Marriage has launched its “Approve Referendum 74” campaign to uphold the legislation. GSBA is a coalition partner and member of the campaign’s coordinating committee. We have united with Wash-
ington United for Marriage to develop a business and educational toolkit that will highlight the economic benefits of marriage equality. GSBA’s Public Policy Task Force has formed its Marriage Equality Ad Hoc Committee in an effort to garner the support of the greater business community. In addition, we are starting an affinity group for wedding industry businesses to help companies capitalize on the economic power of marriage equality.
GSBA June Business LuncheonWednesday, June 13
Why is equality good for business? Why is equality good for tourism?
The Williams Institute reports that marriage equality could bring $88 million to our state in just the first three years. That’s quite an impact!
Williams Distinguished Scholar Gary Gates will be our featured speaker. Learn more about how marriage equality will bring more money and opportunity to our state and see why politicians, judges and the news media keep close tabs on what the Williams Institute has to say.
Learn more about the Williams Institute at williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu
Marriage Equality Update
B Y J O N A T H A N B O W M A N
Here are four ways your business can support marriage equality: FORMALLY ENDORSE MARRIAGE EQUALITY. Sign the GSBA letter of sup-port and the Washington United for Mar-riage endorsement form. DONATE. Defending marriage will be a $5-6 million campaign. Businesses like yours are needed to contribute to Washing-ton United for Marriage and to encourage customers to support marriage equality through the campaign. SPREAD THE WORD. Show that you support marriage equality by displaying window decals, placards and using the
Washington United for Marriage logo in communications. MAKE THE CONVERSATION HAPPEN. Tell your customers, vendors and others why you support marriage equal-ity. Steve Johnson, Director of the Seattle Office of Economic Development was right when he said of equality, “In a world where economic success is increasingly driven by competition for talented people, an envi-ronment where all individuals feel free to
PICTURED WITH GOVERNOR GREGOIRE, LEFT TO RIGHT: MONA SMITH, JESSICA SWETIN, LOUISE CHERNIN, GEORGE CHEUNG, JONATHAN BOWMAN AND GEORGE PIEPER.
be themselves is a distinct competitive advantage.”
Our support in this fight for equality will be crucial, especially this election year.
For more information or to become involved with the GSBA Marriage Equality Ad Hoc Committee, contact Jonathan Bowman at [email protected].
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Groundbreaking Exhibit Hide/Seek Comes to the Tacoma Art MuseumTHE CRITICALLY-ACCLAIMED Hide/Seek: Difference and Desire in American Portrai-ture, has finally arrived and the Tacoma Art Museum is proud to feature the exhibit exploring how gender and sexual identity have framed modern portraiture. This is the exhibit’s only West Coast appearance.
See why Hide/Seek has everyone talking, now through June 10, only at the Tacoma Art Museum. For tickets and information: TacomaArtMuseum.org.
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GSBA Calendar of EventsAprilPrime Time EastTuesday, April 35:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Embassy Suites3225 158th Avenue SE, BellevueComplimentary OUTLeads (Lunch)Tuesday, April 3 and 17Noon - 1:30 p.m.Umpqua Bank539 Broadway E, Seattle$60 per quarter OUTLeads (AM)Tuesday, April 10 and 247:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.Mae’s Cafe6412 Phinney Avenue N, Seattle$60 per quarter Prime Time Mixer – New Member and Volunteer WelcomeSpecial Argosy CruiseWednesday, April 115:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Pier 56, 1101 Alaskan Way, Seattle$10 for members and students$15 for non-membersNew Members and Volunteers are complimentary Women on TopWednesday, April 185:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Renaissance Hotel515 Madison Ave, Seattle$10 for members and students$15 for non-members
MayOUTLeads (Lunch)Tuesday, May 1 and 15Noon - 1:30 p.m.Umpqua Bank539 Broadway E, Seattle$60 per quarter Tech TuesdayTuesday, May 15:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Microsoft Westlake/Terry Building320 Westlake N, 4th Floor, Seattle $10 for members and students$15 for non-members OUTLeads (AM)Tuesday, May 8 and 227:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.Mae’s Cafe6412 Phinney Avenue N, Seattle$60 per quarter GSBA Scholarship Awards DinnerFriday, May 18Seattle Marriott Waterfront2100 Alaskan Way, SeattleHost a Table:$1,800 – President’s Table (table of 10, priority seating and champagne)$1,200 – Provost’s Table (table of 10, includes a student and their 2 guests)$1,200 – Dean’s Table (table of 10)Individual Registration:$120 for members$140 for non-members$80 for students Young Professionals with PrideTuesday, May 295:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Lobby Bar916 E Pike Street, Seattle$10 for members and students$15 for non-members
JuneOUTLeads (Lunch)Tuesday, June 5 and June 1912 Noon - 1:30 p.m.Umpqua Bank539 Broadway E, Seattle$60 per quarter Prime Time EastTuesday, June 55:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.Haystack Antiques140 105th Avenue NE, BellevueComplimentary OUTLeads (AM)Tuesday, June 12 and June 267:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.Mae’s Cafe6412 Phinney Avenue N, Seattle$60 per quarter
GSBA Business LuncheonWednesday, June 1311:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.Sheraton Seattle Hotel1400 6th Avenue, Seattle$34 for members and students$39 for non-members Tech TuesdayTuesday, June 195:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Location to be Announced $10 for members and students$15 for non-members
JulyOUTLeads (Lunch)Tuesday, July 3 and 17Noon - 1:30 p.m.Umpqua Bank539 Broadway E, Seattle$60 per quarter OUTLeads (AM)Tuesday, July 10 and 247:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.Mae’s Cafe6412 Phinney Avenue N, Seattle$60 per quarter Prime Time MixerWednesday, July 115:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Location to be Announced$10 for members and students$15 for non-members
Young Professionals with PrideTuesday, July 175:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Location to be Announced$10 for members and students$15 for non-members Women on TopTuesday, July 265:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Crowne Plaza Hotel1113 6th Avenue Seattle $10 for members and students$15 for non-members
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For Washington voters, the 2012 election cycle may be one of the most robust in years. The ballot will be packed with lots of races and anticipated referenda, including a likely referendum on the new marriage equality law and initiatives. GSBA does not endorse candidates, but we do urge every-one to vote in the primary and general elections.
Be Sure You Register to VoteThere are some important dates to remember if you are not
registered to vote or if you need to update your voter information. To vote in the August 7 primary, you must register by July 9. First-time Washington voters can register in person until July 30.
In order to vote in the November 6 general election, you must register before October 8, or in person by October 29 if you are a first time Washington voter. Visit the Secretary of State’s website for more information on voter registration at sos.wa.gov/elections/register.
Big Races This YearAll U.S. House seats are up for election and there are vacated
seats in the 1st and 6th Congressional Districts due to Jay Inslee’s run for governor and Norm Dick’s retirement. The new 10th Con-gressional District was created due to redistricting and the other
B Y M O N A S M I T H , P U B L I C P O L I C Y
E D I T O R
2012 Election Cycle: One of the Most Important
in Years9 districts were rearranged. The 1st Congressional District has attracted many candidates to take Rep. Inslee’s seat, including GSBA member Laura Ruderman (a former state representative from the 45th Legislative District).
U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell is up for re-election with two declared opponents, so far – State Senator Michael Baumgartner (6th Legislative District) and Dr. Art Coday.
There are many open races for statewide office this year. Governor Chris Gregoire is not running for re-election, Attorney General Rob McKenna is running for governor and Secretary of State Sam Reed is retiring. There are also two seats on the Supreme Court open. Justice Steven Gonzáles was appointed in 2012 and Justice Tom Chambers is retiring from the bench.
All state House seats are also up for election. GSBA members Representatives Jamie Pedersen (43rd District), Marko Liias (21st District) and Marcie Maxwell (45th District) are seeking re-election.
Several local and county judicial races will also be on the ballot. Electing qualified judges is critical to our justice system. GSBA member Elizabeth Berns (profiled in this issue) has announced her candidacy for the King County Superior Court.
Washington (ERW) to make sure the efforts succeed. Similarly, GSBA has taken stands on important social and business issues.
Who knew 30 years ago that GSBA would be such a strong voice for change and an advocate for so many businesses, big and small? But here we are, showing that strong civic engagement and community advocacy are part of our core.
Get involved in the many committees and programs GSBA offers. And don’t miss the GSBA Scholarship Awards Dinner on May 18. This year, we’ll be awarding $165,000 in scholarships to deserving future leaders. Join us for an evening that you will never forget.
Making Sure Marriage Equality is Here to Stay – continued from page 2
Stand OUT, Stand TOGETHER and Make a Difference
Support Our Scholars and Future Leaders at Two Not-to-be-Missed GSBA Special Events
Scholarship Awards Dinner Friday, May 18
The TASTE of GSBA Saturday, November 17
For more information and to register, visit thegsba.org
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It’s good to know Pacific Medical Centers has you covered with over a hundred board-certified primary care and specialty care physicians. From mammograms to physical therapy, we’re meeting the needs of our community every day in a relaxed and family-friendly environment. Visit us and see how good different feels.
Featuring:
• Same-day primary care appointments
• Most major insurance plans accepted
• Eight convenient locations throughout the Puget Sound region
• Diagnostic & Wellness Center for Women offering women’s healthcare in a spa-like setting
For more information or to make an appointment, call 206.621.4060 or go to www.PacMed.org/GSBA.
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