THE ASSEMBLY Cconmtce on Ehies STATE OF NEW YORK gat uri ALBANY Cconmarrees "Sports Dontopment asnieL ODOM i Assen May 17, 2011 Dear Colleague, In recent months, newspaper editorial boards from all over New York, both upstate and downstate, urban and rural, have acknowledged and given voice to what hearty majority of New Yorkers already believe: it's time for Matriaye Liquality to become lav. On May 9", the Bufo News reminded us that “This is a matter of simple human rights, and New York belongs on the right side of the issue.” ‘Vhis followed diteetly on the heels of an editorial on May 4"* in New York’s largest Spanish-language daily newspaper, I Diana, entitled “Apruchen los matrimonios gay.” On May 10), the Oueida Daily Dispatch pointed to the eivil nature of Marriage Hquality, stating, “in the Empire State, marriage, as an institution ereated, defined and protected by the state, should be established as a civil right of all of the state's adult citizens without favor or prejudice.” iments on February 14", stating “Civil mattiage and the 2,462 protections isa right thar all other New Yorkers enjoy.” The editorial concluded by declaring, “Marriage binds loving couples. 1° time that extended to same-sex couples in New York.” The Syrumse Post Standard voiced the ‘nd responsibilities conferred by it These calm voices positioning their newspapers on the side of equality have only added to the growing clamor for true equality under our state’s laws. As you know, this issue is both Professional and personal for me, and J, with my pactner John, remain hopeful thar after being together for 30 years, this will finally be the year we ean marry have appended « selection of these editorials in support of Martiage Equality. T encours you ro read them and hear the belief of a majority of New Yorkers put to paper oo yours, Daniel Gf finell AsseinB Jlember {DISTRUCT OFFIGE: 248 Went 104% Set, New York New York 100 6-70, Fax. 212.864.1005 ALBARY OFFICE: Roo 618, Legislative Otte Bulag, Alar, New Yok 12248 = 516-498-5600 Fr SIBaee-012 ‘Email Ades: adem sara