It seems as though we are still living in the days of Greek mythology.

Like Sisyphus, the stone of equality in marriage laws for all Washingtonians had been pushed near the summit of realization through the State Senate’s passage of SB 5688.

But, just as weary activists were ready to celebrate this victory, as monumental as the Civil Rights struggle of 40 years ago, along comes another far right effort to send the stone of equality crashing back down into the abyss of bigotry and hate.

Currently, a coalition of “values voters” have filed Referendum 71, which will place SB 5688 before the voters in November. Simply by filing, the right has succeeded in delaying enactment of this expansion of domestic partnership rights to all areas of state law until at least July 26, the deadline for gathering enough signatures.

For those concerned with marriage equality, there is only one strategy: Decline to sign Referendum 71. Don’t let the forces of hate and bigotry win another round. When the paid signature gatherer puts Referendum 71 before you, be polite, but firmly decline: No, I don’t agree with your petition. All Americans deserve equal protection under the law.

David Palmer, Des Moines