I urge all voters to vote a resounding “yes” on Referendum 71.

Please do not buy into the notion that having an alternative lifestyle is immoral. I find that the opposition is mostly religious and seeks to persecute couples who are seeking the same rights as any other two people who love each other. What right does anyone have to tell two people that they cannot have rights simply because they choose not to marry (couples, 62-years-old or older) or because they cannot (gays and lesbians)?

This referendum will also protect the freedoms for senior couples who have decided not to marry.

Please, give everyone the right to care for their loved ones. Please do not help to persecute those who have a different lifestyle. Please do not be afraid to bring about change. Fight for the freedom of all.

Elizabeth Carlson, Redmond