Monday, February 16, 2009
I am a 22-year veteran firefighter and paramedic: a public employee serving the residents of Seattle. My professional and spiritual convictions run deep. Were I to die in the line of duty, I would hope my sacrifice would be equal to those of my heterosexual peers.
Sad to say, it isn't. Legislation proposed by Sen. Ed Murray and Rep. Jamie Pedersen hopes to remedy that. Not until 2012, mind you, when the Mayans say the world will end, anyway.
Just kidding. But the silliness of the aside illustrates the contortions in which "marriage equality" becomes hopelessly mired. This goes deeper than pension and line-of-duty survivor benefits. My sacrifice would not equal those of my heterosexual peers, for one clear, foundational reason. My life isn't equal. Not under the law.Read more
