The upcoming Nov. 3 election isn’t a sexy presidential race, but Whitman students should still take it seriously. Two issues in particular dominate the Washington state ballot: the way we see it, R-71, if not passed, compromises the civil rights of gay couples, while I-1033 has the potential to undermine state spending on services like education and health care. But no matter your beliefs, your vote is your voice, so speak up. If you’re looking for some guidance, here are The Pio’s endorsements for the 2009 ballot.

YES Referendum 71 (R-71):

If a married woman gets sick, her husband can take medical leave to care for her. If a married man loses his job, he can count on his wife’s employer-provided insurance. Yet for Washington’s same-sex families, these and other rights still don’t apply. To change that, we urge a yes vote on R-71.
This domestic partnership bill is a step in the right direction: it affords same-sex couples all state rights and responsibilities that come with marriage, with the exception of the name itself.
Protect Marriage Washington claims that “marriage is between husbands and wives so children can have fathers and mothers.” But same-sex couples are already allowed to adopt, and many marriage licenses are granted to couples who will never have children. Their reasoning doesn’t justify withholding rights from Washington families in need.
Whitman students know the value of diversity and equality in strengthening our community. If you still need convincing, President Bridges personally endorses R-71.

NO Initiative 1033 (I-1033):

In a recession, state spending helps boost the economy. I-1033 would cap spending at recession levels, resulting in permanent cutbacks that could herald large class sizes and decreased health care and support for seniors. For these reasons, we support a no vote on I-1033.
Locally, the city council of Walla Walla and the Walla Walla county commissioners passed resolutions to oppose the passage of I-1033 in an effort to educate local voters to the damages of the Initiative. While higher taxes can pose difficulties to families and businesses during a downturn as I-1033’s proponents argue, maintaining spending at historically low levels would leave no room for growth.
This initiative doesn’t account for rising costs of heating, land and government employee health care, and would be a disservice to the state’s most vulnerable citizens. Washington will suffer from a bare bones budget if I-1033 passes. If you’re on the fence about voting, the potential damages of I-1033 are worth your attention. To maintain high-quality education and social services, we recommend all students vote on I-1033.