Hodes Denounces Union Leader for Excluding Same-Sex Marriage Announcement;
Challenges Ayotte to Do the Same
Manchester, NH - Tonight, Paul Hodes sent a letter to the editor of the Union Leader, denouncing their decision to exclude a same-sex marriage announcement from publication, and encouraging the paper to respect New Hampshire law and give same-sex couples the equal rights and opportunities they are guaranteed. He challenged his Republican opponent, Kelly Ayotte, to do the same.
"It is reprehensible that the Union Leader would exclude legal marriage in New Hampshire from publication because of their right-wing agenda," said Paul Hodes. "Legitimate minds can disagree over policy but once the law is settled, the paper should put aside differences and allow all couples to have equal access to their publication. Mr. Gould and Mr. Tine will become legally married this weekend and they should have the same opportunities as everyone in New Hampshire to have their marriage publicized and recognized."
"As a former Attorney General, Kelly Ayotte should understand the importance of respecting equality for every New Hampshire citizen. Tonight, I call on her to denounce the Union Leader and stand on the side of equal rights - and the law."
The text of Paul's letter is pasted below.
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October 22, 2010
Dear Editor:
I read with deep disappointment that the Union Leader has decided it will not publish the wedding announcement for Greg Gould and Aurelio Tine. The couple is legally getting married this weekend in Portsmouth. Last year New Hampshire legalized same-sex marriage to ensure that everyone has equal opportunity.
It is reprehensible that the Union Leader would exclude legal marriage in New Hampshire from publication because of their right-wing agenda. Legitimate minds can disagree over policy but once the law is settled, the paper should put aside differences and allow all couples to have equal access to their publication.
Mr. Gould and Mr. Tine will become legally married this weekend and they should have the same opportunities as everyone in New Hampshire to have their marriage publicized and recognized. The Union Leader's disgraceful policy of exclusion harkens to a different time in this country when people were denied opportunity because of their race, religion and ethnic origin.
Mr. McQuaid and I disagree on many things but I have always respected his opinion. He should respect the laws of New Hampshire and allow this couple a place in his newspaper along with other couples being married this weekend.
Sincerely,
Paul Hodes