Pride Weekend Kicks off with Video of Gay Service Member Pablo Monroy: ‘Why Marriage Matters’

 To kick off Seattle’s Pride, Washington United for Marriage (WUM) the campaign working to approve Referendum 74, today released a video of 24-year-old Pablo Monroy of Tacoma who talks about dropping to his knee on a family vacation to propose to his longtime partner, Derrick Peacock.  Monroy and Peacock will join WUM volunteers and marchers at the Pride festivities on Sunday.

In sharing his story, Pablo talks about his experience in the Navy under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” his lifelong dream of having a family, and his desire to just be a “married, happy couple” with his partner.

“Even when I was growing up I wanted to get married, settle down, have a family…white picket fence,” Pablo recalls. “And even after I realized I was gay I still wanted that, with whoever I loved.”

Monroy served his country for four years in the Navy, advancing to the rank of Petty Officer, Second Class.  Today, he continues to serve as a member of the Washington State Army National Guard while attending the University of Washington, Tacoma.

“Pablo’s story of serving his country and returning home to build his life resonates with a lot of Washingtonians,” said Zach Silk, WUM campaign manager.  “Here’s a young man, dedicated to service and family who simply wants to marry the person he loves.  We’re so proud of him and delighted he’ll be with us at Seattle Pride.”

Pablo’s compelling story is third in the series of “Why Marriage Matters” video testimonials that will be released in coming weeks. The campaign kicked off with two videos: Steve and Robin Boeler of Mercer Island talk about wanting to see all three of their daughters married, including their lesbian daughter; and Rachel and Tammy Reim-Ledbetter of Bonney Island who talk about their love and commitment to one another.

The testimonials, posted on WUM’s website at http://washingtonunitedformarriage.org/why-marriage-matters/ serve as an invitation to families across the state to talk about the importance of marriage for themselves, their children and the people they love.  

Here’s a link to the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBd5IoyOcnA&feature=youtu.be

See all three videos that have been released thus far at:  http://washingtonunitedformarriage.org/why-marriage-matters/

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