I’m the proud parent of three adult children.

My daughter was married a little more than a month ago. It was one of the most beautiful, poignant and powerful events of my life. My son and daughter-in-law have been married for nine years. Everyone who knows them says they were made for each other.

I’m hoping for a third wedding, but unfortunately that’s up to Maine’s voters. My other son is gay and can’t get married unless Question 1 passes.

I don’t believe equal rights should be voted upon. After all, the Declaration of Independence guarantees us “liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” doesn’t it?

Nevertheless, Mainers do get to vote on whether my third child gets to experience the wondrous joy of a wedding and the commitment, pride and security of a marriage.

So I’m asking the people of Maine to vote yes on Question 1 so my family, and others like mine, may experience true equality and our right to liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Lynn Plourde

Winthrop