We have lived in Maine for almost 10 years, and have been a lesbian couple for 23 years. One of us serves on the local planning board, so we understand how serious it is to take an oath to help people in the community.

We are asking our legislators to support us as members of their community.

A referendum on same-sex marriage is likely to be divisive and destructive, and that’s not good for Maine. Our legislators can put an end to hateful rhetoric now, by standing up to protect a minority group of citizens.

In a state that espouses the idea of live and let live, it’s just the right thing to do.

Lisa Brackbill and Lisa Pugh, Buckfield