AS A FORMER NA-
-TATORIUM EMPLOYEE, I'M DISAPPOINTED TO SEE A PLACE I LOVE SO MUCH BE THE SUBJECT OF COMMUNITY IRE ("ONLINE PETITION SEEKS FAMILY NATATORIUM MEMBERSHIP OPTION FOR GAY MARRIED COUPLES," JAN. 15). THOUGH I RECOGNIZE THAT THE NAT IS FOLLOWING THE STATE'S LAWS ABOUT WHAT CONSTITUTES A MARRIED COUple, it's only by demonstrating recognition of same-sex couples as normal and welcomed that we can eventually gain the support to change this constitutional description.
Until Ohio drops its discriminatory laws, I'd like to see Buckeye State businesses drop the excuses by recognizing same-sex couples' marriages and civil unions performed in other states. I strongly encourage the Natatorium to reconsider its family membership policies and send the message that families come in many forms. The law isn't always right -- and the Nat has an opportunity to set an example.
Kate Bigam,
Portsmouth, N.H.