To the Editor:

Recently, legislative leaders in Illinois announced that in early January, they will seek to pass a measure winning the freedom to marry for same-sex couples in our state. The time is now for the General Assembly to pass this measure of basic fairness and dignity.

Many lesbians and gay men in Illinois – our neighbors, our friends and our co-workers – grew up just like me: dreaming of their wedding day. It is time for Illinois legislators to give our fellow Illinoisans the freedom to realize these dreams. My straight marriage is not harmed by marriage equality. On the contrary, greater monogamy and commitment help everyone in society.