In a new ad released today by Washington United for Marriage (WUM), the broad coalition working to defend the state’s bipartisan marriage law, a mother and father from Renton, talk about the strong connection between happiness and marriage in their family, and their hopes that some day their gay son can get married.

The video is part of WUM’s overall advertising campaign to support the freedom to marry and approve Referendum 74. The campaign showcases real people sharing their true stories from all over Washington.

The new ad introduces Wayne and Barbara Clark-Elliott, who have two grown children, one of whom is gay.

“Our daughter has found so much joy in her marriage,” says Barbara Clark-Elliott. “Our son Jonas is gay and isn’t able to marry.”

Wayne adds that if Jonas could get married, it would be “one of the happiest days of my life.”

See the new ad here: http://youtu.be/XWjiq_lTFVE

“Wayne and Barbara share the same hopes and dreams for their children as we all do – love and happiness that they and their daughter have found through marriage,” said Zach Silk, WUM’s campaign manager. “Approving R74 and the freedom to marry has a profound impact and meaning for so many Washington families and it’s why our work is so important.”

The full transcript of the ad follows.

“Clark-Elliott” (:30)

Barbara: Getting married is about making that special vow in front of family and friends. Our daughter has found so much joy in her marriage. Our son Jonas is gay and isn’t able to marry.

Wayne: Jonas getting married would be one of the happiest days of my life.

Barbara: When Jonas marries, I’ll know that he’s found the happiness that Wayne and I have enjoyed all these years. If Jonas could marry, that’s all I would ask.

Wayne: And that would complete it.

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