Dear 5849376, Our Social Security system is one of the most popular programs we've built as Americans. The reason it is universally beloved is that its benefits are also universal. No matter who you are, or where you come from, Social Security is there for you in retirement, or for your children and spouse in the event of death. There's just one problem: Some states don't recognize every marriage. That's why Senator Patty Murray and Senator Mark Udall have introduced the Social Security and Marriage Equality Act of 2014. We have to speak out now to build support for this important legislation. That's why I started my own campaign on CREDOMobilize.com, which allows activists to start their own petitions. My petition, which is to the United States Congress, says the following: Support the Social Security and Marriage Equality Act (or SAME Act), which will ensure survivor benefits to any legally married persons regardless of their state of residence or their marriage ceremony location. Tell Congress: A marriage is a marriage, and our Social Security system belongs to all of us. The Social Security and Marriage Equality Act (or SAME Act) will ensure survivor benefits to any legally married persons regardless of their state of residence or their marriage ceremony location. Current law restricts survivor benefits based on their legal marital status in the state they live in, unfairly excluding lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender citizens living in states that do not recognize same-sex marriages. Citizens work hard for Social Security benefits with the expectation that they are achieving long-term financial stability not only for themselves, but for their entire family. The death of a spouse is an emotionally straining time, and retirement insecurity should never add to a family's burden. This change should be a no-brainer, but many members of Congress continue to oppose equal protection under the law for all married couples. Will you join me and add your name to my petition urging Congress to support the Social Security and Marriage Equality Act? Thank you for your support. Michael Phelan | 
