In two weeks, voters will come together at the polls to choose the leaders of our country, our state and our communities.

In Maine, we will also cast our votes on a referendum that, in my view, focuses on important issues of equality and fairness. I will vote “yes” on Question 1 because I believe our democracy must protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of age, race, creed, religion, marital status, national origin, or, in this case, sexual orientation.

I set forth my views as a private citizen and a resident of Brunswick. I have been privileged in my life to know many people who seek, value, and build personal relationships grounded in a commitment to each other and to the common good. I have been moved by the joy they express when their bond is celebrated and ratified.

Unfortunately, I have also been stirred by the deep hurt, disillusionment and alienation that grips those who are denied a legal right of commitment to those they love.

The conflict over these rights has divided our Maine communities for too long and has denied basic civil rights and freedoms to many of our fellow citizens. I understand and respect those troubled by my position on this issue, especially because many who oppose Question 1 are guided, in good faith, by their religious beliefs or their more traditional views of family.

But while we are a nation grounded in the right of all people to practice their religion without the fear of interference or reprisal, we are also a nation and a state of laws that recognize and protect basic human and civil rights, regardless of religious, spiritual and personal doctrine.

I am honored to lead an institution that is nearly as old as our nation itself — a college devoted unambiguously to providing opportunity to those willing to work hard regardless of their means, their background, or their personal beliefs. This access to opportunity and equal protection guides our college because it also defines America.

I know some will disagree with my personal position on this issue — including members of our Bowdoin College community — and I accept and respect their point of view.

But as we go to the polls on Nov. 6, I hope you will join me in affirming American and Maine values of fairness and equality by voting “yes” on Question 1.

BARRY MILLS, of Brunswick, is president of Bowdoin College. His opinion, submitted as a private citizen, does not purport to reflect the views of Bowdoin College regarding Question 1.