Gay Opponents Targeting Maine, Prepare Pre-Emptive Strike at NJ

MAINE

Before you start rushing off to Maine to get married, the new marriage equality law hasn't quite cleared all its hurdles. Though it's supposed to take effect in 90 days, there's a chance it will never happen.

Marriage equality opponents, the conservative Maine Marriage Alliance, are wasting no time. Just yesterday, Thursday, they filed a challenge, an attempt to block the new law with Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap. The challenge was filed under the state’s “people’s veto” provision.

The signature-collecting deadline will probably fall in mid-September, Dunlap said.

Ellen Andersen on Bilerico Project explains a "people's veto" further, and its threat to marriage equality in Maine:

Laws in Maine usually go into effect 90 days after the legislature adjourns (somewhere around the end of June). But before that 90 day period is over, opponents of a law can try to gather enough signatures--about 55,000 right now-- to force the measure to a public vote. If opponents get those signatures in on time, implementation of the law will be suspended until a referendum can be held. This provision is commonly known as a "people's veto."

Equality Maine reports that opponents are already geared up to gather signatures to force a ballot initiative against marriage equality. They are asking for support to build a strong campaign against them.

NEW JERSEY

From 365gay.com:

A coalition of socially conservative groups is pressing the New Jersey legislature to ask voters in 2010 to amend the state constitution to bar same-sex marriage.
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New Jersey lawmakers would have to approve a constitutional amendment in each of two consecutive years in order to put the question to voters. So far, the Democratically-controlled legislature has rebuffed calls to advance the proposed amendment.

But the legislature also has stalled on taking up a bill that would allow same-sex couples to marry.

Members of the conservative coalition, New Jersey Family Policy Council and New Jersey Coalition to Preserve and Protect Marriage, held a press conference yesterday saying that same-sex couples already have civil unions, have the same benefits of married couples, so why do they need the term marriage?

Civil rights groups countered this amounted to separate but equal. A commission established by the state last year held three public hearings, and after hearing the testimonies of couples in civil unions, agreed.

Sen. Loretta Weinberg, who sponsors New Jersey's marriage equality bill, said the Supreme Court has "already said that same-sex partners are entitled to all the rights and responsibilities of marriage" -- and most lawmakers agree with it.

"I don't think the majority of the Legislature believes we should have a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage. They already voted for domestic partnerships and civil unions, and gay marriage is the next logical step. We don't have to expand rights; we're almost just changing the name," said Weinberg.

Weinberg predicted her bill would pass "by the end of this year."

VIDEO: CNN On Obama and LGBT Rights, "Think 10-Foot Pole."

I'm a bit befuddled. Does CNN, in its initial report, completely discount the ABC News Poll that showed for the first time in history that marriage equality supporters actually outnumbered opponents, 49% to 46%?

If in fact they don't think the poll holds water, they should at least refer to it and point out why they think it isn't valid.

Thank God for Paul Begala. At least he takes the time to point it out. On top of that, he brings up the National Guard Lt. Dan Choi being discharged under DADT.

Equality California Joins Grassroots in Fight for Marriage Equality

Equality California (EQCA) announced yesterday its new campaign Win Marriage Back. Make It Real!, their first public step in joining the grassroots in laying the groundwork for a new campaign to repeal Prop 8 if the California Supreme Court rules to uphold it.

Just this past weekend, the Courage Campaign announced its support for a 2010 initiative, and now with the EQCA joining in on the call, these two organizations among many other grassroots groups have given a solid signal to California that marriage equality will beckoning the state once again. And soon.

On a phone call with donors today, EQCA's new Marriage Director Marc Solomon and Executive Director Geoff Kors said their new campaign push will be two-fold. First, joining in the grassroots efforts in community organizing, and second, telling the stories of LGBT families who were adversely affected by Prop 8, the lack of which was a major criticism of the No on 8 campaign in which EQCA was major player.

The first point will be met by hiring 25 field organizers in all parts of the state to reach out to their communities and neighborhoods. In the call, a reference was made to Courage Campaign's amazing Camp Courage, a two-day training event designed to teach the principals and skills of community organizing to activists working to restore marriage equality in California. Courage Campaign has invested over a $100,000 in these camps, raised by on-line matching grant donations from the Dolby Family among others.

EQCA will be relying heavily on the hundreds of camp graduates. The camps have so far been held in Los Angeles, Fresno, San Diego, Oakland and coming up soon in Sacramento and East LA, all areas that EQCA plans to do outreach.

Graduates of the camps have set up successful Equality Teams throughout the state that engage the electorate in phonebanking, canvassing and more, with voter information provided to them through the Courage Campaign's Equality Hub. This giving away of information has been hailed as unprecedented because it gives anyone who wants to make a difference for equality in their own area the chance to succeed.

EQCA plans to contribute to the canvassing efforts starting this weekend with a goal of reaching 45,000 doors in 100 days. With the resulting information that is gathered, it will be used alongside other grassroots organizations, such as canvassing experts Marriage Equality USA, to build a stronger campaign.

The second point of the new push are two new tv ads that feature LGBT families. Having heard the sharp criticisms of the No on 8 campaign's refusal to show the faces of the LGBT population and its variety, and seeing how successful the Courage Campaign's record-breaking video, "Fidelity, Don't Divorce Us" has been, EQCA will be releasing their own ads on TV this weekend.



See the second ad here.

EQCA working alongside grassroots is a remarkable change since the No on 8 campaign during which the grassroots felt shut out. The failure of the campaign woke a sleeping giant throughout the nation, but particularly in California, displayed prominently in the massive rallies and protests that followed.

Even more remarkable is that EQCA, along with Courage Campaign, Marriage Equality USA, FAIR, Equal Roots and more, have all chipped in together on the costs of polling, and with the resulting information, all groups will be armed to work together on the new initiative campaign if needed.

Since the November election, the grassroots has grown stronger and more organized, its full force to be seen on the Saturday following the Supreme Court's ruling on Prop 8. Win or lose, thousands will Meet in the Middle in Fresno, CA, the heart of Yes on 8 territory, not only to show numbers, but to stand in solidarity for equality for all.

Just recently, academy award winning actress Charlize Theron issued a letter through the Courage Campaign, urging everyone, especially straight allies, to show support by meeting in Fresno.

EQCA has taken its cue from such organizing. Despite some growing pains in working alongside the grassroots, they will be showing their support by appearing at Meet in the Middle, an event that is sure to launch either a statewide effort to repeal Prop 8 if its upheld, or a nationwide movement for LGBT equality if Prop 8 is thrown out.

EVENT REMINDER: Attend "Teach-In for Equality" and Learn About LGBT History!

Do you remember back in college, high school, or even middle school, when your teachers told you about those amazing gay and lesbian people throughout history that have made such a critical and lasting impact on our nation's history?

No? Well, you're not alone.

That's because the history of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered community has been silenced, throughout the ages, by homophobia. Now with the passage of Proposition 8 and the possible failure of a court-case to repeal that measure, knowing our own history is more important than ever.

The silence ends now!

Created by the Equality Network, Teach-In for Equality will end the silence on LGBT history by educating attendees on the “Stonewall 2.0″ movement, empowering these new activists and build on their enthusiasm for change!

Many amazing speakers will appear with in-depth knowledge of all aspects of LGBT history. Break-out sessions will include: A historical overview of the LGBT movement, The Right Wing and Homophobia, The History of Direct Action, Gays and Religion, The History of Marriage Equality and Legal Rights, HIV/AIDS, The LGBT Community and the Media, and Gays in the Military.

Confirmed speakers:

• Cleve Jones, life-long activist
  
• Torie Osborn, social change organizer
  
• California Assemblymen John Perez
• Regent Co-Founder Paul Colichman
• Former Senator Sheila Kuehl
• Senior Lambda Legal Counsel Jenny Pizer
• Roland Palencia, Former VP of AIDS Healthcare Foundation
• Equality California Marriage Director Marc Solomon
• Human Rights Activist and Author Surina Khan
  
• Founding Member of Queer Nation San Francisco Waiyde Palmer
• Loma Linda University Professor of Religion Julius Nam
• Professor of Genders and Sexuality at CSULA and Author Talia Bettcher
• CSUN Professor Jake Hale.

WHEN: Saturday, May 9th
TIME: 9:30am-5:30pm
WHERE: Plummer Park, West Hollywood, CA (Map)

Learn more at the official Teach-In for Equality website and register! But do it quick!

Join some of the most amazing influences on the modern LGBT movement for an hour of food, discussion and networking at Breakfast With History.

End the silence on LGBT history. Go to Teach-In for Equality!

Teach-In For Equality Flier

Publish at Scribd or explore others:

Obama Remains Missing in Action of LGBT Issues

Crossposted with Michael-in-Norfolk:

I have taken Obama to task a number of times for his failure to do anything truly meaningful on the gay rights front since his inauguration. Indeed, he has seemed more concerned about coddling and kissing up to vile Christianist liars like Rick Warren rather than take steps to keep his promises to those who helped get him elected.

Now, the New York Times has an article that looks at Obama's failures to support those who supported him other than by occasional lip service. At times I am baffled as to whether the root cause is a lack of courage or whether Obama never truly intended to follow through for LGBT Americans in the first place. Here are some story highlights from the Times:

WASHINGTON — President Obama was noticeably silent last month when the Iowa Supreme Court overturned the state’s ban on same-sex marriage. But now Mr. Obama — who has said he opposes same-sex marriage as a Christian but describes himself as a “fierce advocate of equality” for gay men and lesbians — is under pressure to engage on a variety of gay issues that are coming to the fore amid a dizzying pace of social, political, legal and legislative change.
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Two of Mr. Obama’s potential Supreme Court nominees are openly gay; some advocates, irked that there are no gay men or lesbians in his cabinet, are mounting a campaign to influence his choice to replace Justice David H. Souter, who is retiring. Same-sex marriage is advancing in states — the latest to allow it is Maine. . . . many gay activists, aware that Mr. Obama is also dealing with enormous challenges at home and overseas, have counseled patience. But some are unsettled by what they see as the president’s cautious approach. Many are . . . suspicious of Mr. Obama’s commitment to their cause.
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In the words of David Mixner, a writer, gay activists are beginning to wonder, “How much longer do we give him the benefit of the doubt?” Last weekend, Richard Socarides, who advised President Bill Clinton on gay issues, published an opinion piece in The Washington Post headlined, “Where’s our fierce advocate?” The White House, aware of the discontent, invited leaders of some prominent gay rights organizations to meet Monday with top officials. . .
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Some say change is inevitable, not only for Mr. Obama but also for other Democratic politicians who have embraced civil unions but rejected same-sex marriage. Now that the Iowa ruling has pushed the battle into the nation’s heartland, the issue will inevitably come up during the 2010 midterm elections and the 2012 presidential campaign.

For the record, I no longer give Obama the benefit of the doubt. Unless and until he gets some backbone and does something substantive, my operating assumption is that he cynically used LGBT Americans and I have no intention of forgiving him for it either.

Read Unite the Fight's "Obama's Silence on LGBT Rights Will Leave Him Out of History".

Pelosi: Congress Will Not Intervene on DC's Recognition of Same-Sex Marriage

UPDATE: DC Mayor signs marriage recognition bill.

Edward Epstein of Congressional Quarterly reports, "House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Wednesday that Congress won’t try to block a District of Columbia City Council vote to recognize the validity of same-sex marriages performed elsewhere in the country."

Tuesday, the District's city council voted to 12-1 to recognize same-sex marriage legally performed in the states.

Under the District's charter, Congress can block any action the council or mayor take within 30 days. They mayor has yet to sign the resolution.

“I don’t think the Congress should intervene there in terms of their recognition of marriages in the states that allow them,” she said.

“Members will make a priority of issues like gays in the military. And where we have prospects of success, we always want to expand to a place of more opportunity and more freedom for all — for all Americans,” she said. “But right now, our agenda is jobs, jobs, jobs, jobs, jobs. And as we move on that front, concurrently, we have to make some decisions about what is possible and our values-based initiatives as well.”

However, Pelosi has stated that repealing DOMA is not a priority.

Maybe if the Supreme Court in her state of California overturns Prop 8, that will give her the kick in the seat of the pants that she needs to move on it.

NH Gov. Speaks Out Marriage Equality Bill

With yesterday's passage of the marriage equality bill in New Hampshire, its fate now lies in the hands of Gov. John Lynch.

Having said very little in the past, but voicing that he believes civil unions satisfies the state's obligation to LGBT relationships, the governor finally spoke up Wednesday night.

"I'm going to talk to legislators and I'm going to talk to the people of New Hampshire and ultimately make the best decision I can for the people of New Hampshire," the Democratic governor said Wednesday evening.

If the governor truly listens, he will hear that both chambers of his state legislation have given approval of the bill and that the people of New Hampshire support marriage equality by 55%. If he truly sticks to these decision-making points, then he must sign the bill.

But the governor is being pressured by marriage equality opponents, so it's extremely important that you reach out to the governor and voice your support!

Office of the Governor
State House
25 Capitol Street
Concord, NH 03301

(603)271-2121
(603)271-7680 (fax)
Email

Hilton and Gallagher Debate Fall Out of Miss CA Nude Pics On Larry King

UPDATE: CNN reports more racy pictures of Miss California are rising to the surface!

NH House Passes Revised Marriage Equality Bill! Gov. Must Now Sign

After debating for about an hour, the House voted 178-167 to approve the Senate amended marriage equality bill!

Next step - Gov. John Lynch must sign the bill. He has not said whether he would veto it, but he has stated that he believed New Hampshire's civil unions provided same-sex couples with the same rights as married couples.

Lynch said that further action by the federal government is needed to recognize same-sex unions.

New Hampshire's Cornerstone Policy Research, working with the National Organization For Marriage, just released this ad to pressure the governor.



Spread the Good As You ad response!



Counter NOM! Urge the governor to sign the bill!

Office of the Governor
State House
25 Capitol Street
Concord, NH 03301

(603)271-2121
(603)271-7680 (fax)
Email

Charlize Theron Speaks Up for Marriage Equality - Urges Everyone to "Meet in the Middle"

Academy Award-winning actor Charlize Theron has backed up her recent and powerful statement comparing laws against same-sex marriage to apartheid with a call to everyone, particularly straight allies, to rally for marriage equality.

In an email blast through the Courage Campaign, Charlize urges, "We need to take a stand for equality. All of us. On the Saturday after the California Supreme Court rules to either uphold or overturn Proposition 8. In Fresno, the heartland of California.

"We know the people whose lives are on the line -- those who identify as gay, lesbian, bi-sexual or transgender -- will be there. But we need everyone there. Especially straight people."

The talented actor has a long and impressive history in the progressive social movement. Born in Benoni, South Africa, Charlize witnessed the death of her alcoholic father when her mother was forced to shoot him in self-defense when she was only 15.

Such painful memories not only has given the successful artist deep emotional ties to those who suffer from lack of rights, she has also turned such pain into a productive drive to change the inequalities in the world.

Theron keeps actively involved in women's rights organizations as well as marching for abortion rights, animal rights and has recently appeared in a PETA ad for their anti-puppy mill campaign.

Remarkably, she has taken a vow not to marry until same-sex couples can have their relationships recognized. She has continued her outspoken support for marriage equality with her call for everyone to meet in Fresno, CA the Saturday after the Supreme Court rules on Prop 8 to show support for not just the LGBT population, but equal rights for all.

"This isn't just about California. It's about America," she says in her email. "This isn't just about marriage. It's about human rights."

Join Charlize in the call for equal rights. Go to Meet in the Middle!

Maine Gov. Signs Marriage Equality Bill! Maine 5th State to Allow Same-Sex Marriage

Within an hour after the Maine senate approved the final version of the marriage bill with a 31-8 vote, Gov. John Baldacci signed the bill, legalizing same-sex marriage in Maine, making it the fifth state in the country to do so. (See Video of the signing)

From Gov. John Baldacci's Website, his official statement:

AUGUSTA – Governor John E. Baldacci today signed into law LD 1020, An Act to End Discrimination in Civil Marriage and Affirm Religious Freedom.

“I have followed closely the debate on this issue. I have listened to both sides, as they have presented their arguments during the public hearing and on the floor of the Maine Senate and the House of Representatives. I have read many of the notes and letters sent to my office, and I have weighed my decision carefully,” Governor Baldacci said. “I did not come to this decision lightly or in haste.”

“I appreciate the tone brought to this debate by both sides of the issue,” Governor Baldacci said. “This is an emotional issue that touches deeply many of our most important ideals and traditions. There are good, earnest and honest people on both sides of the question.”

“In the past, I opposed gay marriage while supporting the idea of civil unions,” Governor Baldacci said. “I have come to believe that this is a question of fairness and of equal protection under the law, and that a civil union is not equal to civil marriage.”

“Article I in the Maine Constitution states that ‘no person shall be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law, nor be denied the equal protection of the laws, nor be denied the enjoyment of that person’s civil rights or be discriminated against.’”

“This new law does not force any religion to recognize a marriage that falls outside of its beliefs. It does not require the church to perform any ceremony with which it disagrees. Instead, it reaffirms the separation of Church and State,” Governor Baldacci said.

“It guarantees that Maine citizens will be treated equally under Maine’s civil marriage laws, and that is the responsibility of government.”

“Even as I sign this important legislation into law, I recognize that this may not be the final word,” Governor Baldacci said. “Just as the Maine Constitution demands that all people are treated equally under the law, it also guarantees that the ultimate political power in the State belongs to the people.”

“While the good and just people of Maine may determine this issue, my responsibility is to uphold the Constitution and do, as best as possible, what is right. I believe that signing this legislation is the right thing to do,” Governor Baldacci said.

Woohoo!

The law will take effect in 90 days at the end of the legislation session. However, opponents are working hard already to mount a "people's veto" campaign that would put the issue to a statewide vote in November.

Ellen Andersen on Bilerico Project explains a "people's veto" further, and its threat to marriage equality in Maine:

Laws in Maine usually go into effect 90 days after the legislature adjourns (somewhere around the end of June). But before that 90 day period is over, opponents of a law can try to gather enough signatures--about 55,000 right now-- to force the measure to a public vote. If opponents get those signatures in on time, implementation of the law will be suspended until a referendum can be held. This provision is commonly known as a "people's veto."

Equality Maine reports that opponents are already geared up to gather signatures to force a ballot initiative against marriage equality. They are asking for support to build a strong campaign against them.

NY Times Says CA Supreme Court May Rule This Week on Prop 8

From NY Times:

In California, where the State Supreme Court may rule this week on whether a voter-approved ban on same-sex marriage is constitutional, gay-rights advocates are optimistic even though many expect the ruling to uphold the ban.

I've been hearing the same thing within legal circles here in Los Angeles; however, state-wide law enforcement thinks otherwise due to the fact that many of them will be away at a convention up north in Sacramento. This will cause a decrease in available police officers to manage the protests or celebration rallies, and such events require a large force.

Either way, the court must rule by June 3rd, so the decision is coming soon.

Are you ready?

Find out what is happening in your area at Day of Decision. Click on the tag "Day of Decision" at the bottom of the post to find out more.

The Saturday following Day of Decision, massive numbers from all over the state will be converging on Fresno, CA, the heart of Yes on 8 territory for Meet in the Middle 4 Equality. Go the website and RSVP to make travel and accommodation plans.

Let's show our numbers!

Maine Rep Votes Against Daughter's Right to Wed

During yesterday's win for marriage equality in the Maine House, Maine Rep. Sheryl Briggs revealed a secret which was overshadowed by the victory.

Her daughter is a lesbian. And after 15 years of knowing, she still regarded her daughter’s sexual orientation as a choice.

She announced she had made a wrenching decision.

“Blame it on my upbringing, or the good book, but the deepest part of my soul tells me that this is wrong,” Briggs said in regards to the marriage equality bill. “I can’t change how I feel. These feelings run very deep. I have kept this secret within me for 15 years, but because of who I am, and where I am today, and as a member of this legislative body, ethically, it is my duty, and my responsibility, to publicly say to my daughter, that I do not support her way of life."

”I have no choice. I have to hit that button,” Briggs said.

She voted against her own daughter's rights.

I watched stunned as the live stream continued to play the other representative's testimony, but I didn't really listen. Rep. Brigg's comments hit a nerve in me.

I was raised in a fundamental, Christian home. We were missionaries. We traveled the world preaching the "good word." And yes, during that whole time, I knew I was gay.

I was finally brave enough to come out when I was 18, but because of my parents' denial, I had to come out three more times. It wasn't until I told them I wasn't a Christian, and yes, still gay, that the truth finally hit home for them.

They didn't handle it very well. But years after my first coming out, during which we almost lost touch altogether, my parents are slowly able to talk about it. They'll never approve. But they'll accept it.

I'll be blunt. I'm glad Rep. Briggs is not my mother. My mother hasn't lied to me. Rep. Briggs lied to support her vote.

She wants us to excuse her vote for her upbringing and/or because of the Bible. But she has been told, constantly, that this vote has nothing to do with her religion but her country. And that the law of her country demands that no discrimination or religious indoctrination can exist in the public sphere in which the government governs.

We are not a theocracy. We are a republic. And every voice counts.

Rep. Briggs not only failed her daughter and her voice. She failed her job. And refused to listen. Some people would call her a bigot. I do not. A bigot acts out of blind hate. Rep. Briggs has acted out of stubborn, self-imposed ignorance, denying the facts laid out before her. And I don't know if that is worse.

She wants us to excuse her because it is her "ethical" duty to take on the responsibility of . . . what? Denying people their rights? Calling people's innate characteristics a "choice"?

Her ethical duty as a legislator is to create law that upholds the constitution which protects all citizens. But she failed her job. And she failed her daughter.

My mother might have done the same if she were in Rep. Briggs position. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised. Which is why I have worked hard these past 13 plus years on constantly talking to her and showing her how I live, so she won't have the choice to make her assumptions about me in ignorance. If she were to vote as Rep. Briggs had done, it would be a deep betrayal.

But my mother doesn't want to be a legislator. She hasn't spent tons of money on a campaign and worked hard to be a Representative. And she hasn't taken an oath to uphold the constitution.

Rep. Briggs has.

It is my ethical duty to hold her responsible. And she has failed.

YouTube: The BIG Fat Gay Anti-Hate Collab, Sesame Street & Marriage and Miss CA Spoofs

So many good videos, so little time . . .

Numerous great videos have been coming out lately at a speed that I cannot possibly keep up with. As result, to save time, I will post them all here.

Lazy but efficient. And once in awhile, we activists simply need some amusement and entertainment.

Video 1: Miss CA's PSA for Opposite Sex Marriage. Oh, and if you're drinking or eating anything - Stop! Or you'll spray your computer screen from laughing.



Video 2: Amazing video with over two dozen YouTubers collaborating. However, WARNING: does contain foul language. Wouldn't play it at work.



Video 3: The wisdom of children. If only the adults listened.
More...


Video 4: Who says Los Angeles activists can't have fun? Another Oscar winner.

Miss Universe Org Sends NOM Cease and Desist Order Over Miss CA Ad

According to TMZ, the Miss Universe Organization sent a cease and desist order to NOM, demanding they stop playing their anti-gay ad featuring Miss CA.

Why?

Because the ad contains footage of the Miss USA pageant when Miss CA Carrie Prejean gives her infamous response against marriage equality. By using that footage, the organization claims NOM is violating copyright law.

Though they claim they're not taking sides on the issue, they are claiming they don't want to the footage to support NOM's agenda.

It's a fine line they're walking, and they have stated they don't approve of Miss CA's anti-gay response on their show. I say this is a smart move. Otherwise, they would offend half of their employees - gay men.

Maine Today, New Hampshire Tomorrow

Last week, New Hampshire's Senate passed the state's marriage equality bill but revised what the House had approved.

TOMORROW the New Hampshire House revisits the bill to vote on a concurrence with the Senate and is likely to endorse the revisions. WATCH IT LIVE HERE at 1pm EST/10am PST.

NEXT STEP for the bill - Governor John Lynch will need to sign it. Though mostly silent on what he plans to do, he has stated that believes the state's civil unions bill meets the rights of same-sex couples.

Just today, New Hampshire's Freedom to Marry released this ad urging New Hampshire residents to call the governor.



Bluehampshire.com is urging everyone to take action to fully counter the strong opposition to marriage equality by doing four things:

1. Contact the House of Representatives and urge them to pass the bill.
2. Attend the tomorrow's hearings if you're able.
3. Make signs showing your support for marriage equality.
   
4. Contact Gov. John Lynch and urge him to sign the bill.

Go to Bluehampshire.com for details.

On a bright note, a recent poll release by New Hampshire Freedom to Marry shows that a majority of New Hampshire voters support marriage for gays and lesbians. 55% were in support while 39% were opposed. 491 voters were polled from April 13-22.

Hopefully the House and Gov. Lynch will listen.

Washington DC Votes to Recognize Marriage Equality From States

UPDATE: Read about marriage equality opponents disrupting the vote and Washington DC Councilman Marion Barry warning of civil war if marriage equality progresses further at MikeTidmus.com.

From Washington Post:

Washington Post reporter Tim Craig relays that the D.C. Council has voted 13-0, without debate, to recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states. Watch D.C. Wire for updates.

The approved law was added as an amendment to another bill, and can be seen on the second page of that bill's text (.pdf).

If Congress does not intervene, council member David A. Catania (I-At Large) has said that he will introduce a separate bill this year to allow same-sex marriages to be performed in the District.

After further debate, a second vote was taken, with D.C. Council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8) deciding to vote against the proposal. The final count is 12-1 in favor of recognizing same-sex marriages performed in other states.

Images from DCforMarriage.com.

Maine House Passes Marriage Equality Bill 89-57

Three hours of debate in the Maine House ended with the passing of marriage equality bill LD 1020 with an 89-57 vote. The bill will now be sent back to the Senate, which passed a prior version for a final pending vote, most likely Wednesday.

What's even better is that the House rejected an amendment that would have called for a November referendum. Thankfully, the electorate will not be voting on someone else's rights.

Maine would join Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa and Vermont if the proposal gets passed the Senate, which is likely, and signed by Gov. John Baldacci. The governor remains the biggest obstacle since so far he has remained undecided.

ACTION: It's not too soon to contact Gov. John Baldacci to voice your support for marriage equality.

Mailing Address
Office of the Governor
#1 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0001

Phone
207-287-3531
207-287-6548 (TTY)

Fax
207-287-1034

Email

DO IT NOW!

Equality Maine reports that opponents are already geared up to gather signatures to force a ballot initiative against marriage equality. They are asking for support to build a strong campaign against them.

See earlier reports on today's hearing.

Show America What Marriage Equality Looks Like

From Gay & Lesbian Advocates and Defenders:

Five years ago, a revolution started in Massachusetts. On May 17, 2004, the first same-sex couples ever to legally marry in the United States stood in churches, backyards, and town halls, and said "I do."

Five years later, over 16,000 same-sex couples have married in Massachusetts and 3 more states have adopted full marriage equality - Connecticut, Vermont, and Iowa. Marriage equality bills are moving forward in Maine and New Hampshire, and 18,000 couples married in California before Proposition 8 brought marriage equality to a halt there.

To celebrate five years of marriage equality, and to keep the momentum going across New England and the U.S., we invite you to participate in our online photo exhibit: What Marriage Equality Looks Like.

Join the Celebration!

We invite all couples, gay and straight, who have married in an equality state - Massachusetts (since May 17, 2004); Connecticut (since November 12, 2008), Iowa (since April 27, 2009), or California (June 16, 2008 - November 4, 2008)* to help us show America what marriage equality looks like. (*Same-sex couples in Vermont can begin marrying in September 2009).

Email your favorite wedding photo to photos@glad.org.

Please include your names (only first names will be published), the date and location of the wedding, and a photo credit if applicable.

Photos will be added throughout the month of May.

GLAD congratulates and celebrates all the loving, committed couples who have joined in marriage in the past five years.

Stand Up for Marriage Equality in East Los Angeles on Day of Decision

East Los Angeles Rally For Marriage Equality on Day of Decision!

WHEN: 12:00PM - 3:00PM. On the day the California Supreme Court rules on the validity of Prop 8.


WHERE: East Los Angeles Marriage License Office
4716 E. Cesar Chavez Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90022 (MAP)

Organized by the Latino Equality Alliance.

For more information please visit us on My Space and Facebook.


EVENING EVENT
West Hollywood/Hollywood Rally and March
7:00pm Santa Monica Blvd and San Vicente Blvd, West Hollywood, CA (MAP)
or join the march around 9:30pm - Hollywood Blvd and Highland Ave. Hollywood, CA (MAP)
Take Metro.

Oprah Tackles Gay Marriage

Shuster eviscerates NOM’s Brown

Crosspost with MikeTidmus.com:

In the info accompanying this video, News Politics News says:

MSNBC’s David Shuster & Brian Brown, Executive Director of the anti-gay-marriage National Organization For Marriage — hashed it out this afternoon, and unfortunately for Brown, Shuster pointed out that NOM has basically been in the business of bowdlerizing other people’s statements - 05/01/09

“Bowdlerizing.” That would be lying. Right? And, “hashed it out” would be something like: David Shuster ripped Brian Brown of the National Organization for Marriage a new one.

It’s clear that NOM’s idea of a debate is shouting people down or selectively editing manuscripts to fit their anti-GLBT agenda.

Love it when Shuster nails NOM’s fundamental hypocrisy:

Here’s the larger issue though. Most Americans can’t understand why you selectively go after certain parts of the Bible and not others. And that’s your prerogative if you want to go after certain parts it. But again, there’s no threat – the only way the gay or lesbian couple could be a threat to my marriage or yours is if you really fear that maybe somehow they’ll get involved in your marriage. I don’t fear that. Do you worry that maybe, I don’t know – somehow you’re attracted to the gay couple down the street and that will somehow effect your marriage?

For a spot-on refutation of Brown’s religious liberties consequences, see Rob Tisinai’s brilliant Gay Marriage = Religious Freedom.

UPDATE: Maine House to Vote on Marriage Equality Tuesday. Urge Them To Support!

UPDATE: Maine's House to vote on marriage equality tomorrow! Sources for staying on top of the vote.

Watch it live here!

Twitter Equality Maine or Shenna Bellows.

Read about Maine's opposition to marriage equality.
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Maine's Senate passed the marriage equality bill Thursday and will be headed to the House Tuesday for a floor vote Tuesday, May 5.

Maine voters are deeply divided over marriage equality, so it's important that the House hears from you and your support for its passing.

ACTION: Contact your Maine representative and tell them to vote yes for marriage equality.

Also, take a minute to sign Equality Maine's thank you letter to the Senators who passed marriage equality bill LD 1020.

Torie Osborn of Courage Campaign Says of Repealing Prop 8, "If Not Now, When?"

"We are the ones we have been waiting for," quoted Torie Osborn, a respected leader in the movement and one of the founders of Camp Courage, borrowing a line from African American, lesbian poet June Jordan's "A Poem For South African Women."

In her closing speech at the two-day grassroots organizing camp in Oakland, CA on Sunday, Torie channeled the energy of the movement when she announced that the Courage Campaign would be there to support and empower the grassroots for a November 2010 initiative to repeal Proposition 8 if the state's supreme court didn't overthrow it.

Rick Jacobs, founder and chair of the Courage Campaign, summed it up in a statement to Unite the Fight:

"At Camp Courage Oakland over the weekend, Courage Campaign staff conducted a series of conversations with various marriage equality activists, progressive organizers and grassroots leaders. As Torie Osborn's closing speech demonstrated, the consensus was clear: We are ready to go back to the ballot in 2010, assuming the Supreme Court rules to uphold Prop 8. But before we can make the ultimate decision to support an actual ballot initiative, the Courage Campaign needs to survey our members and consult with our allies in the polling group formed by several organizations a few weeks ago. Based on a vote of our members, we will move forward on a decision along with our partners in the marriage equality movement."

This is no small announcement.

Even though the organization is still waiting for more information from polling in regards to the technical aspects of submitting an initiative, their commitment to support the grassroots if they choose to go for a 2010 initiative speaks volumes.

Many a debate has waged within the LGBT population in California and abroad about whether an initiative to repeal Prop 8 should happen in 2010 or 2012. Pros and cons for both are numerous, but a lot boils down to one, do we have a enough time to organize a campaign for 2010? Two, can we persuade enough voters to swing the small percentage that gave the Yes on 8 campaign the majority to vote on our side the second time around?

But Torie pointed out that the grassroots, which was denied a role in the No on 8 campaign, is ready for the daunting challenge to take on a 2010 initiative. If the grassroots is ready to go, the Courage Campaign will be there to support them every step of the way.

This underlines the fact that a new campaign would be different, she noted. Instead of being ran top-down like the No on 8 campaign, it would be run from the bottom-up. Indicating the crowd that attended the camp, she added "by the grassroots."

One could definitely feel the electric energy at the Camp Courage site, with exciting discussions peppered throughout about the inevitability of 2010. In a conversation with Rick Jacobs this weekend, he remarked that it was obvious where things were heading and that if Prop 8 isn't overturned, that the grassroots was ready to go full steam ahead for November 2010.

Another fact that makes this a big announcement is that it comes from the Courage Campaign, the organization responsible for the record breaking "Fidelity: Don't Divorce Us" video.

The organization is an online organizing network that empowers nearly 700,000 grassroots and netroots activists to push for progressive change in California. Engineering online tools and giving voter information to anyone motivated to to make a difference, they provide a way for individuals to make a change in their neighborhood. It's as simple as logging in.

The network enables grassroots to set up their own "Equality Teams" to reach out to the electorate either through canvassing, phonebanking and more in order to change hearts and minds for equality. It's an unprecedented giving away of information that empowers the community to run a campaign on their own. Even if they belong to another organization.

Truly grassroots. And the key difference between victory and defeat.

Overwhelmed by the massive amount of work and strategy needing to take place for 2010, Torie admitted she was in denial about the need for an immediate campaign. But after seeing the passion and drive from hundreds of activists eager to repeal Prop 8, she knew justice couldn't wait.

With tears in her eyes, Torie made the announcement, alongside co-facilitators Mike Bonin and Lisa Powell, that the three of them and the Courage Campaign would be committed to working side-by-side with the grassroots for a 2010 campaign.

They were greeted with thunderous applause.

Rick Jacobs then took to the stage and read from MLK's "A Letter From a Birmingham Jail":

"We know through painful experience that freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed. Frankly, I have yet to engage in a direct action campaign that was "well timed" in the view of those who have not suffered unduly from the disease of segregation. For years now I have heard the word "Wait!" It rings in the ear of every Negro with piercing familiarity. This "Wait" has almost always meant "Never." We must come to see, with one of our distinguished jurists, that "justice too long delayed is justice denied."

Learning from the mistakes of 2008's No on 8 campaign, the leaders of the Courage Campaign and Camp Courage envision a new campaign for marriage equality that includes everyone - grassroots, big organizations, small organizations, LGBT, allies, young and old and of all races. Keeping to the mantra, "Respect. Empower. Include," everyone will be responsible for winning their rights back and spreading equality for all. Most importantly, it will be sooner than later.

Are you up for the challenge? Because if not now, when?

Photos by Marta Evry who blogs at VeniceforChange.com.

"The View"s Joy Behar Grills NOM's Maggie Gallagher on Marriage Equality

Obama's Silence on LGBT Rights Will Leave Him Out of History

President Obama recently finished his first 100 days in office and from the LGBT population's perspective, there's not much to celebrate. With his continued silence for LGBT rights and the recent erasure of promises he made to the LGBT from the White House website (which were later reinstated), he better doing something quick

Richard Socarides, adviser on gay rights to President Bill Clinton during his second term, wrote "Where's Our 'Fierce Advocate'?", an op-ed in the Washington Post which questions President Obama's silence on LGBT issues since his election.

In December, while trying to quiet the furor over his invitation of Rick Warren to take part in his inauguration, Barack Obama reminded us that he had been a "consistent" and "fierce advocate of equality for gay and lesbian Americans." But at the end of its first 100 days, his administration has been neither.

What makes this especially disappointing is that it comes during a crisis-driven "change moment" in our country's history that not only cries out for leadership but presents a particularly good climate for making substantial progress on gay equality.

Socarides recognizes that Obama has a lot on his hands but also points out that Obama's been willing to exploit the change in the political atmosphere to tackle many reform issues, including relations with Cuba to stem cell research. He points out that people are distracted by the economy and war and are willing to try new approaches.

The court ruling legalizing gay marriage in Iowa represents a real opening, an opportunity to get "undecideds" to take another look not only at gay marriage but at gay rights in general. As Iowa Sen. Tom Harkin remarked, many Americans may be asking themselves, "If the [Iowa] Supreme Court said this, maybe I have to think anew."

So why isn't Obama moving on LGBT issues? Because he's scared to repeat Clinton's 1993 Don't Ask Don't Tell debacle, and with the lack of an LGBT advisor, he's moving on a faulty strategy of cautiousness and silence. Socarides offers four points of advice to the president.

1. Talk about gay rights again like Obama did during the campaign, underscoring his message of inclusion that got him elected in the first place. Since being president, he's only referred to the LGBT population when while defending his choice for inaugural speakers. That's it. NOTHING on the Iowa ruling, a landmark civil rights decision.
   
2. Move swiftly to secure the passage of the Matthew Shepard Act as well as the repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell.
3. Appoint a "high-ranking, respected, openly gay policy advocate to oversee government efforts toward lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality." Karen Ocamb on the Huffington Post nominates several good candidates for this post.
4. Champion a comprehensive, omnibus federal gay civil rights legislation, similar to the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Such a bill should also provide for federal recognition of both civil unions and marriages as they are authorized by specific states.

I couldn't agree more with Socarides. I'm increasingly growing frustrated with the Obama administration shaking in their boots over even the slight mention of LGBT rights when this should be the time to champion them.

The right-wing has fallen apart and any argument they present sounds juvenile. Historical advances are being made in the nation for marriage equality while polls for the first time ever are showing the support for same-sex marriage outnumbers those who oppose it.

President Obama ran a campaign branded on actual "change" and the nation bought the ticket, riding the "Yes We Can" bullet train to a better tomorrow. If the president doesn't do something quick, though, he's going to be rapidly left behind at the train station, while the "we" in "Yes We Can" evolves into a definition that excludes him.

He needs to follow-through, or the nation will leave him behind.

As Michael Lux told Karen Ocamb on her post about Obama, "either we believe in equal rights for all - or we don't."

I need to know you believe in my equality, President Obama. Otherwise, I'll achieve it without you.

See polls results for: "Do you think President Obama will keep his promises to the LGBT community in the U.S.?"

2010 California Marriage Equality Initiative Wheels in Motion

Courage Campaign steps up to the plate. Report to come. Stay tuned!

Kate Kendell: renewed hope that the court will overturn Prop 8

Kate Kendell, Executive Director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, sent along this piece from her blog, Out for Justice, as we wait to see whether the recent events bolstering equality will have any effect on the California Supreme Court. Kendall was quite pessimistic after the CA Supreme Court hearing, but she's feeling more upbeat now about the prospects of Prop 8's demise.

"With its groundbreaking marriage decision a year ago, the California Supreme Court set us on a path that - despite some setbacks - has led to one marriage victory a week in the past month: A first-ever unanimous state supreme court ruling in Iowa; a huge victory in Vermont, where there was strong enough support for marriage equality to override their Governor's veto; and tremendous movement in the legislatures of New Hampshire and Maine, with similar progress likely in the months ahead in New York and New Jersey. The result has been a profound sea change in public opinion, including my own view of what the next month will bring here in California.

"Just this week, a new Washington Post-ABC News poll showed "a sharp shift in public opinion on same-sex marriage. Forty-nine percent said it should be legal for gay people to marry" - an 11 point shift from a similar poll conducted by the Post just three years ago.

"I have always believed the California Supreme Court should strike down Prop 8 because the law is so overwhelmingly on our side. But I feared that other factors might result in an adverse decision. That fear has now been replaced by hope as courts and legislatures - as well as public opinion - have moved sharply in our direction. The Court can cement its legacy by overturning Prop 8 and upholding our Constitution's promise of equal protection. Or it can cause untold pain and hardship to our community and forever undermine the independence of the judiciary and the historic role of the courts in protecting minority rights.

"I believe the Court will do the right thing."

In strength and solidarity,
Kate Kendell
Executive Director
National Center for Lesbian Rights

So what do you think is going to happen?

Crossposted with Pam Spaulding of Pam's House Blend.