POLITICAL PRIDE (original) (raw)
October 13th, 2010
| harsens_rob | 06:15 am - Congratulations due in FL!Florida won't be appealing a court ruling that found the state's ban on adoptions by gay men and lesbians unconstitutional. Florida Department of Children and Families announces decision Tuesday night. Spokesman: "Depth, clarity and and unanimity" of ruling indicates little chance of change. With Florida's move, no states ban gay men and lesbians from adopting. |
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June 3rd, 2010
| harsens_rob | 12:00 am - Thank you, Sir.Obama extends benefits for gay federal employeesObama said he had directed government agencies to offer a number of new benefits to the families of gay and lesbian federal employees, including family assistance services, hardship transfers and relocation expenses. His directive builds on a move he made last year to offer healthcare benefits, sick leave and medical evacuation for same-sex partners of federal employees. |
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May 28th, 2010
May 19th, 2010
March 5th, 2010
January 29th, 2010
| harsens_rob | **12:11 am - Time.com Link**Time.com has an online (well, duh - I guess it would be) article about the gay marriage ban (Prop 8) trial that has just wrapped up testimony. Except for the closing arguments (which I've always doubted actually impacted anything, especially when arguing before a judge who's heard it all before) it's in Judge Walker's hands. At least, until the first appeal is heard.http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1957505,00.html?xid=rss-topstories-cnnpartner |
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January 19th, 2010
| queerunity |
**12:37 pm - Committee to Unseat Anti-Gay NJ Senator Sean Kean**The Committee to Unseat Sean Kean campaign has begun against the New Jersey Republican Senator who voted against marriage equality. The Senator represents heavily gay sections of the state including Asbury Park and the Ocean Grove section of Neptune. |
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January 17th, 2010
| harsens_rob | 06:04 am - There are Republicans who don't wish we'd just die?!"Some Republicans support gay rights, but prefer progress through legislative action or majority rule at the ballot box, rather than judicial action. But what if a democratic election imposes mandates that violate a citizen’s constitutional freedom? In the event that majority rule insufficiently protects individual liberty, our system of checks and balances puts forth that it is the role of the courts, to guarantee and protect the rights to individual Americans...."http://joemygod.blogspot.com/(you'll need to page down just a bit for the rest of the entry on Joe's blog) |
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December 3rd, 2009
| harsens_rob | 12:31 am - D.C. Decisionhttp://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/12/01/AR2009120101265.htmlThe D.C. Council voted overwhelmingly Tuesday to legalize same-sex marriage in the District, a key step in a process that could enable gay couples to marry in the nation's capital by the spring. |
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October 29th, 2009
| harsens_rob | 12:08 am - Gay on NPRThere are two interesting interviews on NPR today that I want to provide linkages to: From his coverage of equality marches to political campaigns, to hate crimes, _Lou Chibarro, Jr., has covered it all working as a reporter for The Washington Blade.And then we have a report on the "down low" phenomenon and whether it's the cause of the appalling HIV/AIDS infection rates among the African-American communities: The popular suspicion has been that many infected black women have contracted the virus from their black male companions, who secretly have sex with other men (also known as the "down low_"). |
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October 1st, 2009
| harsens_rob | **01:41 am - Another Step Forward....**Interesting news today out of the Pentagon:After a careful examination, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that unit cohesion will be negatively affected if homosexuals serve openly,’’ writes Colonel Om Prakash, who is now working in the office of Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates. “Based on this research, it is not time for the administration to reexamine the issue; rather it is time for the administration to examine how to implement the repeal of the ban.’’The blurb comes from an article to be published in the upcoming issue of Joint Force Quarterly, which is published for the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. |
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July 21st, 2009
| harsens_rob | **09:25 pm - Straw Arguments and the Straw Men Who Make Them**Some dufus named Matthew J. Franck has written an opinion piece for the national review slamming the law suit against Prop 8 in California. His post was in direct response to a piece by David Boies that I commented on already. Naturally, he tries to argue against Mr. Boies' suit by pointing out that he's making a bunch of straw man arguments. And, he does this by... making a bunch of straw man arguments! Dunder-head. I had to respond to him by email with this: Funny,I'd say that about you._"Nothing about their racial differences made for a relevant consideration between a man and a woman naturally capable of marrying."Nothing about their being different genders are relevant for consideration in being "naturally capable of marrying" either. Marriage in and of itself is a man-made, civil contract matter. And ergo, there is no reason that same-gender couples should be any less "naturally capable" either... whatever that is supposed to mean."depriving lesbians of the right to marry each other could force them into marrying someone they do not love but who happens to be of the opposite sex."This argument has actually been made by same-gender marriage foes in arguing that gays and lesbians aren't being discriminated against. Perhaps, not in court... you'd probably know more about that than I... but the pundits have certainly made that case. "Gays aren't being discriminated against because they can get married, if they'd choose a partner of the opposite gender." "But it has everything to do with same-sex marriage's necessary severing of the link between marriage and procreation." Talk about strawman arguments! By that logic, anyone who isn't planning on having kids should be barred from marriage. Along with: the old, the infertile, those who've had vasectomies, those who've had their ovaries or womb removed (perhaps due to cancer for instance)... this argument shows where your true motives lie - and its not with constitutional arguments, but with your definition of what marriage is for which sounds amazingly biblical. And, the bible doesn't dictate our laws - thankfully - we're not a theocracy."In any event, the question of changing sexual orientation is quite irrelevant to the issue of who is entitled to marry."Really? Because if only straight people can marry each other, and gay people can only marry straight people then doesn't that imply that if only gay people would be straighter then they could happily marry? This is completely about orientation and whether one can 'be changed' in order to fit better into the straight world - including marrying."It is incumbent on him to show why restricting marriage to one man and one woman is a violation of those clauses."It's a violation of the 'due process' and 'equal protection under the law' because it specifically targets one group and tells them specifically that they may not have 100% of the rights and priviliges of other groups of people."On the other hand, Boies passes merrily by the very serious argument that state recognition of same-sex unions as marriages will lead to official infringement of the religious liberty of many Americans."Another straw argument. Those states with same-gender marriage recognition have already included rules barring the forcement of religious organizations to perform, recognize or acknowlege those unions in their religious settings. Religion and Government are two very separate things and secular laws are not dictated by the bible... at least they shouldn't be in a "free" society. As for the adoption question and Catholic organizations... I'd have to know more about why they've been forced out, but my first question is "Were they taking state funds to perform their works?" If the answer is 'yes, but...,' then shut up. If they're taking handouts from the state, they should be following the law and if they can't do that, then they shouldn't take state funds (including their tax exemptions). But, I would like to know more about why they can't operate as a private, religiously based adoption agency. That would seem unfair and unjust to me."It is a statement of fact about a central institution in our civilization—a fact historical, natural, and moral, backed up by many centuries of wisdom about men and women, children and families, law and culture."_Straw argument. Societal mores are not static and change over time and the law follows. 'Natural' and 'moral' are relative terms depending on the culture. And many centuries of wisdom also allowed slavery, miscegenation, disallowed men of women of different ethnicities from marrying, disallowed different Faiths from marrying, allowed people to be legally murdered for witchcraft, thought mental illness was actually possession by evil spirits, etc. etc. etc. "Justice requires that the lawsuit brought by David Boies and Theodore Olson be laughed out of court." Justice requires that the judges of the Supreme Court issue a reminder that "the bible says so" isn't a legal argument. I would highly recommend that everyone email this twit and point out his utterly transparent attempts to paint somebody else with the very brush he's the one wielding... It's not even Pot/Kettle... it's trying to deflect attention from the empty arguments that the Right/Social Conservatives want to use that have nothing to do with an actual legal argument. MJFRANCK@MSN.com |
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July 8th, 2009
| queerunity |
**10:55 pm - Gay Men Face Discrimination Over Kiss in El Paso**A group of gay men are claiming they were subject to unfair treatment at the Chico's Taco's restaurant chain in El Paso, Texas. Two of the men were kissing, and were told to leave by security guards.Full story and ways to take action: http://queersunited.blogspot.com/2009/07/gay-men-face-discrimination-over-kiss.html |
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July 6th, 2009
| harsens_rob | **08:24 pm - Civil Rights Petitioning**I really don't know if this will do any good, but if you think that current Civil Rights laws at the Federal level should be expanded to gay citizens - feel free to sign.http://www.thepoweronline.org/ |
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June 28th, 2009
| harsens_rob | 07:43 pm - Thank you, Secretary Clintonhttp://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/11757/state-department-enacts-samesex-domestic-partners-benefits-for-those-serving-abroad"Last Thursday, the Secretary announced that the Department is extending the full range of legally available benefits to same-sex domestic partners of members of the Foreign Service sent to serve abroad. I am pleased to advise that the implementing changes to the Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM) will be effective for the Department of State on June 26, 2009."Hey, it's only one step, but at least it's a step forward. |
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June 4th, 2009
| likelolwhat |
01:05 am - Forgive me if I do this wrong, but......the injustice was too much.I'm Kayla, an Alaskan. As queer issues (I'm seriously considering declaring myself asexual, personally) go, we aren't under the national radar much, not that we ever are for other important things. Alaska has retirement and benefits for same-sex couples, but frankly I doubt we'll have any progress further in the right direction for awhile. Why, thou ask? THIS.progressivealaska.blogspot.com/2009/05/rev-jerry-prevos-red-herrings.htmlThis guy, Jerry Prevo, has been running commercials on local channels recently, fear-mongering about a municipal ordinance here in Anchorage. Stuff like 'would you want your son to have a gay Scout Master?' and 'this ordinance would allow men dressed as women to go into women's bathrooms'. Then he says that it's 'much more than just equal rights for gays'.Now imagine that last word with some barely-hidden disgust thrown in, and you have the commercial.What a lunatic.Current Mood:  aggravated |
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April 7th, 2009
| harsens_rob | **07:07 pm - More great news....**Must be tough for Republicans and Social Conservatives when even the "evil, old gays want to destory our marriages!" meme isn't working anymore...! |
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April 3rd, 2009
| harsens_rob | **07:32 pm - Wow. I mean, really... Wow.**Seriously, gang, this feels really big:Unanimous ruling: Iowa marriage no longer limited to one man, one womanThis isn't some "liberal enclave on the coasts", but is 'middle-America' in all of its glory. I really didn't expect this result coming from one of the 'plain states'. I'm amazed and kinda excited. But, we'll have to see if the Governor is going to accept this... or the actual citizens of Iowa. After all, just because an attempt at a constitutional amendment failed before doesn't mean it can't be rolled out again. And succeed, now that there's really something for the right-wing to seize on. After all, Prop 8 in CA passed - and that was a crushing shock.Current Mood:  surprised |
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January 27th, 2009
| harsens_rob | **08:35 pm - Hillary Needs to Come Through....It's heartening to see that the "everyday-folks" who work in State are aware of and in opposition to the selected discrimination against same-sex partners of officials living and working in other nations. From _[**Americablog.com |
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January 19th, 2009
| queerunity |
**01:21 pm - Did Obama Team Play us On Bishop Robinson?**During the inauguration kick off party at the Lincoln Memorial, openly gay Bishop Gene Robinson of the Diocese of NH gave the opening prayer.The problem is it was not televised by HBO or NPR and there were 'technical difficulties' making it nearly impossible for the crowd of 500,000 to hear a word.Demand to know why Bishop Robinson was part of the "pre-show" and therefore not taped.More info and contact info at http://queersunited.blogspot.com/2009/01/did-obama-team-play-us-over-bishop.html |
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December 23rd, 2008
| uberdude |
09:58 am - Green Party Denounces Obama for inviting Rick Warren to deliver Inagural Prayerhttp://www.gp.org/press/pr-national.php?ID=159Gay rights supporters should protest Obama's choice of antigay minister Rick Warren to deliver inaugural prayer, say GreensGREEN PARTY OF THE UNITED STATEShttp://www.gp.orgFor Immediate Release:Tuesday, December 23, 2008Obama should have the US sign UN statement endorsing universal decriminalization of homosexuality WASHINGTON, DC -- Green Party activists challenged gay voters and advocates of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender rights to protest President-elect Barack Obama's invitation to Pastor Rick Warren to deliver the inaugural invocation."Unless we make our anger known now, Mr. Obama will continue to betray gay people," said Starlene Rankin, co-chair of the party's Lavender Green Caucus (http://www.lavendergreens.us). "Barack Obama's claim to be a 'fierce advocate for equality' is not credible when he chooses a pastor notorious for his ill-informed and slanderous opinions about homosexuality and vigorous support for Proposition 8.""The invitation signals that Mr. Obama may repeat the Clinton approach to gay rights. President Clinton, taking gay votes for granted, signed the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act into law and authorized the 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' military policy. We've had generations of gay rights advocates and other progressives insisting that we need to elect Democrats, then we'll push them towards pro-gay agenda. Instead, gay people have remained second-class citizens in the Democratic Party and told to hush up when they're politically inconvenient. For those tired of bipartisan retreats from promises of human rights and justice, the Green Party remains the party of real change in America," added Ms. Rankin.The Green Party's national platform asserts that gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender Americans deserve all the rights, including marriage and the ability to raise a family, that all other Americans enjoy (http://www.gp.org/platform/2004/socjustice.html#999082). Greens strongly opposed Proposition 8, which outlawed same-sex marriage in California.Mr. Obama has said he opposed the passage of Propositon 8, but he also opposes full same-sex marriage rights, a position inconsistent with support for full and equal rights for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people.Pastor Warren's public statements have revealed profound ignorance and bigotry on sexuality and on gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people in particular. Promoting passage of Proposition 8 in California, he has said that "in the hierarchy of evil... homosexuality is not the worst sin," an admission that he believes gay people are evil because they are gay.He has said that allowing same-sex marriage is like allowing "a brother and sister be together and call that marriage" and added that he is "opposed to an older guy marrying a child and calling that a marriage," comparing same-sex marriage and homosexuality to incestuous relationships and pedophilia, which are crimes. Pastor Warren has also said that homosexuality is "not the natural way.... Certain body parts are meant to fit together," but has not called for the invalidation of heterosexual marriages in which the spouses have engaged in sex outside of vaginal sexual intercourse.Greens noted that Barack Obama's choice of Rev. Warren for the inaugural prayer coincides with a declaration introduced by 66 countries in the UN calling for universal decriminalization of homosexuality (http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7791063.stm). The US is the only major western nation that has refused to sign on, even though a Supreme Court decision has invalidated US laws against sodomy."Will the new Obama Administration maintain Bush policy and decline to have the US sign the declaration against criminalization of gay people?" asked Tim Casebolt, secretary of the Lavender Green Caucus."Barack Obama has asked Robert Gates to stay on as Secretary of Defense. Mr. Gates is not only likely to continue the Bush Administration's military aggression around the world, but also the targeting of gay members of the armed forces for investigation, harassment, and discharge. The Obama Cabinet appointments have disappointed anyone who sincerely hoped for genuine change in 2009," Mr. Casebolt added.---------------------http://www.cagreens.org/GREEN PARTY OF CALIFORNIA PRESS RELEASESACRAMENTO (December 22, 2008) - The Green Party of California - noting the Democratic Party's national platform does not support same sex marriage - is demanding that President-elect Obama un-invite pro-Prop 8 pastor Rick Warren to perform the invocation for the Obama inauguration.Further, Greens charged, it quite possibly was the mixed message sent from the Democratic Party, and the President-elect himself that contributed to the passage of Prop. 8 in California - which bans same sex marriage - despite Obama's landslide victory here."The Green Party in California has supported same sex marriage since it first published its platform in 1992. Not so for the Democratic Party. That ambiguity of the Democrats led to confusion on Prop. 8 among voters," said Shane Que Hee, GPCA Platform co-coordinator."The national Democratic Party platform does not explicitly support same sex marriage, and only this year did the California Democratic Party put it in their platform. That should speak volumes. No one should be surprised by the President-elect, who does not support same-sex marriage explicitly, and only opposed Prop. 8 on state's rights reasons," he said.The Green Party of the United States has echoed the call by the California Green Party, asking that if President-elect Barack Obama calls himself a "fierce advocate for equality" for gay people, why has he invited Rev. Rick Warren to deliver the invocation at Barack Obama's inauguration?Greens said the choice of Pastor Warren signals that Obama may repeat the Clinton Administration's approach to gay rights. Clinton, taking gay support for granted, signed the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act into law that defended marriage exclusively for heterosexuals, and authorized the 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' military policy. Obama's opposition to full same-sex marriage rights suggests he does not believe in full and equal rights for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people.Others have suggested Pastor Warren's biases go further, noting his statement that members of the Jewish community and "non-Christians" will be denied "salvation." |
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| queerunity |
12:41 pm - Diversity Lesson 101: LGBT/Queer Little People Little People like LGBT people are considered "freaks of nature", they get stares and people misunderstand them. In looking for resources for Little LGBT People, I found virtually nothing. I decided, to make an entry to educate people about little people as well as provide as much info as I can for LGBT Little People. It is my sincere hope that LGBT Little People can find solace, comfort and community and that they can begin to network and build a foundation and support system for their own sub-section of the community.For more info and resources on LGBT Little People, check out:http://queersunited.blogspot.com/2008/12/diversity-lesson-101-lgbtqueer-little.html |
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December 9th, 2008
| queerunity |
**12:28 pm - Transphobia on Dr. Phil**It seems Dr. Phil likes to capitalize on transgender misunderstanding and hatred on his show."You fool me once shame on you, you fool me twice shame on me"We must commit to no longer stand idly by as Dr. Phil continues his knack and enjoyment for stigmatizing trans folks. More information and ways to take action here. |
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October 23rd, 2008
| queerunity |
12:25 pm - Might the "Bradley Effect" Also Hold True for Queer Issues? Today's open forum is set to examine whether we may see something similar to the "Bradley effect" on queer issues in the upcoming election."The Bradley effect, less commonly called the Wilder effect, is a proposed explanation for observed discrepancies between voter opinion polls and election outcomes in some American political campaigns when a white candidate and a non-white candidate run against each other. Named for Tom Bradley, an African-American who lost the 1982 California governor's race despite being ahead in some voter polls, the Bradley effect refers to an alleged tendency on the part of some voters to tell pollsters that they are undecided or likely to vote for a black candidate, and yet, on election day, vote for his/her white opponent." (Wikipedia)The "Bradley Effect" was a shocking dose of reality about the inconsistency of polls to determine how truthful people are about their voting decisions. It also went on to show the racial implications of the governor's race.While it is now 26 years later, the notion of a "Bradley Effect" has resurfaced because Barack Obama, a bi-racial candidate is running for president of the United States of America. It is interesting to ponder whether people are indicating they will vote for the democratic ticket while in private will vote against it because of the racial implications.I also wonder whether this can be applied to certain LGBT issues up on the ballot this Nov. 4th. There are marriage amendments in California, Arizona, and Florida this year. There is also the question of a constitutional convention in Connecticut and a ban on adoption by unmarried co-habitating couples in Arkansas. All of these referendums hold major implications for Americans straight and gay.People opposed to gay rights often argue that they "have gay friends" or are "not bigoted against gays." It has become increasingly unpopular to be associated with "homophobia." Is it possible there is a segment of the population that claims they will vote against these marriage amendments and in favor of LGBT rights while secretly espousing another point of view to hide their own fear of being labeled a bigot?http://queersunited.blogspot.com/2008/10/open-forum-can-queers-have-something.html |
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October 10th, 2008
October 2nd, 2008
| queerunity |
**04:29 pm - Bob Barr for President - Gay & Lesbian Words Banned**In response to a Bob Barr for president blog entry that stated that John McCain is possibly bipolar when it comes to the issues.I responded asking if Bob Barr was bipolar and discussed his former position against same-sex marriage for gays and lesbians. Well apparently the Bob Barr site doesn't like the words, "sex", "gay", or "lesbian".Not surprisingly "queer" made it through, although since this post they now banned that word as well.Here is how the text showed up before moderator approval (Since that time the post has not been authorized and has been deleted). You voted for the “defense of marriage act” to ban same-*** marriage equality throughout the country, and now say marriage is a states issue and nobody has the right to discriminate. You tried so hard to discriminate against *** and ******* couples. You will never get my vote, to me you are a bigot, plain and simple.http://queersunited.blogspot.com/2008/10/bob-barr-for-president-gay-lesbian.html |
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September 22nd, 2008
August 29th, 2008
| queerunity |
**11:35 am - Palin is Failin When it Comes to Queer Rights**Senator John McCain has selected an anti-queer republican for his V.P. choice, although not the worst she certainly has some controversial opinions on LGBT people.http://queersunited.blogspot.com/2008/08/palin-is-failin-when-it-comes-to-queer.html |
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June 16th, 2008
June 3rd, 2008
May 27th, 2008
May 26th, 2008
| queerunity |
**04:42 pm - Introducing Queers United**The Queer activist blog with action alerts for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Asexual, and Intersexual community.http://www.queersunited.blogspot.com |
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April 26th, 2007
| crazy_stony88 |
09:59 pmSO i started this group quite some time ago and then got relaly busy and lost my way to the internet haha but i found it again and i must say i cant believe this group actualy has people posting in it.. WHOA!!! anywho ill be checking more often and trying to post every once and a while keep up the good work lol*Matt* |
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January 29th, 2007
| sukonmyfanger2 |
10:36 pmJust wondering community thoughts on Andrew Sullivan's, The Conservative Soul. |
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January 21st, 2007
| tko_ak |
**06:29 pm - An appeal**Firstly, I apologize if this sort of post isn’t allowed, but I found this community to be relevant to my search, so here I am. I run  gsa_lj, one of the largest and fastest growing gay-straight alliances on LiveJournal. However, despite our initial mission to be a support network for youth, the focus of the community has evolved. Our members are largely educated, mature, and eager to expand their horizons. Previous outreach efforts have been made to teachers, parents, and those of faith in an effort to diversify our ranks.Personally, I'm a gay Republican with a libertarian streak, although most members are liberal. Considering the nature of this community, I thought you might be interested.Discussion of relevant politics and current events are common, but the community is multi-faceted. I’m attempting to further increase the level of intellectual discourse. We’re always looking to better ourselves.I ask that you join our efforts, if you’re interested in such issues. At the very least, check out the community. See the type of posts and comments that are present. Read our user-info page, and see for yourself why our members are satisfied. I have a feeling you’ll be impressed.If you have any questions, please feel free to e-mail me.-Jamiejlhobson@gmail.com |
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September 7th, 2006
| godmademegay_ga |
**03:59 pm - I Shall Be Heard**Dear politically-proud, There is a non-partisan website called I Shall Be Heard, where you can register (simple and with no obligation) and you can rate your elected Federal officials (President, Vice President, 2 Senators and 1 Congressperson from your state.) Mine, being Republican, religious Fascists, all got F's. It felt good to be the teacher giving out the grades!The site will compile all the report cards and send them to the officials and the media. The "grades" are multiple choice answers to 10 or 12 questions.Make yourself heard today!www.ishallbeheard.comThanks!Wayne |
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September 4th, 2006
| godmademegay_ga |
**04:18 pm - National Coming Out Day**I made this to be copied by whoever wanted it. The image isn't the best quality, but it was the best pose for my purposes and it wasn't copyrighted.Enjoy!WayneHere's a link to a larger version that I posted on my LJ...http://godmademegay-ga.livejournal.com/3420.html |
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August 29th, 2006
| godmademegay_ga |
**06:59 pm - Political Activism**Hi.I'm a Gay Georgian who has recently become an armchair activist. My activism, limited to my computer for right now, is taking the form of letters to candidates, both those I support and those I oppose, plus Op-Ed pieces to various newspapers.I have three things I've written to politicians, two of them to Perry J. McGuire who is running for Attorney General of Georgia on the Republican Ticket. The third and most recent post is the one that can affect us all because it involves a Republican from Florida who is running for the U.S. Senate. If I've ever thought the homophobic Baptists were bad, this woman's ten times worse. I invite everyone to read the letters and comment if they wish. Constructive comments are more appreciated than bashes, but if you have to bash, do so. I can take it. The longest letter, the first to McGuire, is long for a few reasons: 1) Mr. McGuire had a long list of things that required our attention2) the paragraphs that deal with pedophilia are clunky because I have noticed Christian hate groups tend to view any criticism of their condemnation as support for that topic. I had to be blunt and clear, and I couldn't NOT address that after I had written about every other thing. These hate groups would have pounced on the omission. 3) I used his own religious arguments against him and that just takes a lot of words. 4) Because I have never suffered from brevity. If anyone has a cure, please tell me! :-)I'm not asking you to read these and comment for my benefit. They are what they are, flawed and all my own. I hope that all who read them are inspired to vote in November, you have until October 10th in Georgia to register for that election. If you feel like doing more than just voting, PLEASE do. As a community, GLBTs are notable for our political apathy and it shows in our low voter numbers. Speak out and vote!Thanks!Wayne Smith |
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May 18th, 2006
March 10th, 2006
| widowhawk |
**08:58 am - Equality**Cross PostedLast night was the monthly meeting of the Sonoma Chapter of Equality California and we are starting to get some younger folks involved. We currently have students from Sonoma State University and Santa Rosa Junior College. As a matter of fact, the president of the BIGLASS QTS (Bisexual, Intersex, Gay, Lesbian Alliance of Sonoma State, Questioning, Transgender, Straight) club is now a member of our chapter. Very cool.I believe it is with the youth our equality lies. The unmitigated passion and sense of justice young adults have are vital to any civil rights cause. One has to be taught to hate, to believe that one group deserves more rights than others. Prejudice and bigotry are learned behaviors. As trite as the saying may be, "Hate is not a family value."Just 6 months ago, the California Legislature made history by passing equal marriage legislation in both the State Senate and State Assembly. I was able to be a part of that history. On September 6th, I lobbied many members of the State Assembly, carrying a framed photo of Rose, and putting a human face on the issue. I told my story again and again. Sometimes I was rebuffed. Sometimes I was listened to. Once I was invited into the Senior Advisor's office, and told my story as he took notes and tears welled in his eyes.I always ended my story with the statement that the legislation would probably never benefit me directly, as I could not concieve of loving another woman as deeply as I loved Rose.Then I met my Sweet One for coffee. Two days later, I met her for a concert and coffee. I was head over heels in love. The twinkle in her eyes, her intelligence, and her sweet nature just drew me to her. Now I cannot imagine not having her in my life. Now my fight is even more personal. |
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March 2nd, 2006
February 10th, 2006
| wyldeboi99 | 01:35 pm - ATTENTION IDAHO READERS….. Breaking: After nearly three hours of public debate, a Senate committee has narrowly approved a constitutional amendment to ban same sex marriage in Idaho. The Senate State Affairs Committee voted 5-4 in favor of HJR 2. The bill will go before the full senate on Tuesday. Press Release2-10-06 Senate committee’s action leads to “OUTrage” Southern Idaho LGBT Community Center President reacts to “marriage amendment”Today, lawmakers in the Idaho legislator have once again proved to the nation and the world that, far from being on the forefront when it comes to civil liberties and human rights, Idaho continues to be a place that will, in fact, tolerate hate, fear, and prejudice. By continuing to waste taxpayer’s time and money on HJR 2, lawmakers are sending a clear and precise message to members of their own families, neighborhoods, and communities that they are unworthy of the same opportunities at “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” already afforded to the majority of Americans. Kelly Groce, President of the Southern Idaho Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender Community Center calls the committee’s actions “a sad day for all Idahoans”… “It’s hypocritical and it’s wrong. These lawmakers should be ashamed of themselves. This is not about the preservation of marriage, if it were, Idaho lawmakers would be calling for an amendment that would curtail Idaho’s high divorce rate. Instead, this legislation is clearly targeting a minority that certain lawmakers believe has no place in our society.” But, Groce says, that minority isn’t about to give up the fight…. On Tuesday, February 14th, (The day the full senate is expected to vote on the legislation.), members of the Southern Idaho LGBT community center in Twin Falls, along with other gays and lesbians around the state, will join together on the steps of the capital building to greet lawmakers with thousands of balloons, one for every member of the LGBT community in Idaho…. Groce says he hopes the demonstration sends a strong message…..“We are no longer the silent minority of years gone by, we have a face, we have a name, and we will not cower and we will not hide. It’s important that these lawmakers, along with the rest of Idaho realize that we are real people living real lives.” (The rally will be held from 9:00 until 1:00 Tuesday Feb. 14, Valentines Day. If you can't make it and would like to be represented, leave me a comment with your name in it and I'll be sure it gets put on a balloon for you!) |
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January 13th, 2006
| willows_weep |
02:41 pmhey Im worried.Im checking my friends pages, looking at ljs for nationwide lgbtq stuff and its as if every state is having a field day with wanting to get their constitution amended to say marriage is bet. a man and a woman, and also to simply take away any possibility of lgbtq oriented basic rights.After No on 1 won, it was reported that the next and already started initiative for the christian civic league and other sponsors for Yes on 1, was to make sure 'marriage was saved'.(Question 1 was on the ballot in Maine last semester, it was a referendum in opposition to having sexual orientation/gender id/exp. in the state anti-discrimination act)I'm also reading that if the state constitution is changed that would give chance to seeing partner benefits, hospital visitation rights, etc the stuff you get from marriage, and maybe civil unions as illegal.Is that true???Either way, that is the feel/actual words in a lot of the posts I'm reading. If a state makes that amendment, what does that do to companies that have partner benefits,legal recognition of civil union (even regardless to m/f/etc),and basic rights for 'non traditional relationships/families'And how can such an amendment become legal in a state that includes lgbtq stuff in their anti-discrimination policythanks |
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October 18th, 2005
| oowatermellonoo |
08:19 pmIF ANYONE IS IN MARYLAND OR AROUND MARYLAND PLEASE COME TO THIS WE NEED EVERYONES SOUPPORT!!When: Thursday Oct 20, 2005at 2:30 PMWhere: corner of Smith and LabyrinthBaltimore, MD 21208USDescription:Help fight ignorance. Thursday 2:30-6:30 please join in helping us promote gay/lesbian rights and tolerance. The protest will take place on Smith and Labyrinth in front of Pikesville High School, wear pink if you are a straight supporter and rainbow if you are out and proud, and bring signs! This is in response to the disgusting display of ignorance against homosexuality in front of pikesville high earlier this week.Bring your friends, family, anyone.. this event is going to be huge PFLAG, HCR, GLCCB, they will all be there!!!! COME OUT AND SHOW SOUPPORT!!IM me for more info @ XxStarlite or e-mail me XxStarlite@aol.com |
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October 3rd, 2005
| drmmchick |
05:45 pmif u have my space add me (drmmchick) |
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September 28th, 2005
| actionfunkimba |
06:39 pm - Reel Pride Michigan - GLBT Film Festival - October 21-28, 2005 Film Festival Back... And Bigger Than Ever! (Royal Oak)-Triangle Foundation and the Reel Pride Michigan Host Committee are proud to announce the highlights for the fourth edition of REEL PRIDE MICHIGAN, the state's largest Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender (GLBT) and allied film festival. Reel Pride Michigan is scheduled for October 21 - 28, 2005 at the Main Art Theatre, located at 118 North Main Street, Royal Oak, Michigan, 48067, and promises to be yet another festival filled with films that celebrate the love, lives and diversity of the GLBT and allied community. Over the eight-day festival, Reel Pride Michigan will play host to 22 screenings, over 50 films, and an Opening Night Gala, a Closing Night Extravaganza, a Sunday Brunch, after parties, and several guest star-studded events. There will be an amazing Youth Series, with two free films for youth 21 and under and a youth afterparty, panel discussions, Q&A's, and opportunities to meet directors and stars from select films. Among the highlights of this festival is the opening night Gala on Friday October 21, at 8:00 pm featuring the exciting THE MOSTLY UNFABULOUS SOCIAL LIFE OF ETHAN GREEN. This opening feature introduces us to Ethan Green (Daniel Letterle) who has been playing the dating game all his life but after meeting a professional baseball player he may just have hit a home run. Join the famous Hat Sisters (Joel Brook from Office Space and Richard Riehle) and stars from Camp and Dawson’s Creek for this zany, comic star-filled feature of the festival. The evening continues at a private reception following the film to mingle with the stars. But wait - the Opening Night Gala is just the beginning! Reel Pride Michigan is packed with some of this year's most dynamic films including: the sexy and alluring SUMMER STORM; the controversial STRANGE FRUIT, a suspense-filled thriller that also looks at the strains of being gay and African-American; multi-award winning TRANSAMERICA with Felicity Huffman from Desperate Housewives; HATE CRIME the story which identifies with the work of the Triangle Foundation; and the rivoting documentary SAINTS & SINNERS in which a gay couple and their supporters stand up to the Catholic Church. Closing Night is sure to please with LEFT LANE: ON THE ROAD WITH FOLK POET ALIX OLSON, a true story of Alix Olson and her fiery spoken-word poetry. The Closing Night Extravaganza and Afterparty includes Alix Olson and the film’s director Samantha Farinella!For more information, to purchase tickets, or to see the festival guide, visit Reel Pride Michigan at ReelPrideMichigan.com or call 313-537-3323 x107. |
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| actionfunkimba |
09:52 am - WE WON! Court Rules Domestic Partner Benefits are Allowed in MI Domestic Partner Benefits OK for Michigan (27 September 2005; Detroit)----------- A Michigan court ruled today that public employers are not prohibited from offering domestic partner benefits to employees. The decision came in a lawsuit filed by the ACLU of Michigan on behalf of 21 couples whose benefits were in jeopardy following the passage of Proposal 2 last November. Their benefits were endangered by a subsequent opinion by Michigan’s Attorney General that benefits would end. Triangle Foundation supported the plaintiffs with an amicus curiae brief. Ingham County Circuit Court Judge Joyce Draganchuk said that “health care benefits are not benefits of marriage and cannot be construed as ‘benefits of marriage,’” that would be prohibited by the anti-marriage Amendment passed by the voters. The following may be attributed to Jeffrey Montgomery, Executive Director of Triangle Foundation: Judge Draganchuk’s ruling is clear on the fact that families cannot be robbed of precious benefits. All families in Michigan are entitled to basic health care and other benefits and today’s ruling established fairness and the basic concept that all workers deserve to be treated fairly and equally. Judge Dranganchuk has issued a sound and totally appropriate decision. The passage of Proposal 2 last fall left a dark cloud over the State of Michigan. Today the sun has broken through a little and rays of the light of equality are shining through. All people who value families and who oppose discrimination in all forms must be delighted today with this strong repudiation of Attorney General Cox’s anti-gay agenda. We are also very pleased for the plaintiff couples in the case and are thankful that they can go on with their lives with some assurance that their families will not be at risk of losing the critical benefits they deserve. Finally, we call on the Governor to reinstate domestic partner benefits as part of the negotiated contract between the state and its qualified employees.Current Mood: cheerful |
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August 31st, 2005
| drmmchick |
04:01 pmdoes anybody ever write in here?? there are alot of members in here but none of them seem to write about anything. well if anybody gets bored enough they can check out my webpage.www.stomachpain4life.piczo.com**Current Mood:**  quixoticCurrent Music: exgirlfriend, by: no doubt |
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