Out Vermont Rep. Jason Lorber on marriage: “I believe we can do it”

Gay Politics
March 30, 2009
Openly gay Vermont state Rep. Jason Lorber, a former Victory Fund endorsee, expressed cautious optimism about the prospect of passing marriage equality legislation in the state, despite Gov. Jim Douglas’ declaration that he would veto such a bill. (Link)

Vermont marriage equality bill veto threat draws mail

Associated Press
March 30, 2009
In the first two days after he pledged to veto a marriage equality bill, Vermont Gov. Jim Douglas' mailbag and e-mail inbox runneth over, with about 1,500 letters and messages pouring in. (Link)

Changing from civil union to marriage

Connecticut Post
March 31, 2009
The Connecticut General Assembly's Judiciary Committee on Monday afternoon voted 30-10 to codify last October's landmark state Supreme Court ruling upholding marriage equality. (Link)

Vermont House Judiciary Comittee passes marriage equality bill; House vote this week

Vermont Freedom to Marry
March 31, 2009
Vermont Freedom to Marry just posted the news on their blog:

We're one step closer! We need YOU to help us press on. Fairness and equality are within our reach. We MUST do the hard work to keep reaching out to our elected leaders to get the job done. We can't expect our elected Representatives to advocate for us if they don't see us advocating for ourselves! Spend the day at the Statehouse on Thursday, April 2 (get there by 9 a.m. - read more below).

The House Judiciary Committee voted S.115 out of committee today with a 8-2 vote! The committee made minor amendments to strengthen protections for religious freedom, and to make it clear that the laws only regulate civil marriage. The committee worked hard, listening to lots of testimony on a range of topics from diverse witnesses. Please thank the House Judiciary Committee members who supported this bill. (You can leave a message with the Sgt-at-Arms, 802-828-2228).

The full House is scheduled to hold its first vote on Thursday. The House will be taking up the budget bill first, and it is impossible to predict how long the discussion will take. It could take the better part of the day, or it could move along quickly. In either event, you can be sure that the chamber will fill up quickly. IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT WE HAVE A VISIBLE PRESENCE IN THE ROOM. Plan to spend the day at the Statehouse, and come early in order to claim seats in the chamber.

Please understand that we may have to hold our seats for many hours and watch the budget debate before the marriage bill debate begins. Bring a book. Bring a sandwich. BUT PLEASE MAKE THE TIME TO BE THERE.

YOUR REPRESENTATIVES NEED TO KNOW THAT YOU CARE DEEPLY ABOUT THIS VOTE. Please plan to be in the Statehouse by 9am.

In the meantime, please help us make a better future for Vermont by volunteering to phone bank, reaching out to your legislators, and donating money.

Learn more at Vermont Freedom to Marry

Will the California Supreme Court Strike Down Prop 8, or "Willy-Nilly Disregard" Its Duty?

Huffington Post
March 31, 2009
In a message to the California Supreme Court, now weighing a set of challenges to Prop 8, Evan Wolfson cautions the Court against a ruling that would not only go against "the bedrock principle of American constitutional government," but would also minimize its historic 2008 decision in Marriage Cases, which set forth such truths as "the fundamental nature of the freedom to marry [and], the way in which exclusion from marriage itself denies equality and imposes the stigma of second-class citizenship." (Link)

How Gen Y sees civil unions

The Honolulu Advertiser's Quarterlife Cafe Blog

March 29, 2009

Kim Fassler writes, "For today's average 25-year-old, meeting or interacting with someone who is gay is no more extraordinary than meeting someone who is Jewish, Canadian or wears glasses. I believe that this is one of the primary reasons why young people are more tolerant of homosexuality, and more open to civil unions than older generations in Hawaii and across America. Humans are generally more accepting of a phenomenon we have seen, someone we have talked to, something we can understand." [Link]

Phone Bankers and Canvassers Needed in Vermont

Following the Vermont Senate’s vote to support a bill to end the exclusion of gay couples from marriage last week, Vermont’s Gov. Douglas said he would veto the civil rights bill. But with the right work we can make that threat irrelevant!

Vermont Freedom to Marry is urging anyone who supports equality for all families to take action now, wherever you are, to tell the Vermont legislature to continue its leadership. Hearings are being held on the bill currently in the House Judiciary Committee, and the House is expected to take action soon!

IF YOU BELIEVE IN CIVIL RIGHTS – YOU ARE NEEDED NOW! HERE'S YOUR JOB:
• Canvassers & phone bankers needed NOW - work in Vermont Freedom to Marry’s Burlington office or work from home.
• Call & email Vermont Reps
• Call and email the Governor - 800-649-6825
• Call and email the House Judiciary Committee

Check out Vermont Freedom to Marry’s video page to view what’s been going on in the legislature over the last few weeks, and get involved today!

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I'm personally supportive of [marriage] equality for gay couples and I believe that it will happen over time."

— Steve Schmidt, former chief strategist for U.S. Sen. John McCain's 2008 presidential campaign, as quoted in the Washington Blade

Binational, Same-Sex Couples Face Immigration Problems

San Jose Mercury News

March 29, 2009
Binational gay couples discuss how the so-called DOMA and non-inclusive federal immigration laws negatively effect their lives, affirming their support for a change in federal law that would grant gay partners the immigration protections afforded to straight married couples.[Link]

EDITORIAL: Marriage on the March

Los Angeles Times
March 28, 2009
The Times editorial board discusses Vt. possibly moving toward marriage equality while the Calif. Supreme Court debates whether to uphold Prop. 8: "Vermont and California appear to be sliding in opposite directions these days, and we're not talking about tectonic plates." [Link]

Words Matter

The Daily Journal (reprinted on NCLR's blog)
March 27, 2009
Jackie Goldberg, a former California Assembly member writes, "The California Supreme Court got it right the first time: Words do matter, and the institution of marriage does as well. Separate is not equal for lesbians and gay men - whether or not that means having to win an election to restore our Constitution's promise of equality." [Link]

Marriage effort shifts back to New England

The Associated Press

March 28, 2009

Five years after Mass. extended marriage equality to gay couples, the focus on marriage for same-sex couples has returned to northern New England as Vt. and N.H. debate legislation that would lift those state's marriage bans. [Link]

EDITORIAL: With Veto Threat, Douglas Missed Chance to Lead

Burlington Free Press

March 26, 2009

The Burlington Free Press on Vt. Gov. Jim Douglas' vow to veto a marriage equality bill if it passes: "If Douglas' intent was truly to put the debate behind him so Montpelier can focus on the 'most pressing issues,' he failed with an act that can only ratchet up the rhetoric on both sides and deepen the divide [...]" [Link]

Bloomberg Says Time "Right" to Move Marriage Bill

Gay City News

March 26, 2009

In his most specific articulation of what he is prepared to do to help make marriage equality a reality in New York State, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg "promise[d] to go with Christine Quinn up to Albany and to testify and to do whatever it takes to keep the pressure on." [Link]

Veto Threat Ripples Through Capital

Rutland Herald

March 27, 2009

Vermont legislators and citizens reflect on the possibility of Gov. James Douglas vetoing a bill that would extend marriage equality to same-sex couples should it pass the state House. [Link]

Groups Say Maine Freedom to Marry Law Good for Kids

The Boston Globe

March 26, 2009

Representatives from groups of social workers, psychologists and children's interest advocates spoke in support of proposed marriage equality legislation in Maine, saying their research shows that children's well being "does not differ markedly whether their parents are gay or straight." [Link]

Marriage Equality, Set Back in One State, Gains in a 2nd

New York Times

March 27, 2009

Vt. Gov. Jim Douglas announced Wednesday that he would veto a bill -- recently passed by the state Senate and being debated in the House -- that would allow gay couples to marry. The following day, the New Hampshire House approved a bill that would extend marriage equality to the state's residents. [Link]

New York City allows two moms on birth certificate

NY1

March 25, 2009

Married lesbian couples in the city can now be listed as parents on their children's birth certificates. The city Board of Health voted in favor of the change Tuesday. Previously, women would have to go through an adoption process to be listed as the official parents. [Link]

Young Advocate in Vermont Gives Powerful Testimony in Support of Marriage Equality

Vermont Outright youth & Board Representative James Neiley gave testimony in front of the state Senate Judiciary Committee in support of marriage equality in Vermont. James delivered one hundred letters of support from classmates and spoke about the importance of the dignity and respect that come with marriage, and how denying marriage for gay couples fuels the hate speech and homophobia he faces in school: "When I know the best thing I can do in most states is get a civil union, how am I supposed to feel accepted? How am I supposed to overcome the ripping, nagging feeling that I am inferior?"

The Vermont Senate voted in support of marriage equality, and now the House is holding hearings on the bill, but Vermont’s Governor Douglas says he plans to veto civil rights.

 

1. Take Action with Vermont Freedom to Marry
2. Watch James testify
3. Follow the latest news on Straight Talk on Marriage

Japan Allows Its Gay and Lesbian Citizens Marriage Abroad

Agence France-Presse
March 27, 2009

Although Japan's government does not recognize marriage for gay couples, it has approved a policy to allow Japanese citizens to marry same-sex foreign partners abroad. [Link]

Vermont Freedom to Marry Releases New Ad

Vermont Freedom to Marry
March 27, 2009

Vermont Freedom to Marry released their new ad entitled, "Neighbors," in response to Gov. Douglas' announcement that he will veto the Vermont marriage bill S.115. (Link)

Hawaii Senate fails to bring vote on civil unions

Associated Press

March 26, 2009

The Hawaii state Senate decided against using a legislative maneuver to bring a civil unions bill that deadlocked in the Senate Judiciary Committee before the full Senate for a vote. The ruling essentially stalled the measure for the session, despite a majority of the Senate indicating support for the bill. [Link]

Victory in NH house

The Boston Globe

March 26, 2009

The House has voted to make New Hampshire the third state allowing gay couple to marry two years after they granted them the right to enter into civil unions. The House voted 186-179 to send the bill to the Senate. [Link]

EDITORIAL: Marriage equality due for expansion

The Republican

March 25, 2009

The editorial board of the Republican writes, "[T]here are still some hurdles to overcome before New England becomes a marriage equality zone. When the region does, however, we hope the pioneering spirit and egalitarianism of New England will spread to the rest of the nation." [Link]

House panel takes up gay marriage bill

The Barre Montpelier Times Argus
March 25, 2009
There was a sense of déjà vu as former Rep. Tom Little testified before the House Judiciary Committee on Tuesday afternoon. Little, a Shelburne Republican, was chairman of that committee nine years ago when it passed the first-in-the-nation civil union law. And while civil unions met the requirements under the state Constitution, Little said it has become clear that there are intangible benefits to marriage that gay and lesbian couples in Vermont are being denied. [Link]

Gay rights battle puts strain on parties

Chicago Tribune

March 23, 2009

With California's vote last November in favor of the discriminatory marriage ban known as Proposition 8, some gays are saying that bachelorette parties at their bars are becoming more than a minor nuisance. They're a constant reminder that gays don't have equal marriage rights. [Link]

Most of the Seventh Grade Will Be at the Commitment Ceremony

New York Times
March 23, 2009
In Harlem a week ago, a 32-year-old math teacher handed out slips of paper inviting the entire seventh grade of Columbia Secondary School to his upcoming ceremony, where, the names on the invitation made clear, he’d be celebrating his commitment to another man. The teacher, Chance Nalley, rarely wastes an instructional opportunity but said that, in this particular instance, he wasn’t trying to make an educational statement. “They kept asking if they were invited,” he said of his students at Columbia, a selective public school that specializes in math, science and engineering.

Meghan McCain to Larry King: 'I believe in gay marriage.'

Towleroad

March 24, 2009

Arizona Senator and former presidential candidate John McCain's daughter Meghan appeared on Larry King Live and continued to buck the Republican party line on a number of issues, including marriage. "We have a very big generation gap between me and my father...I was raised in an open-minded home. I was raised a Christian, but I was raised open- minded Christian -- one to accept people, love people, not pass judgment. And that's the kind of place I was raised. It's how I lived my life and my father is great...I believe in gay marriage. I believe in many things socially." [Link]

Senate votes 26-4 for marriage equality

Burlington Free Press

March 24, 2009

The bill faces another vote in the Senate today before going to the House. The House Judiciary Committee is expected to begin taking testimony today. The bill is expected to pass the House, but faces an uncertain future when it reaches Gov. Jim Douglas. He said he opposes the bill but hasn’t said whether he will veto it. [Link]

Senator Schumer Comes Out For Marriage Equality

Daily News
March 23, 2009
At a private risotto dinner last night with gay leaders and elected officials at Gramercy Tavern last night, Sen. Chuck Schumer reversed himself on the issue of marriage for gay couples, saying he not only now supports it but also backs a full reversal of the Defense of Marriage Act. (Link)

LIVE: Vermont Senate vote on marriage bill

Burlington Free Press is hosting a live feed to the Vermont Senate who is soon debating a bill to end the exclusion of gay couples from marriage. A vote of the full Senate is expected today. (Link)

Study examines effect of marriage on gay couples

365Gay.com

March 20, 2009

The legal recognition of same-sex relationships, including marriage, influences how gay and lesbian baby boomers prepare for late life and end of life issues, a new study has found. Unmarried same-sex couples may suffer greater fear and anxiety around end of life issues than those in state-sanctioned unions, according to the findings. [Link]

Portia De Rossi "Apologizes" For Marrying Ellen (VIDEO)

The Huffington Post

March 21, 2009

Portia De Rossi appeared on "Jimmy Kimmel Live" land talked about being a teenage model and her new show "Better Off Ted." She also brought with her a new PSA she made about marriage and Prop 8.
[Link]

BROADWAY FOR A NEW AMERICA: Standing Up for Marriage Equality & A Progressive Agenda for Change

BROADWAY FOR A NEW AMERICA
Standing Up for Marriage Equality & A Progressive Agenda for Change

MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2009 at 7:00 p.m.
(Doors open & silent auction at 6:30 p.m.)

PETER NORTON SYMPHONY SPACE
2537 Broadway (at 95th Street), NYC

The Jewish Alliance for Change will present a star-studded benefit concert
that will feature a dazzling array of over 30 top-name performers
from the worlds of Broadway, television, film, music, and comedy -
including many Tony, Emmy, Oscar and Grammy Award
winners and nominees.

Hosted by
Tony and 2-time Grammy Award winner
Jim Dale

and Starring

Richard Belzer, Scott Blakeman, Mike Burstyn,

Ann Hampton Callaway, Stockard Channing, Fran Drescher,

Melissa Errico, Tovah Feldshuh, Mario Frangoulis, Cheryl Freeman,

Jonathan Freeman, Malcolm Gets, Shauna Hicks, Norm Lewis,

Michael Longoria, Rebecca Luker, Nellie McKay, Anne Meara,

Karla Mosley, Hugh Panaro, Christine Pedi, Rosie Perez,

Krysta Rodriguez, Seth Rudetsky, Jeremy Schonfeld,

Jerry Stiller, Kathleen Turner, Noah Weisberg, Lillias White....

Plus more to be announced and special surprise guests!!


Speakers at the event will include:
Evan Wolfson (FREEDOM TO MARRY, Founder and Executive Director);
Steven Goldstein (GARDEN STATE EQUALITY, Chair);
Ron Zacchi (Marriage Equality New York, Executive Director);
Wayne Besen (TRUTH WINS OUT, Founder and Executive Director);
and Rabbis J. Rolando Matalon and Marcelo Bronstein
(CONGREGATION B'NAI JESHURUN, NYC)

An unforgettable night of the best of Broadway and beyond...

Tickets are priced at $40, $60, $80 and $100
and may be purchased through
The Jewish Alliance for Change website
by clicking on www.Jews4Change.com

Tickets may also be purchased at
the Symphony Space box office,
through the theater website (www.symphonyspace.org)
or by phoning 212-864-5400

Premium seating tickets, which include program recognition and admission to the VIP after-party with the stars, are available for purchase through www.Jews4Change.com

Please join us for a memorable evening of great performances
while helping to overturn Proposition 8
and enact marriage equality legislation in New York and New Jersey.

Don't miss this very special evening!
Buy your tickets NOW, while seats still last!!

Legislatures in Vermont and New Hampshire Vote This Week on Bills to End Exclusion from Marriage for Gay Couples

After a week's worth of hearings on a bill to end the exclusion of gay couples from marriage, Vermont's Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously voted to support the bill last week. The full Senate is expected to vote today, March 23 at 3pm.

The bill is expected to move through the legislature in the next three to five weeks.

New Hampshire's House will vote on a marriage equality bill this Thursday, March 26th.

 

1. Take Action with Vermont Freedom to Marry
2. Take Action with New Hampshire Freedom to Marry Coalition
3. Follow the latest news on Straight Talk on Marriage

Vermont Marriage Equality Bill Unanimously Passes Senate Committee

Vermont Freedom to Marry
March 19, 2009
Vermont Freedom to Marry just announced the committee passage on their site:

"Senate Judiciary Committee Approves S.115 5-0! Calls Needed!

A unanimous Senate Judiciary Committee just voted to support S.115. The Committee approved minor edits to the bill, and rejected a proposed amendment for a statewide non-binding referendum by a 4-1 margin. When Senator Sears called the question, each Senator in turn voted to support the bill. The full Senate is expected to debate and vote on the bill Monday at 3:00 p.m. We urge you to attend.

We've successfully cleared the first hurdle - and it's time to double-down! This weekend is our last chance to reach out to our Senators - each and every one of them. It's vitally important. Our future, and history, depend on it. Those who oppose our full equality will be extra motivated; we must be, too. Even if you've contacted your Senator before, please do it again. Click here for a list of Senators and their contact information. And if you haven't contacted your Representative for awhile, please do so. This is it!" (Link)

Mormongate

Californians against hate blog
March 18, 2009
This blog highlights how the Mormon Church has spearheaded the fight against marriage equality, "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon Church) has been leading the national crusade against same-sex marriage since President Gordon B. Hinckley issued such a proclamation in 1988." (Link)

A battle hymn for equality

SeaCoast Online
March 18, 2009
D. Allan Kerr writes about how passing marriage equality in Maine wouldn't change his or his family's life, but that he believes we should all stand up against discrimination. (Link)

First Vote on Marriage Expected Today in VT

Burlington Free Press

March 20, 2009

Vermont's Senate Judiciary Committee is expected to deliver its recommendation this morning on whether the state Legislature should pass a marriage equality bill. [Link]

LETTER: Benefits for Gay Couples

New York Times

March 19, 2009

Gary Buseck, legal director for Gay & Lesbian Advocates and Defenders, responds to a Times article about Obama's looming decision on whether to extend health benefits to partners of gay federal employees: "The path of destruction of the Defense of Marriage Act is wide. It must be removed from our laws [...]" [Link]

Will Gay Couples' Marriage Vows Survive California Court Review?

Wall Street Journal
March 19, 2009
The California Supreme Court is weighing an incendiary question: Should it recognize the gay couples who married last year in California, when it was briefly legal? [Link]

1,000 attend marriage equality hearing

Burlington Free Press
March 19, 2009
Wednesday night's Montpelier, Vt., hearing on proposed legislation to end discrimination in marriage for gay couples drew about 1,000 attendees, two-thirds of them supporters of equality. The state's Senate Judiciary Committee is expected to vote on the bill by the end of the week, after which it will head to the full Senate. (Link)

Tonight : Vermont Public Hearing on Marriage Equality Bill

Tonight from 6-8:30 is a public hearing at the State House in Montpelier, Vermont to hear public testimony on a bill to end discrimination in marriage. All week long, the Vermont legislature hosted hearings on this bill, and tonight is the public's chance to share their voice.

The hearing is hosted by the Senate Judiciary Committee. A sign-up sheet for those who wish to speak will be available at 5:30. An overflow crowd is expected, so folks are encouraged to arrive early to get a seat inside the House Chamber. (There will be overflow rooms available.) People can bring written testimony whether or not they intend to speak to leave with the committee.

Take action in Vermont, talk to your friends and family about how Vermont could be the next state to win marriage equality, and follow here to find out how the hearing went.

NAACP's Julian Bond Delivers Moving Speech on Equality

Queerty

March 17, 2009

Julian Bond, chairman of the NAACP, put into words the type of inspirational sentiment and coming-togetherness between gays, blacks, and humanity that we all feel. Says Bond, a supporter of the freedom to marry for gay and lesbian couples: "Black people, of all people, should not oppose equality, and that is what gay marriage is. … At the NAACP, we pledge to do our part." And that's just the beginning of this eloquent indictment of homophobia. [Link]

Businesses Back Marriage-Equality Bill

Burlington Free Press

March 18, 2009

Leading state and local business leaders in Vermont testified before a state Senate committee in support of proposed legislation to allow gay couples to marry, highlighting how marriage equality could positively impact the state's economy. [Link]

Clergy Push for Maine Marriages

The Boston Globe

March 17, 2009

A coalition of Maine clergy members who support marriage equality held a breakfast meeting with lawmakers Tuesday to discuss a proposed bill that would repeal the state's marriage ban. [Link]

NH Marriage Bill Deadlocks in Committee

Burlington Free Press

March 18, 2009

The New Hampshire House Judiciary Committee voted 10-10 yesterday on legislation that would allow gay couples to marry. As a result, the full state House will now debate the bill next week and vote on it without any recommendation from the committee. [Link]

Day 1 of Senate Judiciary Hearings

Vermont Freedom to Marry

March 16, 2009

You can view videoclips of the hearings on Vermont Freedom to Marry's website throughout each day of testimony this week, so be sure to visit them frequently for updates. If you can't be at the State House, they're doing all they can to give you swift access to information so that you too can be a part of the legislative process! Stay tuned... [Link]

Ellen Interviews Portia de Rossi: "She Also Happens To Be My Wife"

Joe.My.God

March 16, 2009

How many millions in marriage equality ads is this interview worth? [Link]

EDITORIAL: Separation Anxiety

The Washington Post

March 16, 2009

"The Uniting American Families Act would allow gay and lesbian Americans and permanent residents to sponsor their foreign-born partners for legal residency in the United States. The bill, introduced last month in the Senate by Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and in the House by Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), would add 'permanent partner' and 'permanent partnership' after the words 'spouse' and 'marriage' in relevant sections of the Immigration and Nationality Act. If passed, it would right a gross unfairness." [Link]

BLOG: NAACP Chair Julian Bond: Gay Rights Are Civil Rights

Towleroad

March 16, 2009

Towleroad reports on a recent speech by National NAACP Chairman Julian Bonds at the Human Rights Campaign's 2009 Los Angeles Gala and Hero Awards. Bond: "When someone asks me, 'are gay rights civil rights?' my answer is always, 'Of course, they are.'" [Link]

Vermont Begins Hearings on Marriage Bill

The Associated Press

March 16, 2009

Vermont lawmakers began a week's worth of hearings Monday on proposed legislation to allow gay and lesbian couples in the state to marry. Both supporters and opponents of marriage equality rallied at the Vermont Statehouse in Montpelier. [Link]

Governor Challenges Utah’s Conservative Verities

New York Times
March 13, 2009
In February, when Utah Governor Jon Huntsman, Jr. announced that he would support civil unions for gay couples, many politicians here braced for a backlash...But the backlash never developed. Indeed, after his announcement, a poll by Deseret News/KSL-TV found that two-thirds of respondents said their opinion of the governor had not changed or had become more positive because of his position on civil unions.

The Culture Warriors Get Laid Off

New York Times
March 14, 2009
Frank Rich writes, "Americans have less and less patience for the intrusive and divisive moral scolds who thrived in the bubbles of the Clinton and Bush years. Culture wars are a luxury the country — the G.O.P. included — can no longer afford." (Link)

Florists Can't Discriminate Against Gay Couples

Hartford Courant
March 16, 2009
The Connecticut Catholic Conference, the lobbying arm of Catholic bishops, wants an exemption for florists, justices of the peace, photographers and others who do weddings but object to marriage for same-sex couples on religious grounds. This proposal has no place in a pluralistic society. Imagine Jewish businesses refusing to serve Arabs or Muslims or conservatives blacklisting liberal customers. (Link)

Civil Marriage Is a Healthy Choice

Washington Post
March 15, 2009
Peter Beilenson, the health officer of Howard County, writes, "This month, the Maryland General Assembly again will hear arguments in favor of granting same-sex couples the ability to legally marry...what about the strong body of evidence that married couples fare much better, both physically and psychologically, than unmarried, cohabitating couples? This evidence alone illustrates that denying same-sex couples access to civil marriage is, quite simply, relegating them to inferior health status." (Link)

Vermont Senate Committee Unanimously Votes in Support of Marriage Equality

After a week's worth of hearings on a bill to end the exclusion of gay couples from marriage, Vermont's Senate Judiciary Committee just unanimously voted to support the bill. The full Senate is expected to vote on Monday, March 23 at 3pm.

The bill is expected to move through the legislature in the next three to five weeks.

 

1. Take Action with Vermont Freedom to Marry
2. Follow the latest news on Straight Talk on Marriage

60 lawmakers co-sponsor Maine's marriage bill

Associated Press

March 12, 2009

Democratic Sen. Dennis Damon of Trenton said those lining up in support of his bill include representatives from Maine's smallest towns and its largest cities. [Link]

Vermont Clergy Throw Support Behind Marriage Bill

MSNBC

March 13, 2009

"We affirm the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution," said the Rev. Johanna Nichols of the Unitarian Universalist Society. "The state can't require religious groups to bless same gender marriages nor may it favor the convictions of one group over another and deny individuals their fundamental right to civil marriage." [Link]

New Hampshire House Judiciary Sub-Committee votes to pass marriage equality

New Hampshire Freedom to Marry Coalition
March 12, 2009
Today the House Judiciary Committee Subcommittee passed HB436 (marriage equality) and HB415 (anti-discrimination act for gender identity and expression)by a 3-2 vote. The full Committee will be voting on these bills next Tuesday. Take action at New Hampshire Freedom to Marry Coalition. (Link)

GUEST POST: Dreams Do Come True

By Scott Davenport

I confess – I have a guilty pleasure.  I like trolling YouTube for videos on “Marriage Equality.”  About once or twice a week right before I head off to bed, I’ll go online and input those key words, ask for items posted in the last week and then sort by “most recent.”  And every time I do, I get a list several pages long. 

Some are news items – postings from CNN or MSNBC.  Some are cell phone captures of that week’s protest or vigil somewhere (there were lots of those this week in the wake of the California Supreme Court oral arguments on Prop 8’s passage).  Some are the rantings of some internet dweeb (am I an internet dweeb for trolling Youtube?!) on his or her computer cam.  Some are soft sell videos:  slide shows of adoring same-sex couples who got married underscored by a romantic ballad.  And yes, I confess. I have a soft spot for those! A few are negative, but most seem very supportive.

Last night, though I stumbled upon my dream YouTube video on marriage equality.  It wasn’t like any of those I just mentioned.  In fact in a purely cinematic sense, it’s about as dry as toast!  But nonetheless for me it was groundbreaking.  What was it?

It was a video of the head of the Vermont state Senate (Vermont Senate President Pro Tempore Peter Shumlin) outlining not only why he supported marriage equality in his state but what he was going to do to help make it happen!  (Check it out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rv3RaC7XXf8)

Just stop for minute to let that soak in. It wasn't the only openly gay or lesbian state legislator speaking.  It wasn’t the Executive Director of the state's gay advocacy group. It wasn't even a non-gay, but supportive state legislator.It was the head of the state’s Senate!

And he wasn’t just saying he supported marriage equality.  He talked about what he was going to do to lead the charge.  He talked about how his own support of the issue has evolved (yes, even politicians can change).  He talked, in effect, about how a difficult economy shouldn’t get in the way of equality for all.  He talked about how couples he knows shouldn’t be treated any differently than he and his wife are treated.  He gets it, and he gets it deeply.

What an amazing and courageous thing to do on the part of a politician.  Most politicians find a way to dance around issues they are scared of -- even if they don’t have to be scared.  (see our report: Pro-Marriage Legislators Win Elections). 

After all take a look at this other video I found last night:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVGMvYYq3PU   

It’s a report on a lobbying visit to a state senator in NY (I won’t name/shame him here – you should watch the video).  When asked about his support for marriage equality by constituents (yes, constituents!), he says he’s not sure why he doesn’t support it – probably it’s about religion.  Yes, he actually says he’s not sure!

And then there’s my home state – Maryland (full disclosure:  I’m the board president of Equality Maryland).  We’ve been working to pass a marriage equality bill in Maryland, and we have some great legislative support.  We have an amazing gay and lesbian legislative caucus, and an equally amazing group of allies.  We have over 25% of the legislature as co-sponsors for our marriage equality bill. 

Yet the head of our State Senate won’t go near the issue.  Both the head of our House of Delegates and our Governor are still in the “domestic partnership” camp.  So to see a leader like Senator Shumlin in Vermont says a tremendous amount to me.

It tells me that a lot of people – grass roots, organizational folks and elected officials alike -- have done a lot of work in Vermont.  To have moved this far is truly an amazing accomplishment, one which offers real hope that we will see marriage equality come to Vermont this year.  And if you’d like to help in any way, you should check out Vermont Freedom to Marry at http://www.vtfreetomarry.org/.  They’re the ones who posted my dream video.

And so now my guilty pleasure isn’t a secret – and maybe I don’t feel so guilty about it either.  After all, isn’t it great to be able to go to bed having watched your dreams come true?

***
Scott Davenport is managing director of Freedom to Marry.

Florida Lawmaker Files Bills That Would Legalize Gay Adoptions

Miami Herald

March 11, 2009

Fla. state Sen. Nan Rich, who is co-chair of the Senate Children & Families Committee, has filed two bills that would lift the Fla. law banning gay men and lesbians from adopting and specify that judges would determine adoptions based solely on the best interests of children. [Link]

Marriage-Equality Backers, Foes Face Off Again in Md

Delmarva Now

March 11, 2009

Opponents and supporters of a proposed measure to allow gay couples to marry in Maryland debated the bill before the state's Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee in Annapolis Wednesday. [Link]

Guest Blog: H8 Vigils and the Pacific Altar

By Michelle Marzullo

Proposition 8 was heard by the California Supreme Court on March 5. My partner and I participated in a candle light vigil at the San Diego City Hall the night before. It was one of many such vigils held around the nation dubbed “The Eve of Justice.” The vigil was usual---candles burning, signs waving, horns beeping, songs singing, and a kind of solidarity that feels rare in most major cities, San Diego included. It felt good to be around those who feel the same. Not the least because I just moved here from New York. The evening nourished my soul even if I am weary of this fight, which was the point of holding the vigil before we understood where the court would lean on this issue. I spoke with a lesbian couple last week who said they were married in four different places scattered across North America over two years in an attempt to protect their family. I am not alone in being tired of this injustice.

My new home in San Diego is near to one of the largest Mormon temples in California. Indeed, our surrounding neighbors are those same Mormons who bussed their kin folk in from Utah to be sure that my partner and I are denied important benefits, double taxed and double burdened with healthcare costs in order to keep a definition of marriage that never was. On the run up to Prop. 8, I saw mothers with their young children standing at the corners of the shopping centers in my neighborhood with “Vote YES on Prop. 8 signs” and our neighbors’ minivans with bumper stickers accusing my partner and I of being similar to child molesters IF we were to get married—in total contravention to the ideology of married people being some how charmed or lucky.

Now, I don’t think the problem here is that people who think differently actually don’t exist. The research actually shows that the majority of Americans don’t really care about the topic of marriage for gays and lesbians—and there is the rub. We witness the squeaky wheel getting the grease.

In the late-October days of 2008, the air around here was so clotted with lies about gay, lesbian, and bisexual people that it blocked out the gentle SoCal sun and sullied the air with H8. The Mormons would come to my door occasionally. They are there to proselytize, but their ilk call us recruiters when we attempt to begin conversations about lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans lives being worthy and equal. These are blasphemous lies. The vigil and opening arguments did renew the urge I have to knock on the doors of the 52% of Californian voters to ask them why they attempted to vote me into silence, into purgatory? Like most, my interest in marriage is actually peripheral but I would still like an answer. And not a pitiful one that marks me as scourge, as recruiter—as they are to me and my family.

The day after the vigil, my partner said that we should go to the family vigil at the beach. She was being silly and just needed us to recharge at the altar of the Pacific but for a moment I thought she was serious. From these vigils, I have decided that we will create a family vigil at the beach for families like ours, for our allies—out of the darkness comes the light. We’ll be starting conversations with other families in our neighborhood and in San Diego who believe in us, who support us, who are like us—not necessarily in terms of sexual orientation, but politically and philosophically. Yes, there will be Pacific Altar meetings in the open, for anyone to join. These meetings will be for all of us who take the determination of the US to be a protection for the minority from the tyranny of the majority—those who understand that we are all misfits and outcasts from various lands and faiths and that this is okay.

***
Michelle Marzullo is a doctoral student living in California with her partner.

New Hampshire Legislative Hearing Today on Marriage Equality

New Hampshire Freedom to Marry Coalition
March 12, 2009
On Thursday, March 12th, the New Hampshire House Judiciary Sub-Committee on marriage will hold meetings on bills that deal with marriage equality and LGBT equality. Take action to support the bill at New Hampshire Freedom to Marry Coalition (Link)

Congressman John Lewis Speaks Out!

Gay Agenda
March 10, 2009
"You have too many people in this society saying they're against same-sex marriage. If people fall in love and want to get married, it is their business. Martin Luther King Jr. use to say races don't fall in love in love and get married; individuals fall in love and get married. So if two men or two women want to fall in love and get married it's their business." [Link]

Editorial Prop Editorial Prop- 8 and Beyond

National Association of Black and White Men Together
Winter 2008 - 2009
Ralph Ewers writes that some people believe that "majority opinion and the will of the voting majority is unerringly right. If so, perhaps we should abolish the Supreme Court, revisit matters of civil rights gains, reinstitute slavery, return to all the voter approved and government sanctioned oppressions of minorities in our past.... The tyranny of the majority will is just that, tyranny. [pdf Link]

Are liberties subject to majority vote?

San Francisco Chronicle
March 10, 2009
Professor of constitutional law at the University of Pennsylvania Tobias Barrington Wolff writes, "If we protect the structures of government but leave all liberties to simple majority vote, then we are safeguarding the moat while allowing the castle to burn down." [Link]

MassEquality’s Solomon to lead Equality California’s marriage effort

Bay Windows

March 9, 2009

After successfully leading the effort to preserve marriage equality in Massachusetts and overseeing his organization’s transition from a single-issue political campaign into a broad-based LGBT political organization, MassEquality executive director Marc Solomon is leaving to head up Equality California’s (EQCA) effort to restore marriage equality in that state. [Link]

Field Poll Finds Voters Still Split on Marriage

San Francisco Chronicle

March 10, 2009

The Field Poll found 48 percent of Calif. voters would support a constitutional amendment that would allow marriage equality in the state, with 47 percent opposed and 5 percent undecided. The poll suggests that voter turnout "could be the deciding factor in an upcoming amendment to allow same-sex couples to marry." [Link]

Professional Groups Back Marriage Equality in Vermont

The Burlington Free Press

March 10, 2009

Four major Vermont groups of social and mental health professionals, including the Vermont Psychological Association, announced their endorsement of proposed marriage equality legislation in their state. [Link]

Religiosity and Perceived Intolerance of Gays and Lesbians

Gallup

March 10, 2009

While many religious institutions have historically frowned upon same-sex relationships, a global view of religiosity and perceived intolerance toward gays and lesbians suggests that the robust association between religiosity and intolerance toward gays and lesbians does vary somewhat from religion to religion. [Link]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I think we'll get to the point where we should be insisting that liberals support marriage. I mean, nobody believes that they're really personally against it. They're just being political. I'd rather have them admit that. I think it's now time to start pushing people on marriage."

— Congressman Barney Frank

Shaping the Battlefield

Independent Gay Forum
March 3, 2009
Jonathan Rauch blogs, "Here's a TV ad called "Hope," from the Equality California people, who are already preparing for a rematch on marriage. And here's why I think it's potentially important." (Link)

British PM Brown: CA Marriage Ban 'Unacceptable'

On Top Magazine
March 6, 2009
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown supports the defeat of a California ban on gay couples marrying argued yesterday in the state's highest court, reports the BBC. (Link)

Existing marriages of gay couples now on a great divide

Los Angeles Times
March 7, 2009
With the California Supreme Court likely to uphold Proposition 8 but still recognize those already married, the couples are feeling both elated and isolated. (Link)

Fight for marriage, family is new protest focus

San Francisco Chronicle
March 7, 2009
Discussing the fight for marriage in California, Mike Marshall, a political consultant said, "Ten years ago, this (debate) was about rights and benefits. Thursday it was about love, commitment and family." (Link)

Vermont Legislative Leaders Announce Intention to Pass Marriage Equality Bill

Vermont Senate President Peter Shumlin and House Speaker Shap Smith announced their intention to pass a bill to ensure the freedom to marry in Vermont. A public hearing will be held on March 18th at the Capital in Montpelier and the bill is expected to move through the legislature in the next four to six weeks.

TAKE ACTION in Vermont with Vermont Freedom to Marry:

1. Mark your calendar for the PUBLIC HEARING in Montpelier on Wednesday, MARCH 18 from 6:00 - 8:30 p.m. Vermont Freedom to Marry needs each and every Vermonter! They'll make it easy: SIGN UP NOW TO RIDE THE EQUALITY BUS -- departing from various locations all around the state and bound for the public hearings. Have a blast while you do your part for equal rights!
2. Email Senator Shumlin and Speaker Smith to thank them for their leadership. Let them know we appreciate their aggressive efforts to meet Vermont's economic challenges AND their leadership in protecting our families and civil rights. And let Senator Shumlin know you appreciate his remarks!
3. Email Governor Douglas to ask him to join you in supporting equal rights for all Vermonters.

States are talking about marriage equality. Are you?

Google Comments

March 6, 2009

Evan Wolfson writes, "With legislatures, courts, and even the electorate weighing the need to end the exclusion of gay couples from marriage, there is greater opportunity, and greater urgency, for each one of us to promote conversations about why marriage equality matters. The more people talk to others, the more they come to see there is no good reason to deny couples who've made a personal commitment in life, the equal commitment under law that is marriage." [Link]

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown attacks US marriage ban

BBC News

March 6, 2009

Gordon Brown has condemned California's ban on gay marriage as "unacceptable" and warned people to be vigilant against all forms of discrimination. The prime minister said the ban, backed in a referendum in the US state in November, would "undo" much of recent progress made in tackling prejudice. [Link]

Photographer Annie Leibovitz Is Certainly Paying the Death Tax for Lover Susan Sontag's Estate

Queerty

March 6, 2009

The New York Times last month explored Leibovitz's debt, citing anonymous informant who say she needed the cash to "to pay off mortgages and deal with other financial stresses." Depending on the size of Sontag's estate, it's entirely feasible Leibovitz owes seven- to eight-figures to the government. But had she been legally married to Sontag? They tax penalty, says AfterEllen, would've been zero. [Link]

The NAACP Takes a Stance Against Prop. 8

The America Prospect

March 4, 2009

Adam Serwer analyzes the significance and implications of the NAACP's recent statement opposing Prop. 8: "[A]s the country has grown more progressive on issues of gay rights, so has the NAACP." [Link]

Guest Blogger: Activist Challenges "no resting on laurels"

Guest Blogger: James Hipps

I have just finished listening to arguments as to why Proposition 8 in California should or should not be repealed. As anticipated, I found a great deal of posturing, and a severe lack of presentation as to why this measure should be invalidated.

With the exception of California Deputy Attorney General Christopher Krueger, who of course was speaking in support of a repeal on the same-sex marriage ban, most were well spoken, and made concise points for opening arguments. Krueger on the other hand, spoke as though he was a nervous college student giving a first time public speech. He simply appeared to be out of his league.

Kenneth Starr, who is leading the case for Proposition 8, thus opposes same-sex marriage, threw out such rhetoric as; all we are asking is to “restore the traditional definition that has been in place since the beginning”, “opinions have integrity” and “let us protect the integrity of the structure” and of course, “rights are ultimately defined by the people”.

Starr also stated it is not the court’s place to determine what marriage is or isn’t. He attempted to compare allowing same-sex marriage rights to the right of being able to scalp tickets?? (I’m not sure what that was about!) Starr was asked by the justices whether or not Prop 8 invalidates the marriages that took place prior to the passing of Prop 8, and he said “no, is doesn’t invalidate, it simply just doesn’t recognize” those marriages. But then he turned around and said yes, Prop 8 does make those marriages no longer valid. So I’m not sure what he was really trying to say other than he supports bigotry and inequality.
Two points I would like to make…even though there was nothing new brought up today that was groundbreaking or unequivocally convincing, there were two points not brought up. I feel they are very important points and should not have been overlooked.

One, unless I totally missed it, it wasn’t mentioned that this is a civil rights issue and because of that, such decisions should not be left up to the vote of the people.

Secondly, it was mentioned that this was the will of the people. However, it was not once mentioned that not all people in the state of California voted, therefore, unless you have a 100% turnout, I don’t see how you can truly claim it to be the will of the people. I am well aware that a majority of those who did vote made the decision, but I am stand firm that unless you have 100% voter turnout, then you can not say it was the will of the people. All you can say is that was the will of the majority of those who did vote. Yes this is a grey area, but the fact remains, it’s only the will of a majority (small majority) of those who actually voted, not the people. I feel strongly there is a difference. Some may say I’m just mincing words, but if I’m guilty of that, I’m not guilty of doing anything different than those who are working to prevent all people from having equal rights.

My initial after thought; if Proposition 8 stands, the court system has failed, as civil rights and equality, should never be left up to a vote.

Many on-line sources have already stated it looks as though the court will uphold Proposition 8, but not nullify those marriages that took place prior to it’s passing. At first, I became slightly annoyed by this forecast, as it appeared to be a dark cloud of looming inevitability that same sex marriage will remain illegal in the state of California. Just as quickly as I felt burdened by the negativity however, I began to feel inspired, and the cloud quickly lifted and a beacon of light began to shine. A light that is hope, and will lead us to equality.
Perhaps it shouldn’t be up to the courts to decide our rights. If that happens, there will always be the notion from adversaries that we don’t deserve those rights. It will be said that “activist judges” gave our equality to us. Many will claim the will of a “special interest” group outweighed the will of the people. It will create an even stronger divide, and could potentially set us back even further in those states where even more work is yet to be done.

Let’s take this as a call, a call to work. This is up to each and every one of us. We truly must take this back to the grassroots level. Take time to speak to your neighbors and friends. Speak to you co-workers, your family and your children. Let people know how you feel, and ask for their support. Build bridges and gain allies. Don’t put up walls, and most importantly don’t give up.

Unfortunately, I see a great deal of apathy in the LGBT community. Now is not the time for resting on our laurels. Now is not the time to expect rights and equality will simply be given to us. Now is the time to rise. Now is the time to stand up and challenge those who challenge us. Don’t be afraid to ask how your marriage would affect the lives of others. More importantly, don’t be afraid to ask how another’s marriage would affect your life! Challenge what you know is wrong, and speak up for what you know is right. Let people see the hurt in your eyes. Let people know the hurt and emptiness that comes with discrimination. We don’t have to change the view of all in the world, but we have to change the minds of those who under any other circumstance would love and support us. If we each gain support from just one other person, we have doubled our support and greatly increased our chances of winning our rights. If those who oppose us want a majority vote to decide, then let’s give them what they ask, and leave no room for accusations of preferential treatment. Let’s join together anyway we can. Let’s build community among ourselves so other can see the magnitude of our issues. The time has come for us to build…not walls, but relationships. The time has come for us to overcome!

For all of those in the world, who oppose equality and inclusion for the LGBT community, I would like to leave you with this thought. Whether you know it or not, someone you love is gay. Whether you know them or not, someone gay is fighting for rights from which we will all benefit.


James Hipps is editor for GayAgenda.com

Conn. bill would update law for same-sex couples

USA Today

March 6, 2009

Lawmakers in Conn. will begin a public hearing this morning on proposed legislation that would update state marriage laws to reflect last year's state Supreme Court decision allowing marriage for gay couples. [Link]

Prop 8 argued before Calif. supreme court

Windy City Times

March 5, 2009

"This is the first time an initiative has been used to take away a fundamental right from a suspect class," said Ray Marshall, an California NAACP attorney representing organizations that had filed briefs asking the court to strike down Prop 8. Evan Wolfson said he was "very disappointed" to hear some of the justices suggest the only loss for gay couples was use of the word "marriage." That, he said, "really minimizes the harm that exclusion from marriage and the selective denial of fundamental rights inflicts on gay people." [Link]

Obama administration mum on DOMA challenge

Bay Windows
March 4, 2009
Evan Wolfson, one of the pioneers in the marriage equality movement, called on Obama to make good on his promise to repeal the DOMA, regardless of the administration's legal response to the suit. "I think we’re just going to have to wait and see what the government says, both whether they choose to defend this discriminatory law and, if so, how?" said Wolfson. "Whatever they decide to do in court they can compensate for by moving forward on the Hill as they promised they would do." [Link]

Mayor Sanders announces lesbian daughter's engagement at rally

Wockner
March 4, 2009
Republican San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders announced the engagement of his daughter Lisa and her girlfriend, Meaghan Yaple, at a large rally Wednesday afternoon. [Link]

COLUMN: A Daring Test Case for Marriage

Washington Post
March 4, 2009
Ruth Marcus on GLAD's federal lawsuit in Mass. challenging DOMA: "Its claims are inevitable, obvious -- and potentially revolutionary [...] How courts address the relatively limited question at issue here could shape the broader contours of the law in this area for years -- for better or for worse." [Link]

Coming Home

Honolulu Weekly
March 4, 2009
For Kathleen Sands, the state Senate Judiciary committee hearing on House Bill 444, with its circus atmosphere, crystallizes the issue facing lesbians and gays in Hawaii, and perhaps the rest of us as well. "The political question for gay people is not whether we can be gay in the privacy of our own DNA. It's whether we can lead public lives of dignity as families and as couples."[Link]

Live blogging of the California Supreme Court argument in Strauss v. Horton

NCLR
March 5, 2009
National Center for Lesbian Rights live-blogged the California Supreme Court argument in Strauss v. Horton, the lawsuit challenging the validity of Proposition 8. They updated their blog as the argument progresses, bringing you the highlights and providing commentary on what's happening. [Link]

Leadership Pledges To Move Marriage Bill

Vermont Freedom to Marry
March 5, 2009
Thursday, Vermont Senate leader Peter Shumlin and House Speaker Shap Smith confirmed that they intend to take up, and pass, a bill to ensure equal access to civil marriage. [Link]

Watch the Supreme Court's Oral Arguments on Prop 8

To watch the 3 cases challenging the same-sex marriage amendment, tune into the California Channel.

WATCH NOW: California Supreme Court Oral Arguments 9 am PST/12pm EST

The California Supreme Court hears oral arguments on the validity of Prop 8 today, March 5^th.

Join us on our blog or at Facebook or Twitter to watch online starting at 9am PST/12pm EST.

The court case in California provides an opportunity for everyone who supports equality to talk about the case and why marriage matters.  So join us for the play by play of the day and make sure to have conversations about why the case is important.  Check back tomorrow on our blog, Straight Talk for Marriage, and we’ll post people’s responses to the oral arguments so you can add your responses in or just see examples of what people are saying.

-Freedom to Marry Staff

Proposition 8’s Marriage Ban Goes to California's Supreme Court

US News & World Report

March 4, 2009

"The idea that a simple majority can vote away a fundamental right from one minority, whoever it may be—the more [Brown] looked at it, the more he said to himself, 'This is not the way American constitutionalism is supposed to work,' " says Evan Wolfson. "There are other attorneys general in other cases in other states who've said, 'We're with you; we believe gay people should have the freedom to marry. But my job is to defend the law, and I have to do my job.' People tend to understand that. But I think when he was preparing to defend it, he decided it really was indefensible." [Link]

BLOG: A bright, shining light

The Bilerico Project

March 3, 2009

Blogger Sara Whitman voices support for the legal challenge filed by the Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders to Section 3 of the federal "Defense of Marriage Act." [Link]

NC State Leaders Remain Steady Avoiding Marriage Vote

Associated Press

March 3, 2009

Despite a protest outside the state capitol by anti-gay activists, North Carolina's legislature is unlikely to advance a proposed constitutional amendment banning marriage for gay couples. [Link]

R.I.'s dueling marriage bills elicit personal stories

The Providence Journal
February 27, 2009
In a pained voice in a packed hearing room, Mark S. Goldberg talked about his months-long battle last fall to convince state authorities to release to him the body of his partner of 17 years, Ron Hanby, so he could grant his wish for cremation -- only to have that request rejected too because "we were not legally married or blood relatives." [Link]

Jerry Brown: Proposition 8 Should Be Struck Down

Huffington Post

March 3, 2009

The Attorney General of California writes, "In 1964, 65 percent of California voters approved Proposition 14, which would have legalized racial discrimination in the selling or renting of housing. Both the California and U.S. Supreme Courts struck down this proposition, concluding that it amounted to an unconstitutional denial of rights. As California's Attorney General, I believe the Court should strike down Proposition 8 for remarkably similar reasons -- because it unconstitutionally discriminates against same-sex couples and deprives them of the fundamental right to marry." [Link]

Can Marriage Equality Be Compromised?

Advocate

February 27, 2009

Evan Wolfson writes, "The core of the real opposition we face is not really about marriage -- it's about gay. The same forces against our freedom to marry are also against its products, which include civil union and partnership. We will never give enough ground to appease them, nor should we... Why surrender the moral high ground we are successfully claiming -- with principle, persuasion, patience, and persistence -- for an illusory common ground when, as witness the most recent and vociferous rejection of even civil unions and any such half-measure by the so-called moderate new chair of the Republican Party, Michael Steele, this is a nonstarter." [Link]

Prop 8 For Dummies: What to Expect During Thursday's Court Hearing

Huffington Post

March 3, 2009

The Huffington Post's Emma Rudy-Sachs breaks down the legal arguments on both sides of the California Proposition 8 debate. Oral arguments will be presented to the California Supreme Court beginning Thursday. [Link]

Calif. Legislature Supports Prop. 8 Challenge

San Francisco Chronicle
March 2, 2009
The California Senate and Assembly both passed, along party lines, resolutions Monday endorsing the legal effort to overturn the anti-gay Prop. 8 as an unconstitutional revision of the California Constitution. [Link]

Same-Sex Marriage Myths Busted

Pride Agenda

February 25, 2009

Empire State Pride Agenda created Same-Sex Marriage Myths: Busted, an online resource that debunks nine widely read myths on the subject of marriage equality. According to Josh Meltzer of the Empire State Pride Agenda, this tool was created to preempt any attacks that might come about in New York when the fight for marriage equality heats up. [Link]

Married gays in Mass. sue US for federal benefits

Yahoo News
March 3, 2009
Dozens of couples are suing the federal government, claiming the so-called DOMA discriminates against gay couples and is unconstitutional because it denies them access to federal benefits that other married couples receive, such as pensions and health insurance. The plaintiffs include a U.S. Postal Service employee who wasn't allowed to add her spouse to her health insurance plan; a Social Security Administration retiree who was denied health insurance for his spouse; three widowers who were denied death benefits for funeral expenses; and a man who has been denied a passport bearing his married name. [Link]

OPINION: In praise of civil marriage

YNetNews.com

February 26, 2009

"Introducing civil marriage ceremonies that are equal and open to all is the only way to resolve the discrimination. If Catholic states such as Italy were able to introduce civil marriages, there is no reason this can't happen in the Jewish State: After all, the Catholic Church does not recognize divorce at all (as opposed to Judaism,) and therefore the introduction of civil marriage (and divorce) was a much more dramatic step in a Catholic state than it would be here." [Link]

Deja New: Prop. 8 Challenge Reaches Calif. Court

Associated Press

March 2, 2009

Legal experts and groups such as the NAACP, MALDEF and NOW say that Prop. 8, the constitutionality of which is being challenged before the California Supreme Court this week, could endanger the civil rights of other groups in California. [Link]

Push for marriage equality continues in New York

Star-Gazette

February 27, 2009

Gay-rights advocates say they are increasingly optimistic that same-sex marriages will become law in New York. They just can't say when. "An election of the Democratic majority in the Senate was not a guarantee that marriage equality would be law in 2009," said Alan Van Capelle, executive director of the Empire State Pride Agenda. "It was the starting line, not the finish line." [Link]