CA State Treasurer Phil Angelides tells Arnie how it is--he sums up what most progressives and even some conservatives are feeling in California--and beyond, as the impact of this veto has far reaching ramifications. Here is State Treasurer Phil Angelides' Statement on Governor Schwarzenegger's Veto of the Civil Marriage and Religious Freedom Protection Act:

SACRAMENTO, CA - California State Treasurer Phil Angelides Issued the following statement regarding Governor Schwarzenegger's veto of Assembly Bill 849, the Civil Marriage and Religious Freedom Protection Act:

"By vetoing the Civil Marriage and Religious Freedom Protection Act, Governor Schwarzenegger has come down on the wrong side of history. Governor Schwarzenegger had the chance to enter the pages of history with the likes of Martin Luther King Jr., John F. Kennedy, and Lyndon B. Johnson; instead he has chosen to be listed alongside George Wallace and Strom Thurmond. Just as Wallace, Thurmond, and many other segragationists came to regret their errors, I hope that Governor Schwazenegger will come to change his views."

Posted by Bryan Harding

In a press release from Equality California:

EQUALITY CALIFORNIA TO GOVERNOR SCHWARZENEGGER: 'WE'LL BE BACK!'

SACRAMENTO, CA - Today, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed Equality California-sponsored Assembly Bill 849, the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act, by Assemblyman Mark Leno (D-San Francisco), bringing this bill's dramatic progress in recent weeks to a halt.

"The Governor has simply delayed - not ended - the inevitability of marriage equality in California," said Equality California Executive Director Geoffrey Kors.

"When called upon to take a position on the civil rights issue of the day, Governor Schwarzenegger decided to block the doorway to equality," Kors continued. "As a result of his veto, hundreds of thousands of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Californians and their families will continue to live without equal protection of the law. However, the veto cannot take away the incredible progress that was achieved when the majority of California's elected Legislature passed this legislation. History has shown time and time again that the path to equality, justice and fairness can be blocked, but ultimately, the door will be opened."

In a pair of historic civil rights votes in early September, the California Legislature earned the distinction of becoming the first legislative body in the nation to vote to pass equal marriage rights legislation for same-sex couples. Governor Schwarzenegger has now earned the distinction of being the first and only Governor in the history of our nation to veto civil rights legislation that would have ended discrimination against lesbian and gay couples in access to government-issued marriage licenses. The legislation was supported by more than 200 religious, labor and civil rights organizations. The California State Conference of the NAACP, United Farm Workers of America (UFW), Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and Chinese for Affirmative Action (CAA) are among the major civil rights organizations in California that supported the legislation.

This is the second gay rights bill vetoed by the Governor this month. In early September, the Governor vetoed legislation that would have added sexual orientation and gender to the many other categories included in the existing anti-bias voluntary pledge in the California Fair Political Practices Act. This was the first veto of an Equality California-sponsored LGBT-rights bill since he was elected.

"In addition to being extremely disappointed with the Governor's decision to veto two Equality California-sponsored LGBT civil rights bills this year, we are troubled by the Governor's continued failure to make an unequivocal statement opposing the various constitutional initiatives proposed for the June 2006 election," said Kors. "These proposed initiatives would not only prohibit the courts or Legislature from ending discrimination in the marriage laws, but would also eliminate existing legal protections currently provided by law to domestic partners, including rights enacted with the Governor's signature last year."

The Governor did sign four remaining EQCA-sponsored bills. Assembly Bill (AB) 1400, the Civil Rights Act of 2005 (Laird, D-Santa Cruz), builds upon the Unruh Civil Rights Act and related provisions to clarify and reinforce that all businesses that provide services, goods or accommodations to the public cannot discriminate based on sexual orientation, gender identity or marital status; Senate Bill (SB) 973 (Kuehl, D-Santa Monica), allows domestic partners of public employees who retired prior to January 1, 2005, to receive death benefits if the retiree dies before their partner; SB 565 (Migden, D-San Francisco), ensures legally recognized domestic partners are treated the same as spouses under California's property tax laws; and AB 1586 (Koretz, D-West Hollywood), adds gender and gender identity to existing anti-discrimination provisions in California laws regulating insurance companies and health care service plans.

"While we are certainly grateful he signed our remaining legislation today, denying us marriage equality prevents us from truly enjoying equal rights and protections guaranteed to everyone else," said Kors.

I am holding off on commentary for now.


Bryan Harding

David Dreier--one of the three Republicans who moved up in the power chain in the fall out following DeLay's indictment, will likely face greater scrutiny from GOP allies for his closeted sexuality. That's right--he gay folks. David Dreir: The Queer. A self-loathing hypocrite as well. These are the gay republicans that really bother me. The rest bother me, just not the this extent.

David Dreier opposed the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), which would have banned discrimination against gay people in hiring; voted for the gay-bashing Defense of Marriage Act; voted for banning adoption by gay and lesbian couples in the District of Columbia (3,000 miles away from Dreier's district); voted to allow federally funded charities to discriminate against gays in employment, even where local laws prohibit such bias; and voted against the Hate Crimes Prevention Act.

Democrat Cynthia Matthews said, "If David Dreier is gay, it is absolutely shameful to me that he would amass a 24-year voting record against his own community". I am saddened that David Dreier has voted against funding housing for people with AIDS and that he has denied AIDS medications to impoverished Americans--those who are most in need of these life-saving drugs."

Someone explain to me what the f*ck goes through these people's heads.

Read Full Article: Coming Out Strong

LeLo also has this: Closeted gay Republican to replace DeLay

Also: Dreier a Different Kind of Republican

Posted by Bryan Harding

Obviously we (gays and lesbians) are not the only people that Governor Schwarzenegger is f*cking over. This is quite entertaining... and true.

The California Nurses Association today posted an eBay sales page offering Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger for sale, presenting regular people the chance to compete with wealthy individuals and big corporations to own the world's best known celebrity politician.

During the time of the auction, Schwarzenegger generated great interest from buyers. By mid-afternoon, the top bid reached $2 million placing this high roller in the ballpark with such well-heeled donors as Ameriquest, the controversial mortgage firm, Newscorp (Fox), and San Diego Chargers owner Alex Spanos.

The auction was pulled by eBay (a major Schwarzenegger donor) after several hours, but the page is still viewable at: http://ga1.org/stop_arnold/auction1.html

Noting the initial bids were in a smaller range, CNA Executive Director Rose Ann DeMoro noted, "we're pleased to make Arnold available to the general public. Why should only millionaires and the corporate executives who have filled his pockets and benefited from his policies have a chance to buy off this governor?" But as the day progressed, she noted "it appears some of his friends may be getting in on the action.

The auction presented buyers with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bid on a "Genuine Corrupt California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Not an Imitation!" It noted that to date Schwarzenegger has provided corporate bidders "unfettered access." In exchange they have had the opportunity to, just in the health care arena, "strip hospitals of pesky patient-care regulations, shortchange caregivers, and bleed the public safety net to their own ends."

Among the top spenders are the pharmaceutical giants which are bankrolling the initiative campaign for Prop. 78, the "voluntary" limits on drug charges that would stifle real drug pricing reform. The initiative is based on a proposal first made by Schwarzenegger earlier this year, then placed on the ballot by the big drug companies. Schwarzenegger now counts it as part of his deceptive so-called reform package in the November 8 special election.

Noting their role, the auction reads: "Arnold is a must-have for any corporation wanting to take advantage of working Californians" with a "100% corruption guarantee... This business opportunity doesn't come cheap." The auction notes that companies such as Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, and Bristol Meyers Squibb have already handed over millions of dollars.

Posted by Bryan Harding

Governor Schwarzeneggers office stated that he intends to veto AB 849, The Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act. By doing so it is unlikely that he would stand to gain any votes. After all he is a republican governor elected by moderate liberals. In a state faced with financial difficulties he would veto a bill that UCLA contends would likely save the state 25 million dollars (this is among the lowest estimates). The governors office has even stated that personally he supports same-sex marriage. So, is he simply demonstrating the will of the people? Nope.

The Public Policy Institute of California finds the governors approval rating is declining sharply. Only 34% of Californians approve of the governors job performance. I know I dont. Moreover, this same institute finds that only 46% of Californians actually oppose same-sex marriage. This statistic should not surprise anyone as the legislature, acting as the voice of the people, did enroll AB 849. Here is the link for those of you having a hard time believing that there are people who dont support the homophobic agenda: Click here to check it out. Conservatives have long charged that the legislature is best suited to handle this matter and that the courts should not legislate from the bench. When will conservatives learn to keep their word? If you want us to fight this battle in the courts then that is where we will win; if you want us to win that same battle in the legislature then dont bitch when we do. Why then does Governor Schwarzenegger think that this is a matter for the courts to decide? Maybe it's Proposition 22.

Proposition 22 was introduced to the voters in 2000 and has two serious flaws: 1) it was an initiative to add only marriage between a man and a women is valid or recognized in California to section 308 of the family code. Section 308 relates to the validity of marriages performed in other states; it is section 301 that defines who may and may not marry within California. The authors could have chosen to amend section 301 rather than 308. 2) Regardless of the applicability of Proposition 22, it has already been ruled as an unconstitutional initiative by the California Superior Court.

There is no reason why the governor should not protect all Californians, including myself, and sign this bill into law. But then again he doesnt even have to do that. He could simply allow the law to go into effect without his signature. Even if the governor does have moral issues with the bill becoming law, which he clearly doesnt, I would suggest that he just bite the bullet. The constitution and common sense for that matter apply equally to all.

However, there still may be hope. The governor announced his intention to veto AB 849 almost immediately after its passage in the Assembly. But the governor has now had the bill for over 7 days and has yet to veto it. Maybe he is still polling public support: 916-445-2841.

Written by Davin Cole

Literally. The cost.

Mark Leno (D - San Francisco) wrote the following about how allowing gay men and lesbians to legally marry in California would pour billions into the state's economy. So why aren't we being treated equally?

This past year I authored the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act sponsored by Equality California. The bill would change the definition of marriage from a civil contract between a man and a woman to a civil contract between two persons. We also included a section stating that any minister, priest, rabbi, or any religious institution that does not wish to recognize or solemnize such marriages would not be required to do so.

We found inspiration from a quotation from the 1948 California supreme court decision ending the ban on interracial marriage, preceding the 1967 Earl Warren U.S. Supreme Court decision. At that time our justices stated that "marriage is more than a civil contract to be regulated by state law. It is a fundamental right of all citizens."

The bill, which is the very first of its kind in this country to be passed by both houses of a state legislature, is currently sitting on Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's desk. With his signature, California stands to benefit by millions of dollars each year, simply by doing what is right: strengthening the emotional and financial bonds between loving and committed same-sex couples, many of whom have been together for decades. If the bill were signed into law, California would not only end a second class of citizenship for same-sex couples, it would provide equal respect, dignity, and validation for all of its families and children.

Forbes magazine recently calculated that 546,000 gay and lesbian couples nationwide would get married if they were legally allowed to do so. Of those, 464,000 couples would have a traditional wedding ceremony with a reception. Forbes then broke down the costs associated with such a wedding and found that these marriages would generate $16.8 billion in revenue for businesses associated with the wedding industry. Of that figure, we estimate that California would reap $3 billion. The number of new jobs created would be in the thousands.

A study co-authored by the Williams Project, a think tank at UCLA School of Law, and the Institute for Gay and Lesbian Strategic Studies at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, found that the California state budget would see a net gain of about $25.6 million annually if marriage equality were legalized. This figure was calculated by adding the state's increase in sales tax revenue and its savings from reduced enrollment in means-tested public benefit programs (since many recipients who qualify for such programs as individuals would no longer qualify when being assessed by their household income).

In addition, other studies confirm what we already know: Allowing same-sex couples to access one another's health care plans, make joint medical decisions, inherit one another's property, file joint tax returns, and provide for their children without fear of them falling into foster care should one partner pass away is not only humane but fiscally smart. Equality, fairness, and civil rights are good for business.

Beyond the studies, it is fiscally prudent for the government to support stable and committed relationships. As couples age, they rely on one another for support, leaving the government with less of a burden when they need care. It is a curiosity that the conservative values of commitment, personal responsibility, monogamy, love, and family that our bill represents were opposed by every Republican member of the state legislature. We can only hope that our Republican governor, who claims to be a champion of job creation, economic stimulus, and growth as well as full and equal legal protections for same-sex couples, will be as thoughtful and visionary as the parliaments and prime ministers of Canada and Spain.

When our government takes itself out of the most intimate and personal decision-making process in which any person engages-the choosing of a lifetime partner-everyone wins. I don't believe we can put a price tag on equality, but we can certainly reap its benefits.

Something to ponder.

Ok so--really quick. This quote made me laugh pretty loud. Karen Minnis says to the Oregonian, "In order to generate excitement, they have to demonize people". That's quite funny Mrs. Minnis, I think that you have done a fine job of this all on your own. Thwarting democracy, getting rid of a House rule that had been in place for 147 years simply to avoid a committee pull on legislation that demanded a vote from the Oregon House, preserving discrimination in the State of Oregon--oh, and not to mention denying hundreds of rights to tens of thousands of Oregon families**. These are all such wonderful things aren't they? So, if by 'demonizing' you mean that people are calling you out on the absolutely atrocious abuse of power, then yes Mrs. Minnis, we are demonizing you for the demon that you are.

In closing, Speaker Minnis says, "If voters want to do something different, that's their prerogative."

Speaker Minnis also said she is disturbed by the personal nature of the campaign, which has included doctored Internet pictures of her wearing a crown, a "Stick It to Minnis" fundraiser and a "Minus Minnis" campaign slogan.

Wow. To state the obvious Mrs. Minnis--this is politics, get used to it.

**This is just the short list.

Posted by Bryan Harding

We think so.

This morning, Basic Rights Oregon headed to court to ask Oregon courts to find Measure 36, the constitutional ban on same-sex marriage approved by Oregon voters on November 2, 2004, unconstitutional. Today attorneys presented oral arguments in Marion County Circuit Court. This is the first hearing in litigation which is expected to last at least two years and be decided ultimately at the Oregon Supreme Court.

Kelly Clark, representing the 'Defense of Marriage' Coalition, whom intervened in the case, Charles Fletcher, Oregon's Assistant Attorney General, and Attorney Mark Johnson of Johnson Renshaw & Lechman-Su PC, representing the plaintiffs, all presented their oral arguments.

The issue before the court is if the measure itself, is constitutional. The judge could find it unconstitutional for a variety of reasons. Those being:

The first claim asserts that Measure 36 revises, rather than amends, the Oregon Constitution by violating the fundamental principles of liberty and justice on which the Constitution is based, by changing the allocation of power among the branches of government because it restricts the role of the courts in interpreting the constitution and by imposing a policy on local governments.

Secondly, while Measure 36 contains only one sentence, the addition of this provision to the Oregon Constitution creates multiple changes that should have been proposed as separate amendments. Because these multiple amendments and fundamental changes were all included under the umbrella of Measure 36, the measure violates constitutional provisions which require that voters must approve separate amendments with separate votes.

But more fundamentally, the 'Defense of Marriage' Coalition is arguing that there was never a right to marriage before Measure 36 and there is no right after the measure passed. Therefore, Measure 36 really made no substantive change to the Constitution. In his view, it only clarified existing marriage statute.

He went on stating that unless a court says that a right is a right - then it is no right at all. So unless a judge decides if gay and lesbians have the right to marry--then the court couldn't decide whether or not Measure 36 was illegal.

Basic Rights Oregon cannot speculate on the outcome of the Martinez v. State of Oregon case, though it is expected that no matter who wins this case, it will be appealed all the way to the Oregon Supreme Court. This is where gays and lesbians have the best opportunity for a victory in the fight for equality.

Kelly Clark suggested that what Basic Rights Oregon was arguing--was that people are not wise and fair enough to rule themselves. Clark stated that it was not the role of the court to decide. His thinking is that Basic Rights Oregon is only bringing this because they are offended by Measure 36 and that anytime you pass a ballot measure you will offend someone. So basically if the court were to rule in BRO's favor--then every ballot measure would be unconstitutional.

In an interview with Gay Rights Watch, Rebekah Kassell, Communications Director of BRO stated, "Yes, we are offended by ballot measures that try to remove basic rights from Oregon citizens. The fact is that there is a lot more substance to this case than just being offended by Measure 36."

Kassell added, "If the constitution can be amended to take away basic rights that are guaranteed by the constitution, then what is the point of the constitution and who is the next target? Not only is this amendment morally wrong, but it is also procedurally incorrect as it makes a sweeping change to the constitution that based on Oregon law, cannot be approved by a simple majority vote on a voter initiative. Ultimately, that is the issue that we expect the court to decide on."

The judge is expected to make a ruling by November 1, 2005. Now just imagine this... if Basic Rights Oregon was to win this case, it would have been one day short of the passage of Measure 36. That would be pretty symbolic. Gay Rights Watch will continue to follow this case and update readers as soon as news happens.

Written by Bryan Harding

We've just started BlogAds on our site and we wanted to offer free ad space on Gay Rights Watch for 2 weeks. So if you have a progressive blog, are a progressive cause etc--shoot us an email using the contact link on the top of the right-hand side column and let us know about your blog/cause/store etc. We're going to keep it limited to 2 ads for now.

Posted by The Boys of GRW

Sunday wasn't the highlight of my weekend. An Italian couple--in a rental car--backed into me. HARD. It wasn't very pretty--and I was less than happy. This is my off topic post for the weekend. See picture below. Now everything will be fine, it will be fixed, though it's sad to see my baby in pain :)

Sorry about the picture quality and lighting--I took it with my cell phone camera.

Posted by Bryan Harding

You simply call the number below and follow the instructions. It is automated so you don't talk to anyone, and it is fast. You may get a busy signal, but just keep hitting redial. You will get through.

Call the Governor at (916) 445-2841
Press "2" to comment on legislation
Press "1" to comment on AB 849
Press "1" to support

Call! Call! Call! It doesn't matter where you live--the fight for full equality is all our fight.

California's Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is showing a complete and utter disregard for the members of his community--specifically, the gay and lesbian community.

Today, the Governor was set to meet with directors of California GLBT groups, including Equality California, the largest statewide GLBT adovcacy group. Schwarzenegger didn't show up to the meeting as planned, but instead had them meet with his staff. Quite disrespectful to cancel a meeting for an issue that is a major matter that will have a huge direct effect on the lives of hundreds of thousands of gay and lesbian families.

Last year Equality California rated him a 100--last year he signed every GLBT bill that came to his desk. This year--well, he has a zero.

Gay and lesbian Californian's are outraged. He invited them for this meeting--and just a few days after announcing that he would veto the bill (AB 849), these top state leaders wanted to discuss the ramifications of his actions with the most effected, the constituents that are most effected. Instead he decided to prep for interviews with various local media outlets today. I guess that preparing for interviews is more important than attending a meeting that you had scheduled about a decision you are making to further promote and fortify discrimination in the great state of California.

Gay rights groups are putting a ton of pressure on the Gov. still--though are not encouraged that he will change his mind on this promise to veto. They are hoping that he will at least come out against two anti-marriage constitutional amendments that will be coming to voters next year. One similar to Measure 36 here in Oregon that would define marriage as a union between a man and a woman, and the other much more sweeping--as it would also take away domestic partnerships that are already in place in California, as well as define marriage as solely between one man and one woman.

Governor Schwarzenegger, let me remind you of a statement you recently made--in fact, in the same press release from your office regarding your promise to veto the bill:

"...gay couples are entitled to full protection under the law and should not be discriminated against based upon their relationship..."

For past coverage by Gay Rights Watch re: California's AB 849:
Governor Ahhhhnold, We're Calling Bullshit.
Governor Schwarzenegger: My Parents Letter to You
Schwarzenegger's Office has Requested Meeting with Equality California
Schwarzenegger: Unaware Who Elects California Legislature
EQCA: A Message to the Governor

Or click here for a complete list via Google Blog Search.

Written by Bryan Harding

Governor Schwarzenegger: Be a Hero. A new ad coming out from Equality California asks just that of their Governor. Click on the image below to watch the commercial. They need financial help to air it as much as possible - Here is a link to donate to the Equality California ad campaign. We have less than 48 hours left. Do what you can even if you don't live in California. This is about all of us.

It's about time. Ever since it was hurled into the media by the story of 16-year-old Zach, 'Love In Action' has been ordered by The Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities to close what it calls two unlicensed personal care facilities run by a Christian group that claims to counsel gays to give up homosexuality.

Tennessee inspected two facilities in Memphis on August 19th and determined Love In Action International Inc. was providing housing, meals and personal care for mentally ill patients without a license, at least this is a what subsequent letter sent to the organization from the Department of Mental Health.

"The issue is these being supportive care facilities," state spokeswoman Lola Potter said Monday. "Supportive care must be licensed."

The State of Tennessee gave 'Love in Action' until September 23rd to close--or apply for a actual license.

What scares me about this besides the fact that they are completely fucking these peoples' minds? Turns out that they were 'dispensing' medication to people in their care. Under state regulations, facilities that dispense medication to patients require a license--otherwise it's completely unregulated. Ummmm - problem?

If 'Love in Action' continues to operate this mind-f**cking camp past the September 23rd deadline, it will face criminal penalties that include fines of up to $500 and six months in jail for each day the facilities are determined to be in violation of state laws.

This is not the first time 'Love in Action' has been under scrutiny by the State of Tennessee. They were just recently investigated for claims of child abuse in the case of 16-year-old Zach (mentioned above) from Bartlett, TN.

Post by Bryan Harding

Interesting facts and figures that surely will change very soon. Most recent anti-gay-marriage amendment approved by both the legislature and voters: Kansas, in April

• The 17 other states where bans exist: Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Utah
  
  
• Amendments approved and scheduled for a popular vote: Texas (in November); Alabama, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee (all in 2006)
  
  
• Amendments now pending in legislatures: Delaware, Illinois, New Jersey, North Carolina, Wisconsin
  
  
• Amendments requiring a second legislative vote: Virginia (in 2006), Indiana (in 2007)
  
  
• Amendments that have failed in legislatures this year: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Washington
  
  
• Statutes permitting gay marriages passed by a legislature: California
  
  
• Statutes permitting gay marriages pending in a legislature: New York
  
  
• Statutes permitting gay marriages that failed in legislatures: Maine, Rhode Island
  
  
• Statutes banning gay marriages pending in legislatures: New Jersey, New York
  
  
• Statutes banning gay marriages that failed in legislatures: Maryland, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Wyoming
  
  
• Lawsuits asking for the right to marry: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, California, Washington, Maryland
  
  
• Lawsuits against some form of anti-gay amendment: Nebraska, Georgia, Ohio, Oregon
  
  
• States considering opening marriage laws: New Hampshire, through its Marriage Commission
  
  
• States where anti-gay activists are trying to force a referendum: California, Massachusetts, Colorado, Arizona
  

Data via The Village Voice.

Posted by Bryan Harding

This last Saturday evening I had dinner with Evan Wolfson of Freedom to Marry. Now, when I decided to go, I knew who he was and a little about what he had done in his life. I knew that Evan played a monumental role in the fight for marriage equality nationwide. I also knew that he was co-counsel in the historic Hawaii marriage case, and participated in numerous gay rights cases--what I didn't know until afterwards was that before founding Freedom to Marry, Evan served as marriage project director for Lambda Legal Defense & Education Fund; Previously served as Associate Counsel to Lawrence Walsh in the Iran/Contra investigation, and as an Assistant District Attorney in Brooklyn, New York. Between Yale College and Harvard Law School, Evan spent two years with the Peace Corps in West Africa; Citing his national leadership on marriage equality and his appearance before the U.S. Supreme Court in Boy Scouts of America v. James Dale, the National Law Journal in 2000 named Evan one of "the 100 most influential lawyers in America."

In 2004, Evan was named one of the "Time 100," Time magazine's list of "the 100 most influential people in the world." Now this is something I surely didn't know when I met with him. So maybe I should have done more extensive research... but still.

Evan had some very intriguing and insightful thoughts on where the movement stands right now. Particularly about here in Oregon. He was incredibly proud of how far we have taken the movement in the past 2 years. Through wins and losses--we are on the right track to full marriage equality.

So, most of us are fully aware of the ups and downs here in Oregon. Measure 36, a major loss in court -- and a major win in the Oregon Senate, despite Karen Minnis blocking the vote in the Oregon House.

Evan feels as though Oregon will be in the first round of states that will achieve full marriage equality--that was welcomed news. We've got to further engage the middle, people of faith and even our own progressive allies that aren't involved in the quest for full equality.

Evan also made a statement about California's AB 849. His thinking is that even if the Governor does end up vetoing the bill, it is still a huge win. Evan said, "This vote means we've entered a new era. It doesn't mean we'll win overnight, but it means we've turned the tide."

I encourage all of you to read his new book, Why Marriage Matters: America, Equality, and Gay People's Right to Marry.

Post by Bryan Harding

In 2005, it's not as much 'versus' compared to previous years. In a new report by The Human Rights Campaign, called The Corporate Equality Index finds that a record 101 Fortune 500 companies scored 100's for 2005.

More major U.S. corporations scored 100 percent on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation Corporate Equality Index in 2005 than in any previous year. A total of 101 companies received the highest rating this year--an 80 percent increase from one year ago, when 56 companies received a perfect score. That number is nearly eight times the number of companies that scored 100 percent when the HRC Foundation launched the CEI three years ago.

Scoring very poorly...
Radio Shack scores a 29% and Circuit City holds a 43% score. So shop at Best Buy. No surprise here that ExxonMobil also scored a very low 14%.

To view the HRC Corporate Equality Index Report click here.

Hat tip to Timbre of a TimeFree Mind for this.

Posted by Bryan Harding

Rumors started by the Christian extremists in Texas are fanning flames in hot battle over gay marriage amendment. Amendment foes are disputing prospect of busing in voters from other states.

The Austin-American Statesman is reporting that the crazy Christian extremists that claim to be 'pro-family', but at the same time feel that a constitutional amendment to ban families from having legal protections is the right thing to do are claiming foul play.

The story:
Advocates for a proposed constitutional ban on gay marriage say they fear that foes plan to illegally bus in residents of other states to vote against the proposal.

"That (prospect) is the most ridiculous thing on the planet," said Glen Maxey, who directs No Nonsense in Texas, an Austin-based coalition working against Texas becoming the 17th state to put a same-sex marriage ban into its constitution.

Those who talk of busing in voters are "smoking crack," Maxey said, calling such recruitment immoral and illegal.

Amendment supporters have come up with no proof. Yet simply floating such a specter suggests that campaigns on Proposition 2 - already pitting social conservatives against Texans who back gay rights - could be subject to spells of high anxiety before the Nov. 8 election. In tussling otherwise fueled by Internet pleas, church sermons and voter-by-voter outreach, such vitriol could set a hard-edged tone for the next seven weeks.

Kelly Shackelford, president of the conservative Plano-based Free Market Foundation, said he's aired his concern to Secretary of State Roger Williams, the state's chief elections officer.

"If the election is small turnout, this could have a big impact," Shackelford said.

Williams said through a spokesman that the possibility of out-of-state residents registering "has been brought to our office's attention," and officials plan to watch for spikes in registration. The registration deadline is Oct. 11.

It "is a situation we can monitor and handle," spokesman Scott Haywood said.

Shackelford and state Rep. Warren Chisum, R-Pampa, who wrote the proposal last spring, each said they have heard talk that anti-amendment forces intend to bus in voters.

The allegation also surfaced last week in a one-page handout that Maxey said was passed out in downtown Austin and near the University of Texas. There is no indication of who printed or distributed it.

Chisum, who mentioned his concern to the 35-member Austin Area Pastor Council last month, said last week: "Maxey's going to do that; he's going to reach out to them and explain to them what they can do. All they have to do is get down here and register to vote. And I suspect they're going to furnish addresses for them. That wouldn't be hard to do. . . . (You could) stuff ballot boxes with people who are not legitimate Texans."

John Colyandro, an Austin consultant to the Texas Marriage Alliance, which urges approval of Proposition 2, called the concern "preposterous."

"I can't imagine that taking place at all," he said.

Maxey, a former Democratic House member from Austin, suggested the charge reflects vitriol headed his way.

"I know they're going to come after us with a fine-tooth comb and try to find whatever. They're going to find nothing on this campaign," he said.

Proponents mobilize
The busing allegation sparked combustion in a campaign otherwise premised, in all camps, on identifying like-minded voters and getting them to vote without costly radio and TV advertising or much leafleting by mail.

"This is not a money issue," said conservative consultant Allen Blakemore of Houston. "You don't have big business weighing in on this. So there's not a lot of money in either side. Therefore, there are very grass-roots-oriented campaigns."

Amendment supporters say sealing the ban in the constitution, in addition to a 2003 law forbidding same-sex marriage, will prevent judges from imitating others in Massachusetts and California who have recognized same-sex marriage. Opponents say the ban would unnecessarily reinforce the 2003 law and possibly restrict practices including common-law marriage - a claim proponents dispute.

Proponents expect resounding approval of the measure, many wondering only what their margin of victory will be. Opponents are angling for a landmark upset.

Amendment supporters have launched a Web-based effort to shore up conservative groups and churches.

The marriage alliance, headed by three Republican legislators, touts video endorsements from GOP elected officials including Gov. Rick Perry. Shackelford launched the Texans FOR Marriage Political Action Committee last month. They also are counting on the Texas Restoration Project, a group supported by the governor seeking up to 300,000 voter registrations through churches focused on conservative values.

Opponents also act
Anti-amendment forces have gathered under the umbrella of No Nonsense in November, which is rooted in gay, social liberal and civil rights communities. Its Web site offers scripts for walking neighborhoods, giving speeches and advocating rejection of the amendment by telephone or in visits to bars, coffeehouses and outdoor events, where younger people congregate.

Maxey suggested both sides must weigh historically light turnout in constitutional elections; the state hopes for a turnout of more than 12 percent this year.

Both sides could lean on e-mail communication. Cathie Adams, president of the Texas Eagle Forum, said she encourages pro-amendment activism in frequent messages sent to about 2,000 correspondents; she hopes each of them contacts another 100 people.

Kyleen Wright, president of the Texans for Life Coalition, said she encouraged her board to join the pro-amendment campaign partly because she's mother to four sons, ages 10 to 15. Wright said she fears any encouragement of gay marriage could lead to other changes such as legalized polygamy. (Marriage is still between two people--how is this leading to legalized polygamy? I hope one of her sons comes out to her. Then we'll see how she feels. Actually, I wouldn't wish that upon her sons.)

Outside a debate on the amendment at Austin Community College's Rio Grande campus last week, No Nonsense activists reported collecting voter registration applications from 25 individuals.

"It's about my life and who I get to marry," said Jessie Beal, president of the 20-member ACC Gay Straight Alliance. "It's about me believing in my government and my constitution. I should be protected by that."

Posted by Bryan Harding

In a new study done by Media Post, they found that 50 percent of bloggers blog as a form of self-therapy. Go figure. In fact, according to a survey conducted by AOL and Digital Marketing Services, a research firm specializing in Web-based surveys, therapy is a big motivator for bloggers, more so than politics, news, and/or gossip.

The survey finds that one third of bloggers say they write frequently about self-help and self-esteem topics. Respondents are six times more likely to keep a blog than to seek professional counseling. Mmmm. We wonder if that's wise. Guess it all depends on your outlook.

The survey questioned 600 people who write one or more blogs. Sixteen percent say they do so because they're interested in news or journalism, 12 percent blog to stay ahead or break the latest news and gossip, and just 8 percent blog to break political news.

"What we've noticed is that bloggers aren't necessarily wannabe journalists, or people out to break news or get noticed by the public. They're writing for themselves, and their blogs serve as a recreational and therapeutic outlet for their thoughts," said Bill Schreiner, vice president, AOL Community, in a statement. "In a way, blogs serve as oral history. When it comes to sharing blogs and reading other people's blogs, we like to connect with people, learn about their lives, and find common ground."

Other survey findings are in step with the self-therapy theme. For example, 54 percent of those polled say they like to share their thoughts and feelings with others. And in times of high anxiety, nearly one out of three respondents (31 percent) turn to either writing in their blog or reading the blogs of other people who are experiencing similar issues; that's six times as many as those who prefer to seek help and counseling from a professional (5 percent).

Other survey findings:

- Bloggers can be a relaxed bunch. Sixty percent consider themselves to have a "laid-back" blogging personality. A small number (3.8 percent) describe themselves as blogging perfectionists, obsessive and compulsive.

- Bloggers are generally not self-conscious. A significant percentage (47 percent) say they feel no pressure at all when they know they have an audience reading their blog -- although 54 percent admit it may take them a little longer to write an entry when others may read it. Still, only 12 percent worry about making their blogs witty. And only 13 percent feel disappointed if other people's blogs attract more readers or responses.

- Yet bloggers can be sensitive, too. More than one in five (23 percent) worry about offending people in their blogs. And more than three out of five (65 percent) of them admit to feeling disappointed when people post negative or abusive comments to their blogs.

- Bloggers have a sense of etiquette. Forty percent say it is important to address messages people have posted in their blog in a timely manner. And sixty-one percent feel that posting a comment on another person's blog is the "right thing to do."

via Tobi Elkin, MediaPost.

Posted by Bryan Harding

The State of Tennessee calls 'Love In Action' an illegal mental health program. Imagine that -- it's about time. Gay Rights Watch has covered 'Love In Action' quite a bit in the past few months.

Zach: Another 6 weeks of psychological torture and pure hell

The Washington Blade reports:

Exodus International's flagship 'ex-gay' residential treatment facility, Love in Action, is facing possible closure by the state of Tennessee for unlawfully treating mentally ill people.

Founded in 1973, Memphis-based Love in Action claims that it is the oldest and largest group to focus on the "prevention or treatment" of same-sex attraction.

The organization made national and international news earlier this year after a Tennessee teen wrote on his blog that his parents were sending him to the program in an effort to change his sexual orientation, and appealed for help.

Amidst the outpouring of concern for the teen, reports surfaced that Love in Action clients had been traumatized by their treatment at the program. Questions arose about whether the facility was operating within the law.

On Sept 12, the state of Tennessee announced that its Department of Mental Health & Developmental Disabilities had determined that Love in Action is operating two "unlicensed mental health supportive living facilities."

"The [state] went in and visited and found that they were providing room, board and personal care for mentally ill people," said Rachel Lassiter, deputy press secretary for Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen (D). "The clients were determined to be mentally ill because some of them had been treated by psychiatrists and were on medication."

It appears that Love in Action has taken on responsibility for the care of these people, Lassiter said, and unlawful operation of a personal support service is a class B misdemeanor in Tennessee.

Lassiter said the department sent a certified letter to Love in Action executive director John Smid, advising him that he must stop operating the homes or apply for a license within seven days. Smid did not respond to the letter, and a second letter was issued informing him that if he does not stop operating the homes or apply for a license by Sept. 15, the department would recommend that a cease and desist order be issued.

If the order is issued, state authorities will demand that Love in Action immediately stop operation of its residential facilities and will offer assistance in relocating the residents.

'Different set of rules'?
Gerard Wellman, business administrator for Love in Action, and a former Love in Action client, said on Sept. 13 that the organization has been in contact with the state but would not comment on whether it planned to attempt to become licensed as a mental health supportive living facility.

"As a church, we operate under a different set of rules," Wellman said. "But all options are on the table."

Wellman said that the clients were free to decide whether to stay or leave the program, but he did not know whether clients were aware of the state's determination that the group is operating illegally.

Applying for an "Initial License" as a mental health facility in Tennessee is a comparatively simple process requiring only a basic safety review including criminal background checks, and fire and environmental safety inspections, according to officials.

Morgan Fox, who has been filming a documentary on Love in Action and following the situation closely, said he doubts the organization will seek licensing.

"They may want to play the victim," Fox said. "If they get into the position of being shut down, they can get Exodus and the Christian right behind them to defend what they do."

Exodus International did not return calls.

Wayne Besen, author of "Anything But Straight: Unmasking the Scandals & Lies Behind the Ex-Gay Myth," celebrated news of Tennessee's action against Love in Action.

"Tennessee is rightfully and responsibly protecting its citizens from unscrupulous and unlicensed practitioners posing as genuine mental health professionals," Besen said.

Besen called on other states to determine whether other ex-gay groups meet basic mental health guidelines.

"Prayer is not a replacement for professionalism," Besen said. "And that is unfortunately what is happening with these faith-based ministries."

"I feel validated by [this]," said Peterson Toscano, a former Love in Action client. "I enrolled in that program and put myself through it. .... We were so trusting in the authority that they had. They used clinically couched language to make it seem legitimate and spiritual language to make it seem powerful, ... to make people endure it."

Toscano, who was a client at Love in Action between July 1996 and October of 1998, said that Love in Action was considered the "Cadillac of ex-gay ministries" and intentionally represented its work as therapeutic and scientifically based.

Toscano said that while he was a client, Love in Action staff dispensed psychotropic drugs to clients and administered psychiatric tests to clients, many of whom were under treatment for depression.

Many religious groups opposed the idea of sending a person into mental health treatment because he or she is gay or lesbian.

"The idea that homosexuality is a mental illness is outdated," said Bean Murray, an Episcopal deacon and staff person for the Episcopal Mental Illness Network. The Episcopal Mental Illness Network gives out information on mental illness and refers people to services. Murray said she believes that it is appropriate that religious service providers be licensed in the same way as secular providers.

A separate investigation by the Department of Health this summer determined that Love in Action is not required to be licensed as a drug and alcohol treatment facility because it is a faith-based organization.

Though Love in Action has advertised help with drug issues and that one of their staff members is a licensed drug and alcohol addiction counselor, the Health Department found that the man was in fact providing a "ministry based on his personal experience," not addiction treatment.

Posted Bryan Harding

Who knew?! Looks like somehow our blog got featured on AOL's Gay and Lesbian section. Pretty sweet.



Click Here for a larger view.

Posted by Bryan Harding

In an email from Equality California...

Equality California has now secured a second meeting with the Governor's Chief of Staff and senior administration officials for next Wednesday, two days before the marriage equality bill even reaches the Governor. Your voices are being heard.

Your emails, calls and actions are having an impact. Please keep the pressure going, and continue to educate the Governor about our lives!

Please click here to get involved!

I'm not too sure what will come of this... sounds like a good thing though.

Posted by Bryan Harding

I am a Californian -- born and raised. I was raised in a loving home, by two truly amazing parents. My mother works in the legal/engineering industry, my father has been a high-power DC lobbyist/attorney for as long as I can remember. This morning, my mother sent me this letter that they wrote to Governor Schwarzenegger yesterday.

Dear Gov. Schwarzenegger,

We are writing you as citizens of California for the past 26 years and as Republicans, to urge you NOT to veto AB 849, The Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act. We are parents of two adult children -- Dylan, 33, who is straight and Bryan, 23, who is gay.

We have been married for 37 years, and we know that marriage is not always easy. We know that marriage requires commitment, respect, responsibility and of course, love. But we always took for granted the rights that came with marriage until we realized that these rights would be denied to one of our children. We always took for granted that marriage is also about hundreds of rights that we have as a married couple that will be denied to our son Bryan and the partner of his choice. We take for granted that we can make medical decisions for each other if one of us gets sick. Our son, as thousands of other gay people, does not have that right. Like all parents, we have dreamed that one day each of our children would know the joy of marriage and raising a family. Your decision will determine many lives.

When Bryan came out we worried. We worried like any parent would that our child would be singled out for different treatment, and we were saddened to think that one child would have opportunities and rights and the other would be excluded from these privileges.

Governor, if you do indeed veto AB 849, only one of our children will live his life with the rights and responsibilities that go along with marriage. We believe both of our children, as people and as citizens, should be allowed to protect their loved ones in times of medical emergency, both of our children should be able to provide health insurance coverage for their spouse and their children, both of our children should know that if their spouse dies, they will not lose their joint savings or their home.

As a matter of faith, we believe that we need to protect all of our citizens. It is our duty. And religiously, it is our obligation. As citizens, we have a duty to protect one another -- even if we don't understand or relate to each other's experiences. As a matter of faith -- we are called to care for one another because we are all children of God. And as a Christians, we follow Jesus' commandment to love one another.

We don't believe unequal treatment belongs in our state. Who are you or we to judge others. If you veto AB 849 -- you will be upholding and perpetuating discrimination in our state. We urge you, on behalf of both of our children, family and friends to please sign AB 849 into law.

Sincerely,
Robert and Sandy
#####, CA

So thank you mom and dad for writing this. For standing up for what you believe -- and most importantly for loving me for who I am.

Posted by Bryan Harding

Southridge High School in Beaverton has canceled a play about the story of Matthew Shepard, after the principal deemed the sexual content and the play's use of profanity offensive.

"The Laramie Project" was in production at Southridge High School when Principal Amy Gordon decided to put a stop to it. Gordon would not comment. Imagine that.

The play chronicles the true story of Matthew Shepard, a 21-year-old gay college student, who was killed seven years ago in Laramie, Wyoming. The production — which has been performed at hundreds of schools across the country including at Century High School in Hillsboro — pieces together the events surrounding the killing through the reactions of numerous residents of Laramie.

Members of the theater community are charging that the play is under attack because it features a gay character, not because of its sexual or vulgar content.

Wade Willis, Southridge theater arts director, chose the play for its educational value and the challenge it would present student actors, he said.

"Everything I hear about presenting something 'controversial' is that you have to put forth all sides," Willis told The Oregonian. "You can't be more complete than this in presenting multiple points of view."

But Maureen Wheeler, a spokeswoman for the school district, said the play is considered controversial because it contains profanities and sexual content.

She also said Willis failed to have the selection reviewed by the school's principal in keeping with the district's controversial materials policies.

Willis said he is holding a community meeting at the high school on Wednesday night to hear reactions from parents, students and community members.

At Century High School, theater instructor Bill Johnson said "The Laramie Project" met initial resistance from school officials. It eventually ran after profanities and one sensitive scene were removed.

"We looked at it from a discrimination standpoint," Johnson said. "It's a murder story and the victim happened to be gay, and that's why he was killed. Why is this any different from Anne Frank, who was killed for her religion, or 'Romeo and Juliet'?"

via 365gay.com

Visit The Matthew Shepard Foundation

Big surprise huh? We feel compelled to respond to the ridiculous post on NW Republican (second item in their post) that is riddled with inaccuracies. Let's review.

"In other ICKY news we have a new group in Oregon hosting a "Stick It To Minnis" event."

First of all, this 'new group', Basic Rights Oregon, has been around since 1988 and is Oregon's largest statewide GLBT advocacy group. Since Basic Rights Oregon came onto the scene they have successfully defeated a large number of anti-gay ballot initiatives that were brought on by the notoriously hateful, Oregon Citizens Alliance, which has disappeared in a cloud of scandal.

These are a bunch of radical homosexual activists that border on being Nazis. They are upset that the political process does not bring them what they want and by golly they want to oust speaker Minnis or burn the house down trying.

Now this is one of my favorites... "Radical homosexual activists that border on being Nazis". Quite a sharp tongue there -- don't you think? If I recall correctly the Nazis were responsible for the torture and murder of SIX MILLION Jews as well as 25,000 homosexuals. NW Republican's comments are hugely out of line and 'deplorable'.

As far as calling Basic Rights Oregon and their base 'radical homosexual activists'... If you think that the actions of Oregon's gays and lesbians have been radical as far as civil rights movements go - take History 101 if you want to learn about radical activists. This is NOTHING. How do you classify fighting for basic human rights and protections as radical? Give me a break.

These radical homosexual activists are so bad that even Senate President and lesbian senator Kate Brown (D) calls their behavior "deplorable."

Two problems here in your statement. First off, Senate President Peter Courtney never said what you claim he did above and Senate Majority Leader Kate Brown is not a lesbian. Also - Kate Brown's statement did not say that Basic Rights Oregon was 'deplorable' as you have portrayed it. The article said that the personal attacks were 'deplorable' - never citing where they came from.

Minnis is one of the nicest people you will EVER meet. I have been on opposing issues of her before however I have found nothing but total honesty and candor with her. She is just plain "Good People." And really does not deserve this.

Minnis is one of the nicest people? Wow. Why don't we ask the tens of thousands of gays and lesbians across our state how they feel about that. How they feel about having their rights and protections under the law as Minnis thwarted the democratic process. As them how they feel about being denied hundreds of rights. Ask them how they feel about their own children not being protected under the law. Then ask them this. How do they feel about Karen Minnis repeatedly blocking legislation that would have granted them most of those rights? How about changing the House Rules (one that had been in effect for over 140 years) in order to prevent a committee pull by not only the House Democrats - but as well as her own Republican caucus?

But then again that is what evil and ugly people do. They like to attack the good people of the world. That is nothing new and has been going on since the beginning of time.

Exactly. You are proving your own 'point'. You are lashing out at gay and lesbians who are simply trying to protect their families and end discrimination in Oregon. As a political power in the State of Oregon, it is their duty to get people in elected office that will fight against discrimination and hate. Karen Minnis perpetuates this hate and discrimination. Hence why she is named as a target that needs to be defeated in her re-election bid.

Lastly - As someone who railed against what happened in Multnomah County with gay marriages, she showed her true hypocritical ways. Interestingly enough, her actions during this past legislative session didn't square with Speaker Minnis' statements in the voters pamphlet submitted in favor of Measure 36.

"Process subverted. They didn't hold any public hearings. They didn't give any advanced warning. Their actions were arrogant and wrong. The Multnomah County Commission purposefully subverted the public process." - Speaker of the House Karen Minnis (Voter's Pamphlet, P 82)

"House Speaker Karen Minnis was the first state official to respond. She blasted the Multnomah County commission: 'I think they circumvented due process. They made a decision and went forward with it without any public hearings, without any review by the state legislature who sets state policy and without consulting the citizens of Oregon. Minnis said she expected the Oregon legislature to address the issue in its next session."OPB 3/3/04

To donate to Basic Rights Oregon - click here.

Posted by Gay Rights Watch

Thanks to The Victory Fund for bringing this to my attention. It is along the lines of what I discussed last Thursday...

The Governator is apparently unaware that members of the California legislature are elected by, well, the people of California, duh. The Seattle Post-Intelligencer's editorial board slams Schwarzenegger's excuse for vetoing the marriage equality bill - which is that it does not reflect the will of the people. "How the heck did he think this bill came to be in the first place? Lawmakers -- elected ones -- passed it. But we suppose some processes are less convenient to respect than others, making this is a distasteful, transparent case of political pandering."

Read it: Seattle Post-Intelligencer

Posted by Bryan Harding

An anonymous comment was left on the previous posting that I think should be brought into its own post. So here we go - and thank you anonymous.

I just called the Governor’s Office in Los Angeles to give them a piece of my mind. They told me although the governor has stated that he intends to veto the bill, he has not made a decision yet.

Equality California (the equivalent of BRO in CA) is still asking everyone to contact the Arnold...even if you live in Oregon.

To send an Electronic Mail please visit: http://www.govmail.ca.gov

To phone and fax dial:

State Capitol Office
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger
Phone: 916-445-2841
Fax: 916-445-4633

Fresno Office
2550 Mariposa Mall #3013
Fresno, CA 93721
Phone: 559-445-5295
Fax: 559-445-5328

Los Angeles Office
300 South Spring Street
Suite 16701
Los Angeles, CA 90013
Phone: 213-897-0322
Fax: 213-897-0319

Riverside Office
3737 Main Street #201
Riverside, CA 92501
Phone: 951-680-6860
Fax: 951-680-6863

San Diego Office
1350 Front Street
Suite 6054
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-525-4641
Fax: 619-525-4640

San Francisco Office
455 Golden Gate Avenue
Suite 14000

San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: 415-703-2218
Fax: 415-703-2803

Posted by Bryan Harding

Here is the short of the story first... commentary follows.

SACRAMENTO, California (AP) -- Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger announced Wednesday he will veto a bill that would have made California the first state to legalize same-sex marriage through its elected lawmakers.

Schwarzenegger said the legislation, approved Tuesday by lawmakers, would conflict with the intent of voters when they approved an initiative five years ago. Proposition 22 was placed on the ballot to prevent California from recognizing same-sex marriages performed in other states or countries.

"We cannot have a system where the people vote and the Legislature derails that vote," the governor's press secretary, Margita Thompson, said in a statement. "Out of respect for the will of the people, the governor will veto (the bill)."

And now for the fun part. The commentary.

"Out of respect for the will of the people" is a joke. First of all, Proposition 22 was voted on in 2000. In that time, public opinion has changed regarding gay rights. In fact, a recent poll found that the state was evenly split on the issue of marriage equality. 46% favor and 46% oppose.

Second of all, the duty of these legislators is to vote based on the will of their constituents - meaning 'the people'. Both legislative bodies approved the bill.

Right-wingers throw around the term activist judges - more than Rush Limbaugh throws down prescription drugs. So when Arnold wants the issue to be decided by the courts, I am perplexed.

Another item that has me confused is this statement made by Arnold. Schwarzenegger "believes gay couples are entitled to full protection under the law and should not be discriminated against based upon their relationship," the statement said.

"He is proud that California provides the most rigorous protections in the nation for domestic partners," it added.

These so called protections are little to be desired and can easily be reversed once California has a vote on marriage equality in 2006, as the initiative will also strip away the domestic partnership laws. It is incredibly insulting and utterly transparent when Arnold claims to be so 'pro-gay rights', yet when it comes down to actually having to do something about it - he chooses statewide discrimination. The only reason that he could be doing this is that he is pandering to the far right for his re-election. Arnold must need all the help he can get with the record low approval ratings lately - approval ratings that happen to be in the low 30% range. He has nothing to lose and much more to gain if he thinks that he has a chance for re-election. Instead, he finds himself in the pocket of the right-wing special interest groups.

I'm calling bullshit, Arnold.

Gov. Schwarzenegger must know that either way, whether he vetoes or signs the bill into law, this move will be his legacy. It's historic on every level. He has this chance to do what he has stated is the right thing to do... so where is the action being taken? Come out on the issue, don't be a pussy, don't hide behind your press secretary and make her do your dirty work. Oh, and fire your advisors if you want to be re-elected, because a veto on AB 849 will kill your future bids for a gubernatorial position.

Written by Bryan Harding

In the spirit of Speaker Minnis announcing her re-election we thought we'd take a look back at all of the 'fun times' we've had with her.

Lets journey together down memory lane (from oldest to most recent)...

• Don't Blame Oregonians; Blame Speaker of the House Karen Minnis
  
  
• Karen Minnis - Queen of the House?
  
  
• Bow Down Bitches: The Queen is here.
  
  
• Karen Minnis, I'll just say it: A bitch is a bitch.
  
  
• BREAKING SB1000: KAREN MINNIS AVOIDS DUE PROCESS AND AVOIDS INTENT OF HOUSE RULES
  

Posted by Boys of Gay Rights Watch

OregonLive.com reports that Karen will seek another term. Looks like we've got some work to do.

Story is here.

Posted by Bryan Harding

Today, California became the first state in the nation to pass gay marriage via a legislative body. This is historic in every way, shape and form. The bill will now move to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's desk to sign. MONUMENTAL. Will he sign it? He favors civil unions, but now that both legislative bodies in California have approved it - he should take a clue. The democrats and republicans united to some degree to make this happen. Sign it Arnold!

For more click here.

Posted by Bryan Harding

You know we're all fucked when...

Steve Lefemine, an anti-abortion activist in Columbia, S.C., was looking at a full-color satellite map of Hurricane Katrina when something in the swirls jumped out at him: the image of an 8-week-old fetus. Damn he's good! He even knew the age of the fetus?

Lefemine went on to say, "In my belief, God judged New Orleans for the sin of shedding innocent blood through abortion". Lefemine, who e-mailed the flesh-toned weather map to fellow activists across the country and put a stark message on the answering machine of his organization, Columbia Christians for Life.

"Providence punishes national sins by national calamities," it said. "Greater divine judgment is coming upon America unless we repent of the national sin of abortion."

Lefemine is far from the only person to see the wrath of God in the awesome damage that Katrina has wreaked on the Gulf Coast... As with the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 and of course last year's South Asian tsunami.

So that was an anti-abortion activist. Next we have an America hating, Kuwaiti official named Muhammad Yousef Mlaifi.

"It is almost certain that this is a wind of torment and evil that Allah has sent to this American empire," Mlaifi wrote Wednesday in the Arabic daily Al-Siyassa under the headline "The Terrorist Katrina is One of the Soldiers of Allah . . ."

Next we have the Christian journalist.
Stan Goodenough was struck by the juxtaposition in recent days of Jewish settlers being removed from their homes in the Gaza Strip and Americans being forced out of their homes in New Orleans. Is this some sort of bizarre coincidence? Not for those who believe in the God of the Bible". "What America is about to experience is the lifting of God's hand of protection; the implementation of His judgment on the nation most responsible for endangering the land and people of Israel."

Just one minute. America is 'the nation most responsible'. Get this. Total U.S. aid to Israel is approximately one-third of the American foreign-aid budget, even though Israel comprises just .001 percent of the world's population and already has one of the world's higher per capita incomes. Indeed, Israel's GNP is higher than the combined GNP of Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, the West Bank and Gaza. With a per capita income of about $14,000, Israel ranks as the sixteenth wealthiest country in the world; Israelis enjoy a higher per capita income than oil-rich Saudi Arabia and are only slightly less well-off than most Western European countries. Quite interesting facts - dontcha think?

Then there is Repent America who blames it on the gays.
In Philadelphia, Michael Marcavage saw no coincidence, either, in the hurricane's arrival just as gay men and lesbians from across the country were set to participate in a New Orleans street festival called "Southern Decadence."

"We take no joy in the death of innocent people," said Marcavage, who was an intern in the Clinton White House (how did that happen?) in 1999 and now runs Repent America, an evangelistic organization calling for "a nation in rebellion toward God" to reclaim its senses.

"But we believe that God is in control of the weather," he said in a telephone interview. "The day Bourbon Street and the French Quarter was flooded was the day that 125,000 homosexuals were going to be celebrating sin in the streets. . . . We're calling it an act of God."

I'm really glad to know that all of these people know the real reason for Hurricane Katrina - I was starting to think it was simply a weather system.

To donate:
American Red Cross
Mercy Corps (they donate 92% of contributions, only 8% to admin costs)
Liberal Blogosphere for Hurricane Relief
Rainbow World Fund

Quotes above published in The Washington Post.

Posted by Bryan Harding

Chief Justice William Rehnquist died this evening at the age of 80 due to thyroid cancer. He had been hospitalized twice this year already. CNN interrupted programming for this breaking news - they also had a bio all ready to go for him. Go figure.

Rehnquist was the most conservative justice on the bench. At every opportunity he has voted against abortion rights as he was on the bench for more than 18 years.

Who will be the next justice? What a huge opportunity for George W... unfortunately. Bush is looking forward to this to "put his legacy on the court". GREAT.

Posted by Bryan Harding

365gay.com reports:

Recovering from the devastation of hurricane Katrina may be particularly difficult for same-sex couples who are not recognized in any of the three states directly hit by the storm or in those states where refugees have fled.

Louisiana has a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage and prevents the state from recognizing any legal status for common-law relationships, domestic partnerships or civil unions. Mississippi and Alabama both have defense of marriage acts which also deny rights to gay and lesbian couples.

The Federal Defense of Marriage Act prevents FEMA from providing any relief in the form of family benefits to same-sex couples.

The laws also will directly impact gay and lesbian families where one partner has died as a result of the hurricane.

Federal DOMA bars Social Security survivor benefits. State benefits would also be denied.

If the deceased partner were the birth or adoptive parent of the couple's children those children could be removed from the care of the other parent and placed in foster care.

Should the family home be in the name of the deceased partner the survivor would have no rights. Any insurance payouts could go to the estate of the deceased and if there is no will would go to the closest blood relative.

In cases where one partner is hospitalized the other partner would not be guaranteed visitation rights or any say in medical care.

Surviving same-sex partners even could be denied any say in funeral or burial decisions.

Even in those cases where couples had legal documents such as living wills, powers of attorney or other agreements that could be valid in the states in which they were prepared and notarized there is no guarantee they would be honored in states where survivors were relocated.

"It underscores all of the inequities same-sex couples face," Lambda Legal attorney Ken Upton told 365Gay.com.

Upton is the director of Lambda's office in Dallas, the closest major city to the disaster zone where the organization has a legal office.

Most of the evacuees from the New Orleans area are being relocated to Texas, primarily in the Houston area. Upton said that in the coming weeks he expects to hear from many same-sex couples who are encountering legal problems.

"It's hard at times like these for marginalized groups - particularly gays and lesbians - to be part of the bigger American picture," Updton said.

Two relief organizations are recognizing same-sex families: the American Red Cross and the Rainbow Fund.

The Red Cross was the first major aid agency to help gay and lesbian couples in the immediate aftermath of 9-11.

The Rainbow Fund is an LGBT San Francisco-based relief agency that allows gays and lesbians to see exactly where their money is going and allows the world to see the impact the greater gay community plays in providing aid.

In the case of hurricane Katrina the Fund is working with America's Second Harvest to help the survivors. All money given to the fund goes directly to relief efforts. It does not use any donations to maintain its organization.

365Gay.com has set up a special resource page with links to the Rainbow Fund, Red Cross, Lambda Legal and other aid agencies.

Meanwhile, the situation in New Orleans continued to worsen on Thursday. Hundreds of bodies have been found and the city has descended into anarchy.

Looting continued and sporadic gunfire could be heard throughout New Orleans. Police say they are powerless.

Sewage and chemicals are mixed in the water that still covers the city and there are mounting concerns of a massive health epidemic spreading among those still trapped.

Posted by Bryan Harding

Public support for gay and lesbian soldiers is rising according to a new poll shows that support for allowing gays and lesbians to serve openly in the U.S. military is up from 10 years ago. The Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life and the Pew Research Center for the People found that 58% of Americans think openly gay people should be allowed to serve, up from 52% in 1994. The poll, released on August 30, also found the percentage of those who strongly opposed gays and lesbians serving openly fell from 26% in 1994 to 15% in 2005. The poll was reported in The New York Times.

For more details and results from this poll click here.

Posted by Bryan Harding

A bill that was once thought dead, the alive, has now passed The California State Senate. It is a HUGE and historic milestone as this is the first time any legislature in the nation has voted in favor of equal marriage rights for gay and lesbians.

Equality California released the following:

Sacramento, CA: The California Senate made history today by becoming the first legislative body in the nation to pass equal marriage rights legislation for same-sex couples. Equality California-sponsored Assembly Bill (AB) 849, The Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act, authored by Assemblymember Mark Leno (D-Francisco), Assembly Speaker Fabian (D-Los Angeles), and 30 co-authors passed with 21-15 and now heads for an Assembly floor vote. If passed, California will become the first legislature in the country to pass equal marriage rights legislation for same-sex couples. In Massachusetts, the state Supreme Court ruled that nothing less than marriage rights would be considered equal. The Massachusetts legislature then outlined how they would implement this ruling, but did not pass marriage equality legislation. California will have passed marriage equality without any court involvement, but as the people's legislative body to treat all Californians equally.

Today represents another milestone toward the fulfillment of the American dream for thousands of lesbian and gay couples in California, stated Assemblymember Leno. Society is strongest when it upholds the basic civil rights of all its citizens, including the right to marry the person you love. I'm grateful that a majority of my colleagues stood up against discrimination and in favor of allowing same-sex couples who want to devote their lives to one another, raise families, and protect themselves and their children with the same rights and responsibilities as different-sex couples with the same goals and dreams.

"Today is an unforgettable moment in California history that marks the courage of brave legislators and demonstrates the strength of our democracy," said Geoffrey Kors of Equality California. The state Senate of the largest state of the nation just took a bold and giant step in the direction of equality and respect for all families by voting to end discrimination against tens of thousands of same-sex couples and their children."

"This is an incredibly monumental turning point in the history of a movement", added Kors. "With over 200 organizations supporting this legislation, we have demonstrated that marriage equality is a value supported by California's major civil rights organizations as well as a diverse group of political, community and religious organizations. We applaud our state Senators for their leadership and the other members who took a stand for equality by voting yes."

"Now is the time to answer for ourselves, what is the right thing to do?", said Senator Nell Soto (D-Ontario). For me my higher power tells me, love one another, not judge one another, that is embedded in my inspiration, let us be judged as a group of tolerance and of hope.

With the passing of AB 849, my family is brought one step closer to the equality and dignity that is long overdue us, and that we so desperately need", said Marina Gatto, 16, daughter of Ramona and Arzu Gatto. "There are countless families like ours that live without basic rights and protections. AB 849 will give hope to all families, our children and to generations of youth who deserve the right to grow up in a world where they are treated as equal people. This win in the Senate sustains the hopes, the dreams and the reality for a community of people, families and children that equality is now within our reach in California.

"This is a historic and wonderful moment for our state and for all people who believe in the institution of marriage," said Rabbi Denise Eger from Koi Ami Congregation. "This bill provides for the freedom of religious institutions to follow their beliefs while insuring that the state does not discriminate in issuing [marriage] licenses. We celebrate the courage of our legislators this day."

"What I like most about this bill is that it guarantees religious freedom," said Reverend Rick Schlosser of the California Council of Churches. "This bill is about people not being able to impose their religious beliefs on other and enables me to perform my ministry freely, how God wants me to."

"I think marriage is important because the state will recognize and validate the love I share with my partner," said Baltimore Gonzalez, who has been with his partner Robert Flanagan for three years and currently live in Fresno. "The state recognition of our relationships will make easier for families to accept us."

"This is a historic day for our family. When we heard the good news, our kids started cheering, which set the dogs to barking and we all had a spontaneous group hug", stated Christine Allan, a grandmother from Nevada county who has been with her partner, Ann, for over 20 years. Finally, our granddaughter can go through with her plans for our wedding! What a moment to cherish today!"

"My wife and I are ecstatic to hear of the passing of AB 849 and we look forward to the state Senate and the Governor signing off on this legislation", said Alma Hawk, Los Angeles resident and lives with her wife BJ Hawk. "It is due time that our marriage is respected. Nine years and everyday our love grows deeper with respect and admiration of one another. Our family will have the same securities that are afforded to other couples in California and we look forward to have the same legal responsibilities as any other family."

Over at Shakespeare's Sister they are reporting that Repent America (notice the way you enter the site), an EXTREME religious group based out of Philly, is joining the ranks of Jerry Falwell in saying in a recent press release:

"Although the loss of lives is deeply saddening, this act of God destroyed a wicked city," stated Repent America director Michael Marcavage. "From 'Girls Gone Wild' to 'Southern Decadence', New Orleans was a city that had its doors wide open to the public celebration of sin. May it never be the same."

And it goes on...
"Let us pray for those ravaged by this disaster. However, we must not forget that the citizens of New Orleans tolerated and welcomed the wickedness in their city for so long."

This is the same group that sent two of its reps to the Philadelphia Phillies Gay Day to unfurl a large banner reading, "Homosexuality is Sin. Christ Can Set You Free." Of course this didn't go over well with the fans at the park. Read more on this story.

You'd think that these groups would have learned from past mistakes of the religious right making such statements.

On a side note, though Repent America is blaming gays and lesbians, Burbon Street, where all the 'gaydom' takes place, was hardly touched. Hmmm. Lets get real people. This is absolutely off the wall extemism. This group in particular is not the type to apologize once the media gets on this story (like Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson). Now there is no doubt in my mind that they actually believe this - but it's also a lot of PR for a small organization. It only makes the Christian 'right' look more and more extreme. Keep on talking Repent America! You are only helping by making yourselves look like complete wackos.

Donate to the American Red Cross.

Bryan Harding