We're Going to Have a Lot of Big Protests!

[kingLouiethe1]

It may not change anything, but it's going to make me feel better! I will post pictures for all of you tomorrow!

[kingLouiethe1]

Oh, 7pm, on San Vicente between Santa Monica and Melrose, in case any of you local lurkers want to join!

[TuckandStuiesMom]

Good for you, King Louie! :goodvibes

[Timon-n-Pumbaa Fan]

Give 'em Hell!

[OrlandoMike]

Go get em Louie!

[lttlmc3]

Good luck! Be safe!

[NikkiPants]

Go kick some booty!!!

[DVC~OKW~96]

Thanks, Louie! Do it for yourselves, and do it for us. Having a protest is at least a constructive way to vent some frustration!

Looking forward to seeing the photos.

[npmommie]

Go kick some booty! Good for you :cool1:

[MonorailMan]

Just don't start flinging poo!

The cops hate that.

[SkyMedik]

Do it dressed only in tuxedos and wedding gowns, please! :goodvibes

[pyr8freak87]

I heard about the protest in Hollywood, but heard about it too late for me to join. I wish I could have gone, but my spirit and thoughts are with everyone out there tonight. Good luck! :cheer2:

[SanFranciscan]

I attended the Keep Fighting Prop 8 protest in San Francisco last night and wrote a letter to the editor of the San Francisco Chronicle about it in case it is not too late to influence public opinion in a hopefully helpful manner.

Since my marriage is to a member of the opposite sex, perhaps I had no business seeking comfort from the gay community last night. Yet I went to the steps of City Hall seeking relief from my own sorrow about the outcome of Prop 8. Same-sex couples value marriage and want it so badly while "straight" people have been mocking the institution for decades. Maybe Prop 8 took marriage away from the wrong orientation.

I don't even think that "straight" is an appropriate term for heterosexual relationships anyway. If I am straight, doesn't that make a gay person bent?

Why is same-sex marriage everybody's business anyway? People have sometimes asked me "What did you marry that *** for?" after they have met my husband. To be honest I have questioned my own orientation from time to time, but my husband and I are legally family and the thought of never seeing him again is devastating to me.

If same-sex couples want what I have enough to take it to the streets, I do understand.

[jlewisinsyr]

I don't even think that "straight" is an appropriate term for heterosexual relationships anyway. If I am straight, doesn't that make a gay person bent?

Yes it does...and that is not an uncommon term in the UK for gay.

[MonorailMan]

From what I saw on a YouTube clip last night, it looked like there was a pretty good turn-out.

[wallyb]

It may not change anything, but it's going to make me feel better! I will post pictures for all of you tomorrow!

Good for you Louie!:thumbsup2
Don't forget to makeup of TV cameras incase you get on the tube!

[kingLouiethe1]

Well, it did make me feel better being sad and angry with lots of other sad and angry people, even if it might not have changed anything. I guess now we just wait for more legal fights, here's some pics, great turnout, good vibes, and I haven't cried once today, so good for me.

http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/flag.jpg

http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/crowd.jpg

http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/me.jpg

http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/sign.jpg

http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/signs2.jpg

[SFBayDon]

Thanks for sharing, I have been sooo depressed about Prop 8.
Just need to make it to the weekend so I can refocus on what is really important?
Don

[wallyb]

I like your snazzy sweater- :thumbsup2
and your defiant "take that you oppressor" fist!

[ConcKahuna]

I saw the protest on CNN this afternoon. It was cool to be able to say "I know people there!"

[TuckandStuiesMom]

That is one GREAT sweater...

[kingLouiethe1]

I like your snazzy sweater- :thumbsup2
and your defiant "take that you oppressor" fist!

That is one GREAT sweater...

It's a very popular sweater, everyone says the same thing.

[NikkiPants]

Awesome pics!
I love how you are shunning prop 8...haha, so awesome

[JohnZ46]

That is one GREAT sweater...

I agree! I'm totally diggin' the sweater!

[pyr8freak87]

Loving the fist shaking!

[OrlandoMike]

I had to work all day, but caught the story on CNN, and was so proud to think....."I know someone there!"

Thanks Louie!

[kingLouiethe1]

Ok, so one protest has really turned out to be five, so far, in the Los Angeles area. I've been to four, I couldn't make it on Thursday.

I'm not even counting protests all over the state, Orange County, and San Diego.

Saturday night in Silverlake we had between 12,000 and 15,000 people (everyone has different numbers).

This is all so amazing. The outpour of support has been huge. People are really mad this time, lets hope this spreads across the country!

These were from the Catholic Cathedral protest today:

http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/cathedralfront.jpg
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/chicken.jpg
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/crowd-1.jpg
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/crowd2.jpg
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/flag-1.jpg

These are from the huge Silverlake protest on Saturday:

http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/signs.jpg
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/IMG_4104.jpg
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/focusfamily.jpg
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/ladies.jpg
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/largesign.jpg

[zulemara]

wow, those pictures are incredible!

[SanFranciscan]

These churches are political organizations. Why are they not paying their taxes?

[DVC~OKW~96]

Thank you Louie. I now am struggling mightily for composure as I sit in the airport waiting for my flight.

Seriously. Incredibly moving, and I am very thankful that you are sharing the experience with us. :hug:

[DVCajun]

These churches are political organizations. Why are they not paying their taxes?

I agree. I signed the web page protest against allowing the Mormon church to retain their tax free status -- but honestly, can't we do more than that? And Focus on the Family? It's freaking illegal!! :confused3

[DVCajun]

Well, I just did some quick research on Focus on the Family and discovered that they prevailed over a challenge of their tax free status because the IRS auditors concluded that James Dobson was acting as an individual and not as a representative of Focus on the Family. Who the hell did he have in HIS pocket to actually pass that ridiculous claim off. If it weren't for FOTF Dr. Dobson wouldn't HAVE a freaking voice. He uses that program day in and day out to rob us of our basic civil rights, but he's not acting as a representative of FOTF?

Oh. My. Word. I am so disgusted.

[rpmdfw]

What's next?

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii199/rpmdfw/gaywateringfountain.jpg

[SanFranciscan]

Well, Rpmdfw, I understand your desire to inject some humor into a very sad subject. Lesbians might like it if toilets were segregated into gay and heterosexual. It would do something about the line for the women's room. Ooooh, I hate going anywhere there are likely to be a bunch of women in pantyhose!

I have attended a couple of the protests against the passage of Prop 8 in sympathy for the couples whom I have seen married in City Hall here over the last few months. I am also upset with the Mormom Church, whose policies I have often disliked; but I am nervous about seeing them singled out as often as they have been around here. Mormons are a minority much smaller than other sects whose members also largely voted against Prop 8, which makes them a soft target, much as gay-bashers go after gays they consider "feminine." Someone could be seriously hurt. I can imagine what gay Mormons must be feeling right now. Their love for their faith and their love for their same-sex partners has got to be rough.

[rpmdfw]

Well, Rpmdfw, I understand your desire to inject some humor into a very sad subject. Lesbians might like it if toilets were segregated into gay and heterosexual. It would do something about the line for the women's room. Ooooh, I hate going anywhere there are likely to be a bunch of women in pantyhose!

I have attended a couple of the protests against the passage of Prop 8 in sympathy for the couples whom I have seen married in City Hall here over the last few months. I am also upset with the Mormom Church, whose policies I have often disliked; but I am nervous about seeing them singled out as often as they have been around here. Mormons are a minority much smaller than other sects whose members also largely voted against Prop 8, which makes them a soft target, much as gay-bashers go after gays they consider "feminine." Someone could be seriously hurt. I can imagine what gay Mormons must be feeling right now. Their love for their faith and their love for their same-sex partners has got to be rough.

You misunderstand my intent.

I find nothing funny about the picture I posted. Rather, I find it to be a precise and biting commentary on what has been done to us in three states recently and in 30 states in total.

And while I understand you when you compare going after the Mormon Church to those targeted by gay-bashers, I feel no sympathy for them now. They chose to support hatred. They are now reaping what they have sown. If you support hate, you get hate back. They're learning that now, as is the Catholic Church and other organizations. They claim to be victims of attacks while forgetting that they attacked first. They're surprised that we're not going to quietly let them de-humanize and oppress us? Well TOUGH! They have gone from being oppressed to being the oppresssors. They should know better. The fact that the Moromons are a "small sect" makes their massive donations MORE offensive, not less.

They drew the lines of this battle, they should now be prepared for the repurcussions of their actions.

I pity them for thinking that we're a bunch of sissies who won't fight back, they're about to learn otherwise.

And they're not going to like it.

[SanFranciscan]

I'm about to leave for work, but I am still here. I just don't understand why same-sex civil ceremonies are a problem for churches. If ministers say that they do not wish to do same-sex ceremonies in their sanctuaries, that is one thing. It is like ministers who will not do interfaith marriages. Civil ceremonies have nothing to do with church. They are a contract between two people and the State. Even the justice of the peace is just doing a job for the State, and it has nothing to do with his private religious views.

My husband says that I just want a situation where no one is unhappy and that that is not how the world works.

[swarlock]

I've known some good marriage between both sexes as much as I've known the ones that didn't work out. It's the latter that I seem to remember the most
as time goes on. The things I could tell you about some of my relatives from my Grandmother's side of the family and mine. But I'm not going to bring up the pathetic gorey details.

I truly feel sorry for you guys and gals. :(

[goofy4tink]

Truly, incredibly sad. It's almost enough to make me embarrassed to live in this country. I'm so sorry you guys. We're hoping to keep the status quo here in Mass...at the very least! Can't begin to imagine how you all must feel now. Really incredibly sad that there are folks out there that know no better.

[kingLouiethe1]

You're totally right about the Mormon church reaping what they sow Rob. 4 out of every $5 that went into this campaign came from that church and their parishioners, and now they want to make themselves out to be the victims. They may be a considerably small cult compared to the Catholics, but the fact that such a small group gave so much money makes it that much worse. Write to your representatives and tell them you want the Mormon Church to lose their tax exempt status.

The LA Gay and Lesbian Center has set up a legal fund to Invalidate Prop 8 (https://secure2.convio.net/laglc/site/Donation2?idb=34122959&df_id=1900&1900.donation=form1&JServSessionIdr001=kvbty4f5f5.app14a), and ever time you make a donation they will send a postcard to the president of the Mormon Church telling him a donation has been made in his name to fight for equality in California.

What else is going on? Boycott Utah!

No Utah Ski resorts, no Sundance Film Festival. Contact the Sundance Association (http://festival.sundance.org/2009/festival_info/contacts/) and tell them to cancel their Film Fest. Should the state of Utah suffer for the church's mistakes? Probably not. A possible loss in revenue will however encourage the state to join the fight for the Mormon Church to lose their tax exempt status.

We are having a protest on Wednesday at the LA County Board of Supervisors meetings. It's mostly a show thing. Politicians in this city are overwhelmingly on our side in this fight. They have spoken against this proposition and they have campaigned with us.

Can you all tell how excited I am?

[kingLouiethe1]

What's next?

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii199/rpmdfw/gaywateringfountain.jpg


I sit next to the water cooler at work, I was tempted to make a sign that said "Gay Water Cooler"

[wallyb]

Good for U Louie!

Give em heck ;)

[Uncle Remus]

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg245/Kurtz_09/Rights/FighttheH8.jpg

http://www.jointheimpact.com/?p=3

On the steps of your City Hall on November 15th at 10:30am PST / 1:30pm EST, our community WILL take to the streets and speak out against Proposition 8 and all of the other pro-equality losses that we have faced in our lifetimes, in our parents’ lifetimes, and for many generations before us. WE CAN’T DO THIS ALONE! WE NEED YOUR HELP! We need organizers in every major city to work with us and get out the protest! I know you’re all tired from all of the work you’ve done for this great election year, but I’m asking for one more push! Let the country hear our voices together. Let them see that we are a strong, adamant, and powerful community that deserves equal rights, and CAN’T BE DEFEATED!

Send this post to everyone! We have one week and must react to the pro-hate votes cast against us! Let’s help our LGBTQ friends, families, neighbors, and each other to IMPACT this country with a demand for our basic human rights! Join the cause, join the voice, and JOIN THE IMPACT!

FIND YOUR PROTEST LOCATION HERE (http://www.jointheimpact.com/?page_id=2)

[kingLouiethe1]

Good for U Louie!

Give em heck ;)

I feel like Mrs. Banks in Mary Poppins. Who wants to break into song with me!

Cast off the shackles of yesterday!
Shoulder to shoulder into the fray!
Our daughters' daughters will adore us
And they'll sign in grateful chorus
"Well done, Sister Suffragette!"

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg245/Kurtz_09/Rights/FighttheH8.jpg

http://www.jointheimpact.com/?p=3

On the steps of your City Hall on November 15th at 10:30am PST / 1:30pm EST, our community WILL take to the streets and speak out against Proposition 8 and all of the other pro-equality losses that we have faced in our lifetimes, in our parents’ lifetimes, and for many generations before us. WE CAN’T DO THIS ALONE! WE NEED YOUR HELP! We need organizers in every major city to work with us and get out the protest! I know you’re all tired from all of the work you’ve done for this great election year, but I’m asking for one more push! Let the country hear our voices together. Let them see that we are a strong, adamant, and powerful community that deserves equal rights, and CAN’T BE DEFEATED!

Send this post to everyone! We have one week and must react to the pro-hate votes cast against us! Let’s help our LGBTQ friends, families, neighbors, and each other to IMPACT this country with a demand for our basic human rights! Join the cause, join the voice, and JOIN THE IMPACT!

FIND YOUR PROTEST LOCATION HERE (http://www.jointheimpact.com/?page_id=2)

How Exciting! I will be there with bells on! Maybe a costume . . . What do you guys think if I recycle my Mad Hatter Halloween costume, and I make a sign that says "I'm Mad and I'm Not Going to take it Anymore."

[EWR2AUS]

For any NYC people, a protest is also scheduled for Wednesday:

Time and Place Date: Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Time: 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Location: New York Manhattan Mormon Temple
Street: 125 Columbus Ave at 65th Street
City/Town: New York, NY

If you are on Facebook, more information is available, just search for

Prop 8 Protest in New York at Mormon Temple AGAINST HATE

So far, over 1,400 people have RSVPd.

[wallyb]

I feel like Mrs. Banks in Mary Poppins. Who wants to break into song with me!

Cast off the shackles of yesterday!
Shoulder to shoulder into the fray!
Our daughters' daughters will adore us
And they'll sign in grateful chorus
"Well done, Sister Suffragette!"



How Exciting! I will be there with bells on! Maybe a costume . . . What do you guys think if I recycle my Mad Hatter Halloween costume, and I make a sign that says "I'm Mad and I'm Not Going to take it Anymore."

I like suffragette city better...
Ohhh, wham bam thank you maam! :flower3:

[rpmdfw]

I feel like Mrs. Banks in Mary Poppins. Who wants to break into song with me!

Cast off the shackles of yesterday!
Shoulder to shoulder into the fray!
Our daughters' daughters will adore us
And they'll sign in grateful chorus
"Well done, Sister Suffragette!"


Interesting.

"Make them Hear You" from Ragtime has been on my playlist a lot this week.

Here it is:


Go out and tell our story.
Let it echo far and wide.
Make them hear you,
Make them hear you.

How justice was our battle
And how justice was denied.
Make them hear you,
Make them hear you.

And say to those who blame us
For the way we chose to fight
That sometimes there are battles
That are more than black or white...
And I could not put down my sword
When justice was my right.
Make them hear you,
Make them hear you.

My path may lead to heaven or hell
And God will say what's best
But one thing He will never say
Is that I went quietly to my rest
Go out and tell our story
To your daughters and your sons.
Make them hear you,
Make them hear you.

And tell them, in our struggle,
We were not the only ones.
Make them hear you,
Make them hear you.

Proclaim it from your pulpit,
In your classroom, with your pen.
Teach every child to raise his voice
And then, my brothers, then
Will justice be demanded
By ten million righteous men.
Make them hear you.
When they hear you,
I'll be near you
Again.

[ChrizJen]

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg245/Kurtz_09/Rights/FighttheH8.jpg

http://www.jointheimpact.com/?p=3

On the steps of your City Hall on November 15th at 10:30am PST / 1:30pm EST, our community WILL take to the streets and speak out against Proposition 8 and all of the other pro-equality losses that we have faced in our lifetimes, in our parents’ lifetimes, and for many generations before us. WE CAN’T DO THIS ALONE! WE NEED YOUR HELP! We need organizers in every major city to work with us and get out the protest! I know you’re all tired from all of the work you’ve done for this great election year, but I’m asking for one more push! Let the country hear our voices together. Let them see that we are a strong, adamant, and powerful community that deserves equal rights, and CAN’T BE DEFEATED!

Send this post to everyone! We have one week and must react to the pro-hate votes cast against us! Let’s help our LGBTQ friends, families, neighbors, and each other to IMPACT this country with a demand for our basic human rights! Join the cause, join the voice, and JOIN THE IMPACT!

FIND YOUR PROTEST LOCATION HERE (http://www.jointheimpact.com/?page_id=2)

I'll be at ours here in STL!! I just got the email today, and I'm volunteering to help make signs. :thumbsup2

I URGE everyone to take part in this!! Let's show them that we're no longer going to take this sitting down!!! :mad:

[ChrizJen]

Interesting.

"Make them Hear You" from Ragtime has been on my playlist a lot this week.

Here it is:


Go out and tell our story.
Let it echo far and wide.
Make them hear you,
Make them hear you.

How justice was our battle
And how justice was denied.
Make them hear you,
Make them hear you.

And say to those who blame us
For the way we chose to fight
That sometimes there are battles
That are more than black or white...
And I could not put down my sword
When justice was my right.
Make them hear you,
Make them hear you.

My path may lead to heaven or hell
And God will say what's best
But one thing He will never say
Is that I went quietly to my rest
Go out and tell our story
To your daughters and your sons.
Make them hear you,
Make them hear you.

And tell them, in our struggle,
We were not the only ones.
Make them hear you,
Make them hear you.

Proclaim it from your pulpit,
In your classroom, with your pen.
Teach every child to raise his voice
And then, my brothers, then
Will justice be demanded
By ten million righteous men.
Make them hear you.
When they hear you,
I'll be near you
Again.

:thumbsup2

[rpmdfw]

:thumbsup2

Leave it to a show queen to know which musical has "just the right number" for any occasion. Even a protest. :rotfl2:

[kingLouiethe1]

I like suffragette city better...
Ohhh, wham bam thank you maam! :flower3:

I was listening to the Best of Bowie while I was making signs on Saturday, so many fitting songs.

[DVC~OKW~96]

So OrlandoMike, ConcK, Rob... anyone know why Florida isn't doing anything? Are we really that apathetic and beaten down here?

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

So OrlandoMike, ConcK, Rob... anyone know why Florida isn't doing anything? Are we really that apathetic and beaten down here?

Orlando has a protest location listed.

My protest appears to be at Dallas City Hall.

[DVC~OKW~96]

Thanks 'girl! I'm in Seattle this week, so wasn't aware of it.

Can you tell me what source you are referring to so I can check it out? I mean, where is Orlando listed?

[rpmdfw]

There's an Orlando location listed, but if you click on it, it pulls up google maps with three different locations, and I don't think any of them are the correct address for City Hall. And isn't City Hall right in the middle of where the Orlando Food & Wine Festival will be going on at the same time as this "nationwide protest"? Nothing like making it difficult to get to.

Beyond that location link, there doesn't appear to be anything else listed in the way of local organizers the way that there are in other cities.

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

DVC~OKW~96 - I clicked the link Uncle Remus posted. Maybe they are still adding info as things get organized? The HRC website says HRC-Orlando is having a gathering on 11/25, but nothing about a protest that I could find.

[DVC~OKW~96]

Ah. I missed that! Thanks!

[OrlandoMike]

I have to work on Saturdays....:sad1:

I have the best suffragette outfit too! Darn!

On a side note, Shrek and I were talking about the whole thing today, the churches involvement and the taxation thing.

He said (and he is pretty up on these things) that a church cannot endorse a political candidate per say, but as far as amendments go, all bets are off.

Not sure about this, anyone have any proof?

[DVC~OKW~96]

I wonder who or what group in Orlando would know where the actual protesting will take place? :unsure:

I wouldn't have a problem going at all, regardless of timing, if I knew for sure where to go.

I'll get home Friday night and should be ok on Saturday.

Having it right smack in the middle of another festival might actually do some good. Might draw more support? Or not...

Mike, do you work every Saturday? No, I don't know if Shrek is correct or not. I wonder if searching the statutes would help? That can be time consuming though. Any lawyers in the house?

[OrlandoMike]

Mike, do you work every Saturday?


Pretty much, but sometimes for "good reason" I can go in late.....

[kingLouiethe1]

Well see, the three of you guys out there make a protest, yay!

[SanFranciscan]

I did vote against Prop. 8, and I was very disappointed when it passed. I just don't understand something though.

Generations of heterosexual couples have gone to City Hall or Las Vegas or whatever and had ceremonies not recognized as marriage by their families' churches. I am not a minister or an attorney. Can someone explain to me why this is different? What reason have churches given the No on Prop. 8 campaign for not allowing secular law to recognize couples as married where religious law would not be required to? Maybe I am just too stupid, but there is something here that is just not sinking in.

[SanFranciscan]

I sit next to the water cooler at work, I was tempted to make a sign that said "Gay Water Cooler"

KingLouie, if you treated it like a joke, I think people might see why we saw Prop 8 as silly because segregated drinking fountains are silly. Be careful KingLouie. Race is America's third rail. I have gotten kidd glove treatment the second people realize that legally I am not a Caucasian so giving in to your temptation could so easily blow up in your face. I would hate to see that happen to you. I do think that your cause is just. Naturally I would though because we voted the same way.

[DVC~OKW~96]

I don't see KingLouie's comment (nor Rob's earlier-the photo) as a joke at all. I see it as an "in your face" reality check.

If society wants to segregate and make us less than equals, then we would do well to use highly emotive examples of exactly what that means.

I don't see or hear anyone laughing about any of this. :)

[SanFranciscan]

I am not a religious person, but there are congregations where gays will find allies. A few of these are all gay like Sha Ar Zahav for Jews or Dignity for Catholics, but most aren't. If cooler heads prevail in the reaction to Prop 8, even though I understand the anger, public support for gay rights will only continue to rise. People do change their minds, but people who change their minds against their will hold the same opinion still. The fat lady has not sung yet. This is not over.

[NikkiPants]

For any NYC people, a protest is also scheduled for Wednesday:

Time and Place Date: Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Time: 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Location: New York Manhattan Mormon Temple
Street: 125 Columbus Ave at 65th Street
City/Town: New York, NY

If you are on Facebook, more information is available, just search for

Prop 8 Protest in New York at Mormon Temple AGAINST HATE

So far, over 1,400 people have RSVPd.


Thanks for this info! I'll be there bearing a sign that says "How come you can have 7 wives and I can't have 1?" which I am making as we speak.

[TuckandStuiesMom]

Thanks for this info! I'll be there bearing a sign that says "How come you can have 7 wives and I can't have 1?" which I am making as we speak.


Good one, NP. That's gonna freak'em out on SO many levels.:thumbsup2

[kingLouiethe1]

Thanks for this info! I'll be there bearing a sign that says "How come you can have 7 wives and I can't have 1?" which I am making as we speak.

I like that! My other Favorite signs have been:

- Focus on Your Own Damn Family
- I Assume the Gay Chickens Will Remain Caged (a reference to another proposition that received overwhelming support that gives chickens the right to bigger cages)

[jamieandben]

I like that! My other Favorite signs have been:

- Focus on Your Own Damn Family
- I Assume the Gay Chickens Will Remain Caged (a reference to another proposition that received overwhelming support that gives chickens the right to bigger cages)

Now thats sad Chickens have more rights than we do.

[DVCajun]

I did vote against Prop. 8, and I was very disappointed when it passed. I just don't understand something though.

Generations of heterosexual couples have gone to City Hall or Las Vegas or whatever and had ceremonies not recognized as marriage by their families' churches. I am not a minister or an attorney. Can someone explain to me why this is different? What reason have churches given the No on Prop. 8 campaign for not allowing secular law to recognize couples as married where religious law would not be required to? Maybe I am just too stupid, but there is something here that is just not sinking in.

Really, this would be no different. But it's not enough for (these) Christians that a gay marriage not be recognized at their church. They want to remove the civil right of a gay person to get married AT ALL. If they had their way, they'd probably make it a law to go to THEIR church on Sundays -- that's the logical next step.

[kingLouiethe1]

Now thats sad Chickens have more rights than we do.

Lots of people are saying that, and while chickens did gain rights while we lost them in the election, they still get taken out behind the shed when they stop laying eggs.

If the same were true for us, Rosie would be in hot water, since she was just saying on another thread how she was looking forward to menopause :lmao:

[jamieandben]

Lots of people are saying that, and while chickens did gain rights while we lost them in the election, they still get taken out behind the shed when they stop laying eggs.

If the same were true for us, Rosie would be in hot water, since she was just saying on another thread how she was looking forward to menopause :lmao:

:rotfl2:
Poor rosie

[ChrizJen]

I went during my lunch hour and got some poster board and some markers. Our protest is on Saturday at the Old Court House in downtown St. Louis. The group here is getting together this evening at a neighborhood coffee shop to make signs!! :thumbsup2

Thanks guys for some really great sign ideas!!

[rpmdfw]

I went during my lunch hour and got some poster board and some markers. Our protest is on Saturday at the Old Court House in downtown St. Louis. The group here is getting together this evening at a neighborhood coffee shop to make signs!! :thumbsup2

Thanks guys for some really great sign ideas!!

My current favorite is:

"Can we vote on YOUR marriage now?"

[rosiep]

Lots of people are saying that, and while chickens did gain rights while we lost them in the election, they still get taken out behind the shed when they stop laying eggs.

If the same were true for us, Rosie would be in hot water, since she was just saying on another thread how she was looking forward to menopause :lmao:

And I thought it was a good thing when someone asks me behind a shed.

[wallyb]

:rotfl2:
Poor rosie


I agree - poor poor pathetic Rosie. :guilty:

[kingLouiethe1]

I went during my lunch hour and got some poster board and some markers. Our protest is on Saturday at the Old Court House in downtown St. Louis. The group here is getting together this evening at a neighborhood coffee shop to make signs!! :thumbsup2

Thanks guys for some really great sign ideas!!

I went to the LA County Board of Supervisors meeting on my lunch hour since its right up the street from my office, where the LA County Board of Supervisors decided to join the lawsuit to overthrow prop 8 :banana: :banana:

[rosiep]

I agree - poor poor pathetic Rosie. :guilty:

At least I produced something of value in my lifetime....

[Saxton]

I agree - poor poor pathetic Rosie. :guilty:



http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/5933/churchsignzx1.jpg

[Saxton]

I went to the LA County Board of Supervisors meeting on my lunch hour since its right up the street from my office, where the LA County Board of Supervisors decided to join the lawsuit to overthrow prop 8 :banana: :banana:

That's great news! :thumbsup2

[rosiep]

http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/5933/churchsignzx1.jpg

Et tu Brute?

[Saxton]

Et tu Brute?

Sorry ... love ya' Rosie!:thumbsup2

[rpmdfw]

Sorry ... love ya' Rosie!:thumbsup2

It's true.

We do love you.

But apparently we love an easy target more. :thumbsup2


Speaking of easy targets, Wally has been unusually inactive today. :scratchin

:scared1:

He must be plotting something!

:scared:

[jamieandben]

It's true.

We do love you.

But apparently we love an easy target more. :thumbsup2


Speaking of easy targets, Wally has been unusually inactive today. :scratchin

:scared1:

He must be plotting something!

:scared:

:scared1: :faint:

[wallyb]

Louie - Do you think this is too extreme?
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f241/wallyb3/picket.jpg

[rpmdfw]

Louie - Do you think this is too extreme?
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f241/wallyb3/picket.jpg

:rotfl2:

Yep. He was plotting something.

:lmao:

[rosiep]

He is leaving in a few days...maybe like a cat he's leaving a present in our shoes....

[rpmdfw]

He is leaving in a few days...maybe like a cat he's leaving a present in our shoes....

Or maybe like a dog, he's sniffing our crotches . . .

:thumbsup2

[rosiep]

Louie - Do you think this is too extreme?
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f241/wallyb3/picket.jpg

Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha.

Not funny :headache:

[wallyb]

It's true.

We do love you.

But apparently we love an easy target more. :thumbsup2


Speaking of easy targets, Wally has been unusually inactive today. :scratchin

:scared1:

He must be plotting something!

:scared:

Did you just call me EASY? :mad:
Cause I'm not easy!

I"m prim and proper :snooty:

[kingLouiethe1]

Louie - Do you think this is too extreme?
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f241/wallyb3/picket.jpg


:lmao: :lmao: :lmao:
but be careful Wally, we need all the allies we can get at this point.


Or maybe like a dog, he's sniffing our crotches . . .

:thumbsup2


And I didn't even have to use peanut butter this time

[rosiep]

Did you just call me EASY? :mad:
Cause I'm not easy!

I"m prim and proper :snooty:

No you're not..you're easy..just like the oven.
Childish and capable of leaving lasting scars......

[rpmdfw]

Did you just call me EASY? :mad:
Cause I'm not easy!

I"m prim and proper :snooty:

This argument would hold more weight if you weren't sniffing crotches.

[rosiep]

This argument would hold more weight if you weren't sniffing crotches.

BAD WALLY! BAD!!

[jamieandben]

Louie - Do you think this is too extreme?
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f241/wallyb3/picket.jpg

That is just to funny :lmao: :rotfl2: :rotfl:

[kingLouiethe1]

BAD WALLY! BAD!!

Wait wait, don't scold him! Give him a few . . . minutes

[rosiep]

Wait wait, don't scold him! Give him a few . . . minutes

Louie! That's just sick :sad2:

(and I'm the one with the reputation! Go figure)

[rosiep]

That is just to funny :lmao: :rotfl2: :rotfl:

It's actually sad because it's the truth. They let crazy, rodent wearing loonies marry...but gay? Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo.

[kingLouiethe1]

It's actually sad because it's the truth. They let crazy, rodent wearing loonies marry...but gay? Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo.

Well at least it was a fake rodent. Sarha Palin would have been wearing the real thing :happytv:

[wallyb]

It's actually sad because it's the truth. They let crazy, rodent wearing loonies marry...but gay? Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo.

My point exactly.
See I not so mad! :rolleyes:

[NikkiPants]

Poor Rosie! :hug:
Wally you're getting nasty, but what can we expect?! :rotfl:

[rosiep]

Thanks Nikki!

But never fear...I can take it...and take it....and take it...........

[wallyb]

Well at least it was a fake rodent. Sarha Palin would have been wearing the real thing :happytv:

It could have been a beaver! :eek:

Maybe that's a mammal and not a rodent? :confused:

[wallyb]

Poor Rosie! :hug:
Wally you're getting nasty, but what can we expect?! :rotfl:

I suggest you check all of "Miss Innocents" postings around this board -
before you pin me with that moniker.

2 to tango! :rolleyes1

[rosiep]

I suggest you check all of "Miss Innocents" postings around this board -
before you pin me with that moniker.

2 to tango! :rolleyes1

Why Sir! You cut me to the quick.

[rpmdfw]

Why Sir! You cut me to the quick.

Sounded to me like he was asking you to dance.

A tango to be specific.

[wallyb]

Why Sir! You cut me to the quick.

Could I? ...
Please! :)


Just a little knifing.

[rosiep]

Could I? ...
Please! :)


Just a little knifing.

What's a little knifing between friends?


(Manslaughter!!!!)

[kingLouiethe1]

Anyway, Back to the Topic of the thread!

After Saturday fill this thread with pictures from your local protest! Lets see those signs!

This website has a lot of info:
http://jointheimpact.wetpaint.com/

[SanFranciscan]

On have mercy! You people are mean to each other!

[SanFranciscan]

I wasn't raised Christian, and I do not attend religious services. I was just wondering how many of you do. Do you like your congregation? What is your sect's position on homosexuality and same-sex marriage?

I have heard that there have been some protests against Catholics in Los Angeles. There have been some against Mormons here in the San Francisco area. I think that churches should not be allowed to push their views into secular law; but can you imagine what it must be like for gay Catholics and gay Mormons? They want the support of others of their faith, but they are denied it because they are gay. They go to church because they still want to keep their faith and feel like traitors if they cross pickets lines in support of same-sex marriage because they are gay. What would you do if you were them?

[OrlandoMike]

What would you do if you were them?

I would leave that church! And have done so!

Don't go to church much now, but if I felt the need to go, I would go to MCC.

[kingLouiethe1]

We haven't drawn a line in the sand. Those people are in difficult situations their churches put them in, not us. If you're Mormon and gay, the church wants nothing to do with you, so the call is yours. If you're not willing to hide who you are or pretend to be a born-again straight, they kick you out, your family ditches you, you're an abhorration.

The Catholics are a little more easy going around these parts. They kind of turn a blind eye to a whole bunch of stuff. I have a whole bunch of Catholic relatives that don't celebrate my homosexuality, but are willing to just not talk about it, it's a compromise I'm ok with for the sake of family peace.

[Seewhatimesdone]

Well i'm Jewish so...Jews for gay and lesbian rights! I think both groups have had their share of oppression ;)

[DVCajun]

Yep. You leave. Not much choice there unless you have a few issues with self-hatred. Most churches are willing to let you hide in the closet-- sort of their own DADT policy. Because you're basically an unpaid worker, and who would take out the trash/wipe babies' butts/handle the technology/play the drums, etc. if you left? And it's ok until the one Sunday a year that the pastor condemns homosexuality. Or your child's sunday school teacher does it.

Nope. They can find another unpaid worker. I'm done with the lot of them.

Taking a break from church, period, these days. Quite frankly, i'm exhausted from the constant "volunteering" required at my old church. One of these days i may go back, but it will be to a welcoming church.

[DVC~OKW~96]

Yep. Agreed. You pick yourself up, wrap your shreds of dignity around you and leave. You go out, away from the "g-d means hatred of 'others'" and heal. You never look back. You never regret your decision.

Legal hatred in the name of ____________ fill in the blank with the g-d du jour.

[Seewhatimesdone]

I think it really depends on where you go. I've been to several churches that welcome the gay and lesbian community. It's a matter of location as well. If you're in the city then you can find several places that will welcome you.

[rosiep]

I think it really depends on where you go. I've been to several churches that welcome the gay and lesbian community. It's a matter of location as well. If you're in the city then you can find several places that will welcome you.

Agreed. Although I don't attend services there are many Churches in Portland that welcome the Gay Community and during the Pride Parade many of the marchers are from these congregations.

[kingLouiethe1]

I think it really depends on where you go. I've been to several churches that welcome the gay and lesbian community. It's a matter of location as well. If you're in the city then you can find several places that will welcome you.

It's like Reverend Lovejoy said on the Simpsons: "Have you looked into any of the other major religions, they're all pretty much the same you know."

[DVC~OKW~96]

Exactly!

[wallyb]

Agreed. Although I don't attend services there are many Churches in Portland that welcome the Gay Community and during the Pride Parade many of the marchers are from these congregations.

I've got a confessional in my living room!
(It saves time)
Anyone's welcome to get in the booth with me if they like. ;)

[DVC~OKW~96]

Ah yes, but can you provide absolution, Mr. WallyB? :lmao:

[Seewhatimesdone]

Agreed. Although I don't attend services there are many Churches in Portland that welcome the Gay Community and during the Pride Parade many of the marchers are from these congregations.

It was the same way in Seattle :)

It's like Reverend Lovejoy said on the Simpsons: "Have you looked into any of the other major religions, they're all pretty much the same you know."

I love how we get all bent out of shape on little details when religion is pretty much the same all over! Sure we can have our differences but why fight about them? :confused3

[wallyb]

Ah yes, but can you provide absolution, Mr. WallyB? :lmao:

Absolut - how you want that - on the rocks? :)

[DVC~OKW~96]

:lmao:
OK. That was a good one. No, I'll pass. I prefer my abosolution with gin, thanks. :teeth:

[hematite153]

I wasn't raised Christian, and I do not attend religious services. I was just wondering how many of you do. Do you like your congregation? What is your sect's position on homosexuality and same-sex marriage?
...but can you imagine what it must be like for gay Catholics and gay Mormons?

I think it really depends on where you go. I've been to several churches that welcome the gay and lesbian community. It's a matter of location as well. If you're in the city then you can find several places that will welcome you.

Agreed. Although I don't attend services there are many Churches in Portland that welcome the Gay Community and during the Pride Parade many of the marchers are from these congregations.

Yes. I'm religious and regularly attend worship. My DW is on church council (and several other committees). While other churches tend to lose their teenagers we've been offering a youth program that draws them in and we now have 3 different youth groups (gr 6-7, 8-9, 10+). I run the youngest one with a co-leader and my DW runs the middle one with 2 co-leaders. So, we're pretty involved.

My congregation certainly has a reputation as being GLBTTQQ friendly and we are officially an Affirming Congregation in the United Church of Canada. But, there are many, many progressive churches around here and many congregations that welcome the GLBT community.

In the annual pride parade here roughly one-third of the groups that march are religious groups of some form. There was also a serious coalition of religious groups that protested when the government dragged their heels on making legislation that would make equal marriage country-wide and acquired intervenor status in order to argue in favour of equality.

I know many people who think of themselves as former Catholics or former Mormons because of this issue (I note these two groups because they were discussed above). But, I also know many current Catholics who are strong supporters of equal marriage and equal rights. (Hey, Jean Chretien (former Canadian Prime Minister) even let himself get ex-communicated over the issue.) I don't know many Mormons, but, I have met some who believed in equal marriage. I just wanted to remind everyone that even when it appears that there is a group opinion there is still a minority within the group that is hard to see.

[Saxton]

I'm heading out to the local protest in a couple minutes. Yesterday it was in the 60's with blue sky, today it's cool and rainy on & off. Right now the sky is getting dark so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the heavy rain holds off. I hope everyone checks in later today with some updates.

[Saxton]

Well, I can report that I officially went to my first protest today! I didn't know if I would be able to make it so I didn't call any friends, I just went on my own. I assumed I would see people I knew there but it was rainy and the ground was getting muddy so I didn't walk around. The crowd was a decent size and I was happy to see a few straight couples with their kids. Cars driving by kept beeping their horns and shouting support. There were a few speakers, some signs and a lot of chanting in unison. One speaker is our local NY State Assemblyman (Sam Hoyt) and he talked about how he and Danny O'Donnell (Rosie's brother) co-sponsored a marriage bill a few years ago but it was shot down by the Republican majority. He promised that now that the Democrats are in charge they will get the bill passed! The crowd went crazy. He also talked about officiating at the commitment ceremony for his sister and her partner and how emotional it was for him.


As I was standing there looking around I saw two women huddled under a Mickey & Minnie umbrella and I thought of all of you. Then I thought of all the other people protesting all across the country at exactly the same time, it was a powerful feeling. Truthfully, I'm quiet and introverted but this whole election debacle has made me angry and motivated me. I plan to continue to be involved and do anything I can to give us equal rights. This is our time!!

[DVCajun]

Well, I can report that I officially went to my first protest today! I didn't know if I would be able to make it so I didn't call any friends, I just went on my own. I assumed I would see people I knew there but it was rainy and the ground was getting muddy so I didn't walk around. The crowd was a decent size and I was happy to see a few straight couples with their kids. Cars driving by kept beeping their horns and shouting support. There were a few speakers, some signs and a lot of chanting in unison. One speaker is our local NY State Assemblyman (Sam Hoyt) and he talked about how he and Danny O'Donnell (Rosie's brother) co-sponsored a marriage bill a few years ago but it was shot down by the Republican majority. He promised that now that the Democrats are in charge they will get the bill passed! The crowd went crazy. He also talked about officiating and the commitment ceremony for his sister and her partner and how emotional it was for him.


As I was standing there looking around I saw two women huddled under a Mickey & Minnie umbrella and I thought of all of you. Then I thought of all the other people protesting all across the country at exactly the same time, it was a powerful feeling. Truthfully, I'm quiet and introverted but this whole election debacle has made me angry and motivated me. I plan to continue to be involved and do anything I can to give us equal rights. This is our time!!

This was such an encouraging post! :goodvibes Thanks for sharing!

[Uncle Remus]

This was such an encouraging post! :goodvibes Thanks for sharing!


Yes, it was, I'm anxious to hear some more.

Thanks Sue. :goodvibes

[Saxton]

I was expecting some anti-protestors but it really was all positive. I hope some other folks post about the protests in their cities and I hope we keep using this thread as a clearing house for information.

[TuckandStuiesMom]

Good for you, Sue. There was a protest in Phoenix yesterday but I was unable to attend.

[DVC~OKW~96]

My wife and I have just returned home. We attended the protest 8/2 rally at City Hall in downtown Orlando.

Beautiful people! Inspirational speakers sharing their experiences fighting against the legislation of hatred. GREAT signs!!!!

I have to say Mayor Buddy Dyer and the City Council are supportive of our lives, and our needs. The Orlando City council voted to have domestic partnership benefits extended to same gendered couples. The vote was unanimous. (Did I spell that right).

Commissioner Patty Sheehan, a lesbian spoke and did she speak. She was forthright, pulled no punches and made it clear that not every one who is elected to office is only concerned about getting re-elected. The woman is fearless.

There was at one point a small group of the religious right (reported...I didn't see them as we were standing on the steps of City Hall) across the street. However, our people took the four corners and had cheers going, horns blowing and pure love for ALL ruled the day. There was no violence, no hatred spoken, no ugliness. It was as it should be. Honest, truthful and very dedicated.

Anger and rage were present, but displayed in the signs, in the speakers comments. No obscenities were spoken, simple acknowlegement of the fact that the constitution of these United States cannot and will not be violated in such a manner. A righteous, healthy anger. It feels good.

HRC was there. Equality Florida was there. Impact was there. ACLU was there. Clergy (supportive) were there. No on 2 volunteers were there... and on and on...


I took a zillion photos, but not sure if I'll be able to post them here. We'll see.

We're pretty beat, so I'll close for now but I'll add more later.

We are not going to rest you know. Just in case anyone thinks it's over. It's not. It won't be over until all Americans have the same rights, the same privileges, and are governed by the same laws.

[DVC~OKW~96]

There was music playing as the group gathered. The song that actually kicked off the Protest Rally was this one. How perfect. If you've never heard it, you can find it on youtube with no effort.

Proud
Heather Small


I look into the window of my mind
Reflections of the fears I know I've left behind
I step out of the ordinary
I can feel my soul ascending
I am on my way
Can't stop me now
And you can do the same
What have you done today to make you feel proud?
It's never too late to try
What have you done today to make you feel proud?
You could be so many people
If you make that break for freedom
What have you done today to make you feel proud?
Still so many answers I don't know
Realise that to question is how we grow
So I step out of the ordinary
I can feel my soul ascending
I am on my way
Can't stop me now
And you can do the same
What have you done today to make you feel proud?
It's never too late to try
What have you done today to make you feel proud?
You could be so many people
If you make that break for freedom
What have you done today to make you feel proud?
We need a change
Do it today
I can feel my spirit rising
We need a change
So do it today
'Cause I can see a clear horizon
What have you done today to make you feel proud?
So what have you done today to make you feel proud?
'Cause you could be so many people
If you make that break for freedom
So what have you done today to make you feel proud?
What have you done today to make you feel proud?
What have you done today
You could be so many people?
Just make that break for freedom
So what have you done today to make you feel proud?

[hematite153]

Thanks for reporting on the protests. It sounds like people are really getting motivated and it's great to hear about the politicians who a supportive and prepared to fight-the-fight.

[DVC~OKW~96]

I cannot tell you how clearly that message was sent today. This is the beginning of the end for hate legislation. More people than you or I could honestly have imagined are galvanized by the injustice of what has happened.

It's really gone too far, the intolerance and the hatred. Too many people have been hurt. True diversity is the clarion call.

Old adage said today, but true. A battle may have been lost, the the war is on and that we SHALL win.

[rpmdfw]

I was there, too!

It was very cool.

I was there with one gay friend and THREE CSPs! (They rock!)

There were quite a few CSPs in attendance today. We can't do it without them, and they're ready to stand up for our rights.

As DVC-OKW mentioned, there were many groups in attendance. The P-Flag mom who was afraid to speak in public was on of my particular favorites.

I'm hoping to have a couple pictures to post as well. Have to see how they turn out.

Best signs of the day:

"Let Joe Six Pack Marry Joe the Plumber"

"I Can See Gay Marriage From My House!" (with a caracature of Sarah Palin)

A picture of a dog with a thought bubble that read, "Let My Daddies Get Married!"

I'm so glad we went!

[DVC~OKW~96]

The signs were great weren't they? :teeth:

"STOP GAY SEX!!! ALLOW US TO MARRY!!" That one really cracked us up!

Yes, the PFLAG Mom was great. So was Patty. I liked the Cuban Gay RC priest in the end too. I don't know how many more descriptives he could have gotten into his "title." :teeth:

It was great that the rain never happened. Looked a little cloudy at one point, but then it cleared up.

[OrlandoMike]

You guys rock! Sorry...for once I should have called in "sick"!

[Uncle Remus]

I cannot tell you how clearly that message was sent today. This is the beginning of the end for hate legislation. More people than you or I could honestly have imagined are galvanized by the injustice of what has happened.

It's really gone too far, the intolerance and the hatred. Too many people have been hurt. True diversity is the clarion call.

Old adage said today, but true. A battle may have been lost, the the war is on and that we SHALL win.

"Giant"

You tried to hold us down
You tried to hold us back
You tried to make us wrong
You tried to make us crack

You wanted to see us cry
You wanted to see us leave
You didn't count on the tide
You didn't count on the pride
You didn't count on me

I am a giant
And you will not make me fall
And you will not make me crawl
I am a giant
And I'm not alone
Winds of change have blown
And walls come tumbling down

And I learned from my mistakes
Pick myself up of the floor
I have learned just what it takes
Now I am stronger than before
And we are standing side by side
We are determined now to win
We come too far
And we've got the scares
And we are never going back into the shadows again

I am a giant
And you will not make me fall
And you will not make me crawl
I am a giant
And I'm not alone
Winds of change have blown
How the walls come tumbling down

~Melissa Etheridge

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg245/Kurtz_09/Rights/FighttheH8.jpg

[DVCajun]

The signs were great weren't they? :teeth:

"STOP GAY SEX!!! ALLOW US TO MARRY!!" That one really cracked us up!


:rotfl:

[wallyb]

"STOP GAY SEX!!! ALLOW US TO MARRY!!"

:rotfl: genius! :rotfl:

[rpmdfw]

So, I was reading the Orlando Sentinel coverage of yesterday's protest, and this sidebar caught my eye.

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/orl-poll-amendment-2-111608,0,3746994,post.poll

I'm not going to suggest that everyone respond to this silly poll in favor of gay marriages, mind you.

Just thought I'd bring it to your attention. :thumbsup2

[DVC~OKW~96]

Did you see the news coverage on 13 and 9? We were in the background on the 13 newscast.

Oh, and that lawyer? The one who penned the hate based Amendment 2 (what WAS his name) is quoted as saying "It meant nothing." The gathering yesterday of 500 or more here in Orlando and thousands and thousands of others worldwide meant nothing. Huh. Do tell.

[rpmdfw]

Did you see the news coverage on 13 and 9? We were in the background on the 13 newscast.

Oh, and that lawyer? The one who penned the hate based Amendment 2 (what WAS his name) is quoted as saying "It meant nothing." The gathering yesterday of 500 or more here in Orlando and thousands and thousands of others worldwide meant nothing. Huh. Do tell.

I was in the background on channel 13 (for a split-second) too!

Organizers and police estimate over 1000 people yesterday at Orlando City Hall! :yay:

It doesn't matter that you don't rememer his name. History sure wont remember him.

And it may not mean anything to him now. But it will. ::yes::

[kingLouiethe1]

"It meant nothing" is the stupid sentiment of a small man that's afraid of what he's unleashed.

It means a lot, and now that we have an administration in the white house that says it's going to be receptive to us, we need to make a lot of noise and hold them to that.

I went to the Downtown LA protest and we had between 12 and 15,000. Police were expecting as many as 40,000, but the big news in So Cal right now is brushfires.

The valley was pretty much cut off due to wildfires, so that is a big chunk of the public that couldn't make it to the protest.

I will post pictures soon, I need to get them off the camera. They aren't very good pictures, I coudn't stand the thought of trying to make my way out into the middle of that crowd.

[DVC~OKW~96]

Tongue in cheek, Rob (on the name thang). ;) Yep, gotta love those Channel 13 cameras! Move fast don't they? :teeth:

Yes, KingLouie1, I saw the reports of the fires. I knew it would have an impact on the attendance and the coverage, but that is definitely to be expected.

I have photos, but have never posted to the DIS, so am not sure how to go about it. :confused3

[mmmbop]

Our protest was quite small, but it was a terribly rainy day. Glad to hear about the great turnouts you all had though!

[DVC~OKW~96]

Hey. You had one. You were there. :hug: THAT's what matters.

[Saxton]

Three local tv stations and the newspaper all ignored us. I know that it's been covered on the national media but I was really hoping to see something locally. Here are a couple pictures that I took. I couldn't get any pictures of the speakers, just a few crowd shots.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3223/3033578702_13a8fa7214.jpg?v=0

This one shows how close we were to the street. It's a popular area with lots of shops & restaurants so we were very visible.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3282/3032735425_3c2946926f.jpg?v=0

[DVC~OKW~96]

The media has been suspiciously quiet world wide, quite frankly. There is some sporadic reporting (here in Orlando and other places) but nothing what the event, the turnout and the meaning is worth.

That's ok. "The Media" is not the defining entity of this world, as much as "they" may like to think they are. The internet is a powerful tool, and will be used to spread the news, the word, and the need.

"Can't stop me now..."

[Uncle Remus]

I was quite shocked and pleased at the same time when one of the local stations out of Dallas featured the protest as the second story on 3 of it's broadcasts. Dallas also has the added bonus that the Baptist church downtown has posted it's 'gay sermon' on their sign outside for the last 2 weeks. Last week was It's Not OK to be Gay and this week was What to Say to Someone Who is Gay. So there has been a peaceful protest outside the church too with some news coverage about it.

[hematite153]

The media has been suspiciously quiet world wide, quite frankly.

I don't know, I think it's making international press:

Canada (http://www.cbc.ca/world/story/2008/11/15/samesex-us.html)
Australia (http://www.theage.com.au/world/gay-rights-anger-goes-nationwide-20081116-683l.html)
Taiwan (http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/world/archives/2008/11/17/2003428885)

But, American politicians rarely care about international press, and American press tends to report oddly on international press. (The number of times I've encountered Americans who thought that Canadians liked Bush--either of them--has really floored me.)

[Saxton]

I was just looking at Obama's transition website and he's updated his agenda with additional items for our community. It's much larger than it originally was. I have hope that he hears our voices. Here's the link:

http://www.change.gov/agenda/civil_rights_agenda/

And here is the item that really caught my attention:

Support Full Civil Unions and Federal Rights for LGBT Couples: Barack Obama supports full civil unions that give same-sex couples legal rights and privileges equal to those of married couples. Obama also believes we need to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act and enact legislation that would ensure that the 1,100+ federal legal rights and benefits currently provided on the basis of marital status are extended to same-sex couples in civil unions and other legally-recognized unions. These rights and benefits include the right to assist a loved one in times of emergency, the right to equal health insurance and other employment benefits, and property rights.

[OrlandoMike]

Support Full Civil Unions and Federal Rights for LGBT Couples: Barack Obama supports full civil unions that give same-sex couples legal rights and privileges equal to those of married couples. Obama also believes we need to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act and enact legislation that would ensure that the 1,100+ federal legal rights and benefits currently provided on the basis of marital status are extended to same-sex couples in civil unions and other legally-recognized unions. These rights and benefits include the right to assist a loved one in times of emergency, the right to equal health insurance and other employment benefits, and property rights.


He has to be careful in his first term, they all do, they have to run again in four years, but I can live with this for now.....

[DVC~OKW~96]

Yes, I didn't mean to imply that there wasn't news coverage, I'm just saying (and have discussed same with many) that there isn't the amount that the event warrants.

Thank you for the Obama update. Yes, he does have to be concerned with re-election, but just imagine the guaranteed votes he'd get if he did work to overturn the hate legislation. That is not an insignificant factor. :)

I like the fact that he has that information up. I too, can live with first steps. But we must keep stepping forward. :)

[hematite153]

Yes, I didn't mean to imply that there wasn't news coverage, I'm just saying (and have discussed same with many) that there isn't the amount that the event warrants.


From my perspective, if you're making international press, you've done well--it's not like we actually pay attention to everything that happens in every country all the time.

Overall, I think it's great that you're going to these protests and that change will come.

[OrlandoMike]

I have photos, but have never posted to the DIS, so am not sure how to go about it. :confused3

You have a friend help you! :thumbsup2

http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd268/Orlandomike4/IMG_1529.jpg



http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd268/Orlandomike4/IMG_1531.jpg

http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd268/Orlandomike4/IMG_1498-1.jpg

http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd268/Orlandomike4/IMG_1509.jpg

[DVC~OKW~96]

Thanks OrlandoMike!!!

[jamieandben]

PROP 8 protest pics from Charlotte NC
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd85/mickeyjamie/IMG_0791.jpg
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd85/mickeyjamie/IMG_0789.jpg
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd85/mickeyjamie/IMG_0788.jpg
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd85/mickeyjamie/IMG_0790.jpg
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd85/mickeyjamie/IMG_0786.jpg

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

I was quite shocked and pleased at the same time when one of the local stations out of Dallas featured the protest as the second story on 3 of it's broadcasts. Dallas also has the added bonus that the Baptist church downtown has posted it's 'gay sermon' on their sign outside for the last 2 weeks. Last week was It's Not OK to be Gay and this week was What to Say to Someone Who is Gay. So there has been a peaceful protest outside the church too with some news coverage about it.

I only caught bits and pieces of news this weekend. I was on 24 hour duty from Sat. AM to Sunday PM with the 2-year-old that I nanny. While she probably would have taken a protest in stride, I didn't have permission to take her to one. Besides, I don't know if I would have had the energy to take her. I am getting too old for 24 hour duty! :rotfl2:

I did hear on the news last night that there were protests in multiple cities (San Antonio, Houston, and Austin) but they didn't mention Dallas. Odd.

I think there was something about the church last night but I was more asleep than awake when it was on.

I am glad Obama has added some info to the website, and I sincerely hope he is able to move this country forward.

[rosiep]

I didn't make this weekends protest but Zena did. She said the park blocks in Portland were packed. :hug:

[wallyb]

Over 4000 showed up in Boston :) - In the pouring cold rain :sad2:

[kingLouiethe1]

Sorry guys, I got pulled in to jury duty this week, and the stupid judge won't let me surf the net :mad:

But as promised, here are some pix from the protest. My sis took most of them, I got there a little later, and they don't really show the scope, there was so many people we just stuck to the edge of the protest since neither one of us likes crowds all that much.

Also we had a spot in the shade, and we needed it since it was in the low 90's on Saturday. We are considering driving up to Sacramento on Saturday for what promises to be a huge protest, but it's like an 8 hour drive. We will see!

http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/1.jpg
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/2.jpg
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/3.jpg
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/4.jpg
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/5.jpg
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/6.jpg
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk14/bibi_79/Protest/7.jpg

[DVCajun]

Love the pics, thanks for sharing! :goodvibes

Have to point out tho, that the quote "nothing is more terrible than ignorance in action" was inaccurately attributed to Abraham Lincoln instead of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

I'm just saying. :rolleyes:

[DVC~OKW~96]

Nope, that's ok. I wasn't going to ruin his day though. :) He was pretty stressed as it was.

Quite often I see quotes attributed to "The Bible" when they are Milton. :teeth:

Gotta love it, eh?

[jenn&nelsonrego]

You have a friend help you! :thumbsup2


http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd268/Orlandomike4/IMG_1531.jpg



I don't know who this picture belongs to, but can I steal it for my signature? I LOVE it! :love:

[rpmdfw]

http://daywithoutagay.org/Images/Index_splash2.gif
The folks at JoinTheImpact.com, who organized the nationwide protests last week, are planning another nationwide event for December 10th!

It's called "A Day Without a Gay (http://daywithoutagay.org/)".

The premise is simple. For one day, GLBT folks and their straight allies don't participate in the economy. Call in sick, and don't spend money (or spend only at gay-owned or gay friendly businesses.)

Rather that sitting around the house, they're encouraging people to get out and volunteer in their communities.

It's hoped that Day Without a Gay sends the message that GLBT people not only participate in the U.S. Economy, but also care about the community. We have a lot to give, both financially, and socially. This is a way to demonstrate that.

Can't call in sick that day? The website also lists ways for people who have to work that day to make an impact.

I'm not sure yet whether I'll be able to get off of work that day myself, but thought I'd spread the word.

[DVC~OKW~96]

Thanks for the info. I'll check my schedule, but calling in is rarely an option. :(

I will do something though, something that will matter.

[DVC~OKW~96]

Oooops, meant to say that photo was originally taken by me.

Feel free to use it! It's all in the name of making a point, eh? :teeth:

[rpmdfw]

Thanks for the info. I'll check my schedule, but calling in is rarely an option. :(

I will do something though, something that will matter.

I'm kind of in the same boat.

But the "Things to do if you can't call in sick" list started with "Spread the Word", so that's what I'm doing.

And I figure that even if I can't call in sick that day, I can still work it so that I don't SPEND any money. And then perhaps Scott and could have dinner at a gay-owned restaurant over on Mills Avenue that night. (The Funky Monkey Wine Company is gay-owned, isn't it? Been meaning to try it . . . might be a good time)

[jenn&nelsonrego]

I'm kind of in the same boat.

But the "Things to do if you can't call in sick" list started with "Spread the Word", so that's what I'm doing.

And I figure that even if I can't call in sick that day, I can still work it so that I don't SPEND any money. And then perhaps Scott and could have dinner at a gay-owned restaurant over on Mills Avenue that night. (The Funky Monkey Wine Company is gay-owned, isn't it? Been meaning to try it . . . might be a good time)

Any idea where I might find a "list" of gay owned/ CSP owned establishments in my area. Is there a list for this???? ;)

I have the HRC handbook, but that doesn't list the local stuff....

[OrlandoMike]

Read your local gay newspaper, Watermark here in Orlando, is Bay Windows still publishing in Boston?

Anyplace that advertises in those papers is probably a safe bet that night!

[rpmdfw]

You might also check Gayellow Pages

http://gayellowpages.com/webplx.htm

[jenn&nelsonrego]

Gayellow Pages



NICE! :thumbsup2

Thanks!

[OrlandoMike]

I'm kind of in the same boat.



Rob, just saw on TV that Annie is comming to the area on that date. Doesn't get much gayer than that! :lmao:

[rpmdfw]

Rob, just saw on TV that Annie is comming to the area on that date. Doesn't get much gayer than that! :lmao:

:scared1:

Run!

Run now!


That musical is insidiously evil!

And now, I'll be singing the songs all day, dammit! The score is so catchy! And syrupy sweet! Blech.

While we're discussing musicals, though. We went with friends to the Avenue Q themed karaoke (Mary-oke actually) at Hamburger Mary's last night. They do karaoke every Wednesday hosted by Dame Edna, and last night's was AveQ themed with tickets to the upcoming touring production as grand price. Our friend WON! She sang both parts of "The Internet is for Porn" with a puppet. Freaking histerical!

[OrlandoMike]

Your son will come out....tomorrow.....:rolleyes1



:rotfl2:

[rpmdfw]

Your son will come out....tomorrow.....:rolleyes1



:rotfl2:

Hey now! No "gaying up the lyrics" of Annie!

Otherwise "It's a Hard Knock Life" should never be sung by orphans!:eek:

[OrlandoMike]

Easy Street......:confused3

We could start a whole new thread! :lmao:

[rpmdfw]

Easy Street......:confused3

We could start a whole new thread! :lmao:

We could get into all kinds of trouble and get points, too! :rotfl2:

[jenn&nelsonrego]

We could get into all kinds of trouble and get points, too! :rotfl2:

Oh! My old points expired! :scared1:

I could use some more... ;)

I am going to save them up for a bigger Disney Dollar reward this time! :lmao:

[wallyb]

Rob, just saw on TV that Annie is comming to the area on that date. Doesn't get much gayer than that! :lmao:

Mike - you could try out for Daddy Warbucks!
Same hairdo! :)

[OrlandoMike]

Whatever Miss Hannigan! :sad2:

[wallyb]

Hey now! No "gaying up the lyrics" of Annie!

Otherwise "It's a Hard Knock Life" should never be sung by orphans!:eek:

hummm - what rhymes with knock:scratchin that we could substitute

[rpmdfw]

hummm - what rhymes with knock:scratchin that we could substitute

Frock! It could be a song about finding the right dress!

[wallyb]

Frock! It could be a song about finding the right dress!

Hard frock?

no - something with more umph!

I's a hard _ock life for us. :scratchin

jeepers - it is a puzzlement. :scratchin

[OrlandoMike]

Rock!

Put those little girls on a chain gang! Spice up the show a little!

[jeanigor]

Rock!

Put those little girls on a chain gang! Spice up the show a little!

but isn't that too much like Les Mis?

[wallyb]

Rock!

Put those little girls on a chain gang! Spice up the show a little!

I like the idea-
restage the whole thing.
Now it's set in a gay prison block.
We could cast gay porn stars - they're such good actors already.
The daddy part of Daddy Warbucks takes on a whole new perspective.

But still the prisoner's song :scratchin - It's a hard _ock Life for us.

Hit it! 5 6 7 8 .... :rotfl:
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f241/wallyb3/BXP26239.jpg

[DVC~OKW~96]

I like your alternative ideas. :teeth: Oh, for December 10 I mean, not Annie! :scared:

Well. Wait. I do sort of like the changes to the lyrics ... sort of...

Ummm, I'm gonna' stop now... :upsidedow

[rpmdfw]

I like your alternative ideas. :teeth: Oh, for December 10 I mean, not Annie! :scared:

I've also just realized that it's a Wednesday. Which would mean Mary-oke at Hamburger Mary's. Which is DEFINITELY both gay-owned and gay friendly. Perhaps spend our money there that night. We'd have to figure out a way to park without giving money to the city, though. :scratchin

[DVC~OKW~96]

Pine Street. There are areas of free parking there, and it's a very short walk to Mary's. Get there early though.

I'll be in the air. :( On my way home from SC headed for a critical meeting Thursday morning. I'll make it my goal to not spend any money all week. Hopefully, that will make up a bit for not being able to stay out of work.

It will take some planning, especially since I shouldn't spend extra one week to carry me through, but it will be done!!!

[hematite153]

We'd have to figure out a way to park without giving money to the city, though. :scratchin

You could double up with a fantastic dog walk and just walk from home? After all, if you do call in sick to work, then, you'll have plenty of time to get there.

[hematite153]

Pine Street. There are areas of free parking there, and it's a very short walk to Mary's. Get there early though.


Okay, I guess this will work too.

[DVC~OKW~96]

That would be one HECK of a long walk! Poor Tolliver would have to be carried.

Pine St. is essentially (the portion of it that is smack downtown) a street of deserted/empty buildings with little reason for anyone to park there to conduct business.

So, if they got there early enough, they could potentially snag a spot.

[rpmdfw]

You could double up with a fantastic dog walk and just walk from home? After all, if you do call in sick to work, then, you'll have plenty of time to get there.

Yeah. But it's like 20 minutes from home via the freeway (14 miles). Through a couple of really bad neighborhoods. It'd be one hell of a walk! And then back home at 11pm? :scared1:

And they don't allow dogs into the restaurant.

So we kind of have to leave the dog at home (as much as we hate to) and hop in the car. And since it's downtown, there really aren't any free parking options.

Thus the conundrum.

[hematite153]

Yeah. But it's like 20 minutes from home via the freeway (14 miles). Through a couple of really bad neighborhoods. It'd be one hell of a walk! And then back home at 11pm? :scared1:

That's less than 30 miles round trip! ;)

(The through bad neighbourhoods part is a good reminder for me of why I live in Canada. In the years I lived in the US I never really got used to the idea that there were places I couldn't go. Granted, there are places here that I wouldn't want to go, but, one can still generally walk through them without too much trouble. When I first moved back to Canada I spent 4 years living half-a-block away from one of the "bad areas" so I walked through it all the time and never had a problem.)


And they don't allow dogs into the restaurant.

:( Poor Tolliver!


So we kind of have to leave the dog at home (as much as we hate to) and hop in the car. And since it's downtown, there really aren't any free parking options.

Thus the conundrum.

Well DVC~OKW~96 seems to have a suggestion about free parking. But, where are you going to find a gay-owned gas station that buys their gas from a gay-friendly company?

[rpmdfw]

That's less than 30 miles round trip! ;)

Not walking it's not! :eek: :rotfl2:

But, where are you going to find a gay-owned gas station that buys their gas from a gay-friendly company?

I'm afraid that I'll just have to make sure that neither of us buys gas on that day. We buy gas from Hess or BP. BP has a 100% rating from the HRC. They've got non-discrimination policies covering GLBT issues and offer full benefits to domestic partners of their employees. Hess has a 77% rating from the HRC (they offer the non-discrimination policies, but not the domestic partner benefits). So, for now, that's the best we're going to do for gay-friendly gas stations. And now that I've looked it up, I'll start favoring BP over Hess.

We aleady avoid Mobile stations like the plague after they rescinded their protection and benefit packages.

[hematite153]

I'm afraid that I'll just have to make sure that neither of us buys gas on that day. We buy gas from Hess or BP. BP has a 100% rating from the HRC. They've got non-discrimination policies covering GLBT issues and offer full benefits to domestic partners of their employees. ..

Okay, that's pretty good. I had no idea BP was that good.

My thinking wasn't so much about buying gas, but, about "spending" it during your drive. But, if you purchased it at BP, it sounds like it qualifies.

[DVC~OKW~96]

Yep, we're a BP or Hess family too. :teeth:

[rpmdfw]

Okay, that's pretty good. I had no idea BP was that good.

My thinking wasn't so much about buying gas, but, about "spending" it during your drive. But, if you purchased it at BP, it sounds like it qualifies.

The thing is, even if I were able to take the day off of work and volunteer, we'd have to drive to get there, too. Most of the volunteer stuff for GLBT causes are in or near downtown. We'd be spending that gas, regardless. The only way to minimize the impact would be to buy the gas at BP.

[rpmdfw]

Yep, we're a BP or Hess family too. :teeth:

We started doing BP or Hess because they don't buy Arab oil, but now that I've checked, we've got more reason to stay with what we're already doing. I'll have to make the effort to favor BP now, though.

[DVC~OKW~96]

Same here. Just watch out for some BP stations. The price they post is sometimes cash only and can be higher if you use credit cards. Not a huge issue, but one to be aware of.

[rpmdfw]

Okay, and now I'm hooked. I found the HRC Corporate Equality Index while trying to find out info about BP and Hess.

http://www.hrc.org/issues/workplace/ceihome.asp

This is fascinating. I've been plugging in the names of companies that we routinely buy from.

Target is great. Disney is exceptional. Publix isn't that good. And of course the company where I work is awful. Time to start looking for a new job, I guess. And possibly a new supermarket (or buy groceries from Super Target).

I'm contemplating writing some of these companies to let them know why they'll be losing my business . . . .

[kingLouiethe1]

I'll take the gay day off and go to disneyland!

[rpmdfw]

I'll take the gay day off and go to disneyland!

You're not going to volunteer if you take the day off? :confused3

If I can take the day off, I'll volunteer. ::yes::

It's not "Gay Play Day!" :scared:

[DVC~OKW~96]

Publix is not that good? Yeouch. There is a Publix literally yards from our house.

Well, time to put the money where the mouth is, eh? Super Target isn't all that much further and we do drive every day.

I have looked at the HRC site before, but it was some time ago. Thanks for the link. I'll go refresh my memory and my commitment to the cause.

[Saxton]

I've been checking the Join the Impact site for updates and they're planning another big event:

On December 20th, we ask that you join us again for a nation-wide demonstration that will make an impact on the private sector. Candlelight vigils will be held at commercial centers in cities across the country in remembrance of the rights that once were for 18,000 marriages, and in honor of the rights that one day will be again - for EVERYONE.

They're asking everyone to wear a t-shirts that says "Second Class Citizen". I'm glad to see that we're not sitting by quietly after the first protest. We have to keep the momentum going.

[OrlandoMike]

Interisting update......

Focus on the Family announced this afternoon that 202 jobs will be cut companywide — an estimated 20 percent of its workforce. Initial reports bring the total number of remaining employees to around 950.

Focus on the Family is poised to announce major layoffs to its Colorado Springs-based ministry and media empire today. The cutbacks come just weeks after the group pumped more than half a million dollars into the successful effort to pass a gay-marriage ban in California.

http://coloradoindependent.com/15287/after-pumping-money-into-prop-8-focus-on-the-family-announcing-layoffs

[ConcKahuna]

Interisting update......

Focus on the Family announced this afternoon that 202 jobs will be cut companywide — an estimated 20 percent of its workforce. Initial reports bring the total number of remaining employees to around 950.

Focus on the Family is poised to announce major layoffs to its Colorado Springs-based ministry and media empire today. The cutbacks come just weeks after the group pumped more than half a million dollars into the successful effort to pass a gay-marriage ban in California.

http://coloradoindependent.com/15287/after-pumping-money-into-prop-8-focus-on-the-family-announcing-layoffs

Good, they campaigned themselves to death. :thumbsup2

[DVCajun]

Interisting update......

Focus on the Family announced this afternoon that 202 jobs will be cut companywide — an estimated 20 percent of its workforce. Initial reports bring the total number of remaining employees to around 950.

Focus on the Family is poised to announce major layoffs to its Colorado Springs-based ministry and media empire today. The cutbacks come just weeks after the group pumped more than half a million dollars into the successful effort to pass a gay-marriage ban in California.

http://coloradoindependent.com/15287/after-pumping-money-into-prop-8-focus-on-the-family-announcing-layoffs

karma's a ... um. got edited. oops.

[kingLouiethe1]

Interisting update......

Focus on the Family announced this afternoon that 202 jobs will be cut companywide — an estimated 20 percent of its workforce. Initial reports bring the total number of remaining employees to around 950.

Focus on the Family is poised to announce major layoffs to its Colorado Springs-based ministry and media empire today. The cutbacks come just weeks after the group pumped more than half a million dollars into the successful effort to pass a gay-marriage ban in California.

http://coloradoindependent.com/15287/after-pumping-money-into-prop-8-focus-on-the-family-announcing-layoffs

Focus on Your Own Family :rotfl:

SCHAUDENFREUDE!!

[OrlandoMike]

Not sure I agree with this, but thought I would share the news.....

TALLAHASSEE - Gay rights activists plan to demonstrate outside Gov. Charlie Crist's wedding to Carole Rome this month.

The group Impact-Florida has called on its members to gather in pink T-shirts outside First United Methodist Church of St. Petersburg on Dec.12 to "congratulate" Crist and Rome while their wedding takes place inside. The demonstration will continue outside the wedding reception at the Renaissance Vinoy Resort in downtown St. Petersburg.

"After the positive congratulatory observance, there will be a candlelight vigil close to the [Vinoy] in downtown St. Pete to mourn the loss of gays right to get married," the group's Web site states, referring to a gay marriage ban that passed by ballot initiative in November.

Read more here....

http://suncoastpinellas.tbo.com/content/2008/dec/01/gay-rights-protest-planned-governors-wedding/

[rpmdfw]

Not sure I agree with this, but thought I would share the news.....

TALLAHASSEE - Gay rights activists plan to demonstrate outside Gov. Charlie Crist's wedding to Carole Rome this month.

The group Impact-Florida has called on its members to gather in pink T-shirts outside First United Methodist Church of St. Petersburg on Dec.12 to "congratulate" Crist and Rome while their wedding takes place inside. The demonstration will continue outside the wedding reception at the Renaissance Vinoy Resort in downtown St. Petersburg.

"After the positive congratulatory observance, there will be a candlelight vigil close to the [Vinoy] in downtown St. Pete to mourn the loss of gays right to get married," the group's Web site states, referring to a gay marriage ban that passed by ballot initiative in November.

Read more here....

http://suncoastpinellas.tbo.com/content/2008/dec/01/gay-rights-protest-planned-governors-wedding/

I'm SURE that I dont' agree with this.

I think it's in very poor taste.

[OrlandoMike]

I'm SURE that I dont' agree with this.

I think it's in very poor taste.

Granted, demonstrating at a wedding is in very poor taste, but so is supporting Amendment 2 when you orientation and marriage is very much in question. :confused3

[rpmdfw]

Granted, demonstrating at a wedding is in very poor taste, but so is supporting Amendment 2 when you orientation and marriage is very much in question. :confused3

Yeah. But if we're trying to get the "undecided" portion of straight voters on our side, something like this doesn't help us. All they see is "they're protesting his wedding!".

Not good

[kingLouiethe1]

Yeah. But if we're trying to get the "undecided" portion of straight voters on our side, something like this doesn't help us. All they see is "they're protesting his wedding!".

Not good

Ya, but I'm getting tired of trying to get the " "undecided" portion of straight voters on our side." Trying to reason with people and ask them if they would be kind enough to please give us our rights hasn't worked out so well for us.

The time for nice is past I think. If it's a culture war they want, we'll give them one :scared1:

[rmom50]

Hi! I'm just a sympathizer, but a child of the 60's who has participated in many a march. The louder your voices, the better in my opinion. The boycott list that was linked here on the DIS was very helpful to me too. Do what you have to do in a peaceful manner. My heart is with you. :thumbsup2

[kingLouiethe1]

Hi! I'm just a sympathizer, but a child of the 60's who has participated in many a march. The louder your voices, the better in my opinion. The boycott list that was linked here on the DIS was very helpful to me too. Do what you have to do in a peaceful manner. My heart is with you. :thumbsup2

Ok, I've thought it over, and I now agree with Mike and Rob. There would have to be some pretty compelling reasons for me to protest this guys wedding. I suppose we should respect the "sanctity" of marriage, the irony should be funny if this guy really is marrying his "beard" as Mike suggests.

[OrlandoMike]

Another Florida shocker!


So I'm watching the news tonight, and this little gem of a story comes on.

http://www.wesh.com/news/18197018/detail.html

I find it interesting that in this state millions are being spent keeping gays from marrying and adopting, yet bestiality remains to be legal!:scared1:

And not only is it legal, it cant get enough muster to get passed through the house and senate as a law! :scared1:

Senator Aronberg has pushed to get a beastiality law in the state, and he's been shot down.

He'll support a new attempt this year by Senator Nan Rich out of Sunrise.

Aronberg expects that legislation will also fail. He says even though the crime is shocking, what's more shocking is that the state isn't doing anything about it.

"You're dealing with a lot of legislators from rural North Florida who are worried that the language in this well-intended statute could impinge on their farming or rodeos or other things done in rural areas."
:sad2:

I think I have my sign for the next protest.... "Florida: Beastiality OK, Gays adopting NOT OK!"

[hematite153]

So I'm watching the news tonight, and this little gem of a story comes on.
...
I think I have my sign for the next protest.... "Florida: Beastiality OK, Gays adopting NOT OK!"

:scared1: Sometimes I wonder about that state of yours...it just sounds so unbelievable...I can't be quite certain it's real rather than a nightmare.

[zulemara]

remind me again why I'm moving to FL?

btw found this video on facebook. It gave me a laugh

http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/c0cf508ff8/prop-8-the-musical-starring-jack-black-john-c-reilly-and-many-more-from-fod-team-jack-black-craig-robinson-john-c-reilly-and-rashida-jones

[DVC~OKW~96]

"...or other things done in rural areas..." :scared:

I honestly think I'm going to be ill.

I've been thinking and thinking about the protest of the Governor's wedding.

I have to say, if the protestors are quiet (no chanting, etc.) and do not block the flow of the procession of the Governor and the bride and guests to and from the location of the ceremony (I'm envisioning a well mannered group standing silently to the side) I have to say I think it could be appropriate.

The Governor is a political figure, and our inability to marry is a political issue.

I'd like to hear opinions from those of us who do not think it is a good idea. What am I missing or not taking into consideration?

[OrlandoMike]

I'd like to hear opinions from those of us who do not think it is a good idea. What am I missing or not taking into consideration?


I'm still very much on the fence on this. If it were any other governor, or if he had kept his mouth shut about the issue.... fine. But THIS governor has some baggage in the gay department it seems, and he came out firmly against gay marriage, and is willing to let the Attorney General spend more of our tax dollars to keep gays from adopting....

Sometimes ya gotta say enough is enough!

[DVC~OKW~96]

See? That's all caught up in my thinking too. He's acting irresponsibly at best (as a governor)...

He has been a 'confirmed' bachelor for such a long time... ach. I don't know.

I think I'm leaning more toward a quiet, dignified group gathered to the side in silence... I think it is that sort of dramatic action that needs to happen to make a difference.

He can marry but not all the citizens of the state he governs is allowed the same freedom????

He uses tax dollars to fight gay adoption when mental health services, substance abuse services, child welfare services, child protection services, elder services, vulnerable adult protective services, and HIV/AIDS services go begging and for which funding is being cut (yet again) as we speak?

Priorities are totally skewed. Totally.

[OrlandoMike]

On a lighter note, did you catch the story on Jeb? Seems he may run for Senator, can you say "grooming for a presidential bid"?

I'll pay to get front row when he debates Palin!

"I can see Russia"

"Well I can see Cuba!" :rotfl2:

[rpmdfw]

The local Orlando organization (http://www.oneorlando.org/)that's spearheading the "Light up the Night" event on December 20th had this listing:

Friday December 12
Florida Governor and supporter of Amendment 2, Charlie Crist, will wed Carole Rome in St. Pete. A local protest will take place near the ceremony, and information can be found at "Join the Impact." Suggested statewide local postcard campaign: "Dear Charlie and Carole. Congratulations on the legal recognition of your relationship and the 1,138 associated rights & benefits. We want only the same, Sincerely, _____ & _____."


Personally, I like the idea of sending them a card. Simple. To the point. Lots of impact. Might have to include our wedding photo . . .

[rpmdfw]

See? That's all caught up in my thinking too. He's acting irresponsibly at best (as a governor)...

He has been a 'confirmed' bachelor for such a long time... ach. I don't know.

I think I'm leaning more toward a quiet, dignified group gathered to the side in silence... I think it is that sort of dramatic action that needs to happen to make a difference.

He can marry but not all the citizens of the state he governs is allowed the same freedom????

He uses tax dollars to fight gay adoption when mental health services, substance abuse services, child welfare services, child protection services, elder services, vulnerable adult protective services, and HIV/AIDS services go begging and for which funding is being cut (yet again) as we speak?

Priorities are totally skewed. Totally.


Despite what HE has done, does SHE deserve to have her wedding day disrupted by protests (silent or not)?

That's what people are going to see. They're going to say "oh, that poor woman, they paraded political issues during a protest at her wedding"

I don't see how that helps sway people to our cause. I think it will reflect badly on the Equal Marriage movement

[DVC~OKW~96]

Yes, Rob. That (sending a card) is an excellent and dignified thing to do.

We can do that too.

[DVC~OKW~96]

You have a point, but I'm going to "default" to the fact that she's marrying a political public figure...

It's a very difficult decision for me, and it's not like I could go even if I decided to... family obligations take precedent, but I'm not going to hide behind my inability to go and forego tormenting myself over determining whether or not I find it to be the right thing to do.

I guess, right now for the most part, I think a peaceful protest is more acceptable than not.

I guess that if I could legally marry my wife, I'd be so darn happy I wouldn't care who protested. Perhaps her joy will carry her through too...:confused3

[rpmdfw]

You have a point, but I'm going to "default" to the fact that she's marrying a political public figure...

It's a very difficult decision for me, and it's not like I could go even if I decided to... family obligations take precedent, but I'm not going to hide behind my inability to go and forego tormenting myself over determining whether or not I find it to be the right thing to do.

I guess, right now for the most part, I think a peaceful protest is more acceptable than not.

I guess that if I could legally marry my wife, I'd be so darn happy I wouldn't care who protested. Perhaps her joy will carry her through too...:confused3


I really don't care if her joy carries her through or not.

We're playing a public relations game. We have to "sell" gay marriage rights to those who voted against it, or who simply didn't vote.

In order to do that, they have to identify and sympathize with us.

It's too easy for those who oppose us to twist this planned protest to their own ends and make it into a PR nightmare for all of us working for marriage equality, not just those who are actually there.

I fear that the "court of public opinion" will judge all of us very harshly for protesting a wedding, regardless of who the groom is.

Just my thoughts on it . . .

[OrlandoMike]

Despite what HE has done, does SHE deserve to have her wedding day disrupted by protests (silent or not)?

God knows her honeymoon is going to be bad enough! :rotfl2:

Sorry! :sad2: Couldn't resist!

[OrlandoMike]

I fear that the "court of public opinion"

Well one way I look at this is public opinion shouldn't matter. What was the public opinion when Loving v. Virgina passed? :confused3

It's pretty obvious, we didn't get anywhere this past election day on "public opinion".

[DVC~OKW~96]

:rotfl: :rotfl:

Yes, Rob and I thank you for being willing to share them! I do understand what you are saying, but I think that lack of response is what contributed to things working out the way they did.

We needed more visibility, more refutation of the lies, more clout to stop the cheating (bad signatures, improper use of funds, etc.).

I think by selectively protesting a few key marriages, we could make a very powerful point.

I'm sure the African Americans who walked into the diner and sat for service were told not to do that too. Their dignified, peaceful 'protest' of discrimination garnered them more sympathy than they realized at the time.

If there is a peaceful and quiet group/showing/protest of the wedding and reception, some people will be offended, some may even be outraged, and some may react badly. That can also serve to raise awareness in those who are unaware, and demonstrate to others that discrimination costs everyone...

Uk. I'm going on and that's not remotely important here.

Suffice to say, I find your position valid and 'supportable.' However, I believe the time for some dramatic action is upon us. Well thought out, well controlled, but the time is now. Sometimes you simply need to go with keeping the focus on the issue; staying in the public eye...

We'll just have to see how it goes.

[DVCajun]

One thing I have always found remarkable is the gay community's lack of retaliation with like versus like behavior. For example, when Jesse Helms passed, his funeral was not picketed by haters -- unlike the funerals of so many gays have been. I'm not saying that Helms personally picketed a gay funeral, but his behavior and public statements certainly encouraged others to do so. In other instances, such as when there were laws passed against them, the gay community's behavior has been similarly restrained.

The reaction after Prop 8 has been an exception to this rule, and I think that's due to years of pent up reaction. Unfortunately, some people people took it too far, and made themselves into a public spectacle.

Here's a question-- has the gay community been given recognition for being such wonderful, upstanding citizens? Has their maturity and restraint paid off in public opinion? Surely I wasn't the only person in the USA to notice the obvious differences in behavior between the Haters and the Hated.

Ok, so that was actually a rhetorical question. The answer is obvious. NO it has NOT paid off. Hard to say if it has even been noticed at all, but needless to say, acknowledgment and reward are not coming our way.

I think something has changed in the hearts of our community. We are tired of playing nice while getting stepped on. Playing nice is QUIET, and it gets no results.

Rob, it's certainly sweet of you to think of the bride on her special day. But guess what. She voted against your rights (I think in this case that's a pretty safe bet). She's marrying a man who publicly stomped on your rights. If picketers show up at their wedding, that's karma. I think all straight weddings should be picketed, personally. Then, perhaps the reality of injustice would penetrate the ignorance.

[DVC~OKW~96]

Eeee! Eeeeee! EEEE! 'Cajun! I had this very conversation last evening!

I have to agree with you. I did say that I felt that more than just the governors wedding should be a site of silent protest.

High profile weddings and those of Joe the Plumber and Joe Sixpack should be included too.

Yes, we have always - ALWAYS been dignified and responsible in our acceptance of discrimination. I would hold onto the dignity, and the responsibility but stop being quiet. Enough. It's time to show that we do care about how we are treated. It's time to show that our boring lives are not a thread to opposite gendered couples. We are who and what we are, we exist, we pay taxes, we are educated, we are self supporting, we help our communities, and we are decent law abiding people. Enough of the "deviant life style crap."

Ugh. I'm truly going to try and shut up now, but I have to say, with a little more time to think, I'm coming down on the side of agreeing to show protest at the governor's wedding.

[OrlandoMike]

I just spent a good 30 minutes reading different blogs on the Internet concerning this subject. The general consensus falls on Rob's side. The anti gay marriage people think it's an awful thing to do, to protest this wedding. Are we surprised? With 9 days left till this "blessed event" I am still very much on the fence. But if anything, it may get the word out that Crist does have a questionable past. I'm not too concerned about the bride. I mean really, she must know what she is getting into! Can you imagine the beads of sweat that will roll down the back of her neck when the minister asks "Does anyone have any reason that these two should not be lawfully married?"

I envision the caterer, the organist, and the florist all standing in the back of the church with duct tape over their mouths! :lmao:

It will be interesting to see how this whole thing plays out in the media.

[rpmdfw]

Rob, it's certainly sweet of you to think of the bride on her special day. But guess what. She voted against your rights (I think in this case that's a pretty safe bet). She's marrying a man who publicly stomped on your rights. If picketers show up at their wedding, that's karma. I think all straight weddings should be picketed, personally. Then, perhaps the reality of injustice would penetrate the ignorance.

Again, I don't give a good gosh darn about her or her special day. I'm worried about how the spin-doctors on the other side will make us look bad for protesting a wedding.

I get what all of you are saying. I'm advocating that we choose our battles wisely, and this doesn't seem like a wise choice to me, that's all.

Not that my opinion is going to mean diddly squat to those folks who are planning to go and protest.

I just don't see how it can possibly reflect well on our community or the marriage equality movement.

[Uncle Remus]

Well one way I look at this is public opinion shouldn't matter. What was the public opinion when Loving v. Virgina passed? :confused3

It's pretty obvious, we didn't get anywhere this past election day on "public opinion".

This sums it up for me, I understand the wanting others to "want" equal rights for ALL Americans and human rights for ALL humans worldwide, but I'm not so sure we wouldn't have legal interracial mariages had it not been for Loving v Virginia since we still live in a bigoted country and world.

[OrlandoMike]

So this brings up another question. Which way do you think this should be handled? I think we may have to fight this out in the courts, much like they did in Loving v. Virginia. Peacefull protests may help, but it's pretty obvious putting our rights up for a vote is not working.

[hematite153]

So this brings up another question. Which way do you think this should be handled? I think we may have to fight this out in the courts, much like they did in Loving v. Virginia. Peacefull protests may help, but it's pretty obvious putting our rights up for a vote is not working.

Yep. I agree. If the courts analyze the situation and say, "hey, this isn't really a legal definition" then people start to wake up.

It happened/worked here anyway. There are still people who argue that it's wrong, but, they know that nobody really cares what they think.

[kingLouiethe1]

I still disagree with Rob on this. If we rescued orphans from a burning building, those people that think homosexuality is a sin would still call us hero sodomites. I think we are going to have to be obnoxious and visible and demand our rights whether they like it or not.At this point I think the courts are going to be our best chance.

[Uncle Remus]

So this brings up another question. Which way do you think this should be handled? I think we may have to fight this out in the courts, much like they did in Loving v. Virginia. Peacefull protests may help, but it's pretty obvious putting our rights up for a vote is not working.

This is definitely a case for the courts, we can't let people relegate second class citizenship to a minority because they have a right to vote. They've fought what they call the activist judges ruling under the guise that it's not the people's will yet the function of courts is to administer justice and equity. When equal rights and status for gays and lesbians is reduced to a civil right under the 14th amendment, they will have to be honest and state that gays and lesbians aren't equal because they're not like "us." This isn't about redefining marriage or whether or not gays and lesbians make good soldiers. It's about being taxpaying law abiding citizens with NO VOICE in government. And we're Americans, that's what pisses me off.

[zulemara]

On a lighter note, did you catch the story on Jeb? Seems he may run for Senator, can you say "grooming for a presidential bid"?

I'll pay to get front row when he debates Palin!

"I can see Russia"

"Well I can see Cuba!" :rotfl2:
:rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

[DVC~OKW~96]

For the love of christ on a crutch the last thing we need is Jebbie running the country.

We couldn't be that tragic could we; to elect THREE Bushes to the presidency?

[OrlandoMike]

Ladies and Gentlemen...I give you the great Pat Boone! :sad2:


"Pretty rotten thing that happened in Mumbai, huh?

Grand old hotel, in an increasingly progressive and prosperous India: Suddenly, hundreds of innocent, unsuspecting people are hostages, some of them being systematically murdered. Bombs are exploding, people are screaming, military are descending into the chaos, TV crews are coming from everywhere to broadcast the carnage worldwide.

When the dust begins to settle after many horrifying hours, the body count has reached nearly 200, and many more are injured and emotionally scarred for the rest of their lives.
Thank God, it couldn't happen here. Could it?

Look around. Watch your evening news. Read your newspaper.

Are you unaware of the raging demonstrations in our streets, in front of our churches and synagogues, even spilling into these places of worship, and many of these riots turning defamatory and violent? Have you not seen the angry distorted faces of the rioters, seen their derogatory and threatening placards and signs, heard their vows to overturn the democratically expressed views of voters, no matter what it costs, no matter what was expressed at the polls? Twice?

I refer to California's Proposition 8."

http://www.worldnetdaily.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=82830

Who is this guy? The modern day Anita Bryant? :confused3

[DVC~OKW~96]

Yes. Yes he is. And what a lying pig he is.

Hopefully, most people will read that and think, "Huh? Where? I'm not seeing any of that in my home town or on television..."

OK EVERYONE!!! LISTEN UP!!! NO WHITE BUC SHOES ALLOWED EVER AGAIN!!!!

[OrlandoMike]

OK EVERYONE!!! LISTEN UP!!! NO WHITE BUC SHOES ALLOWED EVER AGAIN!!!!

Unless you are marching in the most honored drum and bugle corps in the world......... in the Inagural parade! :thumbsup2

[kingLouiethe1]

I am so tired of all these crazy people being given a platform.

I'm crazy too! Where's my platform :mad:

[DVC~OKW~96]

Okay, O'Mike. I'll give you that one. :thumbsup2

I'm with you King. Anyone who can manage to stuff their stupid face in front of a camera is out there spewing their ignorance.

I mean, seriously. When was the last time you heard a word from Pat Boone? I thought he was freaking dead for g-d sake. :sad2: