I’m sure all would agree that with the election of Barack Obama, this week
has been one of amazing wins in the world of equality! Still,
Tuesday night was one of bitter-sweet celebration, as we came together
to witness the first black man who will become our president, and
watched in sadness as Florida, Arizona, Arkansas, and California all
voted down equal rights for all citizens. Pendants and bloggers
alike have put their focus on Proposition 8, trying hard to find an
explanation for the anti-gay wins in the face of a huge pro-equality
event. Some have blamed the voters, others blame religious
groups, and even others blame the LGBTQ community for not being able to
mobilize on a larger enough scale. And you know what, there is
truth in every argument.
As a community, we have to admit to the fact that we are polarized
in various ways. Honestly, I’m not sure what community isn’t and
I believe that our polarization is proof to our humanity – we are no
different than anyone else, regardless of color, creed, or sexual
orientation. Still, our polarization has hindered us from
mobalizing as one strong voice. We all come together in the month
of June to celebrate Gay Pride, but few of us are even aware of why Gay
Pride exists. Gay Pride is a celebration to commemorate the Stonewall Riots of 1969.
Many say that the Gay Rights Movement began in 1969, which means that
we are still a young movement and have accomplished a great deal in
such a short amount of time. The generation that fought for us in
1969 deserves our gratitude and respect. This is a generation of
amazing people who fought for our ability to hold hands in the street,
to speak out against hate, to dance to our own “thumpa thump”, witness
television shows with a queer cast, and come together in the streets
celebrating for an entire month! This is the generation that
opened the doors for us to even have a conversation about gay marriage,
and this is the generation that deserves our help and our voices
now. On June 27th, 1969, this generation came together in
protest, jumping from closets, taking to the streets, and mobilizing in
ways this country had never seen before! And what happened?
The country was forced to respond. The Queer identity was forced
onto the front pages and coffee tables of people’s worlds and people
had to once and for all accept that we are human too!
Now, almost 40 years later we NEED to come together again. We
need to show this nation that we are ONE LOUD VOICE THAT DEMANDS TO BE
HEARD! We need to be one organized unit. Our gay pride shouldn’t
be something we celebrate one month out of the year. Our
gratitude towards the ones who came before us shouldn’t be ignored and
wasted away with one party after another. We beg to be given a
right that requires responsibility and commitment, yet we, as one
strong community, have not proven to this nation that we deserve to be
taken seriously! The gay pride parade has become a great party,
but it has lost the memory of Stonewall and therefor given the nation
another reason to cast us aside as irresponsible. It’s time we
come together for debate, for public recognition, and for LOVE!
Let’s move as one full unit, on the same day, at the same hour, and
let’s show the United States of America that we too are UNITED CITIZENS
EQAUL IN MIND, BODY, SPIRIT AND DESERVING OF FULL EQUALITY UNDER THE
LAW!
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!
321 Responses
Hey, could you email me at tusk79@hotmail.com? I have something I wanted to share with you about protesting in Washington, DC that I would rather not post on your site.
Thanks,
Tusk
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 12:44 am
Sign the petition demanding marriage rights and equal protection under the law. Be a part of the march on Washington, D.C.
http://www.meansofequality.org
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 12:50 am
HOUSTON, TEXAS Protest Info.
We’re on for November 15th.
Check here for updates: http://fighth8.airexposure.com
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 1:10 am
Hello. I tried to post earlier, but had some technical difficulty and don’t know that you received my post. I’m glad to hear about the protests and am passing the word. As well I’ve written an article on eHow.com to help promote your equal rights effort.
http://www.ehow.com/how_4591813_join-national-rally-protest-propostion.html
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:12 am
Stay strong brothers and sisters! We will win this fight on a national level!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:33 am
yes on prop 8!!!!!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:46 am
How can we help from abroad (Brazil)?
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 4:31 am
I live in Richmond, VA I see info that there is a protest but need more details. I can spread the word to many, many people. What time, where, etc. Thanks.
rehobde@hotmail.com
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 4:50 am
RE: Detroit Protest
The correct location for Detroit’s City Hall is:
Coleman A. Young Municipal Center
2 Woodward Ave.
Detroit MI
(Human Rights Dept. is Suite #1026)
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 6:46 am
I don’t know if this is the right place to do so, but has anyone organized anything in the Lansing/East Lansing, MI area? If not, please email me at pettydus@msu.edu so something can be hopefully set up.
Blessings!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 6:51 am
Is anyone doing anything in Tampa, FL? I would like to be invovlved. I may not be able to physically go depending on the time, but I can help promote or whatever you need. Pls post something. I’ll be checking back.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 7:02 am
I was just re-checking the website and saw that Greensboro, NC is no longer on the locations list.
Please add it back on. We have a slow but growing group here!
Thanks,
Mike
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 7:26 am
I’m afraid I cannot help you guys from Europe.
However, I’ll be thinking about you on the 15th.
Fight The POWER : GAY RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS !
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 7:51 am
If we are going to make this thing happen we need to organize this site better. Locations are inacurate on the location finder (check Washington DC). We need to establish some local contacts, lets make this happen!!
Also, check it out – find all the info you need to know about student credit cards here!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 9:12 am
With the hundreds of thousands of gay men on Manhunt.com and Bear411.com and even Gay411.com maybe you should consider posting this message there.
Aparently, most of them didn’t hesisitate in using the sites for their virtual gratification and if they don’t get involved they’ll be forced back into the closet and wind up using it as the *only* way to meet others like themselves.
In many ways, I had more gay community freedoms at 18 than most of the 21 year olds have today in 2008.. Wooo Hooo.. and I’ve got the “March on Washington” T-shirts to prove it.. The only thing these queers have are worn out keyboards, a pocket full of unused condoms, and their SMS enabled cell phones.. So much for community…
Fact: Face to Face commuity is dead… Maybe you should focus on trying to revive it.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 8:15 am
There needs to be a better solution for equal rights under governmental law.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 8:40 am
I live in Savannah (Georgia) but I am planning on being at the protest in Atlanta on Saturday. I was hoping someone could provide me with some more information on what is going on in Atlanta this weekend regarding the protest. If anyone needs help getting things organized I am more than willing to help. Thanks so much.
Lets get together to defeat this horrible injustice!!!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 9:37 am
Atlanta Protest is this Saturday @ 1:30.
The address is:
Atlanta City Hall
150 Garnett Street, S.W.
Atlanta, GA
See the website link above for more info, RSVP on Facebook. Invite your friends, and email me with any questions/concerns. Let’s get this going!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 9:49 am
Just quick note… the link for the San Diego location is incorrect. You’re linking to the San Diego Convention Center’s business offices (on Harbor Dr). San Diego City Hall is on 2nd and C.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 10:18 am
I want to help organize for Salt Lake City! I don’t know if someone else has already started. If they have, could you put me in contact with them? But if it’s as it appears and a Facebook Page has not yet been created, please make me the contact person. I’ll contact my Mayor and/or my City Hall to make this happen.
Elaine Ball
(801) 654-7614
elaineballfr@gmail.com
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 10:48 am
It is time to stand up for all rights that the gay community doesn’t have. So many people have been talking about only Proposition 8 when two other states added constitutional amendments that banned gay marriage on the same day. That makes a total of 29 states with the ban written into their constitution nation wide. 48 states have the ban by statute (real or implied).
More importantly is the lack of legal equality in things like employment, housing, the military and more.
It is time to take these protests and make them a real nationwide fight for true equality.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 10:58 am
Amy- please shoot me an email. I sent you one last night about creating a supporting organization site for this blog and i’m hoping to get in touch with you asap.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 11:03 am
I agree with you in spirit and will help organize AZ. But, I think the time frame is unrealistic. I know that it’s so tempting to want to do something right away in quick response… but, I fear this will be a rag tag showing across the nation, which will hurt rather than help our cause.
However, if this is really the best we can do, I will contribute. But, I think the national, coordinated effort should involve much more planning and ensure that there is a HUGE showing with a clear message across the nation- and I will attempt to get that going after the flurry of vigils and minor protests dies down so that our national voice can really be heard and the message not lost in a bunch of street parties, which is what these often turn into.
Besides that, there is no one at our City Hall- or particularly in the downtown area in general- on Saturdays and most people will barely be up from their previous night’s drink fest by 10:30 am.
At any rate, consider me a coordinator in AZ, if you don’t already have one.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 11:09 am
I see lots of locations in California, but at least one more should be added: Fresno. There is larger support here (for both sides unfortunately) however there was a lot of activity as far as protests, fundraisers, etc. to benefit No on 8 prior to election day.
I’d love to know how to organize a protest at our city hall.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
I would love it if there were a rally somewhere in the Santa Cruz County area. I think A LOT of people would show up, so if anyone reads this and would like to help set up a rally in Santa Cruz please let me know. geturownbox@comcast.net. Thank you!!
You can’t discrimate on love. No on H8!!!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
I just want to let you know that the Long Beach rally and march began with a text message and was organized in less than 24 hours. Over 3,000 people came and was extremely peacful.
This doesn’t have to be the only one but can be one of many because as we know, civil rights has never been an event but a movement. So let’s start moving!
I am in the Long Beach area so feel free to email me! Whitney.Hynes@gmail.com
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:14 pm
I agree with your efforts. I think it’s great that we are holding protests around the country at City Hall. Since your blog is getting a lot of attention from the members of the movement, could you suggest that we don’t attack churches. It gives them the perfect excuse to say that we are anti-religion bigots. I suggest that if people want to express their disagreement with churches and have their pain and suffering recognized by those who hurt them, they should just stand outside in silence or hold a vigil. Not attacking people because what we are trying to do is to reach to their humanity so they can be on our side. Let’s be compassionate to others so we can ask for the same for us. Please, try to be understanding of those who now oppose you but who could be your future allies. Fight injustice, not people.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:16 pm
Tusk-
Please share. Others in DC would like to do whatever we can do.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Hey I have a friend in Cincinnati who works for the ABC news affiliate so I passed on the info to her for a story idea. I think it’d be a great idea if every city tried to do the same. It seems like this story hasn’t been getting enough news coverage. The only time anyone really has talked in depth about it… well at least from what I’ve seen is on AC360.
Everyone should go to thier local stations website and find the news idea or news tip link to let them know about the protests!
We need to world to know… not just local Cali news
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
This is great. I’ll be at the protest in NYC. I hope thousands more will be there as well.
As a side note. Could someone explain what “pendants and bloggers” means? Is that supposed to be “pundits and bloggers”?
If so, it should be changed.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
The location links need more detail. The Sacramento link for example has about 8 locations on the Google map. This is only going to create confusion. Please fix those links ASAP so people know precisely where to go.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:29 pm
With the election of Mr. Obama I believe that the end of the dehumanization of the disenfranchised is at hand. Obviously, there is more work to do since there are people out there who see fit to deny other’s their natural right of self determination.
Brian
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
im in the los angeles area, is the protest just at los angeles city hall?
the locations page says nothing for los angeles
thanks
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:35 pm
Hi everyone,
San Diego is organizing and we have jointly decided that City Hall is NOT an appropriate place for this protest. We are currently planning a march beginning at UCSD. Please check our Facebook page.
I emailed in asking to be named the contact for this march, but I haven’t heard back. Please direct people to our Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=35213645923&ref=nf
We have a website in progress.
Namaste,
Sara Beth Brooks
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
Anyone interested in helping me get something going in Chicago? I don’t have the slightest idea where to start…
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
While there is no protest yet scheduled for Knoxville, TN – we still stand up with you all for our equal rights. Anyone in Knoxville who wants to – let me know!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
YES ON PROP 8! RESPECT THE VOICE OF THE CITIZENS!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
I was wondering if anyone knew of a protest in Sacramento, CA at the State Capital on 11/15? I don’t see any information on Sacramento’s page. I figure there will be people, but nothing official has been posted that I can see. My partner and I would like to participate.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
The correct meet-up location for San Jose, CA is
San Jose City Hall
200 E. Santa Clara Street (corner of Santa Clara St. and 6 St.)
San Jose, CA
The point person for organizing/contacting is:
Sara Taylor
email: sara.n.taylor@gmail.com
We need volunteers!!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 3:21 pm
What about Puerto Rico and other overseas locations? Have you tried to contact local groups there?
Great idea – I will be there in L.A.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 3:23 pm
Many thanks for organizing this.
I am interested in helping organize the event in Delaware (Dover, DE) and would suggest gathering on the steps of Legislative Hall, Dover Delaware rather than city hall. Can the google map link be updated for Delaware?
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 3:28 pm
in the second sentence, do you mean “pundits” not “pendants”?
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 3:32 pm
I would have to agree with the poster, Summer. Fresno, California should definitely have something organized. We had a good turnout to all of the protests.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 3:45 pm
San Fran is in. Have notified friends and will start canvassing.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 3:46 pm
San Fran is ready to make some noize!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
The link for Denver, CO city hall shows everything BUT the right location! Maybe protest could be held at the Colorado State Capitol building instead?
Colorado State Capitol
200 E Colfax Ave
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 866-2604
– colorado.gov
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 4:11 pm
I’d like to help organize a protest in front of the City Hall of Solano County (CA) – the only Bay Area county that had a majority voting “Yes” on prop 8! Please contact me at jennijams@gmail.com by Friday, November 14th! Thanks.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 4:20 pm
Anyone meeting up in denver colorado???
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 4:21 pm
please correct the spelling on the home page. at very least the word “equal” in bold letter should be spelled right!
p-das from nyc
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 4:27 pm
Add Santa Rosa, California. North of San Francisco we have a large GLBTQQ population and lucky for us Sonoma County voted No On 8.
People can contact me
susanmhester@yahoo.com
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 4:39 pm
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=48891185714&ref=mf
This is for real change- send your letter telling your story to Obama and get him to start of his term on the right foot.
-Ron
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 5:01 pm
The Seattle protest has moved to Volunteer Park on Capitol Hill. More info here: http://jointheimpact.wetpaint.com/
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 5:20 pm
Anyone coming to the one in Denver? Please email me @ swain882@regis.edu and we can figure out who’s coming.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 5:30 pm
Anything in the San Gabriel Valley in So. Cal??
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 5:35 pm
I’m looking to join any protest from Vero Beach to Miami. Please provide me with more information on protest in South Florida.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Minneapolis/St. Paul protest at the MN State Capitol in Downtown St. Paul!
Here is the facebook event:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=50465502000&ref=nf
Spread the word!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 5:50 pm
Is anyone trying to organize anything at Penn State UP?
ahkitj@gmail.com
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
I got most of the general info and a MySpace account. What I would like is more specific info for the event in Mobile, AL. What are some of the profiles set in MySpace concerning this day of protest to be highly regarded, especially by me attending as a first time stand for gay, and in that sense my, equality. I am a quick bus ride from downtown Mobile and would be proud to go if I could get a POC.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 5:59 pm
Where and when is the rally in SF…I’ve heard two different dates. I am sooo there and will bring people with me, but I need the correct info ASAP! Looking forward to fighting for human rights.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 6:03 pm
Amazing people responding!!! This event must be one of many in a continued effort. This is what we can all do prior to going to the rallies on Sat- CONTACT local radio stations.
E-MAIL sites you are part of and everyone in your contacts
PRINT flyers and posters from this site.
SIGNS up in your businesses and homes.
CALL every single person you know
SHOW UP somewhere – anywhere if you cannot make it to the closest rally location.
This is the time to act – remember stonewall
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 6:27 pm
Hey all you homosexuals. The majority of California and other states have spoken and we all want you to know we do not accept or will never accept your homosexual / perverted / sinful / outcast lifestyle. Go to hell and burn!!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 6:31 pm
Could you please clarify where the Seattle protest is taking place and what time? It’s not very clear under the protest locations tab.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 6:34 pm
RALEIGH – DURHAM – CHAPEL HILL
Our facebook page is http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=46087994571
Go sign-up!!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 6:46 pm
ORANGE COUNTY:
(Saturday ‘impact’ nationwide protest)
10:30am
Irvine City Hall
1 Civic Center
Irvine, Ca
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 7:00 pm
I agree, Summer and Laura. We need one in Fresno, but I can’t find any info on one. Can we just start an email campaign to let everyone know? How do we do this?
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 7:21 pm
I clicked on the link for Phoenix as I am visiting and it gave a lot of options, but none are the REAL city hall. It is at 200 W. Washington St. Phoenix, AZ 85003 so if you are from Phoenix or know anyone who is going they need to put in the address and not just the name as it is set now on the website. Please let people know this!!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 8:05 pm
with love from Toronto
i’m there in spirit. make some serious noise and some serious sense.
maggie
http://www.ireport.com/docs/DOC-139458
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 8:36 pm
PS. Just linked you to my site. And forgot to say thanks for doing this. Thanks for doing this.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 8:41 pm
What happened to the Seattle, WA location? It was here yesterday, but now it is gone? I emeailed a bunch of people the info and now the info is missing and I have nowhere to send them!!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 8:51 pm
The link for Denver is not very helpful. Here’s a better map.
http://maps.google.com/maps?num=20&hl=en&safe=off&client=opera&rls=en&hs=Mej&q=City%20%26%20County%20Bldg.%201437%20Bannock%20St.%20Denver%2C%20CO%2080202&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wl
Sat the 15th @ 11:30 am
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 9:02 pm
i would LOVE to help organize something against Prop HATE here in NoDak and make it a REAL ALL state protest!!! PLEASE let me know if it is OK??
BluCowgirl
NoDak
kwgrlup@gmail.com
CodeP!NK!!!
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
I just wanted to know if there’s anything I can do if I can’t make it to any of the rallies on the 15th. I won’t be anywhere near a rally (away at a wedding) and I’ve signed online petitions, but I want to do more to help. Any suggestions?
dramaqueen0415@hotmail.com
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 9:42 pm
I will be attending NYC and hope for a great turnout. I am doing my best to spread the word.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 10:38 pm
We are organizing a protest in Montreal, Quebec, Canada in solidarity with your protest on Saturday the 15th.
Posted on November 10th, 2008 at 11:18 pm
no more mr nice gay ??
carry the torch — ??
gay guys in the 20s owe alot to those that have gone before them…
we all do….
the fight for dignity has been going on since time began…
and the fight for civil rights and religious freedons or the freedom from religion sparked the anger and rage…that invented the US consitution…
carry the torch – show support……..
its time for guys in the 40s – 50s and 60s to pass the torch…
to the younger guys…in my opinion…
yep Ill be at the rallies this week
weds – November 12th
the Mormon temple 6-830pm….
125 columbus circle @ 65th…
Nationwise this SAt NOV 15th – beginiing 1pm eastern…
and at City hall nyc…
this saturday
steps of City hall
2pm until….?
to show support -
>>>>>>just about getting married…???
some will say:
they cant take away the rights weve all ready won ??
right??
NO. they just did -
they did in California – in Florida and arizona and arkansas…
and they will take away more if you let them…
if history shows and proves anything – its that the thirst for power
destroys and consumes…and leads to hate and elistism…
if your not careful youll be sitting in the back of the bus next….
or forced once again to be arrested on a nightly basis just for meeting…
aka pre Stonewall…
cant happen – it is happening…
get your rage and pain and all the shame youve endured…your whole life and DO SOMETHING…
I hope and pray that my fellow younger
gay bothers hear the call…
this is your time to take the torch for everyone…
gay-straight – black – white….
if you let the haters get away with this – then what or who is next ??
connect and be there….
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 12:12 am
But isn’t the 15th a Saturday?
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 12:13 am
I am in Pasadena CA and lots of people are planning on a rally at the Pasadena City Hall, I think you need to add that to your list.
Also I would like info on a Buffalo NY Rally and a Mt. Pleasant Michigan or Lansing Michigan rally. My parents would like to join in the protest.
johnkevinadopt@yahoo.com
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 1:53 am
I would love to help on the Central Coast of California, anyone else from around here anywhere from the San Luis Obispo to the Santa Maria area?
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 2:12 am
Not sure if it’s been asked before, but can we straight people show up in support or is this strictly LGBTQ stuff? I want to show my support, because I’m sick of the bigotry and in the end we are all human.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 2:24 am
What time is the Detroit event?
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 3:17 am
Hey, I am trying to get a cohesive Facebook group together to bring all of this into one manageable event. Everyone join this EVENT and invite everyone you know on facebook:
http://www.new.facebook.com/event.php?eid=40863277135
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 3:55 am
HEY IM FROM ORANGE COUNTY, CA!!! I WANNA PROTEST ON SAT THE 15!! ANYONE ELSE FROM THE OC PLEASE EMAIL ME AND LETS TRY AND GET ORANGE COUNTY INVOLVED!!!!! STOP THE H8!!!!
BBCALIGRL04@HOTMAIL.COM
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 4:47 am
I attended the march in L.A./Silverlake…I wroter a brieft specific text message to friends with place and time of the march and ask to forward to others…many of us want to participate, but a good organization is what will make this sucessful..so i suggest those who don’t know where to go email this site webmaster and post updated City Hall address… Can anyone make PDF or Word Flyers for anyone to print and post them on Coffee Houses /Bars/Bookstores.. anyhow..will see you Nov 15th!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 5:01 am
Is anything being organized in Pittsburgh? Hope so, am looking forward to getting involved.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 5:53 am
Is the DC location at City Hall at 1350 Pennsylvania Ave., NW 20004? If so, I look forward to seeing everyone there. I am fed up with sitting in the back of the bus and I will never stay at another Marriott.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 6:45 am
To watch Floridians vote in Amendment 2 was devastating, but this will only increase our motivation to change what has been done and make it right. We need to continue to reach out for straight allies and help people realize that we are ordinary folks who are entitled the same equality (whether you call it marriage or not)
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 7:45 am
“Some have blamed the voters”….. that’s a good one.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 7:55 am
Will do what I can for Denver. Let’s show this country some True Colors
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 8:49 am
I would like to help out in the Tampa, FL area. Do you know if anyone has started to lead the protest here, if not I would love to give my full support! We have a wonderful GLBT community in the Tampa Bay area, and I’m so sad that our state as well as to many others refuse to give them the rights they deserve. Please email me and let me know what I can do to help!!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:12 am
We have majors citys here in Wisconsin But i only see Milwaukee, I would like to help with the orginization of this more. send me an email timothyi.theis@gmail.com I would also like to get one going next month if possible. Send me an email i will be more than happy to give my number to get this going.
Have you talk to gay.com I have not seen anything on there about this. I was lissioning to Stephine Miller on 92.1 the Mic in Madison Wisconsin.
Thanks
Timothy Schlichting
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:13 am
I attended the protest at the Saddleback church on Sunday the 9th. There were well over a thousand people there, not the 200 or 300 hundred reported by the press. Let’s all go back again for the next few Sundays, until our equal rights are restored. We need to make an example of the rev. Rick Warren, who emailed his 10,000 members, and encouraged them to vote for prop. H8. This will get him where it hurts the most, in his collection plate. I’m sure that many of his congregants will want to attend another place of worship that is more peaceful. So, see you all there once again. Sunday, Nov. 16th, at 10:00AM
Address: 1 Saddleback Pkwy, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:21 am
Austin, Tx – City Hall at 12:30.
Free coffee and snacks at 405 E 7th at 11:00.
“All Men are Created Equal” – it’s a fundamental part of our government, our creed for freedom. Make no mistake – our rights have been violated. It shall not go unnoticed. Let’s be dignified and let’s be heard.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:24 am
From San Diego here.
I just read a comment that someone decided San Diego City Hall is not an appropriate location to protest…don’t have facebook, so can’t access that person. Why aren’t we protesting at City Hall? If that location has been changed to UCSD, then we need to make sure that location changes on this website’s google map!
One note…we need to stop protesting in gay friendly areas (i.e., Hillcrest…and UCSD is fairly gay friendly too). So if we’re not protesting at City Hall, I think the least we could do is pick a location that sticks out more.
Anyone want to contact me about San Diego:
elauphd@yahoo.com
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:40 am
If you need advice on how to stage a rally/protest, go to an older organization that has done them before. you may or may not believe in their politics, but you need their experience. Example: http://www.democraticunderground.com
PS: I would just LOVE to see 25K angry faggots marching around temple square in Salt Lake! THAT WOULD JUST MAKE MY DAY! ! !
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:46 am
Thanks to all of you nationally for the support!
We in California were all pretty about the Prop 8 vote. The advertising ads paid for by the Catholics / Baptists and Mormons were very misleading and our ad campaign did not counter effectively.
NOW, PEOPLE ARE AWAKE and we need to say what we feel. Sexual orientation is not a moral choice. I am the way I am because this is the way I was born. I want my rights! Please help me get them! PROTEST!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:54 am
Coleman,
I’m straight, too and it shouldn’t matter, because this is about human civil rights being taken away from the LGBTQ community. We should ALL be offended, regardless of how we identify. (so, yes, show up!
)
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:00 am
Does anyone have any more info on the protest in Idaho? I’d be interested in any details. E-mail me at jamestidmarsh@yahoo.com.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:11 am
No thanks…
I live in Oklahoma, and we’ve been facing organized religious fundamentalists for years. We have been subjected to legislation that is far more punitive and destructive to our families than Prop 8. We were called “worse than terrorists” by a state legislator (Sally Kern) who was reelected last week. Her comments were actually applauded by the state Republican party, and the GOP has now taken over both the State House and Senate.
All this time, whenever we’ve asked for help from our friends around the country, we’ve been dismissed as “stupid” for living in “Jesusland”, and told we should simply move to a more enlightened
place like — well, California. HRC and other groups that gladly take our money have ignored us. When we had our demonstration against our own State Constitutional amendment, not a single political leader – at the state or national level – could be bothered to attend.
For now, I’m not losing any sleep that California activists didn’t have their act together in time to defeat Prop 8. One thing I do know is that lashing out in a racist fashion or in a bigoted way toward a religious group is counter-productive and ultimately hurts our cause.
Since you guys have never been here for us, I’m not interested.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:20 am
What’s going on in Nashville? Anyone?
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:33 am
Hey, I see there is a protest for Newark, NJ. I live about 15 minutes from there.
Where can I find information about this?
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:36 am
Is there anything close to Muskegon MI…other than Detroit?
crazilovah@hotmail.com
Let me know!
Equal Rights for all….not some!!!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:40 am
The Battle for Santa Clara County is on Saturday. We are ready to fight against the hatred.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:40 am
A quick note to everyone -
For location info, times, and contacts, please check out our new contact Wiki here: http://jointheimpact.wetpaint.com.
If you want to be an organizer in your city but don’t see your name on the list, please contact those who are on the list and offer your services. If no one is on the list, please add your info to the Wiki.
Someone asked if “straights” were welcome. Our community includes our allies and I know that all of us are very happy to have you come out in support of us. It means a lot!!
Keep up the good work everyone!
Amy (admin)
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:57 am
If anyone is organizing in the Orange County area please let me know and I’d be more than happy to help.
As the Republican seat of California, Orange County is the perfect place to protest the injustices of prop 8 & stand up for our rights
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:00 am
Hi! is there anyone here who knows about the protest in Des Moines, it is listed but can’t find anyone who knows anything about it–please email if you do or you want to do the protest on Saturday..thanks. Phyllis Stevens Marriage Equality USA, Iowa Chapter
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:01 am
Hey Chris, and Chicago
I’m planning a meet up in lakeview near the Belmont stop at my place, to collect those who want to head down @ noon from BoysTown together.
I’m spreading the word as best I can, if you would like to join my friends and allies, please email me @ william.french@gt.com for more information.
Does anyone know if the Center on Halsted is in on this? Or any of the local rags? I’m contacting as many as I can, and I encourage you to do the same.
Thank you,
-William F.
*muah*
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:15 am
I live in Columbus, Ohio and have started to try to get people to come to the rally here.
I thought the idea was to have it at City Hall but now I see the other website (http://jointheimpact.wetpaint.com/) lists The Statehouse. When did that change, this website still lists city hall?
I printed up a bunch of fliers with it listed as City Hall…
Someone let me know.
Derek
dstep517@yahoo.com
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:15 am
I sent an email to the person in charge of this site but have not heard anything? I am trying to get something organized here in Columbus but I am confused as to where we are suppose to Rally…
I want to make sure Columbus is represented on Saturday.
The wetpaint site lists the Statehouse. This site lists Cityhall. Do you run them both?
You are welcome to list me as an organizer. I have created some fliers with the location of the rally here, thats why i need to know where it is for sure.
Derek
dstep517@yahoo.com
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:21 am
10:30 AM for the West Coast is too early! (I’m hearing this from a lot of people who are interested in participating.)
People tend to be exhausted from work on Saturday mornings, so if you want as many people to show up as possible, make it 1:30 PM Pacific Time for the Western states as well.
Is there any reason why the protests across the country have to be simultaneous? If so, could the demonstrations on the East Coast be moved up to 3 PM or so? I really feel sorry for the poor Hawaiians! 8:30 AM? Come on!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:24 am
Is there anyone around Long Island, NY that would like to start organizing with me?
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:31 am
(1) A historical quibble — although the Gay Rights movement took off in an amazing way from the Stonewall riots the movement was already a century old, having started in Germany in the 1860′s and spread from there. In the early 1950′s Harry Hay started the Mattachine Society and Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon began the Daughters of Bilitis, kicking off the Gay and Lesbian movement in the US. Public demosntrations for GLBT rights were happening in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Washington DC through the 1960′s.
(2) Anyone opposed to same-sex marriage should see this wonderful comment from Keith Olberman.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GhrNjMgmrds
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:33 am
Hi Mariva,
Thanks for pointing out your concerns. We are doing this protest at the exact same time across the country because that is the best way to bring this back to a national stage. We are one extremely large, national group, yet our opponents (also national) have managed to divvy us up into state by state groups and then work against us. We need to show them that we are no longer going to be polarized and will no longer allow them to take us out one state at a time. As such, a national protest that begins at the same time throughout the country shows our numbers as well as our ability to move as one. Moving as one is the very very important part here. Let’s not let our opponents break us apart any more. Let’s move as one strong & national unit.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:39 am
Columbus,
Sorry that I haven’t responded to your email yet. My inbox has not gone below 1000 since Saturday morning and I have been responding to emails as fast as humanly possible. We have a brand new contacts & organizers wiki to help get people in touch with local organizers. Please check it out and add your info if you would like to help: http://jointheimpact.wetpaint.com
Thanks!
Amy
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:41 am
I think rallys and protests are a great sign of a strong community (as long as they remain peaceful). However, I have to question what the effect of a protest on the nation’s City Halls will have when they are done on a Saturday – a day that typically means an empty City Hall and downtown? Who is going to even witness the protest? The lawmakers and elected officials we want to hear our words will be out golfing or enjoying the weekend away at the coast. It is just too bad to have so many people come together across the country (and world?) on a day when the people we want to hear us won’t be around.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:48 am
They came for the Jews and I did not speak up because I was not Jewish. They came for the Poles, but I was not Polish so I did not speak up….then they came for the Gays…..just think…it happened and we did not speak up. LETS SPEAK UP NOW. Shame on us. It is not enough that my partner and I, after 30 years, got married July 11, 2008. So we “got in under the wire” as friends and family have communicated. IT IS NOT ENOUGH. We want the rights for all generations now and to come to have legal marriage. My partner and I left the Catholic Church 1 month ago to join the Enlightened Episcopals over this issue. It was not just the Mormons but the Catholics and Knights of Columbus who funded this Proposition. Perhaps we should be at the Cathedral instead of City Hall!!!!!!!! The Raj Majhal!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:51 am
President-Elect Obama is hard at work getting this country back on track, but he’s counting on input from all of us. LET OUR VOICES BE HEARD.
I just wrote in to share my vision for where President-Elect Obama should lead the country, and I thought you might want to do the same:
http://www.change.gov/yourvision
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 12:02 pm
THE NEXT FEW DAYS WE NEED SOME LEADERSHIP.
On May 16, 2008, the California Supreme Court affirmed that the state constitution, AS IT WAS WRITTEN BY THE FOUNDERS OF THIS STATE MORE THAN 158 YEARS PRIOR, provided official government recognition of all marriages between all couples, regardless of gender.
It had been a long time in coming. But today right now, because of what has been done, in that election on November the 4th, at that defining moment in California, voters told the FOUNDERS OF THIS GREAT STATE OF CALIFORNIA that they were wrong ! Backward change has come to Gay Californians.
That;s right , backward change has come to Gay Californians. Backward change in the form of less Liberty, not more Liberty !
That;s right , backward change has come to Gay Californians. Backward change in the form of less Freedom, not more Freedom!
Is there anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible?
That;s right, We are doubting that America is a place where all things are possible. For some all things ARE possible but for Gay Californians they are not possible.
Are there still those who wonder if the dream of our founders is still alive in our time? For some the dream of our founders is still alive in our time, but for Gay Californians who dream in Rainbow colors it is dead.
Are there still those who question the power of our democracy?
Oh no! We do not question the power of our democracy! We have seen its power we have known its power and recently we have felt its thunderous heavy handed blow of power and we understand, yet we do not understand, how, by the power of democracy, Liberty and Freedom can be stripped away from Gay Californians.
Voters were told that we would lose the right to participate in our children’s education. Voters believed them. Our religious opponents were wrong to tell them that.They lied about it. Our religious opponents should not lie!
Voters were told that the California state public school curriculum would be modified to teach sex education to kindergarteners. Voters believed them. Our religious opponents were wrong to tell them that. They lied about it. Our religious opponents should not lie!
Voters were told that churches would lose the right to free speech. Voters believed them. Our religious opponents were wrong to tell them that.They lied about it. Our religious opponents should not lie!
For so long, so many of us were made to be cynical, and fearful, and doubtful of what can be achieved. When we placed our hands on the arc of history and bent it toward our hope of a better day, we were told hands off don’t touch. This is their history and it bends towards the hope of a better day for them not us, not Gay Californians. And so we Gay Californians remain cynical, and fearful, and doubtful of what can be achieved
The answer, told by this crowds that stretch out before you right now and continues all over Gay California ; by people who wait for Liberty and are still waiting for Liberty. by people who wait for Freedom and are still waiting for Freedom Many of you, your whole life you have waited, because you believed that this time Liberty must be attained; and that by your voice you could make Freedom ring. But Liberty was not attained but stripped away and the ring of Freedom was silenced across Gay California.
As America and California look forward to a Change That They Can Believe In, Gay Californians are led towards backward change, a backward change we have already taken part in. Backward change is not the Change Gay Californians were expecting….nor will we accept this backward change !
The torch of Liberty and Freedom is for all to bear and advance the heat of its flame..it is not left to others to dictate who should carry that torch. It is our duty and our burden to pick up that torch, no matter how many times we are burned by its flame and no matter how many times others burn us with it….we will continue to pick up that torch and hold onto it as long as we can until at some point we will hand that torch to the future bearers of its bright promise of Liberty and Freedom for ALL.
We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, ensure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
Since I live in Massachusetts and can’t be in California to protest with you, I have done my part by posting the following letter to many websites in Californina. I wish you all the best of luck.
————————————————————
My heart goes out to the 18,000 same-sex couples who were recently married. As a Massachusetts justice of the peace, who has married many gay and lesbian couples, I am saddened to hear that California voters have chosen to ban same-sex marriage in their state. This is truly disheartening.
When gay marriage became law in Massachusetts , the sky did not fall down upon us, nor would it have fallen on California . What was done to these couples was done out of ignorance, and while I cannot do anything to undo the sadness that they must be feeling at this time, I will do whatever I can do to help them.
Every time I marry a couple who is in love regardless of the color of their skin, religion, or being gay or straight, I go home to my husband (Yes. I am straight and I am married!) and son feeling great about myself because I made another couple in love happy. That is what love is all about. I love what I do. Marrying people, no matter who they are, gives me a sense of pride. I believe that this reflects on my website at http://www.weddingofyourdesire.com. Look at the diversity of the couples in the photos. That is what it is all about. Why people cannot see past that is beyond me. Shame on California voters!
Same-sex couples must stay the course and continue to fight the fight. While they shouldn’t have to do this, they should go to a state where gay marriage is legal and get married. I proudly say that I for one would be very happy to officiate the nuptials of any same-sex couple who comes to Massachusetts . Their marriage may only be recognized in Massachusetts and Connecticut as legal, but at least it will be a legal marriage. The downside of this will indeed be a result of a loss of revenue for California as but the upside of this is that perhaps this may make voters think twice by reversing Proposition 8. During these hard economic times, no state is in any position to be losing revenue. However, if this is what it will take to repeal Prop 8, then I say that this is what same-sex couples must do, and should they decide to do this, my door is open to each and every one of them.
Carol J. Merletti
Massachusetts Justice of the Peace
Wedding of Your Desire
http://www.weddingofyourdesire.com
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 12:21 pm
Hello everyone,
Will there be a rally in Long Beach, CA? We just had one, but I’d like to know if there is another planned for this weekend?
Thanks!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 12:26 pm
I’m glad there will be protests in Florida, but bummed that nothing is planned for the state’s capital city, Tallahassee. I know Tallahassee is not a major city in FL, but it’s the capital and has 2 major universities (and a community college); I feel like we should be able to bring something to the table. If you’re interested in a Tallahassee protest, let me know at: Rosesgonewild8@aol.com .
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 12:29 pm
Big Bear Ca wants to make some noise. can we post that big bear would like to join in for the cause?
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
By taking the defense, opponents of Prop 8 seem to have lost a great opportunity to tackle the opposition. In this next push toward equality, why not remedy that error by taking the offense and doing what other organizations have done so successfully by co-opting a positive phrase that implies the other side is opposed to that very positive concept?
Take the anti-abortion movement. They co-opted the term “pro-life,” which implies the other side is against life.
In this case, why not make this the “pro-love” movement? That implies those who are opposed to gay marriage are, fundamentally, against love. The concept is simple, easy to understand, very positive and opens the door to what America needs most: the opportunity to meet gay couples and families, which would significantly lessen the fears of those who have no experience with the gay population.
Just imagine that instead of angry, defensive commercials — “no, we’re not like that, and yes, the other side is lying to you” — there’s commercial after commercial showing gay couples laughing together and in love and telling of how they got married and have two kids and pay taxes and enjoy going to the movies and just generally being good Americans.
It’s this view of the gay community that many, many Americans do not have. They assume gay couples and families are “those people over there,” separate and unknown. Whereas if they began to see these families as neighbors and “like us” in many respects, their fear would diminish by a good stretch and they’d have a harder time denying a basic right. And those who continue to hold to their anti-gay-marriage attitudes would be slip into the category of being “anti-love.”
It’s so tempting to get angry, and so easy. But that only entrenches people further into their beliefs. So why not — after eight long years of people becoming more and more polarized — swing the other way and get people to ask one another, “Are you pro-love?”
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
please change the denver location to: DENVER CITY AND COUNTY BUILDING (courthouse) 1437 Bannock Street.
it’s also an event on facebook now: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=44281267618
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
So I was browsing through facebook and found information about this website. Honestly, in all of the testimonies that I have heard, I have been utterly moved. Originally, I believed gay marriage to be a pointless endeavor and an un-important issue and the paradox of this situation is that I am gay myself. I remember my Uncle Stevie, who is also gay and is my hero for helping me through my toughest battles, becoming impoverished because his partner passed from HIV/AIDS and no will was written nor could anything be legally done to help him. I thought this unfortunate when it came my way but I never thought it was because of the gender of the person he chose to love with all of his heart.
Initially, I had plans to take a trip to rural Illinois for this weekend but now I realize that they are not important. I want to fight not only for the rights of myself and those whom are my contemporaries, but for my Uncle Stevie who can’t because he has been crippled with HIV/AIDS.
Thank you, all of you, for inspiring me.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
What about organizing something in Buffalo, NY? Anyone? I’d be there!!!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 1:02 pm
This pains me so much to see and hear about these futile efforts! I stood alone, protesting this proposition when I first heard about it. But, now that the wheels of democracy have turned, and we had our chance to represent ourselves, now, we fight? What a colossal failure to exercise our democratic freedoms! I have heard so many blaming those Mormons and the blacks for being the culprits. Yet, they are just as much a minority as us. WE MUST ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY! It was OUR FAULT for not mobilizing. Our fight was fraught with discontent, disunity, and discord. We have had so many opportunities to triumph and we have failed to unify effectively. Shame on us! Shame on our community!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 1:06 pm
Great. More signing of petitions “demanding marriage rights and equal protection under the law”. More “marching on Washington, D.C.” Yeah…these approaches have been so effective.
Doesn’t anyone realize how their tax money is the MOST powerful thing they control?
Doesn’t anyone feel sick when they pay FULL taxes for UNEQUAL rights, confirming they are society’s most worthless?
Government is RESPONSIBLE to ALL of its citizens, yet we have embraced our role as SUB-Americans so well that we are oblivious to how pathetic it is to beg-plead-donate money for a right we ALREADY deserve….years ago!
When I tell America to “PAY MY TAXES”, I also include my fellow LGBTQ Americans who seem to have NO PROBLEM with taxation without equality. Do you really deserve rights….if you are willing to pay for them (Prop 8 donations), or willing to be taxed despite being DENIED those rights that are doled out like candy to other Americans?
Too harsh? I apologize – I am no longer able to march or donate or hold signs. All I have are my words and my tax dollars; I AM STILL IN CONTROL of those 2 things.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 1:11 pm
Hey I was just wondering why there isnt any locations in NYC? I live here and considering that this is where the Stonewall Riots happened I feel like we should absolutely be part of this national protest! The sad thing is I have no idea where to even begin organizing that
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 1:17 pm
Give us our rights – or we’re keeping our wine! Protest with us at:
Napa City Hall- 955 School Street, Napa, California
For more info: napkinrick@comcast.net
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 1:23 pm
In Hong Kong and planning to protest! Any other expat peeps in HK who wanna join let me know and we will make some noize!
95387349
As an added note it might be fun to meet at the embassy as the city hall is not part of the US…
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
denver, co info is incorrect. would think it should be at capitol building…anyone know anything about this?
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 1:43 pm
The REAL truth we got proposition 8 was because someone in the initiative process was asleep at the wheel The original California state Supreme Court ruling stated clearly
..inalienable civil rights guaranteed to an individual by the California Constitution), we conclude that, under this state’s Constitution, the constitutionally based right to marry properly must be understood to encompass the core set of basic substantive legal rights and attributes traditionally associated with marriage that are so integral to an individual’s liberty and personal autonomy that they may not be eliminated or abrogated by the Legislature or by the electorate through the statutory initiative process.
Notice it says “MAY NOT be eliminated or abrogated by the Legislature or by the electorate through the wtqtutory initiative process”
We must FOCUS on this lapse in State Governmental Process. We must DRIVE our respective legislators to move with the Friends of the Court Brief being filed (45 signed so far!) to get this apalling hate speech RECINDED. IMMEDIATELY!
We are being humiliated by Christnazis. This must cease. We must also file a class action suit against the Governor for having allowed this to happen and allowing this emotional humiliation to occur.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 1:43 pm
Hey, we poor schmucks in the bible belt need help! I am in Louisville, KY and I need to know when all the cool kids are getting together at city hall downtown. Thanks for any help!
Tony
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
On November 15th, America will witness an amazing outpouring of the LGBT community as a national protest sweeps the country.
From California to New York and every city in between, those who are against Proposition 8 in California will hold gatherings to show the country and the world that we will not let Californian’s (and by extension, American’s) freedom to marry be taken away.
LGBT community challenges everyone–gay or straight–to go outside on Nov 15th and walk with us. I challenge you to JOIN THE IMPACT and show the world that we care about equality and love. On November 15th, America will witness an amazing outpouring of the LGBT community as a national protest sweeps the country.
Date: November 15th
Where: Fresno City Hall
Time: 10:30am
On the steps of Fresno City Hall 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.
Let them see that we are a strong, adamant, and powerful community that deserves equal rights, and CAN’T BE DEFEATED!
PLEASE EMAIL TO ALL SUPPORTERS….HELP GET THE WORD OUT!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
There are many groups forming in Facebook regarding the nation-wide protest on November 15th.
If you have Facebook, just use their search tool and look for keywords such as “prop. 8″, or “November 15″, even “jointheimpact.com” or “join the impact” — you may find a group near you that is already organizing themselves.
Thank you for starting this! I will be at my city hall on Saturday.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
I would love to participate, but I will be out of town on Saturday. Can we plan an additional protest on MLK day Jan 19?
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
my favorite protest signs:
“ONLY 70 YEARS LATER MAJORITY AGAIN VOTES AWAY MINORITY’S RIGHTS. NAZI GERMANY 1939 -2008 CALIFORNIA” +
“ALSO HEARD : IT COULDN’T HAPPEN HERE. [BERLIN 1938]”
“YES-ON-8 LIES PAID FOR BY MORMON MONEY” (swastikas inside O’s)
“MORMONS; ONCE PERSECUTED, NOW PERSECUTORS! SO THAT’S THE WAY TO HEAVEN!”
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
Check out this article on The Myth of the Black-Gay Divide:
http://socialistworker.org/2008/11/11/myth-of-the-black-gay-divide
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 2:40 pm
Mark,
Here’s a link I found on Equality California, showing Sacramento City Hall on 11/15.
Kely
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 2:40 pm
Marriage is not a Straight privilage.
We lost the battle but we WILL win the war!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
I’m wanting to help organize in Tulsa, OK but I’ve yet to hear back from anyone.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
Sorry, please ignore prior comment.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 2:43 pm
We need something in the St.Petersburg/Tampa FL area. The GLBT community will definetly come together!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Can you add another one in California for us. We are having it in Big Bear Lake (San Bernadino County). We are making signs and spreading the word as we speak.
Corner of Stanfield Cutoff and Big Bear Blvd.
10am-2pm
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 3:13 pm
A good-faith suggestion: Drop the first line of your appeal. Not every LGBT voter supported Obama (not that we supported McCain), and taking a blatant political stance right from the start — alienating some of your targeted allies — doesn’t make marketing sense.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
Awesome I will be on the steps at city hall in NYC.. NO DOUBT!!
Also spread the word about the Protest tomorrow in NYC at the Mormon center at 65th & Columbus.
6:30-8pm
peaceful protest
bring signs – bring friends – alert the media
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 3:29 pm
Hey. Wondering if a protest can be organized at the O.C city hall as well and added to the California list. I know, it’s hard to belive, but there are people in O.C that want to stand up for equality too!
Thanks!
NO ON PROP 8!!!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
Richmond VA , anyone with information about local action please send to mwolfe3508_2001@yahoo.com, Thanks!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
HEY! I think this blog needs to either:
Be updated
-or-
Redirect to the wetpaint site
-or-
at least clearly state on the homepage that it is NOT updated with a prominent link to the wetpaint site.
http://jointheimpact.wetpaint.com/?t=anon
I have heard from people saying there is no site for Santa Cruz California (probably others too) but there IS.
Thanks! Thanks!
jfer
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 3:35 pm
While I know that no time is perfect for everyone who wants to attend, holding this at 10:30am on a Saturday ensures that most Jews will not be able to attend because of Shabbat services.
Hope the protest goes well, I know at least 3 dozen people in Silicon Valley who have attended other rallies will NOT be there this Saturday because of this, nevermind the nationwide impact.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
[...] at least two events getting organized here in Atlanta in conjunction with a national effort called Join the Impact. The protests are being synchronized around the country to occur on Saturday, November 15 at 1:30 [...]
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 3:53 pm
We truly are the only 2nd class citizens still left fighting for equal rights. This shouldn’t even be just a state by state case, this should be a federal law that all are created equal. There is to be a seperation of state and church and whether people vote or not, it is our American right to have equal rights…maybe we should be fighting this on a federal level and ask for something that is the same as marriage without the word ‘marriage’ in it. Here were I currently live in New Zealand, same sex couple can have a legal civil union, it is not ‘marriage’ but it is all the same rights as one. We should ask for it on a national level to have same rights and lets give up the word marriage for now to get our foot in the door then fight for that word if we still feel it necessary. All I want with a marriage is the same rights and breaks that married couples get and to be reckonised for this ‘legally’. Lets ask for civil unions, nationally, with all the same rights as marriage and then fight for the next step.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 3:58 pm
[...] Join The Impact dot com [...]
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 4:11 pm
We’re organizing in Escondido,CA, a North County location of San Diego County. We had a large showing of support before the vote, and twice front page news in local media. Folks here really want to show their support, since many feel they are lumped in with the general conservative, vocal population. see my website for past no on 8 activity, and if you are in North County Sand Diego, join the march in Escondido. We are looking to attract those who would not necessarily trek to the main march in downtown SD, but are hungry for voice of the “burbs” to speak out for marriage equality. 760-877-4396 (my number, also published on website) –Jennifer Schumaker
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 4:13 pm
Join us in Tampa
View Larger Map
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 4:21 pm
If anyone would like to join in with me and others in New Orleans, LA for the march/protest on the 15th we will be getting a group together. contact me at weatherman217@hotmail.com
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 4:21 pm
I find it odd this desire to be married, as marriage is a religious institution…yet you do not want to be oppressed by these religious people, but at the same time want to jump into their waters…get civil unions. same benefits. it is just a different certificate. I do not understand the whole marriage thing for anybody who is non-religious. It is like celebrating Easter and being an Atheist.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
Is anyone else going to show up at Columbus OH?
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
It’s about time gay America got back in the game. How much hate do we have to tolerate before we get up, get out and get vocal? I’m doing my part to promote the protests on my blog and will try to post updates for Georgia protests as plans develop. And I will be at the Georgia State Capitol on Saturday.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 4:29 pm
Just to clarify, are we marching just for gay marriage, or for all non-traditional forms of marriage, e.g. polygamy. (I’m trying to decide what to put on the protest signs.) I’m having a hard time reconciling with myself protesting for full gay marriage rights, but still excluding anyone else who happens to advocate some other variation of marriage. I guess, in short, I feel that it’s not my right to judge what form of marriage another person wants.
Peace.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 4:31 pm
Ventura, California, 11/15: Protest starts at NOON at Mission Park. We will walk Main Street and back to the park.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 4:35 pm
Inland Empire Human Rights Coalition is hosting a Unity For Equality rally 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. 11/15 at Colton City Hall, 650 N. La Cadena Drive., Colton, CA.
More info @ Inland Empire HardCore’s MySpace page: http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=45418136
Other IE rallies in Riverside, Pomona, Moreno Valley and Palm Springs.
Look for your hometown here: http://jointheimpact.wetpaint.com/
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 4:46 pm
We will be in NYC and NJ on the 15th together we will all fight for our equal rights!!!!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 4:47 pm
Ok I live in Norfolk, VA let’s get something going here ! This is a Queer town who wants to stand with me I am using my space to get the word out. Contact me there lets stand together against civil rights being flushed down the drain for so many ! – S.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 4:50 pm
We need one in Chapel Hill at the Post Office on Franklin Street –which serves as our gathering
spot for political action/protests. I would come, but cannot organize it.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 5:04 pm
How ’bout updating the entry for Columbus (Ohio) to point at the state house?
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 5:22 pm
There is a gathering in Santa Barbara, CA, at the Courthouse Sunken Gardens. 1100 Anacapa Street.
Link to the facebook event:
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=38983966103
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 5:57 pm
“bloggers and pendents”
YOU MEAN pundit – not pendents
A pendent is a piece of jewelry.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 6:15 pm
STATE COLLEGE EQUALITY RALLY
Allen Street Gates
State College, Pennsylvania
Wednesday November 12th
3:30pm
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 6:17 pm
i teared up reading about this wonderful idea! the group my husband and i (6.17.08) belong to in los angeles, lovehonorcherish.org helped raise $500,000 against prop. 8, but in retrospect we should have sought more assistance from our allies nationally. everyone who shows up on 11.15 will be sending a very clear message that they recognize the national importance of prop. 8 and that they will not stand for a minority group being illegally singled out for discrimination. we can’t wait!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 6:31 pm
Can anyone give me more info on the protest in Chicago?
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 6:37 pm
Let’s do it! I’ve linked the NC protest info to my blog; cross-posted at BlueNC.com
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 6:47 pm
Hey Arizonans,
Don’t forget we’re Mountain Standard Time, so meet up to protest at 11:30, not 10:30! That’s one more hour to sleep off that hangover!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 6:53 pm
ALERT for SEATTLE
The links at the top of the page take you to info on meeting at Volunteer Park at 10:30am, with a plan then to march to Westlake Center at noon.
Don’t be misled by the link at the bottom of the page which takes you to Google Maps, showing City Hall downtown.
Join us at VOLUNTEER PARK!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 7:12 pm
Check this out. Much like the other strikes, except thsi one calls for a total withdrawal from society on the day after Thanksgiving, black Friday. Set for maximum social impact on the things Americans covet the most, money.
http://open.salon.com/content.php?cid=40451
If you like the idea, re-post, digg, stumble, rate… start a revolution.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 7:23 pm
SEATTLE
Rally against HATE and PREJUDICE!!!
Join the MARCH from Volunteer Park to Westlake Center this SATURDAY, the 15th of November, starting at 10:30am.
A protest will commence following the march at 5pm at the Mormon temple in Bellevue, WA.
(Located across from Bellevue Community College. 2808 148th Avenue SE, Bellevue, Washington, United States. Phone: 425-643-5144.)
“I swore to never be silent whenever and wherever human beings endure suffering and humiliation. We must always take sides, Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim, silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.”
Elie Wiesel
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 7:27 pm
I just sent this out to many many people in Austin, TX. I have a friend who works at a news station there and she said she had heard nothing about this. Do you guys have someone contacting local news? it would be great to have presence in texas!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 7:28 pm
Can someone put me in touch with whoever is organizing in Orlando? I’m planning to be there with my family, but I may have time during the week to help out with organizational stuff, etc.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 7:51 pm
please change the location link for phoenix arizona to phoenix city hall at 200 west washington phoenix arizona it is confusing because it states arizona town hall – not the right place thank you!
also
how can we can a stop the h8 badge for arizona
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 7:51 pm
I clearly understand why concerned citizens would protest in California because this is a matter of California law and the ignorance of bigoted California voters. Not to rain on the parade, but it doesn’t seem to make sense that people outside of California protest the results of a California ballot measure.
The bright side to the results of the recent election is that we have elected a President who will appoint reasonable justices to the U.S. Supreme Court. We should demand that the Supreme Court recognize same-sex couples as a protected class of persons and strictly apply the Equal Protection Clause to gender-preference-based discrimination, including Prop 8, and find such laws and/or ballot measures unconstitutionally illegal.
The movement should be focused on global legal changes rather than having our efforts and energies diluted by resisting a patchwork of mean-spirited state ballot measures designed by their proponents to divide and conquer the electorate.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 7:54 pm
Divided and conquered, there is not a single choice that was not originally protected under the constitution, and the political divisions you have created within our society has completely killed the ability to exercise choice throughout our entire lives and throughout the entire spectrum of our choices. Now People are stumbling around boxed in the very small definitions you are politically advocating. You are going to lose every time. Wake up and fight for the right to choose and the right to choice. Stop splitting society into gay, straight, black, white, catholic, protestant, policeman, musician. Fight for everyone’s right to choose. Do not fight for a sexual definition of self made one day after lunch and before dinner.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 8:06 pm
Anyone want to get something going in GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA? My email is Melanie.Brewster@gmail.com
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 8:14 pm
SARASOTA, FL: Are there plans for an event in our area? If not, who wants to help make it happen???
email: eric.jakobsen@ncf.edu
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:07 pm
What does anybody think of a constitutional amendment to ban mormonism, catholocism, and evangelicalism?
Is my hatred towards bigots justified because they voted my right to marry away?
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:21 pm
UNITED WE STAND!! We need to let people know that the Constitution was intended for the minority to be PROTECTED from the majority! NEVER GIVE UP! Don’t back down! We will make America listen to us! NOW is the time for change in every way!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:25 pm
Nov. 15 @ 10:30am
Redlands City Hall
Corner of Orange St. at Citrus Ave.
=)
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
INDIANAPOLIS definitely needs a protest to display the Midwest’s solidarity and support. This is especially important because Indiana does not yet have a constitutional gay marriage ban (only a statutory ban). VOLUNTEERS needed!
The protest should begin at the State House at the corners of Capitol and Washington Streets (200 W Washington). Google map: http://tinyurl.com/5h7qtv
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:40 pm
One’s in the works for Tucson, Az as well. Hope we get a big turnout.
http://jointheimpact.wetpaint.com/page/Tucson
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:53 pm
I have just added the National Day of Protest to all of the state pages on GayHappenings.com.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:56 pm
Ventura, California, is a sleepy little town north of LA. I don’t want to be alone standing in front of City Hall on Saturday. Who’s with me?
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 9:57 pm
On the Protest Locations page, PLEASE update San Diego to link to http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=6th+Ave+%26+Upas+St,+San+Diego,+San+Diego,+California+92103&sll=32.743068,-117.161164&sspn=0.031729,0.047336&dirflg=w&ie=UTF8&z=17&g=6th+Ave+%26+Upas+St,+San+Diego,+San+Diego,+California+92103&iwloc=addr
Right now it shows the SD Convention Center Corporation, NOT the starting point of the rally at Sixth Ave. and Upas St.
On the Local Contacts page, PLEASE update San Diego to link to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sd-marriage-rally/
Thanks
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:06 pm
Please add our event to your list in California.
Join the Nationwide Event!
Be part of the next Civil Rights Movement – Be part of history – Join the National Protest / March for Equality on November 15th!
WHEN: Saturday, November 15 at 10:30 a.m.
WHERE: Napa City Hall, 955 School Street, Napa, California and in cities all across the country!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:13 pm
To Mark and his partner from Sacramento (and, anyone else, of course):
Our rally will be held at 10th and I Streets at 10:30am on November 15th. Here’s the facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=45356108205&ref=nf
Also, the website equalityactionnow.org seems to update quite frequently about different rallies and protests happening in the Sacramento area and you can sign up for their emailing list. Currently, they have Saturday’s meeting time listed as noon, but I’m sure they will update with the correct time as the event gets closer. If you need any additional info, feel free to email me at beltanegoddess@hotmail.com and if I am able to, I will help you out.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:19 pm
Where in Dover, DE is the protest going to be held. When I click on the find location it brings up a list of city hall, water works, etc.
Thanks
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:20 pm
You people that are going to Philly and Pitt aren’t all that smart. If you’re going for the capital city of the states you should be going to Harrisburg, PA. Yes, both of those cities have a bigger population, but that isn’t where the lawmakers are located. Speaking of lawmakers, why don’t you also pick a date when they are in session to protest instead of a Saturday when there will, quite literally, not be a single person there? Weekdays, NOT ends are MUCH better when you want to get people’s attention.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:33 pm
Summer & Laura, we are ON in Fresno. Sat at 10:30 a.m. at City Hall Plaza (by the fountain where the big No on 8 rally was just two weeks before).
Check here for more info: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=33713243669&ref=nf
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:33 pm
Meet at Court House Square, downt town Santa Rosa Cal. 10 am pst on Saturday, 11/15 To thank the overwhelming number of Sonoma Co. voters who voted to support gay marriage.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:34 pm
Here is an example of how we can reach out to those who voted against us to work for positive change:
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_10949324
By the way, I think it would be great if you could periodically post even the roughest or most conservative estimates of how many people may appear to be planning to attend Saturday’s events. That would be inspiring to many who visit the site!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:38 pm
Hi. I see you’re still linking to Las Vegas City Hall on Google maps for the protest site. Could you revise that to make it correct? The Las Vegas protest in not at city hall. The times you have listed also are incorrect.
Actual protest plans are here: http://www.thecenterlv.com/events.htm
Stand Out for Equality
NOVEMBER 15, 2008 • THE CENTER • 2-4PM
Join us Saturday, November 15 for Stand Out for Equality, a rally for equality, unity and solidarity at The Center, 953 E. Sahara Ave., Ste. B-31 in Las Vegas. More details will be available online shortly. In the meantime, contact The Center at 702-733-9800 or e-mail standoutforequality@thecenterlv.com for further information.
Thanks.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:53 pm
I’m organizing a protest in Columbia, MO at City Hall so people who can’t make it to the St. Louis or Kansas City protest can meet in the middle. I have started a facebook event and will be making a myspace one. Also I have already looked up phone numbers for the news stations in the area to call and notify them that we will be there. Anyone in the area who wants to help out, please just inform people that we’ll be there. Anything you can do to help out would be greatly appreciated!
Missouri has always been an important state in elections; let’s show our support for ourselves and the people in states who were voted against on proposition 8.
Peace!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:55 pm
If anyone has any information about a protest going on in Dallas. I’d love to be a part of it. Please email me any information you may have.
pcwright25@yahoo.com
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 10:56 pm
Dear Friends,
Some of us think that the Prop 8 is not a big deal or standing up for the right to marry is no big deal.
A friend was just physically attacked by 3 young men outside a Kinko’s store in West Covina where he was making signs for tomorrow’s march in West Hollywood. The culprits were young men who had been in the store observing him while he was making the copies. He felt uncomfortable with their attention but then they left so he didn’t give it another thought. After leaving the store he was approached by the same men and they questioned him about whether he was gay and part of the prop 8 protests, the vicious attack resulted. A man from the shop next door came out and helped fend off the attackers. The only positive side to this story is that when the police were called they pulled the video surveillance tapes from Kinko’s and one of the men had used his ATM card to make purchases inside Kinkos before the attack.
Friends, this is the very core of our struggle in this fight for equality regarding Prop 8. The is the anger and rage that we feel when a slim majority can take away basic rights and then use that power to justify their inhumane actions based on hate when they use the vote of Californians to reinforce that hatred.
We live in a big city where this kind of thinking is usually not tolerated or sanctioned. What about our children growing up in small towns across this country where a slight swish or wrong movement of the hand will get them beaten or hung up on a fence to die like Matthew Sheppard. It was not long ago when holding hands or a kiss in the gay bars would get you arrested for lewd conduct. Even if our actions don’t get us beaten or arrested, isn’t just the “look” of judgement as oppressive to the well being and growth of all our children. This struggle that we are continuing to undertake is not about marriage only, it’s about the rage and anger we all feel for all the oppression that we continue to endure. It’s about respecting ourselves and living in a society where we are not judged by our sexuality by (let me put in midly) some insecure moron or religious bigot? It’s about living our lives fully and completely without the fear of attack and oppression. I myself grew up in a time and place where it was not safe to be who I was. My favorite toy as a child was a doll which I used to make clothes for and do it’s hair. I learned very early that it was not acceptable and boys did not do such things. How about the first kiss our heterosexual counterparts get to experience with the full backing of society without the shame and guilt that many of our children feel. How about the first prom that a teenager goes to and the wonderful night they get to experience. I took girls to all the proms all the while yearning to be developing that relationship with a boy like me. This hypocrisy makes our children liars and fall far below their level value to a larger society. Many times it take years for our children to catch up, if they ever can, after having to hide for too long in a place that is so damaging to them. Is this the sacrifice that straight society says is ok out of fear they may be giving their children permission to be gay? It’s not ok. We are not ok until we refuse to tolerate as a society this harm that is being done to our children, ALL of our children. All of Gods Children.
My friend that was beaten now not only has to endure the physical and emotional violation but now has to deal with the fear of his business contacts and public service work being in jeopardy due to his outing over this attack. How many of these hate based attacks are not reported due to this same fear?
Our time has come. Our time has come to not tolerate this anymore. Enough of us and our children have endured this way too long. It is our responsibility to ensure the children after us do not have to walk this path.
Steve Terradot, a gay man, Owner Boulevard Bar (GAY) Pasadena, California
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:03 pm
Let’s not forget about our brothers and sisters in Arizona, victims of prop 102!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:10 pm
Hi -
so glad you’re doing this – thank you!
You’ve got the wrong google map for Denver…here’s is where it’s happening:
National Protest – Saturday, November 15, 2008, 11:30AM
West steps of the Colorado State Capitol building
(201 E. Colfax Ave, Downtown Denver)
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:26 pm
If you know about any protests against Prop 8 in Tampa, FL (or close by)… e-mail me at ocil@riseup.net or message me on MySpace. (www.myspace.com/oodlesofsnoodles) Also, if you are interested in starting one in Tampa or know of any other people who’d be interested… please also contact me. thanks
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:34 pm
I’m a little confused about the Los Angeles location (several are listed on the Google Maps link). Can someone please clarify?
Thanks!
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:46 pm
Money talks – boycotting businesses that supported prop 8 will get results. Organizers need to focus targeting establishments large or small (like the Hyatt in San Diego or the mom and pop store on the corner) that helped push this through.
Protest all we want, if it doesn’t have a financial impact it is useless.
Posted on November 11th, 2008 at 11:58 pm
Your locations by google-maps are flawed. You can’t just do city state ‘city hall’.
Denver does not show correctly when this is done.
And Atlanta certainly does not show correctly when this is done.
Please correct before more people are confused.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:00 am
I was really impressed with the way people came together following the elections. It is great that we can all protest and help make a difference for our rights as human beings; and to show those who don’t believe in fundamental rights, that we are all equal regardless of gender, ethnicity or in this case sexual orientation, and can not be silenced and pushed away. I am definetly trying to find ways to get involved, I live in Riverside, California and want to spread the word, I would really like to hear from any one who has suggestions as to how I can do more.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:11 am
I thought this exchange might be of interest to you. I wrote Manhunt Customer Service today, asking them to consider putting out a broadcast email about the November 12 NYC demonstration on Prop 8. I think their response, especially in light of the recent controversy surrounding their donations to the Republican party, is especially illuminating. Following is our exchange:
On Tue Nov 11, 2008 03:18 PM, {member name withheld] wrote:
Would you please consider putting out a broadcast email message to
NY/NJ/CT area members about this extremely important event?
I think it’s vital that we show our West Coast brethren that are united about this issue.
Thank you for considering doing this-
Bill
Dear friends,
If you have friends in NYC or nearby, whom you know to be supportive
of equality for all and discrimination against none, would you kindly send them this information and urge them to consider showing up to be part of helping to make even more history during one of this country’s most historical months ever?
Numbers matter, and a huge turnout for this historical demonstration will help send a powerful message across our nation and around the world
against bigotry and discrimination.
Tens of thousands of our brothers and sisters are in the streets in
California and Salt Lake City and around the country peacefully
protesting the votes banning same-sex marriage in California.
Join them! Make your voices heard right here in New York City.
We will tell the Mormon Church how we feel about its relentless campaign to condemn and control our lives. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was, by far, the biggest financer of California’s heinous and hateful Proposition 8. The Mormon Church begged their members to donate money to Prop 8, pouring 20 million dollars into the campaign. And their attacks on us didn’t start there and aren’t about to end. They’re plotting right now to bring their money and influence to bear against the LGBT community everywhere in this country,
including trying to prevent marriage equality in New York.
Join us in speaking out against Mormon hate! Stop them taking away your rights!
PEACEFUL DEMONSTRATION – BRING SIGNS — ALERT THE MEDIA
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
Media Contact: Corey Johnson – (646) 246-4848
*************************
On Tue 11 Nov 2008 03:30 PM, ManhuntServiceman wrote:
Dear {member name withheld],
This is Nick, one of the Customer Service Representatives of Team MANHUNT,
and it will be my pleasure to serve you.
Our website policy is that members may not advertise their business
interests via their personal profile, but members are welcome to inquire about
the possibility of placing an advertising banner on our website to promote their business.
To formally inquire, please go to the following webpage:
http://www.online-buddies.com/advertising .
Once there please complete all the necessary information on the
online form and submit your request for review by our advertising team. Our
advertising team will then get back to you as quickly as possible.
P.S. We’re getting the word out about MANHUNT Messenger™, featuring
MANCAM™ Video Chat. It’s got a new look, is easy to use and is more reliable.
When you find your man,just click on the IM button in his profile to get started.
Plus if you’ve got a webcam, you can video chat with him; just click the
“video” button once you’re chatting.
Take our new MANHUNT Messenger, featuring MANCAM for a spin today!
Feel free to let us know if you have any questions.
Thank you,
Nick
MANHUNT Customer Support 24/7
866.424.9999 (USA & Canada)
617.424.9999 (All Other Countries)
support@manhunt.net
*************************
On Tue Nov 11, 2008 04:47 PM, {member name withheld] wrote:
Dear Nick:
Please do me the courtesy of reading my request before responding to it
with some autoresponse about advertising “business interests”.
The request I sent you is about a political demonstration about Prop 8,
not some business interest or advertising banner income opportunity for
Manhunt.
I invite you to reread it, and reconsider your response, especially in
the light of the Manhunt Republican-contribution debacle of the past
election.
Sincerely,
Bill
*************************
From: ManhuntServiceman
Subject: Re: A request
Date: Tue 11 Nov 2008 04:56 PM
Hey {member name withheld],
MANHUNT is a place for men to meet men, not to be used as a political forum.
Please make sure that all the text in your ad pertains to what you’re looking
for in a partner, not a statement of your political beliefs.
If you have any questions about this policy, please feel free to contact
Customer Service.
Thank You,
Kurt
MANHUNT Customer Support 24/7
866.424.9999 (USA & Canada)
001.617.424.9999 (All Other Countries)
support@manhunt.net
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:14 am
In San Rafael, California:
Prop 8 Protest: A Call to the LGBTQ Community, Friends, & Family
Join us this Saturday, November 15th for the National Protest Against Proposition 8
WHERE: San Rafael: Courthouse Square (Fourth and City Plaza steps)
TIME: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Calling our community together! There has been a tremendous outpouring of support since the election, when Proposition 8 passed by a narrow margin in California. Come together for a peaceful rally in downtown San Rafael. Bring your signs, your friends, and your energy.
WE NEED: COUPLES TO SPEAK OUT, MUSIC, VOLUNTEERS TO HELP WITH KEEPING ORDERLY CONDUCT, AND HELP WITH GETTING THE WORD OUT!
To volunteer, call 415-457-1115 ext.209
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:36 am
Perhaps I am just stupid, but I just want to make sure what time the protest in Alaska starts on the 15th. You gave a Pacific and Eastern time, but Alaska is an hour behind Pacific time.
So does that mean it will start at 9:30 AM?
Just want to clarify because I am determined to be there!
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:57 am
is there anyone from the state of north dakota that would like to work with me in Bismarck or to travel to Grand Forks with me? if so, please email me xxnerdcorexx@hotmail.com
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 1:00 am
What’s the best place to rally in Sacramento? Please, let me know where everyone will be and I WILL be there.
http://www.prop8talk.com is a new forum community, so you’re all invited to participate there, too.
Let’s not be complacent any longer. That’s what caused our defeat last Tuesday, but it will not happen again.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 1:21 am
Dayton, Ohio is having a Prop 8 Protest if you could add it to the list on the main site!
Info:
Saturday, Nov. 15th
1:30pm-4:30pm
Montgomery County Courthouse
125 E. First Street
Dayton, Ohio
Carpool from Wright State Student Union at 12:30pm.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 1:30 am
Kruse,
You bring up a good point and I would like to speak to it. JoinTheImpact is focused on fighting for national rights, but our opponents have worked hard to split our group into smaller, easier to manage, state by state segments. Those who oppose gay marriage have banned together on a national level and worked to attack state initiatives. They have successfully utilized the divide and conquer tactic. We need to bring our movement back to a national stage, and the first step in doing that is to show our opponents that when they attack one of us, they must respond to all of us. This is why we are coming together in Protest of Prop 8. We need to come out in support of our LGBTQ brothers and sisters. Proposition 8 is not just California’s problem. Proposition 8 revoked rights of the LGBTQ community. If we sit back in silence about this, then we are saying that our opposition can come into our states and do the same thing if we win the rights. This is just step one. Prop 8 is just one piece of the entire conversation, but it is a piece that we must speak to as an entire community rather than a divided one. It’s a trite phrase, but “divided we fail.”
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 1:33 am
Something needs to be organized in Modesto, CA!!
We need to take action as a community !
Fresno is a great idea also. The central valley was a huge “Yes on 8″ driving force
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 1:41 am
Count Dallas in! Let me know how I can assist!
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 2:37 am
I went through the very devisive and hateful Anti-gay “Measure 9″ in Oregon back in the mid-1990′s.
They used similar deceitful advertising tactics to polarize people against each other and create fear, which caused increase hate and violence against us. Back then I was somewhat closeted in the U.S. Coast Guard. Now Proposition 8 has repeated this same scenario, only now with the increased insult of losing the right to marry. I have since been kicked out of the service for being gay (another injustice against us). I plan on attending several events wearing my FULL DRESS BLUES!!! At the capital on Sunday, as far as I know, I was the only one in military uniform. I encourage other ex-military (or daring current military) to proudly wear their best dashing uniforms to these historic events!! We have fought harder than most in defense of our country, and yet we are still denied our constitutional rights to be who we are!! Be careful out there. Love to you all!! Jon Long.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 2:49 am
we must march to the maytag cathedral and respectfully, boisterously protets the Archbishop who orchestrated this defeat.
who are going to be your security monitors?
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 2:50 am
Amy:
One important and unfortunate fact to consider is that most Americans still oppose the concept of ‘gay marriage’ for whatever reason.
Even when those of us who believe in equal rights for all DO win in California in 2009 or 2010, that will in no way mean that all the other dominoes are ready to fall.
Having a national conversation is important, but for the moment, I would argue that California is the prize, because it’s very much within reach. I have heard that NY is also close.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 3:38 am
Key West, FL: 1:30 p.m., Old City Hall.
From this morning’s Key West Citizen:
The Key West Gay and Lesbian Community Center is sponsoring a rally at 1:30 p.m. Saturday against the recent marriage amendments approved in Florida, Arizona and California.
Protesters are to meet in front of Old City Hall, at 510 Greene St.
It’s part of a national protest against the inequality created by the measures, which call for state constitutional amendments defining marriage as a union of a man and woman, the press release says.
“Not only gay and lesbians, but also large numbers of the general population are outraged by this move to deny basic civil rights to the gay and lesbian community,” says the GLCC. Participants will be able to speak out on the issue at the rally.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 4:08 am
I think it’s great!!! Is there anything going on near me? Greenwood, SC
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 7:35 am
Surely there’s going to be one in New Orleans – right? I’ve heard nothing on it.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 8:35 am
Recipe for a Rally in Your Town
If you want to organize in your city or town but don’t know where to start, all you have to do is start emailing your friends and supporters!
The biggest decision to make is when and where to do it, and that decision has already been made for you: November 15, 1:30pm Eastern/10:30am Pacific, at your city hall.
Once you all start talking, organization will follow naturally. You don’t need to wait for a leader to materialize in your town, all you need to do is decide that yes, I’m going to be there, and ask everyone you know to join you.
Someone will emerge who wants to speak or lead a cheer; someone will dig up a bullhorn; someone will write a press release.
You are wondering if it is going to happen in your town. Stop wondering! Simply make the decision to be there at the appointed time.
Then tell your friends and supporters that YES, it is happening in our town. Yes, YES, it is happening.
That is all the organization you need. Once that is done, all you need to do is get the word out, and ask everyone to do the same.
BE THE ONE TO DO THIS IN YOUR TOWN! It’s so easy, and not scary at all! You don’t have to be the “leader.” You don’t have to make a speech. You don’t have to arrange anything at all. People will emerge who want to do those things.
Just tell everyone: “YES, it’s happening, be there, and tell everyone you know to be there, too!”
And make sure they know that this is a historic nationwide event, and THIS IS OUR TIME!
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 8:44 am
I would love to form a location in the San Francisco East Bay somewhere. I am in Pleasanton but am open to other areas. Anyone?
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 8:48 am
Keep protesting (peacefully) and please update the location page. When you click on it it does not work. For Pierce County Residents…we go to Seattle? Thanks!
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 8:55 am
Do you have a local contact in Chicago? You have City Hall listed as the protest site, but the Daley Center or the State of Illinois building are a much better location for this kind of thing – there are large plazas in front of both buildings where people regularly hold protests, demonstrations, and rallies. Unfortunately, nobody is working in any of those buildings on weekends, and the Loop area itself is pretty dead. If you want to make max impact in Chicago on a weekend, you should hold the demonstration on Michigan Ave, although doing so requires a permit.
Anyway, this is a good and extremely important effort, but if you really want to make some noise nationwide, it would probably be a good idea to get in touch with local groups and let them do the organizing on a local level. Otherwise, in Chicago anyway, you’ll end up with five people illegally blocking a sidewalk in front of an empty building.
Also the link on the front page of your site that claims to point visitors to the list of protest locations throw up a 404 page.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 10:02 am
just fyi to the blog administrator – the link at the bottom of the post doesn’t work. it’s missing the backslash that the link in the top menu line has.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 10:15 am
Pendants? baaaad spellchucker? (Pundits?)… ha. i see others noticed…
i saw a few no-8 roadside” wavers” and sign-holders in central CC on Nov 4.
remember that (as far as i’ve read) prop8 “won” by only 52% vs 48%.
so, the next vote will probably be a true win. the freedom-haters will then try one more election to take back rights, and will likely lose even harder. the future is expensive, but inexorable.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 10:17 am
[...] was originally posted on jointheimpact.com. Kasama posts this because it is important for readers to know — but such [...]
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 10:30 am
The link to the site to find the protest locations is Not working! Please see if you can get it up and running again. I’d like to find the location closest to me…
Thanks!
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 10:33 am
We will be protesting passage of Amendment 2 in Florida on November 15th.
A march from Florida State University to the Capitol. Meet at Westcott fountain at FSU at 12:00 noon Saturday.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 10:35 am
Is anyone rallying in WV?
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 10:54 am
Can someone tell me more information about the protest? i live in San Jose, Ca. tony_cordero@sbcglobal.net
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 10:54 am
I will not be able to join a march, as I am taking a CPR class that day. But I will wear a rainbow ribbon as a sign of support. I am not gay, and frankly as a twice divorced straight woman I share Mae West’s opinion of marriage (an institution I wouldn’t want to live in). But I damn well think everyone should have equal rights before the law. All straight people should refuse to get married until gay people can too! And all wedding planners and wedding dress designers (aren’t half of you gay?) should refuse to work until there is equality. [PS I think you mean pundit not pendant.]
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 10:57 am
Erie PA will have its protest on Saturday, November 15 at 1:30 PM at the Erie County Courthouse, 140 W 6th St, Erie PA. For more info, browse to either http://jointheimpact.wetpaint.com/page/Erie or http://www.eriegaynews.com. You can email me at info@eriegaynews.com.
We are meeting tonight (Wed, Nov 12) at 7 PM at the Unitarian-Universalist Congregation of Erie, 7180 Perry Highway, Erie PA to plan.
Thanks for putting this together! You folks are awesome!
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 10:57 am
Great Idea folks but I fear it is being done too quickly. only a 4 day notice that this is happening. Would have been better to give a few more days to get this all organised . Every city listed here has no real info as to where the rally takes place. How about all being asked to meet at city halls at 11:00AM ( so all would be in place by noon) OR if in a capitol city, meet at the state house. It will be interesting to see if the Boston community will have any more energy to give after our own battle with this. It was brutal but we prevailed! GOOD LUCK TO ALL.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 10:57 am
In Madison Wisconsin we will have what looks like an admazing turn out. For all of us trying to get this going GET OUT THE WORD. This is our time to show people in this country we are not going to stand being treated like 2nd class citizen. We all just want to love some one, have the same rights as any one else down there. New York was the birth place of pride. Now its time to show this country and the world in once voice we will not be quite, we will not be 2nd class citizens, we will not go quietly in the night. Please email me any where in the nation to show support for rally, Get out there, We are a people who have been push and will not be pushed any more! Its time to take a stand for the youth of this country. The future is NOW! we must stand up strong and proud!
timothyi.theis@gmail.com
I have been quite for many years, just giving a little, standing in the middle . NO MORE I will be up front and center in this fight. In wisconsin we have passed a ban on gay marrage. If we fight and fight we will make a change, not just for wisconsin or califorina but for the country!
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 11:11 am
I’m trying to find my protest location, but your link gives me this:
Easy, tiger. This is a 404 page.
You are totally in the wrong place.
Do not pass GO; do not collect $200.
Instead, hit that “back” button on your browser, and get it right next time, eh?
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 11:18 am
Santa Barbara is IN !!! We will be at the Sunken Gardens at the Courthouse.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 11:26 am
Protest forming in Sunbury PA, 1 hour north of Harrisburg.
sunsetcliff@gmail.com
beginning at 10AM, we plan to shut down a road
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 11:28 am
Hi Peeps!
I need some details for the November 15th protest in San Francisco. (I couldn’t find them on the site, got a 404 error.) I want to join in!
Thanks!
Jesse
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 11:36 am
Anything happening in Minneapolis/St. Paul or the surrounding area? Or would anyone like to start something there?
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 11:39 am
It’s interesting to note that when the democracy in which you live, speaks; that is – votes, you desire to protest.
The PEOPLE voted for this. It was not legislated into passing like Congress’ many harmful mistakes. Nor was it ruled into law by a court justice, as it was originally done, where no one could vote for it!
Now that people have had a chance to voice their opinion by voting, you desire to protest?
It is probably impossible for you not to, as you most likely base your identity on your sexuality. However, please take a good, long time to ponder why people did in fact vote for Proposition 8, and then live with it.
A protest, also, will not do a thing to change this vote.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 11:43 am
Hey there,
I’m wondering if you are working to get the word out through local groups and community centers. When I called my local community center in Vermont (www.ru12.org) they didn’t know anything about this work.
It’s very strange that they wouldn’t know about it because they have great local networks to try to turn people out.
Who are the people actually organizing the Vermont protests? There doesn’t appear to any info here – just a google map.
I’m really hesitant to go to a protest that has no information readily available about the organizers.
Can you help us out with a little more detail about how you are working with local communities?
Cheers,
Christopher
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 11:45 am
The link from your blog (not the link in the site nav) is incorrect and sending people to a 404 page. This needs to get fixed ASAP if we’re going to keep people moving! I’d like to send as many people to this site as possible, and it’s important that it stay useful. If you need volunteers for site maintenance, I’m sure many of us would be happy to help.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 11:54 am
Why is it that I can’t find exact information on protest locations on any gay and lesbian site, including this one? This site lists links which all point to maps, not times and locations. Does anyone know of a site that lists the locations and times of future rallies? I would like to get involved but it is not an easy task.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 11:57 am
Hey everyone. If you’re planning on attending the SF No on 8 rally this weekend but you live in the east bay, please come out to Oakland City Hall (1 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza)instead. And if you weren’t planning on coming out … WHY NOT???
There are currently more people planning to attend the event in Cincinnati, Ohio than in Oakland California! Invite all of your friends, show up, and represent! Oakland is home to more gay families with children than any city in the country! Protect our families and protest Prop 8!
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:02 pm
Great message and def will participate in Philly. Contacting all family and friends.
The one thing missing from the message though is a clear statement to include our straight allies. Both thanking them and requesting their attendance/support. Their numbers are greater than ours and many of them have expressed equal disdain with the decisions that are being made. This is not just about us getting equality, it’s a bigger issue about the rights and dignity of all people.
We need to be united in our efforts as LGBTQI2-S communities, but we cannot forget our friends who will have to be united with us to make this happen.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
I’m from New York City, and I would like to find out what time and where the Protest is taking place since the site that is supposed to give me that info seems to be down?
Thanks!
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
Marin County will be meeting up at the San Rafael City Hall.
http://spectrumlgbtcenter.blogspot.com/2008/11/prop-8-protest-call-to-lgbtq-community.html
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:17 pm
keep marriage between a man and woman.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:19 pm
I am so moved by all of this. I am studying abroad in Hong Kong at the moment and planning to show up at the US embassy on Nov. 15 just to give an extra push. This is a real fight, a real chance to show our determination and unity. I hate to admit it but I feel left out on the other side of the Pacific.
Californian’s and all Americans abroad should unite for the benefit of all US citizens.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
the link at the bottom of the post is leading to a humorous but not-very-helpful 404 error
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
I’ll be at my Columbus OH city hall on Saturday, protesting Prop 8. I am a straight woman who completely supports the LGBTQI Community and equal rights for every human.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
Si se puede!
Familia tenemos que unirnos, muchos latinos no estan partisipando por el estatus legal que tienen, necesitamos unirnos para pasar la informacion a nuestras comunidades.
Nos vemos el sabado!
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
I live Behind the Orange Curtain AKA Orange County, California. I don’t want my wife and I to be the only ones at Irvine City Hall. Is there a City Hall in Orange County that will be getting a bigger turnout that I can attend?
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
Yes, not to nitpick but krw is right: it should be “pundits” not pendants in the second sentence. I only mention it because typos and misspellings weaken the perceived legitimacy of an organization or movement, making the message seem less informed and thus more easily dismissed.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
The protest location link is not working. Please, fix it!!! Trying to help promote, but need the link to work!!
Morgan
Baltimore, MD
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
I’d like to get a gathering together at the Walnut Creek, Ca City Hall… any takers?
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 1:19 pm
Can we get Walnut Creek listed as one of the Ca sites?
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 1:20 pm
I am a former HRC West Coast Canvass Manager with 15 years experience fundraising and organizing LGBT/HIV/AIDS activists. I have the time, no how and passion–please contact me so I can help however best ASAP!
Brian Gilad Wilson
310.746.7915
briangilad@gmail.com
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
LOS ANGELES! If you want to take the Red Line Metro to Union Station downtown, it’s a quick walk to City Hall. Exit the front of Union Station, cross Alameda, walk south across the freeway overpass to Temple. Make a right, go one block, and you’re at the north end of City Hall. You’ll see Street parking is available in the surrounding area to a limited degree, be sure to check signs. There’s even a Starbucks in the Kyoto Hotel at the corner of 1st street and Los Angeles St. Are these permitted or spontaneous demonstrations? Is local media alerted? I found this link from EQCA website. See you there! PEACE & JUSTICE
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
“FIND YOUR PROTEST LOCATION HERE” link is broken, fyi…
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
Yes on8 and think about this who 2 class citzens everyone exsept the rich. Rich can get away with anything because mony talks. Find your own word and meaning marriage has always been for a man and women to become one.
And stop stealing words Marriage has always been a relgious act
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 1:44 pm
[...] Join the Impact – Protest Prop 8 on November 15th! » Blog Archive … [...]
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
WALNUT CREEK CITY HALL
1666 No. Main St!! Sat 10:30 a.m.
“Separation of Church and Hate”!!
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
My heart is heavy by prop8. It tell me, I am a lesser than others. And is not true at all. Been with same guy for 25 years. To get mariaged on 11/01/08 we had to go to Canada. Why should any have to leave the country they live in to be mariaged? If you one groups rights taken’ away. Then they will do it to others groups in time. That is how it starts, then snow balls. Had a great time in Canada. But it was not the same as if I had got mariged in the USA. Will you stand up for own rights now. When will we? Later maybe to late. So brothers and sisters please stand up for what is right. Will you stand with me. And make this a better country for all! On 11/15/08 by being at protest agianst prop8 , you’ll send a clear massage ” NO TO HATE AND WHAT IT STANDS FOR ‘.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 3:25 pm
Hey – I was going to attend with the Stonewall Democrats in the Seattle area – but I’m here in Los Angeles on Saturday. Where do I go?
Thanks,
Lori
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 3:38 pm
I’m still waiting for more information on the contacts in the Mobile location. That wiki is not updated.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXOLcrbo1yw
This is an advertisement for the join the impact march on november 15 in Los Angeles.
Please forward to all.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 5:21 pm
To Whom It May Concern: (some Evangelicals, Catholics & Mormons)
I wanted to personally thank you for your vote the other day to deny gay people the right to marry in the State of California. You have done exactly what I wanted you to do. As you know, one of my basic tools is to mislead about what the big guy really wants. Keep thinking you know what he wants with your misread of the book; this totally works for me. Imagine that the 70 million dollars that went into the advertising could have been used to help the poor, provide healthcare and do so many other things I’m against. I feel warm all over thinking about this. Remember, separate but equal was my idea. Separation of church and state was His.
As you know, my plan is to deny Him his converts and to eliminate joy on earth. By showing people that your churches are intolerant of anyone different than you and that you really want to create a theocracy like I’ve created in Iran, you have gone a long way to helping my goal. You have succeeded in making it harder for Him to reach the gay people. They, gay people, will think twice before joining a church because they feel your detestation. Finally, you will succeed in making the young homos feel worse about themselves and some may even commit suicide. Making homos feel like accepted members of society will surely work against my plans.
Keep up the good work. Don’t be following Mr. Jesus’ rules about love. That is the only thing that really worries me.
Sincerely Yours,
Satan
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 6:48 pm
Please send copies of all news releases to Gay MediaWire at newsdesk@gaymediawire.com
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 8:15 pm
Anything going on in Buffalo, NY? I’d really like to participate.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 8:41 pm
No matter what you do, it all will eventually boil down to the people in the state. Obama has stated that he believes Gay Marriage is a state issue not a Federal one. Now if it were a Federal issue what you would be doing would not seem so odd to me. If you really wish to make a difference, I would say focus you protests in states that it would make a difference in.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 10:25 pm
We need to look at have all unions recognized as “civil unions”, and if you get “married” at your church or what have you, and the state has nothing to do with this, except if you want it official, you would get a “civil union” license. This would not redefine marriage, per se, because this would be a government license that everyone would need, similar to a drivers license.
Posted on November 12th, 2008 at 11:20 pm
I am reposting a link to your site on my MySpace and Facebook pages. I will be supporting in Los Angeles on the 15th. Thank you for reaching out to everyone and starting a movement. God Bless!
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 1:54 am
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3290/3026290633_6e8ed24c76.jpg
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 1:56 am
The proposition 8 results were disappointing but at the same time not exactly a surprise. I have been with the same woman for 6 years and I don’t need a piece of paper to feel good about it or have our relationship validated. I would be happier seeing the gay community raise millions of dollars to go towards poverty and hunger. Marriage is all well and good but our communities and our country need so much more right now.
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 2:17 am
go lakers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 2:35 am
The time has come to rid this great nation we call home of the prejudice, and finally show the world we are a people who can love all others regardless of the differences. This cause will not rest until the voices of everyone have spoken and the people have united as one. Godspeed my fellow citizens.
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 2:50 am
Will the demonstration be like the yearly Gay Pride parade down Market Street in San Francisco? I mean with many people nude, others dressed in leather S&M outfits, a number of others partially nude being led with a dog collar on, and also just those wishing to share their psycho-sexual fantasies with the general public. We need to make them realize we are just like everyone else. Whether they like it or not!
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 2:54 am
I’m having difficulty understanding the pigheadeness of the people in California, or the U.S. In Europe sexuality is embrassed and celebrated no matter what the persons sexual preference is. To not grant people the right to wed is an injustice and unconstitutional. Leave the Church out of State affairs, and let people have the right to love whomever they please.
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 3:01 am
Abolish marriage. Abolish civil unions. Equal rights for all whether single, partnered or polyamorous. Throw out your tired old ethics. One person, one tax return. Choose your own beneficiary. Replace all divorce law with the law of contracts. Be free.
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 3:10 am
Paul,
I am not gay bashing when I tell you that although Jesus does want people to love each other, he also teaches other things. God is the only one who can judge us for our actions! But the only thing I have against you is that a lot of you just cannot live low profile but that you have to flaunt your lifestyle, which by the way, is not accepted in society as a whole. Why do you have to act so queer? If you were going about your business as usual, doing your thing without acting as if the whole world is gay, I´d say you would be accepted faster. When I see a man acting like a hussy it just makes me sick. Gay or no gay. Just stop acting so queer and you´ll see a change in people´s acceptance towards you. I now live in Spain where gay marriage is legal. But the public itself does not accept it as normal. Just that they tolerate it, nothing more. Anyway, at the same time I don´t agree with the government playing games either. Either you pass the law or reject it! Stop f…ng with people´s minds by passing it and rejecting it every other month. Or they can´t find a more constructive way of spending the tax dollars? Seems like the current global crisis would be a good start. There is great truth written in the book ¨1984¨. All of this creates a diversion and gives people something else to preoccupy themselves with rather than the great issues.
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 4:16 am
People! It is time for the gay community to rise in bulk! We have had many, beautiful successes but it is time we make it clear that we will continue to march, to advocate until we are fully recognized. We owe it to those before us who suffered far harder with less fruits!
This is the tipping point and we are the change! We rallied behind Obama for the change he believes we can accomplish to make this country better. We shouted, “Yes we can” and now we must continue to do so!
YES WE CAN!
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
I keep seeing contradictory time for the Saturday rally in L.A. Please tell us the correct time!
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 1:12 pm
I keep seeing contradictory times for the Saturday, November 15th rally in L.A. Please tells us the correct time!
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 1:14 pm
Hello Friends!
This is a subject that is near & dear to me and my family. On July 18th, 2008, Cheryl and I were married in Martinez, California. It was a powerful and amazing day! We recited the same vows that were spoken by so many before us. It wasn’t the uniqueness of our marriage ceremony that awed us. It was the fact that our basic wedding was exactly the same as our parents, our grandparents, our brothers and sisters. Those vows bonded us not just to each other, but to thousands of years of prior ritual and ceremony driven by the wishes and dreams of so many couples before us. That day, our relationship was treated with the same dignity and respect as any other loving and committed couple, and it felt incredible. As registered nurses, Cheryl and I advocate daily for our patients to receive care based on those principles of respect and dignity. Now, we are fighting for each other.
Over these last few months, our family has experienced a newfound security and validity that only true Marriage can bring (not a “marriage substitute”), and we have been so thankful. But to have our blissful “newlywed” status ripped away from us is just heartbreaking.
We will be joining the peaceful demonstration in Philadelphia with our family and friends. Thank you for making this happen!!
Laura, Cheryl, Nathan & Zach
Gilbertsville, PA
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 1:43 pm
You may not agree but our constitutional system allowed for the people to vote on the issue and they spoke out with their vote.
“Under California state law, any two individuals are allowed to form a domestic partnership, which grants those individuals all the legal rights of married individuals (Family Code 297.5). So, proposition 8 did not deny the legal rights of any individual.
If marriage is declared a right for all individuals then any laws that restrict that right will be declared unconstitutional, requiring that polygamy, polyandry and incestuous marriage be made legal. Child marriage will not be too many years down the road.” Rich Deem
btw: no where in the constitution is there a reference to “separation of church and state”.
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
LGBT Protestors assaulted by 80 Year Old Christian. Check out this article:
Palm Springs Rally Turns Violent by Kimberly Cheng KPSP Local 2 News Palm Springs, CA. Link to website for Channel 2: http://www.kpsplocal2.com/Global/story.asp?s=9315303
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 3:50 pm
It’s time we stopped calling ourselves the “LGBTQ” community. “Queer” is what they think we are. That’s why they voted Prop 8 onto the books in California. We need to stop affirming their prejudices. We are not “queer”. The butchest Lesbian, the nellyest Gay man, the flashiest transgender person . . . none of them is “queer.” They are as God made them, and nothing God makes is “queer”! “Queer” means abnormal and twisted in the world outside Gay ghettos, and when we use it on ourselves, we validate a lie! This is something nobody wants to accept, but if we’re going to get really serious about equality, we need to stop embracing labels that designate us as unequal. Let’s go into this fight with our dignity in the lead.
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
I am a straight woman – born and raised in CA (Bay Area) as a Catholic. I voted NO on 8. I feel that any discrimination is WRONG and I will fight for the rights of all people of our world. Those that choose to discriminate and use religion to support their ignorance is beyond me.
Partnership benefits are not the same as marriage and each person in our society deserves to have equal opportunities in all areas be it (education, religious freedom, or marriage).
Hippocrates using phraseology like “I have no problem with gays but…” proves there is a problem. One that is being looked over and accepted by far too many – next thing you know we will have separate water fountains, seating arrangements on public transportation, etc. You can or can’t come in because you are straight or gay. This is all ridiculous and discriminatory and I am deeply hurt by the vote of the people. How can we vote for CHANGE and be looking forward to a Historical moment where Obama is elected into Presidency, but on the other hand still have such discrimination still happening in our world?
Although I am not gay and I am a happily married woman, I want to see all people given the same human rights including marriage. It is a joy to experience marriage with a person you truly love and cherish – No one should have to be told they are not allowed to have this simply because of the person that they are choosing to marry isn’t approved by the voters. Hell, if we all had to go before the State to receive a vote of acceptance to marry who we wanted to would any of us be married? Who deserves the right to make these decisions for others?
I have faith we will overcome this together and we will soon be celebrating the equal rights of ALL PEOPLE despite race, religion, sexual preference or orientation, etc.
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
Hello, I was shocked when learning about the millions of dollars wasted to deny the rights of others. Instead of using “Gods” money to help others in need, like feeding the poor, opening job retraining centers and free child care centers for those trying to get back on their feet, the Morman church chose to single out a specific group of people and fight to deny basic rights of committed couples. If ever there was something done that was pure evil, I would have to say, “this is about it.” Did the Morman church fail to see their own history? They had to flee, many didn’t make it. They were denied rights and even denied a status as a church but were considered a cult following. What would have happened if others would have banned together to insure their pursecution? It is ironic how the river of hypocracy runs.
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 6:44 pm
Hi, could someone email me the Virginia protest times and location? Thanks! (jjbaker@vt.edu)
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 8:54 pm
i want to be a part of this but im not really clear whats going on. so we show up to city hall at ten thirty… i live in van nuys., is it EVERY city hall? im a little confused.
Posted on November 13th, 2008 at 11:38 pm
Why? Why should I break my usual saturday moring rotunine and protest an issue that lacks the essnce of my like pressence? I never, if ever see black/latin same sex people paired with their race.
Are we not being married as well? Or are the white gay male media not showing those images, sharing “those” stories with the world. If you didn’t know better you’d think the only folks finding love and getting married were mostly white folks and the miscellaneous brown person they manage to drag to the alter.
So, now, you want numbers. Well we want (no I want) fair equal visibiltiy!
Mr. Funky
cincinnai.Ohio
Posted on November 14th, 2008 at 8:51 am
We are getting up in numbers in the Madison Wisconsin. As of now I can say the student group coordinator and my slef are expecting about 1500 people. I have all the permits and insurances that i can get for this event. This will be a great day for us. Rain or SNOW we will be at the Library Mall, Intersection of Lake Street and State Street In Madison and Marching up to the State Capital as of 12:30!!!!!
any question please EMAIL!
timothyi.theis@gmail.com.
If you need a ride let me know. You need anything let me know. We have been making signs and getting the largest pride flag we can. other groups have come together and I know this will be a great day for out community and the country!
Posted on November 14th, 2008 at 9:50 am
Today in Santa Ana California at the Doubble Tree hotel at 12:00pm the mormons are having a press confrence. There is a call to gather in front of the hotel in a peaceful protest to get our our own press.
Posted on November 14th, 2008 at 10:30 am
My friend Anne Holmes has written an excellent post on her blog BoomerLifestyle.com, trying to get the word out on this issue to the “Baby Boomer” generation. The post is a passionate, eloquent, and moving call to action her readers to Join the Impact. The post is at http://boomerlifestyle.com/blog/gay-marriage-what-can-our-society-possibly-gain-from-californias-revisingamending-their-state-constitution-via-the-passage-of-proposition-8/
Posted on November 14th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
[...] Prop 8 Protest: A Call to the LGBTQ Community, Friends, & Family [...]
Posted on November 14th, 2008 at 6:03 pm
Here’s an article by Johann Hari, a gay journalist, who writes regularly for the Independent UK. I think it explains perfectly well why we are seeing the racism and violence from the gay community.
The Strange, Strange Story of the Gay Fascists by Johann Hari
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/johann-hari/the-strange-strange-story_b_136697.html
The news that Jorg Haider – the Austrian fascist leader – spent his final few hours in a gay bar with a hot blond has shocked some people. It hasn’t shocked me. This is a taboo topic for a gay left-wing man like me to touch, but there has always been a weird, disproportionate overlap between homosexuality and fascism. Take a deep breath; here goes.
Some 10,000 gay people were slaughtered in the Nazi death-camps. Many more were humiliated, jailed, deported, ethnically cleansed, or castrated. One gay survivor of the camps, LD Classen von Neudegg, has written about his experiences. A snapshot: “Three men had tried to escape one night. They were captured, and when they returned they had the word ‘homo’ scrawled across their clothing. They were placed on a block and whipped. Then they were forced to beat a drum and cheer, ‘Hurrah! We’re back! Hurrah!’ Then they were hanged.” This is one of the milder events documented in his book.
So the idea of a gay fascist seems ridiculous. Yet when the British National Party – our own home-grown Holocaust-denying bigots – announced it was fielding an openly gay candidate in the European elections this June, dedicated followers of fascism didn’t blink. The twisted truth is that gay men have been at the heart of every major fascist movement that ever was – including the gay-gassing, homo-cidal Third Reich. With the exception of Jean-Marie Le Pen, all the most high-profile fascists in Europe in the past thirty years have been gay. It’s time to admit something. Fascism isn’t something that happens out there, a nasty habit acquired by the straight boys. It is – in part, at least – a gay thing, and it’s time for non-fascist gay people to wake up and face the marching music.
Just look at our own continent over the past decade. Dutch fascist Pim Fortuyn ran on blatantly racist anti-immigrant platform, describing Islam as “a cancer” and “the biggest threat to Western civilisation today.” Yet with two little fluffy dogs and a Mamma complex, he was openly, flamboyantly gay. When accused by a political opponent of hating Arabs, he replied, “How can I hate Arabs? I sucked one off last night.”
Jorg Haider blasted Austria’s cosy post-Nazi politics to rubble in 2000 when his neo-fascist ‘Freedom Party’ won a quarter of the vote and joined the country’s government as a coalition partner. Several facts always cropped up in the international press coverage: his square jaw, his muscled torso, his SS-supporting father, his rabid anti-Semitism, his hatred of immigrants, his description of Auschwitz and Dachau as “punishment centres”. A few newspapers mentioned that he is always surrounded by fit, fanatical young men. A handful went further and pointed out that several of these young men are openly gay. Then one left-wing German paper broke the story everybody else was hinting at. They alleged Haider is gay.
Rumours of an Indian waiter with “intimate details” of Haider’s body broke into the press. The Freedom Party’s general manager Gerald Miscka quickly quit, amid accusations that he was Haider’s lover. Haider’s close gay friend Walter Kohler – who has been photographed showing off a holstered pistol while Haider chuckled – declared his opposition to outing politicians. Haider – who was married and has two children – kept quiet while his functionaries denied the rumours. The revelation that he died after leaving a gay bar suggests these rumours were true.
On and on it goes. If you inter-railed across Europe, only stopping with gay fascists, there aren’t many sights you’d miss. France’s leading post-war fascist was Edouard Pfieffer, who was not batting for the straight side. Germany’s leading neo-Nazi all through the eighties was called Michael Kuhnen; he died of AIDS in 1991 a few years after coming out. Martin Lee, author of a study of European fascism, explains, “For Kuhnen, there was something supermacho about being a Nazi, as well as being a homosexual, both of which enforced his sense of living on the edge, of belonging to an elite that was destined to make an impact. He told a West German journalist that homosexuals were ‘especially well-suited for our task, because they do not want ties to wife, children and family.’”
And it wouldn’t be long before your whistlestop tour arrived in Britain. At first glance, our Nazis seem militantly straight. They have tried to disrupt gay parades, describe gay people as “evil”, and BNP leader Nick Griffin reacted charmingly to the bombing of the Admiral Duncan pub in 1999 with a column saying, “The TV footage of gay demonstrators [outside the scene of carnage] flaunting their perversion in front of the world’s journalists showed just why so many ordinary people find these creatures repulsive.”
But scratch to homophobic surface and there’s a spandex swastika underneath. In 1999, Martin Webster, a former National Front organiser and head honcho in the British fascist movement, wrote a four-page pamphlet detailing his ‘affair’ with Nick Griffin. “Griffin sought out intimate relations with me,” openly-gay Webster explained, “in the late 1970s. He was twenty years younger than me.” Ray Hill, who infiltrated the British fascist movement for twelve years to gather information for anti-fascist groups, says it’s all too plausible. Homosexuality is “extremely prevalent” in the upper echelons of the British far right, and at one stage in the 1980s nearly half of the movement’s organisers were gay, he claims.
Gerry Gable, editor of the anti-fascist magazine ‘Searchlight’, explains, “I have looked at Britain’s Nazi groups for decades and this homophobic hypocrisy has been there all the time. I cannot think of any organisation on the extreme right that hasn’t attacked people on the grounds of their sexual preference and at the same time contained many gay officers and activists.”
Griffins’ alleged gay affair would stand in a long British fascist tradition. The leader of the skinhead movement all through the 1970s was a crazed, muscled thug called Nicky Crane. He was the icon of a reactionary backlash against immigrants, feminism and the ‘hippy’ lifetsyle of the 1960s. His movement’s emphasis on conformity to a shaven, dehumanised norm resembled classical fascist movements; Crane soon became a campaigner and leading figure in the National Front. Oh, and he was gay. Before he died of AIDS in the mid-1980s, Crane came out and admitted he had starred in many gay porn videos. Just before he died in 1986, he was allowed to steward a Gay Pride march in London, even though he still said he was “proud to be a fascist.”
The rubber-soled friction between gay fascists and progressive British gay people sparked into anger in 1985 when the Gay Skinhead Movement organised a disco at London’s Gay Centre. Several lesbians in particular objected to the “invasion” of the centre. They felt that the cult of “real men” and hypermasculine thugs was stirring up the most base feelings “in the very place, the gay movement, where you would least expect them.”
And this Gaystapo has an icon to revere, an alternative Fuhrer to worship: the lost gay fascist leader Ernst Rohm. Along with Adolf Hitler, Rohm was the founding father of Nazism. Born to conservative Bavarian civil servants in 1887, Ernst Rohm’s life began – in his view – in the “heroic” trenches of the First World War. Like so many of the generation who formed the Nazi Party, he was nurtured by and obsessed with the homoerotic myth of the trenches – heroic, beautiful boys prepared to die for their brothers and their country.
He emerged from the war with a bullet-scarred face and a reverence for war. As he put it in his autobiography, “Since I am an immature and wicked man, war and unrest appeal to me more than the good bourgeois order.” After being disbanded, he tried half-heartedly to get a foothold in civilian life, but he saw it as alien, bourgeois, boring. He had no political beliefs, only prejudices – particularly hatred of Jews. Historian Joachim Fest describes Rohm’s generation of alienated, demobbed young men humiliated by defeat as “agents of a permanent revolution without any revolutionary idea of the future, only a wish to eternalize the values of the trenches.”
It was Rohm who first spotted the potential of a soap-box ranter called Adolf Hitler. He saw him as the demagogue he needed to mobilize support for his plan to overthrow democracy and establish a “soldier’s state” where the army ruled untrammelled. He introduced the young fascist to local politicians and military leaders; they knew him for many years as “Rohm’s boy.” Gay historian Frank Rector notes, “Hitler was, to a substantial extent, Rohm’s protégé.” Rohm integrated Hitler into his underground movement to overthrow the Weimar Republic.
Rohm’s blatant, out homosexuality seems bizarre now, given the gay genocide that was to follow. He talked openly about his fondness for gay bars and Turkish baths, and was known for his virility. He believed that gay people were superior to straights, and saw homosexuality as a key principle of his proposed Brave New Fascist Order. As historian Louis Snyder explains, Rohm “projected a social order in which homosexuality would be regarded as a human behaviour pattern of high repute… He flaunted his homosexuality in public and insisted his cronies do the same. He believed straight people weren’t as adept at bullying and aggression as homosexuals, so homosexuality was given a high premium in the SA.” They promoted an aggressive, hypermasculine form of homosexuality, condemning “hysterical women of both sexes”, in reference to feminine gay men.
This belief in the superiority of homosexuality had a strong German tradition that grew up at the turn of the twentieth century around Adolf Brand, publisher of the country’s first gay magazine. You could call it ‘Queer as Volk’: they preached that gay men were the foundation of all nation-states and represented an elite, warrior caste that should rule. They venerated the ancient warrior cults of Sparta, Thebes and Athens.
Rohm often referred to the ancient Greek tradition of sending gay solider couples into battle, because they were believed to be the most ferocious fighters. The famous pass of Thermopylae, for example was held by 300 soldiers – who consisted of 150 gay couples. In its early years, the SA – Hitler and Rohm’s underground army – was seen as predominantly gay. Rohm assigned prominent posts to his lovers, making Edmund Heines his deputy and Karl Ernst the SA commander in Berlin. The organisation would sometimes meet in gay bars. The gay art historian Christian Isermayer said in an interview, “I got to know people in the SA. They used to throw riotous parties even in 1933… I once attended one. It was quite well-behaved but thoroughly gay. But then, in those days, the SA was ultra-gay.”
On June 30th 1934, Rohm was awoken in a Berlin hotel by Hitler himself. He sprang to his feet and saluted, calling, “Heil Mein Fuhrer!” Hitler said simply, “You are under arrest,” and with that he left the room, giving orders for Rohm to be taken to Standelheim prison. He was shot that night. Rohm was the most high-profile kill in the massacre known as ‘the Night of the Long Knives’.
Rohm had been suspected by Hitler of disloyalty, but his murder began a massive crackdown on gay people. Heinrich Himmler, head of the Gestapo, described homosexuality as “a symptom of degeneracy that could destroy our race. We must return to the guiding Nordic principle: extermination of degenerates.”
German historian Lothar Machtan argues that Hitler had Rohm – and almost all of the large number of gay figures within the SA – killed to silence speculation about his own homosexual experiences. His ‘evidence’ for Hitler being gay is shaky and has been questioned by many historians, although some of his findings are at least suggestive. A close friend of Hitler’s during his teenager years, August Kubizek, alleged a “romantic” affair between them. Hans Mend, a despatch rider who served alongside Hitler in the First World War, claimed to have seen Hitler having sex with a man. Hitler was certainly very close to several gay men, and never seems to have had a normal sexual relationship with a woman, not even his wife, Eva Braun.
Rudolph Diels, the founder of the Gestapo, recorded some of Hitler’s private thoughts on homosexuality. “It had destroyed ancient Greece, he said. Once rife, it extended its contagious effects like an ineluctable law of nature to the best and most manly of characters, eliminating from the breeding pool the very men the Volk most needs.” This idea – that homosexuality is ‘contagious’ and, implicitly, tempting – is revealing.
Rohm is venerated on the Homo-Nazi sites that have bred on the internet like germs in a wound. They have names like Gays Against Semitism (with the charming acronym GAS), and the Aryan Resistance Corps (ARC). Their Rohmite philosophy is simple: while white men are superior to other races, gay men are “the masters of the Master Race”. They alone are endowed with the “capacity for pure male bonding” and the “superior intellect” that is needed for “a fascist revolution.” The ARC even organises holiday “get-togethers” for its members where “you can relax amongst the company of our fellow white brothers.”
So it’s fairly easy to establish that gay people are not inoculated from fascism. They have often been at its heart. This begs the bigger question: why? How did gay people – so often victims of oppression and hate – become integral to the most hateful and evil political movement of all? Is it just an extreme form of self-harm, the political equivalent to the gay kids who slash their own arms to ribbons out of self-hate?
Gay pornographer and film-maker Bruce LaBruce has one explanation. He claims that “all gay porn today is implictly fascist. Fascism is in our bones, because it’s all about glorifying white male supremacy and fetishizing domination, cruelty, power and monstrous authority figures.” He has tried to explore the relationship between homosexuality and fascism in his movies, beginning with ‘No Skin Off My Ass’ in 1991. In his disturbing 1999 film “Skin Flick’, a bourgeois gay couple – one black, one white – are sexually terrorised by a gang of gay skinheads who beat off to ‘Mein Kampf’ and beat up ‘femmes’. He implies that bourgeois gay norms quickly break down to reveal a fascist lurking underneath; the movie ends with the black character being raped in front of his half-aroused white lover, as the racist gang chant, “Fuck the monkey.”
I decided to track down some gay fascists and ask them directly. Wyatt Powers, director of the ARC, says, “I always knew in my heart racist and gay were both morally right. I don’t see any conflict between them. It’s only the Jew-owned gay press that tries to convince us that racialism is the same thing as homophobia. You can be an extreme nationalist and gay without any contradiction at all.”
One comment board on a gay racist website goes even further into racist lunacy. One gay man from Ohio says, “Even if you are gay and white, or retarded and white, YOU ARE WHITE, BOTTOM LINE! Instead of letting the white race go extinct because of worthless races such as the Africans or Mexicans popping out literally millions of babies a day, we have to fight this fucked up shit they are doing. They are raping our country.” It’s true that racism and homophobia do not necessarily overlap – but as Rabbi Bernard Melchman explains, “Homophobia and anti-Semitism are so often part of the same disease.” Racists are usually homophobic. Even after reading all their web rantings, I didn’t feel any closer to understanding why so many gay men ally themselves with people who will almost always turn on them in the end, just as the Nazis did.
Gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell has a sensitive and intriguing explanation. “There are many reasons for this kind of thing,” he says. “Some of them are in denial. They are going for hyper-masculinity, the most extreme possible way of being a man. It’s a way of ostentatiously rejecting the perceived effeminacy of the homosexual ‘Other’. These troubled men have a simple belief in their minds: ‘Straight men are tough. Queers are weak. Therefore if I’m tough I can’t be queer.’ It’s a desperate way of proving their manhood.”
‘Searchlight’ magazine – the bible of the British anti-fascist movement, with moles in every major far-right organisation – offers an alternative explanation. “Generally condemned by a society that continues to be largely hostile to gays, some men may find refuge and a new power status in the far right,” one of their writers has explained. “Through adherence to the politics espoused by fascist groups, a new identity emerges – one where they aren’t outcasts, because they are White Men, superior to everyone else. They render the gay part of their identity invisible – or reject the socially less acceptable parts, like being feminine – while vaunting what they see as superior.”
But there’s another important question: will fascist movements inevitably turn on gay people? In the case of the Nazis, it seems to have been fairly arbitrary; Hitler’s main reason for killing Rohm was unrelated to his sexuality. From my perspective as a progressive-minded leftie, all fascism is evil; but should all gay people see it as inimical to their interests? Is it possible to have a gay fascist who wasn’t acting against his own interests? Fascism is often defined as “a political ideology advocating hierarchical government that systematically denies equality to certain groups.” It’s true that this hierarchy could benefit gay people at the expense of, say, black people. But given the prevalence of homophobia, isn’t that – even for people who don’t see fascism as inherently evil – a terrible risk to take? Won’t a culture that turns viciously on one minority get around to gay people in the end? This seems, ultimately, to be the lesson of Ernst Rohm’s pitiful, squalid little life.
The growing awareness of the role gay men play in fascist movements has been abused by some homophobes. In an especially nutty work of revisionist history called ‘The Pink Swastika’, the ‘historian’ Scott Lively tries to blame gay people for the entire Holocaust, and describes the murder of gay men in the camps as merely “gay-on-gay violence.” A typical website commenting on the book claims absurdly, “The Pink Swastika shows that there was far more brutality, rape, torture and murder committed against innocent people by Nazi homosexuals than there even was against homosexuals themselves.”
Yet we can’t allow these madmen to prevent a period of serious self-reflection from the gay movement. If Bruce LaBruce is right, many of the mainstream elements of gay culture – body worship, the lauding of the strong, a fetish for authority figures and cruelty – provide a swamp in which the fascist virus can thrive. Do some gay people really still need to learn that fascists will not bring on a Fabulous Solution for gay people, but a Final Solution for us all?
Posted on November 14th, 2008 at 6:10 pm
Any other Sacramento folks here? I finally got my bullhorn, so I’m prepped and ready!
Posted on November 14th, 2008 at 6:39 pm
Why One Queer Person Is Not Celebrating California’s Historic Gay Marriage Decision
Mattilda Bernstein Sycamore
The gay marriage movement should not be fighting for a 1950s model of white-picket fence “we’re just like you” normalcy.
Though I am a queer person living in San Francisco, I will not be celebrating the California Supreme Court decision overturning the ban on same-sex marriage. Nor will I join those who say, “I would never choose to get married, but I think everyone should have the right.” Sorry, honey — marriage is depressing, period. That means gay marriage, too. And here’s why.
Gay marriage does nothing to address fundamental problems of inequality. What is needed is universal access to basic necessities like housing, health care, food, and the benefits now obtained through citizenship (like the right to stay in this country). Legalized gay marriage means only that certain people in a specific type of long-term, monogamous relationship sanctioned by a state contract might be able to access benefits. While marriage could confer inclusion under a spouse’s health-care policy, it does nothing to provide such a policy. Marriage might ensure hospital visitation rights, but not for anyone without a spouse. Marriage may allow for inheritance rights between spouses, but what if there is nothing to inherit?
For a long time, queers have married straight friends for citizenship or health care, but this has never been enshrined as “progress.” The majority of queers — single or coupled (but not desiring marriage), monogamous or polyamorous, jobless or marginally employed — would remain excluded from the much-touted benefits of legalized gay marriage.
And let’s not forget the history of marriage as a legal method for keeping property within specific dynasties (property that originally included women and slaves). In fact, marriage still exists as a central venue for spousal and child abuse — there’s a reason divorce is so popular, and suicide attempts among queer teens so prevalent. If social change is on the agenda, then the privileges associated with marriage need to be challenged, not embraced.
In fact, the push for gay marriage has shifted advocacy away from essential services like HIV education, AIDS health care, drug treatment, domestic violence prevention, and homeless care — all crucial needs for far more queers than marriage could ever be. And this pattern will undoubtedly continue, as millions of dollars will be spent fighting an anti-gay marriage constitutional amendment proposed for the November ballot, at a time when social services are being scrapped across the country, and especially in California.
The spectacle around gay marriage draws attention away from critical issues — like ending U.S. wars on Iraq and Afghanistan, stopping massive Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids across the country, and challenging the never-ending assault on anyone living outside of conventional norms.
While many straight people are reaping the benefits of gay liberation and discovering new ways of loving, lusting for and caring for one another, the gay marriage movement is busy fighting for a 1950s model of white-picket fence “we’re just like you” normalcy. And that’s no reason to celebrate.
Mattilda Bernstein Sycamore is most recently the editor of an expanded second edition of That’s Revolting! Queer Strategies for Resisting Assimilation (Soft Skull Press)
Posted on November 14th, 2008 at 11:42 pm
It’s about time to bring this matter worldwide! As for us in the US, taking a right from any group of people is U-N-C-O-N-S-T-I-T-U-T-I-O-N-A-L! period!
Posted on November 14th, 2008 at 11:43 pm
You already enjoy equal rights. We all have the right to marry someone of the opposite sex. By the way, the people who talk the most about hate are usually the ones who do most of the hating (check out http://www.antigayblacklist.com which is designed to intimidate and harrass citizens who happen to hold a different viewpoint on this issue). While you and your partner enjoy Fort Lauderdale on the extreme amount of discretionary income you enjoy, think about the rest of us who have and raise the children of this country without which society would not exist, and all the expenses this entails.
Posted on November 14th, 2008 at 11:57 pm
As a straight male with some gay friends I ask the question why? I dont think ANYONE should marry, its just an idea thats older than dirt and should be swept away.
Posted on November 15th, 2008 at 12:16 am
Casino 491f23904e…
Casino 491f23904e…
Posted on November 15th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
RE :: Don Charles
It’s actually quite fitting that you’d so quickly drop the “Q” (Queer) from LGBTQ, given your rabid assimilationist politics and the assimilationist politics of everyone else here.
It’s quite fitting that you’d only be able to imagine such a term as denigrating, given you obviously support a movement that tells us we want to be as much like normative straight people as possible. And that if we don’t, there’s something wrong with us. Internalized homophobia and transphobia, anyone?
While you’re at it, why not be a little more honest with us (and yourself) and just drop the “T” as well, given that trans issues will never be adequately addressed in a fight for inclusion in an institution that upholds patriarchy and the gender binary.
Hell, you can even go and drop the “B” because I doubt anything as complicated as bisexuality exists in your idea of “community.” After all, why confuse straight people when we can just break it down and make it simpler for them?
Hell, you can even go ahead and lump “lesbian” into “gay” and leave it at that, and then be complacent and quiet as the mainstream press goes on to do the very same thing, with every headline aptly registering marriage as a “gay” issue,
and not a queer one. It makes sense, given that the fortification of marriage as an oppressive and exclusive institution won’t at all make the world safer for women.
Then continue to be complacent and quiet as the idea of “black vs. gay” is trumpted by signs at your protests as well as the mainstream press. Even though this means that you and the heterosexual press don’t recognize people who are both black and gay as part of your community. This makes sense, given you probably couldn’t give a shit about the Jersey 4, or the Jena 6 for that matter.
What you’ll have left is an apt image for a movement that is dominated by the most privileged members of our so-called “community,” the greatest priorities of which are bent towards the securing of their own privileges, even when it’s at the expense of everyone else.
:: not gay as in “happy,” but queer as in “fuck you”
Posted on November 15th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
Awesome rally today in Sac!
I’ve got about 100 shots (mainly the signs) and filmed a couple of conversations between people on both sides of the issue. I also interviewed a young man wearing a ‘Rage Against the Mormons’ t-shirt.
I appreciate all those who agreed to be taped – I was really impressed with the way the majority handled themselves. There was only one guy who was rude to me, but his debate style revealed he wasn’t the most reasonable person out there (e.g., if you’re not strictly anti-abortion for any reason, then you’re ‘worse than the Nazis’).
What a wonderful day – I’m glad I was able to participate.
Posted on November 15th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
Hello, Many of us Gays are fed-up with the carrying candles and the walking in the streets stuff. It just makes us feel like we’re doing something when we actually aren’t. What we need to do is call for a national strike. We gays have large numbers in the airline, movie, heathcare, and telecommunications industries. A walk-out would have a real impact on the economy and in people’s everyday lives, giving a signal to the nation of our power to effect this society if we are not given the rights we deserve. We need to grow a backbone and actually do something that has some meaning instead of constantly begging and hoping people have a change of heart. Thank you, Albert Goldenberg
Posted on November 15th, 2008 at 7:38 pm
I have been in the civil rights movement for almost 65 years and was in the Black & Hispanic civil rights movement. In order to get total and equal rights you must first have a million person march on Washington after the new president is sworn in. Then you must have picketing to all churches and religious organizations protesting gay rights on a weekly bases year around. You must have not only nation wide but world wide protests, boycotts and demonstrations of all bigot organizations and people opposed to gay rights. If necessary have sit in’s and write letters to your representities. Write to the president, flood the White House with ten million letters protesting to the president you want the right to marry. Have rallies, give speeches and have musical groups hold fund raisers to fight the “enemy” in federal court. Write letters to the editor. Rally up the masses for support. Once you start do not stop but do as the blacks did and in the way they did it and you will win. I know from first hand experience what works and what does not as I am a life member of many civil rights organizations and have been with groups who have picketed city hall, court houses, state capitals, police departments, government buildings, churches and many businesses. Use the internet, the newspapers, TV and radio. You can drive both businesses and private organizations into the ground that deny you of your civil rights. Religion be damned as your rights come under the Constitution as this is not a religious dictatorship by a free democracy in which you need to protest openly millions strong to over come the “enemy” and gain full equal rights under the law. I stand behind you one hundred percent as an American and as a person who believes when one person’s civil rights are denied we all all loose our own civil rights.
Posted on November 15th, 2008 at 9:35 pm
[...] Update, September 16: here’s the first post on jointheimpact.com, from 12:23 a.m. (Pacific time I think). Information about the Houston protest was up in a [...]
Posted on November 16th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
[...] remarks: A great Blog for those looking to organize, attend a protest etc. Clip Source: jointheimpact.com I’m sure all would agree that with the election of Barack Obama, this week has been one of [...]
Posted on November 17th, 2008 at 8:01 pm
found this on line its worth the read
http://allpoetry.com/poem/1378826
Posted on November 17th, 2008 at 9:08 pm
barack obama john mccain at saddleback church video…
I cannot agree on everything you say in this article, but perhaps I missed some of the points you were trying to make….
Posted on November 27th, 2008 at 9:14 am
wood carved saint statues…
Having a way to constant web pages relating to this is beyond compare….
Posted on December 22nd, 2008 at 3:35 pm
[...] of directing information to protesters and to organize events such as the Nationwide protest of November 15th and upcoming December 20th "Light Up The Night For [...]
Posted on February 10th, 2009 at 4:01 pm
Hi there, we collected 688 signatures in a campus-wide canvassing drive, and sent them in on time, but they were just returned to us in the mail. We just double-checked the address, and it’s correct. We’d still love to send these in, but any thoughts on why it didn’t work, and how we can get these to where they belong?
Posted on April 13th, 2009 at 7:20 pm
Stop being gay and get over it.
Posted on May 26th, 2009 at 12:26 pm
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