LAMBDA LEGAL APPLAUDS NY APPELLATE COURT DECISION AFFIRMING OUT-OF-STATE MARRIAGE RECOGNITION OIA Newswire
'Yet another appellate court has ruled that government officials act lawfully when they respect out-of-state marriages of same-sex couples.'
(New York, January 5, 2009) - A decision last week from the New York Appellate Division, Second Department affirmed dismissal of a case brought by antigay Arizona group the Alliance Defense Fund and confirmed that Westchester County Executive Spano lawfully recognized out-of-state marriages of same-sex couples.
The Court said in its decision: ..."The Executive Order at issue here requires that same-sex marriages be recognized to 'the maximum extent allowed by law.' By its terms, therefore, the Executive Order can never require recognition of such a marriage where it would be outside the law to do so. Since it is within the authority of the County Executive '[t]o see that the laws of the state, pertaining to the affairs and government of the county...are executed and enforced within the county') the Executive Order is not illegal."
"Yet another appellate court has ruled that government officials act lawfully when they respect out-of-state marriages of same-sex couples," said Susan Sommer, Senior Counsel at Lambda Legal. "The Alliance Defense Fund has wasted the courts' time and taxpayers' money in their years of consistently unsuccessful cases attacking these marriages in New York and the government officials who refuse to discriminate against lesbian and gay New Yorkers."
In February 2008, in Martinez v. County of Monroe, the Appellate Division, Fourth Department in Rochester, also upheld application of the marriage recognition rule to valid out-of-state marriages of same-sex couples. Today's decision comes after four ADF losses at the trial court level and is the first New York Appellate Court ruling on their cases challenging marriage recognition. The ADF, on behalf of several Westchester County taxpayers, challenged County Executive Spano's June 6, 2006 Executive Order No. 3, which directs, "each and every department, board, agency, and commission of the County of Westchester under my jurisdiction to recognize same sex marriages lawfully entered into outside the State of New York in the same manner as they currently recognize opposite sex marriages for the purposes of extending and administering all rights and benefits belonging to these couples, to the maximum extent allowed by law." In March 2007, the lower court ruled that Spano's order was legally issued and consistent with New York law. That ruling was appealed. In oral argument on June 23, 2008, Lambda Legal represented Westchester County couple Michael Sabatino and Robert Voorheis, who had married in Canada and were permitted to intervene as defendants in the case.
"Today the court has re-affirmed that our relationship will be honored in the community where we live and where we make our life together as a married couple," said Sabatino. "It is a relief to know that we will continue to enjoy the rights and benefits of our marriage."
In July, Attorney General Cuomo, on behalf of Governor Paterson, filed a motion to dismiss a similar case brought by the Alliance Defense Fund. The ADF, on behalf of a group of taxpayers, challenged Governor Paterson's May 14, 2008 directive that state agencies respect out-of-state marriages of same-sex couples, consistent with long-standing
New York law. The court granted Lambda Legal's motion to intervene in the case on behalf of Peri Rainbow and Tamela Sloan, long-time public employees who are raising a special needs child adopted from foster care. The couple depends on the protections that come from respect for their marriage. On September 2, 2008, the New York Supreme Court (Bronx trial court) dismissed the lawsuit, ensuring that couples will continue to be treated equally in New York State. [1/5/2009]
JOIN THE IMPACT HOLDS NATIONWIDE RALLY FOR EQUALITY Obama promised LGBT equality. Don't let him forget about us! > Full Story. [1/5/2009]
2 PARENTING VICTORIES IN 2 DAYS! This holiday season, Lambda Legal is proud to share with you two victories on behalf of same-sex parents and their children. > Full Story. [12/29/2008]
NATIONAL RELIGIOUS LEADERSHIP ROUNDTABLE CONDEMNS POPE’S REMARKS DENOUNCING GENDER THEORY WASHINGTON, Dec. 22 - The National Religious Leadership Roundtable, convened by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, condemns today's remarks by Pope Benedict XVI that denounced gender theory, saying it could lead to humanity's "self-destruction." Gender theory explores sexual orientation, the roles assigned by society to individuals according to their gender and how people perceive their identity. The Catholic Church has repeatedly attacked gender theory. "If tropical forests deserve our protection, humankind ... deserves it no less," said the pope. > Full Story. [12/23/2008]
BUSH-CHENEY ADMINISTRATION THREATENS HEALTH OF LGBT, HIV-POSITIVE AMERICANS Gay Men's Health Crisis Warns of Public Health and Human Rights Impacts > Full Story. [12/22/2008]
REP TAMMY BALDWIN NAMED INAUGURAL CO-CHAIR WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, the 2009 Presidential Inaugural Committee announced the honorary co-chairs for the Inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden. > Full Story. [12/22/2008]
HRCTO DELIVER LETTERS URGING ACTION ON STATE LEGISLATION TO CHURCH OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS LDS Church spokespeople have said the church supports non-marriage legal recognition of same-sex relationships; letters ask for backing of such legislation > Full Story. [12/22/2008]
THOUSANDS OF LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER ACTIVISTS TO CONVERGE IN DENVER TO STRATEGIZE ON HEELS OF INAUGURATION WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 - Just one week after the inauguration of a new administration, thousands of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) activists will converge in Denver, Colo., for the 21st National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change, Jan. 28–Feb. 1. Activists will strategize on how to advance LGBT equality in this new political climate, share lessons from the 2008 election, and acquire the skills needed to build the political power of the LGBT community in 2009 and beyond. > Full Story. [12/19/2008]
CONCERN ABOUT SO-CALLED “PROVIDER CONSCIENCE” REGULATIONS "These regulations sacrifice patients' right to medical care, permitting providers to refuse to do their jobs when they choose," said HRC President Joe Solmonese > Full Story. [12/19/2008]
66 COUNTRIES BACK UN STATEMENT FOR LGBT HUMAN RIGHTS US and South Africa refuse, and ally with Russia, Iran, China, Saudi Arabia and Belarus > Full Story. [12/19/2008]
HRC APPLAUDS NAMING OF DIEGO SANCHEZ TO KEY LEGISLATIVE STAFF POSITION FOR CHAIRMAN BARNEY FRANK WASHINGTON -- The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights group, today praised Representative Barney Frank (D-MA), Chairman, House Financial Services Committee, for naming transgender rights advocate and HRC Business Council member Diego Miguel Sanchez, APR, as his Legislative Assistant for LGBT, Healthcare, Labor, Veterans and Census issues. Sanchez assumes the post, based in Washington, DC, on January 6, 2009, becoming the first openly transgender person to work on Capitol Hill. > Full Story. [12/19/2008]
BALDWIN STATEMENT ON DHHS RULING ON MEDICAL CARE Statement of Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin > Full Story. [12/19/2008]
SEVENTH ANNUAL ELEVATION MAMMOTH GAY SKI WEEK End Your Ski Season With A Bang; Five Days of Spring Skiing and Snowboarding Will Include Over 2,000 Willing and Able Participants and Plenty of Après-Ski Events > Full Story. [12/18/2008]
YES ON GAY MARRIAGE ORGANIZATION FORMED TO SUPPORT GAY MARRIAGE ACROSS THE UNITED STATES Sacramento, CA 12-17-08 -- Today, supporters of the rights of marriage for gay and lesbian couples announced the formation of their organization at yesongaymarriage.org. > Full Story. [12/18/2008]
NATIONAL GAY AND LESBIAN TASK FORCE DENOUNCES SELECTION OF RICK WARREN TO GIVE INVOCATION AT INAUGURATION WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 - The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force denounces the selection of Rick Warren to deliver the invocation at the Jan. 20 inauguration. Warren, pastor of Saddleback Church in California, is an outspoken opponent of marriage equality, reproductive choice and stem-cell research. Warren has gone so far as to equate marriage between same-sex couples with incest and pedophilia. > Full Story. [12/18/2008]
HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN SENDS LETTER TO LDS CHURCH, LAUNCHES NATIONAL ACTION ALERT HRC Board Member Bruce Bastian calls on Mormon Church to support "Common Ground Initiative", Legislative Package Aimed at Providing Equality to Utah's LGBT Community
WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, today launched a national action alert written by activist Bruce Bastian to the LGBT community to contact the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS) and ask its leadership to support LGBT protections in Utah. The action alert follows a letter sent by Human Rights Campaign last week to LDS Church President Thomas Monson asking the church "offer protections and support" to LGBT people by supporting the Common Ground Initiative by Equality Utah, the state LGBT group. The action alert and letter urge the church to publicly support the words of Elder L. Whitney Clayton, who recently said the LDS Church is not opposed to civil unions and other non-marriage legal recognitions of same-sex relationships. To view the action alert visit: http://www.hrcactioncenter.org/campaign/ldsletter.
"As you know, California's Proposition 8 stripped loving, committed couples of their legal right to marry. While we will always be in opposing camps regarding marriage equality under the law, I ask that you now support legislative change in Utah that offers real protections to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender citizens and families," according to the letter, written by Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. "If the LDS Church is committed to a view that there are other ways to offer protections and support to the LGBT people who are in your pews and in your home state, then you will publicly join Equality Utah's Common Ground Initiative."
At this time, LDS Church leadership has not responded to the letter sent by Human Rights Campaign. When contacted by the Associated Press for a story published November 11, a spokesperson for the LDS Church said "it would have no comment." (Associated Press, November 11, 2008) In a statement issued online by the LDS Church, church officials said they do "not object to rights for same-sex couples regarding hospitalization and medical care, fair housing and employment rights, or probate rights." Link to the story: http://www.wtop.com/?nid=104&sid=1515514
To read the full statement by the LDS Church visit: http://newsroom.lds.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/news-releases-stories/church-responds-to-same-sex-marriage-votes#continued
The Common Ground Initiative includes a package of legislative bills that will:
• Providing domestic partnership rights and responsibilities for same-sex couples; • Adding sexual orientation and gender identity to Utah's anti-discrimination laws for employment, housing, and health care; • Giving domestic partners of public employees insurance and retirement benefits. • Giving domestic partners access to the courts if their loved one is killed because of negligence or malpractice; and • Repealing the second clause of Utah's Anti-Marriage Amendment which is used to prevent gay and lesbian couples from receiving any kind of relationship recognition in the state.
The letter as sent to LDS Church President Thomas Monson:
Link available: www.hrc.org/ldsletter
Subject: Let's find "Common Ground"
Dear President Monson:
I write you now in the spirit of respectful engagement to compel you to give credibility and force to the words of Elder L. Whitney Clayton, who said the LDS Church is not opposed to civil unions and other non-marriage legal recognitions of same-sex relationships.
As you know, California's Proposition 8 stripped loving, committed couples of their legal right to marry. While we will always be in opposing camps regarding marriage equality under the law, I ask that you now support legislative change in Utah that offers real protections to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender citizens and families.
Equality Utah, a state group supporting LGBT rights, has created the Common Ground Initiative, seeking to find acceptable solutions to solve the many problems LGBT people in Utah face every day. The initiative includes legislative bills that will:
• Providing domestic partnership rights and responsibilities for same-sex couples; • Adding sexual orientation and gender identity to Utah's anti-discrimination laws for employment, housing, and health care; • Giving domestic partners of public employees insurance and retirement benefits. • Giving domestic partners access to the courts if their loved one is killed because of negligence or malpractice; and • Repealing the second clause of Utah's Anti-Marriage Amendment which is used to prevent gay and lesbian couples from receiving any kind of relationship recognition in the state.
If the LDS Church is committed to a view that there are other ways to offer protections and support to the LGBT people who are in your pews and in your home state, then you will publicly join Equality Utah's Common Ground Initiative.
And if you do, then perhaps the respectful dialogue we all seek is one that we can finally have moving forward. There is a way out of this anger, but it is not the burden of our community to stop its rightful protests. It is the burden of the LDS Church to support legislation that impacts LGBT lives in Utah positively for a change. > Full Story. [12/17/2008]
HERE! NETWORKS SET TO AIR THE 15TH ANNUAL OUT 100 AWARDS Chelsea Handler, LaBelle and many more featured in the hottest LGBT event of the year > Full Story. [12/17/2008]
LAMBDA LEGAL NAMES JENNIFER C. PIZER NATIONAL MARRIAGE PROJECT DIRECTOR 'Jenny's expertise and passion make this a perfect fit.' > Full Story. [12/17/2008]
$1.00 TO HRCFOR EACH EBOOK AND PAPERBACK SOLD Over the Course of a Lifetime is J. G. Woodward's debut novel. The Human Rights Campaign receives a $1.00 donation for each paperback and E-Book sold. > Full Story. [12/13/2008]
BEST AND WORST OF NATIONAL NEWS - NOVEMBER 2008 Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation's "The Best & Worst of National News" November 2008 > Full Story. [12/11/2008]
FAITH LEADERS FROM NATIONAL LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER RIGHTS GROUPS ISSUE JOINT STATEMENT DENOUNCING VATICAN AND SUPPORTING U.N. PROPOSAL WASHINGTON, Dec. 10 - Faith program directors from the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, Human Rights Campaign, Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation and National Black Justice Coalition today issued a joint protest over the Vatican's recent decision to oppose an initiative to decriminalize homosexuality. Advocates are pushing the U.S. State Department to support the initiative and urging media to cover this life and death concern. > Full Story. [12/11/2008]
LAMBDA LEGAL APPLAUDS FINDING BY NEW JERSEY CIVIL UNION REVIEW COMMISSION THAT CIVIL UNION PROTECTIONS ARE INFERIOR TO MARRIAGE (New York, December 10, 2008) - The New Jersey Civil Union Review Commission (NJ-CURC) today unanimously found that civil unions are an inadequate form of relationship recognition for same-sex couples and that the New Jersey Civil Union Act is an ineffective form of protection. In its report, The Legal, Medical Economic and Social Consequences of the NJ Civil Union Law, The NJ-CURC recommends that, "The Legislature and Governor [should] amend the law to allow same-sex couples to marry," and that, "The law [should] be enacted expeditiously because any delay in marriage equality will harm all the people of New Jersey." > Full Story. [12/11/2008]
CIRCUIT COURT DECISION A STEP TOWARD REPEAL OF DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL WASHINGTON, D.C., December 10, 2008 – In response to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals' recent refusal to grant a full-court hearing in Witt v. United States Air Force questioning the constitutionality of the military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy on homosexuality, Mark Pelavin, associate director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, issued the following statement: > Full Story. [12/10/2008]
FOR FIRST TIME, PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURAL COMMITTEE INVITES LGBT GROUP TO PERFORM IN 56TH INAUGURAL PARADE Talent From Across America To March In Parade From Capitol To White House
WASHINGTON - Today, in keeping with its commitment to hold inaugural events that celebrate our common values and reflects the diversity and history of our great nation, President-elect Barack Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden's Inaugural Committee officially extended an offer to the Lesbian and Gay Band Association to march in the 56th Inaugural Parade. Members of that group will join representatives from across the country and our Armed Forces in the historic parade down Pennsylvania Avenue following President-elect Obama's swearing-in ceremony on the steps of the Capitol. > Full Story. [12/10/2008]
POST-ELECTION COVERAGE OF LGBT ISSUES AND CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 8 Los Angeles, CA – The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) today provided recommendations to help media outlets provide fair, accurate and inclusive coverage of the aftermath of Prop 8 in California and the rallies being organized at the grassroots level throughout the United States. > Full Story. [12/10/2008]
US REFUSES UN GAY RIGHTS DECLARATION President Bush silent on decriminalization of homosexuality worldwide > Full Story. [12/8/2008]
IGLTA LAUNCHES ONLINE REGISTRATION FOR 26TH ANNUAL CONVENTION Toronto conference will explore how focusing on diversity through technology can maximize marketing efforts in a sluggish economy. > Full Story. [12/8/2008]
CALL ON THE NEW YORK TIMES TO CHECK ACCURACY OF ANTI-GAY ADVERTISEMENT In the December 5, 2008 edition of The New York Times, The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty published a full page advertisement that makes inaccurate and unsubstantiated claims about supposed "violence and intimidation" against religious groups by "mobs" since the passage of Proposition 8. You can see the ad here: http://www.nomobveto.org > Full Story. [12/8/2008]
‘50 UNDER 30’ YOUTH HATE CRIMES REPORT RE-ISSUED WASHINGTON/ NEW YORK (December 3, 2008) – GenderPAC's 2006 hate crimes report, "50 Under 30: Masculinity & The War Against America's Youth" has been re-issued, this time with the updated title, "70 Under 30.". > Full Story. [12/5/2008]
CHRISTIANS ANGRY ABOUT GAY PRINCESS DIANA BIBLE December 3, 2008, Alamogordo, NM -- When "Horror In The Wind" Writer/Producer/ Director Max Mitchell announced Revision Studios will publish a new translation of the Bible in which God says gay is better than straight, Christians got angry. > Full Story. [12/4/2008]
CENTERLINK TO EXPAND NATIONAL SUPPORT FOR LGBT CENTERS Guido Sanchez, former Executive Director of Pride Connections Center of New Jersey, to join CenterLink as National Manager of Membership and Development Washington DC - CenterLink, the Community of LGBT Centers, announced the hiring of Guido Sanchez as National Manager of Membership and Development. In this new role, Sanchez will report directly to CenterLink Executive Director Terry Stone and will be responsible for strengthening CenterLink's support programs for LGBT community centers across the globe, as well as working with key partners, donors, and foundations for the community center movement's long term development. > Full Story. [12/2/2008]
HRC STATEMENT ON APPOINTMENT OF ERIC HOLDER AS U.S. ATTORNEY GENERAL The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights group, today praised President-Elect Barack Obama's selection of Eric Holder as Attorney General of the United States. The former deputy attorney general in the Clinton Administration proved himself to be a strong advocate for fairness and basic rights and an unswerving proponent of fully-inclusive federal hate crimes legislation. > Full Story. [12/2/2008]
FEDERAL EMPLOYEE GROUPS URGE GOVERNMENT FOR PARTNER BENEFITS WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, in conjunction with federal employee groups, today urged the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to support domestic partner benefits for federal civilian employees. Each fall, 8 million federal employees, retirees, and their dependents, are offered the opportunity to review the various health program options in a time period referred to as "open season." For lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender workers, this time draws attention to the existing inequality that they face when it comes to employer-provided benefits.
"The federal government should be the standard bearer for fair workplace practices," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. "As long as it denies lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees the comprehensive family benefits that their heterosexual colleagues receive, the federal government will fall short of that standard, and continue to lag behind the nation's top employers."
This year, in addition to pouring over extensive information about 269 health-plan options, cost, and quality, LGBT civil servants are asking OPM to support covering their family members as well. The health benefits which the vast majority of workers obtain through their place of work, are not extended to domestic partners of federal civil servants. While their colleagues are worried about increasing co-pays and deductibles, LGBT employees struggle to come up with 100% of the cost of insuring their partners.
Expressing her support for the issue, Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus co-chair, Representative Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) stated, "Only when we eliminate discriminatory practices in the workplace will we allow both employees and businesses to reach their full potential. As an employer, the federal government must not only set an example, but must compete with corporate America for the best-qualified workforce. Offering domestic partner benefits is a means toward both ends."
"The most frequent concern we hear expressed by our members is the need for fairness in health benefits for their partners and families, and in having equal compensation with heterosexual employees," said Len Hirsch, president of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Employees of the Federal Government, also known as Federal GLOBE, a group that has pressed for domestic partner benefits since its inception in 1992.
Through an online website, individuals have the opportunity to write to OPM and express their desire for equal benefits. While the incoming administration has expressed its support for the right to equal health insurance and other employment benefits, encouraging OPM to support LGBT families improves the prospects for achieving that goal. To write to the Office of Personnel Management, visit: http://www.hrcactioncenter.org/campaign/opm_dpb
The benefits programs include the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHB), which is used by members of congress, as well as the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Program, and the Federal Flexible Spending Account Program. "We hope that Members of Congress will extend health benefits to all Federal employees' families – including the families of Members' own staff," said Derek Dorn, co-chair of the Gay, Lesbian, Allied Senate Staff (GLASS) Caucus.
"Adopting fair policies in the treatment of domestic partner benefits will not only benefit current LGBT employees of Congress, it will enable the entire government to draw highly qualified LGBT Americans, who may otherwise elect to work elsewhere, to careers in public service, " said Victor Castillo, co-founder of the Lesbian & Gay Congressional Staff Association (LGCSA).
The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [12/2/2008]
ON WORLD AIDS DAY LAMBDA LEGAL URGES PRESIDENT-ELECT BARACK OBAMA TO CONSIDER CRITICAL HIV CIVIL RIGHTS ISSUES (New York, Dec. 1, 2008) -- This World AIDS Day, December 1, 2008, Lambda Legal urges the new administration of President-Elect Barack Obama to reverse policies that have challenged the human and civil rights of people living with HIV/AIDS in the United States. > Full Story. [12/1/2008]
GMHC COMMEMORATES 20TH YEAR OF WORLD AIDS DAY New York, NY, Wednesday, November 26 - In recognition of December 1, GMHC is proud to announce World AIDS Day as a dedicated "HIV/AIDS Volunteer Awareness Day" that reflects on the state of the domestic HIV/AIDS epidemic, President-Elect Obama's commitment to a National AIDS Strategy, and role of volunteering in the AIDS movement. > Full Story. [12/1/2008]
PRIDE LONDON VOTED BEST CULTURAL CELEBRATION Pride London has been awarded a prestigious Gold Award for Best Celebration of Cultural Diversity at the Visit London Awards 2008. > Full Story. [12/1/2008]
GLAAD URGES SHARING YOUR LIVES WITH FRIENDS & FAMILY Los Angeles, CA, November 26, 2008 – As we enter the holiday season, GLAAD asks you to remember members of our community who feel they cannot be themselves, talk about their lives, and stay silent as they gather with families and friends during the holiday season. Often times, the holiday season can be a difficult time of year for members of our community – especially teenagers and young adults who are not able to live openly and honestly. > Full Story. [12/1/2008]
GAY AMERICAN HEROES FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES IMPRESSIVE LIST OF NEW BOARD MEMBERS Fort Lauderdale, FL (November 26, 2008) -- The Gay American Heroes Foundation (GAHF) is pleased to announce the appointment of several new members to its various Boards: ANT, Stewart Milk, Cynthia Nixon, Daniel O'Donnell and Chuck Panozzo have been appointed to our Honorary Board; Leanna Bradley, Chuck Dima and Richard Stickly to the Advisory Board and Dr. Rodrick Hurt to the Board of Directors.
ANTANT is a Greek-American stand-up comedian and actor. He prefers his name spelled in all capital letters. He is the host of VH1 reality series Celebrity Fit Club and was a regular judge of talent on Steve Harvey's Big Time. His television series, U.S. of ANT, premiered on MTV Network's gay-targeted Logo cable channel in the summer of 2006. Ant also frequently appears as a commentator on such shows as VH1's Best Week Ever and CNBC's Dennis Miller, and is a regular guest on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno as well as "The Howard Stern Show".
Stweart Milk Stuart Milk, the youngest of Harvey Milk's two nephews and a teen when his uncle was killed, came out of the closet the night of November 27, 1978 along with thousands of other members of the LGBT community across the US. He has been the Milk family voice and spokesperson on his uncle's legacy and a frequent participant at memorial and commemorative events for the last several years in San Francisco. > Full Story. [12/1/2008]
HRC HAILS FLORIDA COURT RULING ALLOWING GAY FATHER TO ADOPT WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender civil rights organization, today lauded the decision by a Miami, Florida judge that allows a man who has since 2004 acted as a foster parent to two boys to move forward with proceedings to adopt them. Florida currently bans adoption by lesbians and gays through one of the strictest laws in the country. Today, Miami Dade Circuit Judge Cindy Lederman ruled that the ban has "no rational basis." > Full Story. [11/25/2008]
HRC FOUNDATION TO LAUNCH ADOPTION AWARENESS CAMPAIGN WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, will hold a media availability on Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at 11:30 a.m. ET to unveil an innovative adoption awareness campaign targeting the LGBT community. November is National Adoption Month, during which attention is focused on the thousands of children waiting to be adopted by loving parents. The campaign is part of the HRC Foundation's "All Children – All Families" initiative, designed to find permanent families for children by promoting fairness for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender foster and adoptive parents.
"This awareness campaign helps make the dreams of thousands of children come true by raising the visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender-adoptive families and encourage prospective parents to learn more about the children waiting in foster care," said Ellen Kahn, Family Project Director for Human Rights Campaign Foundation. "With more than a half million children in the U.S. foster care system, we can take steps to support the efforts of courts, judges, attorneys, adoption professionals, child welfare agencies and advocates to finalize adoptions and find permanent, loving homes for children, giving them the opportunity to can grow, thrive and succeed."
Of the children in the U.S. foster care system, over 120,000 are awaiting adoption by loving, permanent families. Agencies may purposefully or inadvertently close the door to qualified families through their practices. Few agencies recruit LGBT adoptive & foster parents, and many LGBT people feel unwelcome or discouraged. Similarly, members of the LGBT community may not be aware of the opportunities in domestic adoption and foster care, or they may not know of agencies that welcome their families. We are working to break down the barriers that stand between thousands of loving, qualified LGBT adoptive parents and the thousands of children who are waiting for a family.
The "All Children – All Families" initiative, launched in 2007 by the HRC Family Project, works to ensure that all qualified prospective parents who wish to open their homes and hearts to children and youth have the opportunity to do so, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The program seeks to enhance LGBT competence among child welfare professionals and educate LGBT people about opportunities to become foster or adoptive parents to waiting children. Thirty-four agencies from across the U.S are currently participating, and more than a dozen agencies are close to earning the seal of recognition. More information about the initiative can be found at www.hrc.org/acaf.
WHAT: HRC to unveil the "Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Family" adoption awareness campaign
WHEN: Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at 11:30 a.m. ET
WHERE: Human Rights Campaign Headquarters, 1640 Rhode Island Ave., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20036
WHO: Ellen Kahn, director for HRC Family Project; Janice Goldwater, executive director for Adoptions Together, member of "All Children – All Families" advisory board. Adoptions Together, a Silver Spring, Md. based adoption agency, is a local partner in All Children-All Families.
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [11/21/2008]
HRC HONORS TRANSGENDER DAY OF REMEMBRANCE WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, will honor Transgender Day of Remembrance on Thursday, November 20, 2008. The 10th Annual Transgender Day of Remembrance is a solemn tribute to those who have lost their lives to anti-transgender hatred or prejudice and also aims to raise awareness of the constant threat of brutality faced by the transgender community.
"This year is one of the worst on record for the number of hate crimes in the transgender community and together we honor the memories of our transgender sisters and brothers lost to hatred and prejudice," said Allyson Robinson, Associate Director of Diversity at the Human Rights Campaign. "The most highly publicized murders in the transgender community this year had included Lawrence King and Angie Zapata. Then last week we learned that Duanna Johnson, the transgender woman who in July was bludgeoned by police officers, had been murdered execution-style on the streets of Memphis. And just this week came word of the shooting death of Latiesha Greenin Syracuse, New York, by someone she had only met hours before. All told, at least fifteen transgender people have been murdered in hate crimes in the U.S. this year alone."
Transgender Day of Remembrance is held in November to honor Rita Hester, whose murder in 1998 led tothe "Remembering Our Dead" web project and a San Francisco candlelight vigil in 1999. Since then, the event has grown to encompass memorials in dozens of cities, including Washington, D.C. The Human Rights Campaign is asking its staff, volunteers, and other members of the community to be actively involved in Transgender Day of Remembrance activities throughout the country. The National Capital Area's annual observance in Washington, D.C. will be held at Metropolitan Community Church. For a complete list of vigils and remembrances around the world, visit www.transgenderdor.org.
The Human Rights Campaign media center produced an awareness video ahead of Transgender Day of Remembrance. To view the video and for further information on transgender education, visit www.hrc.org/transgender.
WHAT: The National Capital Area's annual observance of the Transgender Day of Remembrance
WHEN: Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. ET
WHERE: Metropolitan Community Church, 474 Ridge Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
METRO: Green/Yellow line; Mount Vernon Square/7th Street Convention Center station
PHONE: Call (202) 904-9969 for more information, to donate, or to volunteer.
The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [11/20/2008]
CALIFORNIA SUPREME COURT GRANTS REVIEW IN PROP 8 LEGAL CHALLENGES (San Francisco, California, November 19, 2008)-Today the California Supreme Court granted review in the legal challenges to Proposition 8, which passed by a narrow margin of 52 percent on November 4. In an order issued today, the Court agreed to hear the case and set an expedited briefing schedule. The Court also denied an immediate stay. > Full Story. [11/20/2008]
THE OBAMA-BIDEN TRANSITION TEAM POSTS PLANS FOR GAY RIGHTS The President-elect Barack Obama transition team and agenda website change.gov has listed comprehensive plans for the nation, including plans for LGBT rights. > Full Story. [11/18/2008]
EQCA CALLS FOR END OF ATTACKS ON GOVERNOR FOR SUPPORTING EQUAL RIGHTS SACRAMENTO – Equality California calls on leaders of the Yes on 8 campaign to end their attacks on Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger for saying he believes Proposition 8 should be overturned. Prop 8 eliminates the right of same-sex couples to marry in California. > Full Story. [11/17/2008]
GAYS, LESBIANS, TRANSGENDER, THEIR FAMILIES AND SUPPORTERS UNITE – LARGE SCALE NATIONAL PROTEST PLANNED FOR NOVEMBER 15 Over the last week, tens of thousands of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT)community and their Supporters have taken to the streets of California to show their outrage with the outcome of California Proposition 8. Prop 8 provides for a Constitutional Amendment to prohibit same-sex marriage rights; Similar amendments and propositions were passed in Arizona and Florida. The outcome of these propositions has angered the national gay community and their supporters. Many feel as if they are now second-class citizens, but, according to the No on 8Campaign, the fight is not over. The final statement released by the No on 8 Campaign stated,"Victory was not ours today. But the struggle for Equality is not over." > Full Story. [11/14/2008]
GAY IS THE NEW BLACK? NEW YORK - Election Day 2008 brought mixed civil rights progress in America. Barack Obama made history becoming the first African-American President in US history, while voters in California, Florida, Arizona and Arkansas passed statewide anti-gay initiatives. In the wake of California's passage of Proposition 8, which revoked same-sex marriage rights, protests are being organized around the country, with marches on City Halls in all 50 states scheduled for Saturday, November 15, 2008. In the midst of this nationwide response, the Advocate is asking the question on many peoples' minds: is gay the new Black? > Full Story. [11/14/2008]
CONNECTICUT BEGINS GRANTING MARRIAGE LICENSES TO SAME-SEX COUPLES "Today's actions in Connecticut signal a new and hopeful day," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese > Full Story. [11/12/2008]
JOIN THE IMPACT - NATIONAL PROTEST PROP 8 ON NOVEMBER 15TH!
Be part of the next Civil Rights Movement - Be part of history - Join the National Protest / March for Equality on November 15th!
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WE NEED VOLUNTEERS! Now is your chance to be a "community organizer"! Go to the website and post if you are willing to volunteer to help get out the word in your city. We need 3 or 4 dedicated volunteers in each town to contact the clubs and organizations in your area and to print/distribute flyers to get a turnout in your town.
This is not a California issue. This is an issue of equality across America. Stand up and make your voice heard. Visit the website www.jointheimpact.com.]
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SATURDAY NOV 15TH -
10:30AM WEST COAST
11:30AM MOUNTIAN TIME ZONE
12:30PM CENTRAL TIME ZONE
1:30PM EAST COAST
PRINT OUT THE SIGNS - TAKE THEM TO THE PROTEST
Prop 8 Protest: A Call to the LGBTQ Community, Friends, & Family
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 a bitter-sweet celebration. We came together to witness the first black man who will become our president, yet watched in sadness as Florida, Arizona, Arkansas, and California all voted down equal rights for all citizens. Pundits 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 swell of support for equality elsewhere. 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 each 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 mobilizing 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 EQUAL 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!
GOVERNOR CALLS PROPOSITION 8 PASSAGE “UNFORTUNATE” In CNN Interview, Gov. Schwarzenegger Says Prop 8 Should be Invalidated Because Court Has Ruled that Banning the Right to Marry is Unconstitutional > Full Story. [11/10/2008]
CALL ON CLEAR CHANNEL COMMUNICATIONS TO SANCTION SYNDICATED RADIO HOST JIM QUINN FOR DEFAMATORY COMMENTS; "GAY SEX PRODUCES AIDS" New York, NY, November 7, 2008 – On November 6, Jim Quinn of the nationally syndicated radio program, The War Room with Quinn & Rose, made defamatory statements about marriage for same-sex couples. As noted by Media Matters for America, "Discussing the passage of a California ballot initiative to amend the state constitution to ban same-sex marriage, radio host Jim Quinn asserted: '[G]ay marriage doesn't produce anything that the state has an interest in. Gay sex produces AIDS, which the state doesn't have – or should have an interest in. They should charge homosexuals more for their – for their health insurance than they charge the rest of us.'" > Full Story. [11/7/2008]
LGBT BALLOT LOSSES DO NOT PREDICT THE FUTURE 'We are disappointed by the losses, but we are not discouraged. We don't think they predict the future - in fact, they are the last gasps of the past' (New York, November 5, 2008) - Lambda Legal Executive Director, Kevin Cathcart issued the following statement: > Full Story. [11/7/2008]
REGENT MEDIA ANNOUNCES THE “ROCK THE FOLK OUT” TOUR November 6, 2008 (Los Angeles) – Regent Media announced today the partnership of OUT magazine with here! Tunes to present the Rock the Folk OUT Tour. This East Coast tour showcases incredible, live music from three gifted, gay singer songwriters. The fantastic bill boasts here! tunes recording artist Stewart Lewis, Los Angeles scene favorite Jake Walden, and acoustic performer Tom Goss. Each artist brings a unique flavor to the tour with their varied performance styles, but they are unified by an exceptional level of talent and poignant songwriting styles. This show is not to be missed! > Full Story. [11/7/2008]
NATIONAL GAY AND LESBIAN TASK FORCE ACTION FUND DEEPLY DISAPPOINTED IN PASSAGE OF CALIFORNIA’S PROPOSITION 8 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund is deeply saddened and disappointed by the passage of California's Proposition 8, which will amend the state Constitution to eliminate the right to marry for same-sex couples. > Full Story. [11/6/2008]
FOLLOWING STATE BALLOT VOTES ON LGBT EQUALITY IN THREE STATES, PFLAG AWAITS OUTCOME IN CALIFORNIA WASHINGTON, DC - Following disappointing votes rolling back or denying full equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender citizens in Florida, Arkansas and Arizona, Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) eagerly awaits the official results of Proposition 8 in California, and vows to continue working with pro-equality families and allies to build support for full, fundamental rights for the LGBT community. > Full Story. [11/6/2008]
GAY CANDIDATES ELECTED ACROSS THE U.S. Washington, D.C.-Dozens of openly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender candidates won election to public offices across the U.S. on Tuesday, according to the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund. The group, which endorsed a record-breaking 111 candidates in 2008, said more than 70 percent of its endorsed candidates had won their races by early Wednesday. > Full Story. [11/6/2008]
LONG PATH TO THE ALTAR FOR GAY COUPLES IN CALIF. [VIDEO] Long Path to the Altar for Gay Couples in Calif. Associated Press • Jun. 16, 2008. 08:23 AM EST
California today becomes only the second state in the nation after Massachusetts to allow gays to get married. Last month's ruling by the state Supreme Court kicks in at 5:01 p.m. Pacific time. (June 16) > Full Story. [6/16/2008]
CA SCHOOL SHOOTING; HATE-CRIME CHARGES HAVE BEEN FILED Local Groups for Gay Rights KCOY CBS 12 Santa Maria • Feb. 15, 2008. 03:12 AM EST > Full Story. [2/15/2008]
NEWS: "CALL FOR LOVE" SUPPORTS LGBT JAMAICANS A CALL FOR LOVE: Valentine's Day 2008 by Mel Bryant
"STOP THE VIOLENCE! STOP THE HATE!" More than 30 die-hard activists, including two associates from Jamaica AIDS Services, one of whom is currently seeking asylum in the United States after threats to his life, chanted these words as they gathered at the Jamaican Consulate on Third Avenue in New York City on Valentine's Day to CALL FOR LOVE. The international action campaign, organized by Metropolitan Community Churches in response to the recent wave of mob violence directed against LGBT people in Jamaica, brought together representatives from MCC, Human Rights Watch, The Center, UNITY Fellowship, Renewed Life Ministries, Lavender and Green, Hadwen Park Congregational Church and the Peace Corps.
The Rev. Pat Bumgardner, Chair of Global Justice Ministry of Metropolitan Community Churches, recounted many of the horrific events of the past year, including the January 29th break-in to the private home of three gay men by a mob wielding clubs and machetes. "Two of those young men, doing nothing more than existing in their own home, were clubbed and macheted to the point of hospitalization," she said. "One lost an ear and may suffer paralysis from the attack. A third young man is missing and presumed dead. Only the blood trail away from the home remains."
"Enough is enough!" she called to the lunchtime crowds passing by the Consulate. "The time has come for people of goodwill around the globe to break their silence and demand that the Jamaican government and its political and social structures guarantee the safety of all Jamaicans."
Rebecca Schleiffer of Human Rights Watch recounted the horror of three gay men trapped in a pharmacy by a mob of two hundred in Montego Bay last year on Valentine's Day. "Those three young men had to place an international phone call to the Human Rights Watch," she said, "and we had to act on their behalf before the police would intervene. And even then," she continued, "those charged with protecting the lives of Jamaican citizens joined in the taunting and threatening gestures, punching one of the three in the face and stomach."
Jamaican Nathaniel Cunningham, who is seeking asylum in the United States because of death threats for his work with Jamaica AIDS Services and his courage in being out as a gay man, said, "The nightmares must end! No more sleepless nights wondering if you will be next! It's time for all Jamaicans to feel safe in their own homes and in their own country!" Cunningham led the crowd in chants calling for love to replace hate.
Speaker after speaker, including the Rev. Judith Hanlon, Pastor of the Hadwen Park Congregational Church, UCC, who had traveled to New York from Worcester, MA to participate in the demonstration, called on the Jamaican Consulate to intervene and promised to keep the pressure on until change is as evident as the violence has been. Prior to the demonstration, Rev. Bumgardner and Jamaican activist Junior Walker were politely rebuffed in their attempt to meet with the Acting Consul General, Lincoln Downer. They did, however, manage to deliver a letter calling attention to the CALL FOR LOVE campaign and promising ongoing efforts until the violence ends.
As the demonstration ended, those gathered placed flowers carrying the banner, "For the Jamaican Victims of Homophobic Hatred and Violence." As Rev. Bumgardner prepared to lead the crowd in a prayer of remembrance and promise, the Consulate's building manager came outside to say that praying on the sidewalk was not allowed. "We are going to pray now," Rev. Bumgardner responded, at which point the building manage stepped away and waited for the prayer's conclusion. A few moments later he reappeared to say that the flowers must be removed. After some negotiation, the flowers were delivered to the Consulate with their banner intact.
The Valentine's Day public actions in New York City, along with similar actions in Philadelphia, Toronto, Miami, and Washington, DC, marked the beginning of an international public awareness campaign organized by Metropolitan Community Churches.
For More Information On The New York City Action or Upcoming "Call For Love" Events, Contact: The Rev. Pat Bumgardner, Chair MCC Global Justice Team GlobalJustice@MCCchurch.net. 212-629-7440 > Full Story. [2/15/2008]
GSA NETWORK, TRANSGENDER LAW CENTER, AND EQCA SADDENED OVER SHOOTING OF GAY JR. HIGH STUDENT IN OXNARD GSA Network, Transgender Law Center, and EQCA Saddened Over Shooting of Gay Jr. High Student in Oxnard > Full Story. [2/14/2008]
MINISTERS WANT STATE TO LEGALIZE SAME-SEX MARRIAGE > Full Story. [2/14/2008]
GLAAD APPOINTS NEW MEMBERS TO NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS GLAAD APPOINTS SIX NEW MEMBERS TO NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS > Full Story. [2/11/2008]
POPE CONFRONTS GAY RIGHTS AT UN Pope Benedict XVI has been described as God's Rottweiler, Panzercardinal and once again he earns these names. Acting as the Catholic General leading the dirty war on Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender (GLBT) Community in the international community he has become the symbol of hate. We are now witnessing a new elevation in the Vatican's war on same sex human rights at the United Nations. Benedict's envoy to the United Nations, Archbishop Celestino Migliore, has announced that the Vatican will oppose a proposed U.N. declaration calling for an end to discrimination against homosexuals. This should come as no surprise to many Catholics, and in particular to the members of the Rainbow Sash Movement. But this particular French-sponsored proposal, which has the backing of all 27 European Union countries, calls for an end to t he practice of criminalizing and punishing people for their sexual orientation. Most dramatically, in some countries, including Iran and Saudi Arabia, homosexuality can be punished by death. The Catholic Church teaches that homosexual persons "must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. Every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided," as stated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church ( paragraph 2358). The Rainbow Sash Movement (RSM) is challenging the Vatican to explain its opposition to the United Nations Proposal in light of paragraph 2358 of the Cathical Catechism, or stop engaging in semantic gymnastics on the issues of human rights. Many GLBT Catholics yearn for the openness and stimulating atmosphere of a welcoming Church. We have been angered over the Church's lack of mercy and compassion in a world that is so desperately in need of it. Many across the Catholic spectrum will feel conflicted and disappointed at the Vatican position because of its lack of respect, compassion, and sensitivity? The Vatican's opposition will only enable hatred and give license to violence to be openly directed at GLBT people. The Rainbow Sash Movement condemns the Vatican's 0position as yet another example where homophobia and clericalism collide when it comes to human rights. We are preparing to celebrate Christmas, when Jesus Christ came to us in a very special way. It is a good time for the Vatican to stand back and take a fresh look at itself in light of the "signs of the times", you cannot serve both homophobia and Christ in the Church of 21st Century. The greatest problem facing the Catholic Church today comes from within. We will continue to stand up to Church leaders when the gospel is used as a platform to launch hate. > Full Story. [12/5/2005]
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