Join the Impact!

Nice graphic

Of course, Missoula (Montana) is spelled wrong... but otherwise, very cool.  And I suppose only a Montana boy is going to recognize that in the instant he looks at it.  Namely, me.

Going out in the rain to City Hall, NYC.  Will report back.

M

---

by: Morry @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 11:06:49 AM CST

yeah, great poster

Does anyone know what the size of the font is in proportion to?  Is there a site to sign up for protests in each city, or is that just an estimate of how big each one will be?

---

by: Imagine @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 12:57:27 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Font Size

As Eugene is fairly big and we had 300-500 people, I am guessing the font size is to fill the space.

This is moral and immoral. The moral thing, the thing that everyone knows is right inside, though some are afraid to say, is EQUALITY. Inequality is immoral.

---

by: mickdansforth @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 18:32:31 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Font Size

As Eugene is fairly big and we had 300-500 people, I am guessing the font size is to fill the space.

This is moral and immoral. The moral thing, the thing that everyone knows is right inside, though some are afraid to say, is EQUALITY. Inequality is immoral.

---

by: mickdansforth @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 18:32:41 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Morry,

I know a Tim from Missoula's ClubQ... I do suppose he was there.

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:11:26 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Dunno...

I haven't lived in Montana since I graduated from HS.  I did know a Tim that used to live in Great Falls, that moved to Missoula with his partner...Naya?  It was a sound-alike for a popular bottled water.  But I haven't heard from them in years.  Would be nice to get back in touch, though...

Tim???  Are you there???

---

by: Morry @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:40:32 PM CST

[ Parent ]

They got Pittsburgh wrong, too.

I am not interested in picking up crumbs of compassion thrown from the table of someone who considers himself my master. I want the full menu of rights.  -Archbishop Desmond Tutu

---

by: QScribe @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:37:53 PM CST

[ Parent ]

and

austin is missing.  san antonio, too.

---

by: StSean @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 07:51:01 AM CST

[ Parent ]

Plus about a dozen cities oputside the US...

____________________________________
Cuius testiculos habes, habeas cardia et cerebellum.

---

by: tavdy79 @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 13:10:00 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Josh Marshall

Would someone ask Josh Marshall what he really thinks about gay marriage?

---

by: kukito @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 11:54:45 AM CST

Great turnout in Dallas

I'm unfortunately watching from the third floor window of the downtown Dallas library because I have the crud, but I'm seeing quite a few hundred.  Maybe in the neighborhood of 500 to 600 (very rough estimate).  Very visible and very loud. :)

"Why Martha!  Your Sunday chapel dress!"

---

by: sput @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 12:44:06 PM CST

don't use flickr

photobucket user here.  Hope it's ok to post pics and youtube vids in this thread.

About to head to rally here in NYC.  I'm late :(  

BUT, the weather here suddenly turned beautiful and looks like it will stay that way for at least an hour or so!!!


Electricity's for light bulbs!

---

by: n8nyc @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 13:21:07 PM CST

Flickr is better the Photobucket

Photobucket is great if you are hosting a photo here and there for blogs, or your myspace profile.

Flickr is the best for sharing photos. They are google searchable. The community with groups and such rocks. Awesome for sorting photos in sets and collections.  

This is moral and immoral. The moral thing, the thing that everyone knows is right inside, though some are afraid to say, is EQUALITY. Inequality is immoral.

---

by: mickdansforth @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 18:38:16 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Tampa's

rally had about 200-300 people, I estimate.  Not a single Florida Family Association protester in sight.  Many local speakers were there including the director of Equality Florida.  It was held in the same park where a rally was held three years ago when Rhonda Storms (R-little g, little p) led the fight in Hillsborough County against our rights.  So, it has special meaning for a lot of us.  

---

by: Wade, MD @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 14:09:56 PM CST

Portland, ME

Just got back from Portland, Maine's rally, at Monument Square. Seemed to be about 200 folks there, though I'm terrible at eyeballing that kind of thing.  The turnout was surprisingly big and enthusiastic, considering the persistent rain.  

The person who organized it is a college student who had never put together a political event before.  She was visibly nervous when speaking, but it was ok, because all of us were rooting for her, and she did a great job.  Some more experienced activists who spoke rightfully praised her for stepping forward as a new leader.

I was one of the sign holders along the street, and we got a lot of enthusiastic horn-honking, including some supportive blasts from passing firetrucks.  Lots of cheering. As far as I could hear, nobody booed or protested us.  If anyone here happened to be there, I was the guy standing on the monument in a green hoody and raspberry-colored shoes lol. The sign I was given had some spelling errors, and as I am a former English teacher, it bothered me at first, but after awhile, it ceased to matter.

A str8 teen ally was running around, shouting and singing barefoot in the rain. His idealism and enthusiasm was very infectious.  One of the speakers had been at Stonewall and spoke eloquently.

All in all, the event came off marvelously.    

Blogging my novel:  http://open.salon.com/blog/fir...

---

by: MaineMikey @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 14:22:54 PM CST

Glad to hear!!

Wow- that many in this weather? Great!! Unable to get there; house full of kids (ours and extra). Guessing that Ash Seeliger was the speaker and organizer?


"It goes on one at a time, it starts when you care to act, it starts when you do it again after they said no, it starts when you say We and know who you mean, and each day you mean one more."

---

by: Louise @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:01:44 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Lucky.

I really wanted to go, but I couldn't get a ride down. Glad it turned out so well.

Violence is the last refuge of the incompetent. ~ Isaac Asimov

---

by: Baldran @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:26:20 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Maine's news coverage

here:  http://www.wcsh6.com/news/loca...

Nothing via WMTW or WGME yet.

"It goes on one at a time, it starts when you care to act, it starts when you do it again after they said no, it starts when you say We and know who you mean, and each day you mean one more."

---

by: Louise @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:52:32 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Omaha

Omaha

---

by: justnick @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 14:24:28 PM CST

Omaha

I can't figure out how to edit my post above.
Anyways, I'm uploading pictures now - we had an amazing turnout! Maybe two hundred people at one point, cars honking in support, with only three people I saw yelling out homophobic things.

---

by: justnick @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 14:27:04 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Madison

We had an estimated crowd a little over 400 in Madison, on a blustery cold day.  About half looked to be students.  As my partner says (quoting Grace Paley who decades ago said this to her), "it's so nice to see young people doing healthy things!"  Lots of cheers and waving from the onlookers, and only a couple of hecklers.

---

by: Claire in WI @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 14:33:03 PM CST

Louisville

We had somewhere between 150 and 200 in a rainstorm here in Louisville, and I heard not a single negative comment from the many passers-by.  

---

by: ChristopherM @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 14:34:12 PM CST

St. Louis

The official estimates here in St. Louis were 1000+ at The Old Courthouse.  I've been told that Kansas City also went over 1000.  Lots of honking cars, lots of signs, and lots of people.

-maylith

---

by: maylith @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 14:42:52 PM CST

1000+ cold protesters in St. Louis stuck it out for about 2 hours

Lots of people wearing parkas and lots of other people who turned out in sweaters thinking it would be warmer and less windy - it's the first wintry day here. One surprise was the number of drivers honking and bus-riders waving. Commercial truck drivers, school sports teams, straight couples - a variety of honkers and wavers.

---

by: NancyP @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 14:54:43 PM CST

[ Parent ]

NYC's rocked

I have lots of photos to post later.  Great stuff!

Electricity's for light bulbs!

---

by: n8nyc @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 14:54:03 PM CST

Look forward to seeing the photos!

I was there, too, singing with the NYC Gay Men's Chorus. What a fantastic view from the stage, looking out into that huge crowd of supporters!

Also amazing how the weather seemed to break just long enough for the rally. It was nasty before, it's nasty now but it was absolutely lovely during the rally.

---

by: xerxes @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:52:53 PM CST

[ Parent ]

I concur

NYC was HUGE.  My hubby thinks it must have topped 20,000...

Be interesting to see what the official counts look like.

It was so huge we couldn't hear much of the speakers.  We'd hear a cheer from the front, and we'd all join in a second later.  Was a little frustrating that we couldn't hear much, but also gratifying to see so many people.  About a half hour later, we could hear a little better, so they must have fixed something, or added another speaker perhaps.

Every time a tour bus passed by on Broadway, the crowd would cheer and wave to them.  And there were a LOT of tour busses.  NYC tourists definitely KNEW we were there.

We couldn't see the end of the crowd from were we stood.  It was jam packed.  I took a few pics with my cell phone.  As soon as I figure out how to post them, I will.  (Of course, that's assuming they turn out...).

We couldn't hear the names of the speakers, though of course we recognized some of them by the bit of speech we could hear.  Christine Quinn Spoke, and I'm pretty sure Daniel O'Donnell spoke early on.

Then someone from the cast of the L word spoke, (we don't have showtime, so don't ask me who it was, as we couldn't hear the name, but heard "cast of the L word"), but she said "Thank you" to Keith Olbermann, and the crowd went NUTS.  Apparently a lot of Keith Olbermann fans in the crowd.

I'm actually looking forward to seeing a write-up of the event, because we really couldn't hear where we were.  

---

by: Morry @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:53:28 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Oh, and...

The weather was supposed to be crappy.  It rained all night, and it was supposed to rain all day.  But around 1:00 or so, the clouds started to break, and it was beautiful for the event... and, as the event was coming to a close, it started to cloud up again.  It looked as if it might rain in about a half hour, 45 minutes or so.  Just enough time for the rally to end, and everyone get to the subway safely.  Hmmm.  How would Pat Robertson explain that the only good weather all day was the time that the fags were having their rally?

---

by: Morry @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:58:23 PM CST

[ Parent ]

A joke

from Gawd, like the dinosaurs?

"It goes on one at a time, it starts when you care to act, it starts when you do it again after they said no, it starts when you say We and know who you mean, and each day you mean one more."

---

by: Louise @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:44:50 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Yes, both Quinn and O'Donnell spoke

...as did State Sen. Anthony Weiner, Heather Matarazzo, Kate Shindle (who was a McCain supporter, by the way), Kim Stolz of America's Next Top Model...and a ton of other wonderful activists whose name I don't have in front of me right now.

---

by: xerxes @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:04:06 PM CST

[ Parent ]

right on Morry

I had the same experience re: the sound, buses, and, of course, the weather :)

Weren't the people on the buses hilarious?  It seemed bus-wide.  Some buses were cheering us on and some buses were intent on collectively staring forward, seemingly terrified of "teh gay."  For anyone not there, these are double-decker open-top buses, LOADED with tourists.  There are TONS of these buses going by city hall at almost all waking hours.


Electricity's for light bulbs!

---

by: n8nyc @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:25:19 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Columbia, SC report...

Ours was held in front of the SC State House. We've had a rough estimate of around 100, which is not bad, considering it was hastily put together with just 2 days notice. We didn't have the rain that was forecasted, but it was quite windy, which made me glad that I've made my sign out of foam core (if anyone was at this event, I was the one holding the "LGBT EQUALITY NOW!" sign).

We've had all cheers, with the exception of one young man that drove by giving us the one-finger salute. Oh, well, some people are just self-haters.

---

by: Robyn @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 14:56:02 PM CST

Hail Columbia!

I tried to get my mom there; she wanted to be there but I'm not sure she was able to!

---

by: rptrcub @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 14:59:22 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Thousands in Atlanta

I will be uploading pictures to the Flickr acct soon.

I am so incredibly proud of GLBTs and our allies. No haters around. United, we will win!

---

by: rptrcub @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:00:20 PM CST

Phoenix

Several hundred people showed up, a couple of council members (at least one who is out), other dignitaries, music, etc. It was fun and very good for the community to get together after 102.  

---

by: Mirele @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:06:12 PM CST

Phoenix, 4000 strong

Count by the cops was 4000, not including them and it looked like every gay cop in the city was working today.

Tom Simplot, who is out, and Ken Chevraunt, who is out now if he wasn't before, both spoke.

Had a couple folks from LA speak.  The march from city Hall to the State Capitol was incredible a line 6 people deep stretching from point a to point b and solid. This is a mile and a half.

I just got up a short bit ago and will start editing the two hours of footage I have of the event.

http://www.dyssonance.com  Breaking all the rules...

---

by: dyssonance @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 19:44:39 PM CST

[ Parent ]

San Antonio

In a city not known for political activism of any kind, 400-500 people of all kinds gathered in Main Plaza in front of the courthouse. It was a great event--uplifting, inspiring, energizing. There were some tourists looking on, but no negative incidents at all. Wonderful event!

---

by: buster @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:12:18 PM CST

just north of you

austin had about 3000 people on the courthouse steps.  it was a wonderful day!

http://www.orthocomics.com/wor...

sean

---

by: StSean @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 07:53:45 AM CST

[ Parent ]

Baton Rouge, LA

A rally of about 50 people
  http://img.villagephotos.com/p...

my signs

 http://img.villagephotos.com/p...

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:15:49 PM CST

Fight the H8 t-shirts at Cafe express

color me HAPPY!!!!!
  http://www.cafepress.com/NoMor...

I bought 2

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:34:14 PM CST

[ Parent ]

oops Cafe Press

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:36:12 PM CST

[ Parent ]

anyone from Minneapolis. St Paul, Duluth????

Since MN will always be HOME, I was curious what their demonstrations were like.

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 17:13:58 PM CST

[ Parent ]

saw an estimate of over 500 in MPLS....that's pathetic

Where did all the queers go? MPLS has the largest Midwest Pride with the exception of Chicago.

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 18:48:39 PM CST

[ Parent ]

I read other accounts of Minneapolis between 2000 to 3000

That sounds more believable

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 01:39:47 AM CST

[ Parent ]

Great signs!

"It goes on one at a time, it starts when you care to act, it starts when you do it again after they said no, it starts when you say We and know who you mean, and each day you mean one more."

---

by: Louise @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:46:14 PM CST

[ Parent ]

thanks Louise

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 17:09:17 PM CST

[ Parent ]

75' and SUNNY here.

Families for Equality... big banner...on bandstand.
Speakers, singing and walk planned. GREAT turn out for here, 300-400, with kids!  Lots of Straights AGAINST 8 signs. No pics sorry, camera dead. Will get and post if paper there. Two or three getting some.

One sign great!  '
I Fought for Your Rights in IRAQ,
Why did you vote Against MINE?' 

Daigon was talking when I got there...told the whole story about his Domestic Partner dying in January, and how our Coroner and Sherriff's department mishandled it!.. So proud of him...big hug.

One lady with her children and wife, saying how her children are now being taunted and heckled in school. And all the' Yes on 8' signs are back out on lawns on her block.

There were two petitions to sign, one for state and one national! Anyone else see petitioners?

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:21:11 PM CST

Oh...this is Butte County, California

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:22:32 PM CST

[ Parent ]

How anyone can hear their story

and not be choked up or in tears is a mystery to me. I so admire his ability to share it with others, as he has done here.

"It goes on one at a time, it starts when you care to act, it starts when you do it again after they said no, it starts when you say We and know who you mean, and each day you mean one more."

---

by: Louise @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 17:55:03 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Nashville, TN

I went with a group of students and faculty from Vanderbilt University, and we met up with several hundred (~200 or so) people at our event. It went amazingly well. We had news media present and leaders for our event that were interacting with them, and I even had an interview with (what I didn't realize at the time was) the conservative newspaper from my campus, but it went really well. We ended up marching around City Hall, proceeded to the street alongside the building for some time to interact with onlookers, and then marched through a number of the streets in the city. We had awesome signs and chants, an equal number of GLBTQI and Straight supporters present, cars honking in support for us and motivating us onward, and we generated (hopefully) lots of awareness for the general public that was observing us. The only negativity we received was from some people who would shake their heads or for a handful who flicked us off. It was great overall and once we returned to city hall after having been there for about one and half hours it started to die off for the next half hour or so; it had been chillingly cold and windy/misty the whole time. I'm not sure what happened after that because my friends and I left, but yeah. It was incredible, and I'm so glad I participated in this as my first peaceful protest. Can wait to hear how it went in the rest of the country! I'd upload pictures to Flickr if I knew how to.

---

by: OtterXero @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:26:23 PM CST

OK, Nashvillians...

...OtterXero needs a Computer Guy!  Step up!

---

by: GraciesDaddy @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 21:48:35 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Me, too!

Did you see the scary guy, the homeless-looking dude who was there right at the beginning saying stuff about "stupid queers" and "You all sucking too much dick" and then went across the street and mimed shooting at us?  He kind of frightened me with that last, but it was still a great time.  

Other than that, the only negatives were like four or five cars that gave thumbs-down - in contrast to dozens who honked and waved and thumbs-upped us - and a couple people flipping us off.  The march through downtown was great fun, seeing all the tourists staring at us as we chanted.  

---

by: Nikaia @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 21:53:25 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Local News Media

Here's the local coverage we got, although I will say they did a poor job covering the issues at hand: http://www.newschannel5.com/Gl...

---

by: OtterXero @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 23:01:54 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Coverage by the statewide LGBT newspaper

Gay rights rally in Nashville draws more than 200 people

http://outandaboutnewspaper.co...

---

by: OtterXero @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 14:39:50 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Got a little wet & wild in NC

but it was great fuN!

---

by: Jake Gellar-Goad @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:44:17 PM CST

estimated 1500 in Raleigh, NC

Yes, wet and wild, but marvelous to see so many folks out in the rain storms, and such a diverse group.

Favorite signs: We STILL have to protest this crap?
                          and
                         I married my dream guy, why can't HE?

---

by: elizabethws @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:18:43 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Where'd you see that estimate?

Also do you have any pics?

I'm finding plenty of coverage of the nationwide protest (talking about it in the future tense as something that is going to happen today), but nothing has updated to include any pictures of info about it yet.

---

by: Jake Gellar-Goad @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:27:12 PM CST

[ Parent ]

what the organizers estimated...

so, it could be more or less. It seemed like more to me! I will post pics once I figure out how to do it.  

---

by: elizabethws @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:09:39 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Austin,TX

Estimated turnout about 3000!!!! :-D

---

by: ChuChu @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:54:23 PM CST

Biggest LGBT rally I've seen in Austin

Not including pride parades, of course, this was definitely the biggest activist event I've been to in Austin.  There were so many people, I couldn't even begin to estimate, but that would be really exciting if 3,000 is correct.  The space in front of City Hall was hardly big enough to hold us. I was excited to see how many of the crowd were straight allies.  Tons of families with kids were there, and people of all ages.  People had made some great, creative signs, too.  My partner and I were among the speakers, and the crowd was so enthusiastic.  It made me feel very good to see so many people come out to support equality in our town.

---

by: Heidi @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 18:02:59 PM CST

[ Parent ]

woo hoo

other austinite blenders!!

---

by: StSean @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 07:55:28 AM CST

[ Parent ]

Just Curious

I was just wondering if anyone's thought about possibly having some type of a "Million for Marriage March" in DC at some future date?

Do you think it's feasible?  Would it be worth the time, effort, money that would be needed?  Would it have any lasting impact or do you think the multiple local marches have a bigger impact?  Are the mass DC marches a thing of the past?

Comments?

Have a great Impact Day everyone!  I had to work all day, or I'd have been at the nearest one too.

---

by: Jon Michaels @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 15:56:57 PM CST

WHY NOT?..

It's one idea of many, to bounce around.  .. I was wondering where to put this little quote and think it goes well here, it's from an article about Craig Robinson, soon to be First Brother in Law...who carefully vetted Barack Obama for his only sister's husband...and gave approval.
He left a lucrative business career to go back to basketball coaching..to help young men get 'everything out of their lives.' and says this.

"Barack and I have always said to each other, 'Why not?' Why not be the president of the United States? Why not be a Pac-10 coach after two years of head coaching experience?" And the more you ponder why not, Robinson said, "it makes you think about why you can do all those things. And that's half the battle."

So why not...do everything it takes to reach Equal Marriage status. Thinking you can is half the battle..and this broad national and international support will certainly help with that. Do need to keep the momentum going. See the JOINTHEIMPACT.corg site..they are already at work on new ideas.

 

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:08:53 PM CST

[ Parent ]

marriage equality is just one issue for Queerdom

While Queers are getting off their asses and expressing their outrage over being denied access to marriage equality, there are a host of issues which demand attention in any form of future mobilization.  We can still lose employment in many jurisdictions without recourse, based on our sexual orientation or gender identity.  We continue to be the subject of hate crimes including murder.  American schools are not safe for Queer students and Out faculty.  Gay men and men who have sex with men continue to suffer disproportionately from HIV/AIDS.

That said, I believe that local mobilizations bring our issues into focus for more people than marches in DC.  Americans get see politically active and outraged Queers are their neighbors, not abstract or disconnected rabble-rousers in a far-off place.  Besides, local protests can be done with a much smaller collective economic burden than covergences on Washington, without consuming the agendae of our national organizations (what do they do, again?) or leaving me to curse at my fellow Queers for acting like g-d tourists on the road or on METRO... pssst!  Stand on the right-hand side of escalators, and get off the friggin' train to let people in and out if you're going to stand in the door.

---

by: greatwhitebear @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:34:47 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Please Stand Clear of the Doors!

Been there, done that greatwhitebear.  I know the DC Metro very well.

---

by: Jon Michaels @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:46:21 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Love the Metro..

Course I never commuted.  Mexico City's and Bay Area Barts ...and I think Paris...all the same.  In Mexico it was subsidized, you road anywhere for a peso.

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 17:02:16 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Agreed, Greatwhite.

Although marriage WILL grant couples a slew of rights in one whack -- I believe it will lead to filing taxes jointly on a FEDERAL level, eventually -- it IS on the local level that we will achieve the EQUAL rights we so desperately deserve.

TO THOSE IN A POSITION TO DO SO:  Arrange an appointment with your State senators & representative be it in your state capital or, in larger cities, they will have a local office.  They LURRRRRV to have consituents make the effort to visit with them and present issues and concerns in person.  ASK them their stance on civil rights ...then hit them with the question if their [supportive] stance also includes Gay Civil Rights as well.  The worst that could happen is they throw you out of their office -- and you report back here and we vote that person out of office -- or, you could get more double-talk which, if that's the case, let them know that if they don't arrive at a positive stance, you will campaign against them in the next election.

You'd be surprised how quickly they change their tune if their seat is being threatened.

---

by: GraciesDaddy @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:10:08 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Congress is likely to be reconsidering DOMA sometime in the next two years

It seems to me that will be a good time to get DC's attention.

---

by: mcc @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:58:21 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Getting attention

We need to get the attention of Capitol Hill through personal interaction, to remind legislators on both sides of the aisle of our concerns and our turnout at the polls where they are elected and re-elected.  Mass marches do not achieve this objective.

On November 5 I emailed and snail-mailed correspondence to my re-elected House member, my newly elected Senator, and our now-senior Senator with the same message--sign on as co-sponsors of the repeals of DOMA, DADT, and "No Promo Homo" and vote to get these bills to the floor and on to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.  Not eighteen months from now, but in the first six months while staff and regulators churn out more proposals for intervening in the economic crisis.  These are matters of overdue justice and even life-and-death.  By Thanksgiving, if an affirmative response is not received, I will re-send, and I'll start cornering them and their staffs at political and social events to get the point across.

The newly elected Congress and President-elect Obama do have a daunting task ahead to rein in spending while healing the economy.  However, they also come into office with an historic abundance of honeymoon electoral capital as cover for engaging in both social justice and economic repair early in their terms.

---

by: greatwhitebear @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 07:53:54 AM CST

[ Parent ]

Salt Lake Here

---

by: lo_pan @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:04:18 PM CST

SO FINE! lo pan

Got it...will put it up in Group if you haven't already.

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:12:12 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Iowa City, Iowa

At the start I tried counting, got to 90, then people started arriving to fast to try to keep up.  I think the total was about 150, most U of I students, but a number of us older people also.

There was not an actual organizer, people just showed up after seeing it on facebook or join the action.  I heard some phone calls made to draw more people.

After some speaking and singing we marched from city hall to the Old Capitol and back.  A well behaved protest march, at traffic lights we stopped to wait for the walk signal.

I did not here anything negative from passersby, a fare amount of supportive horn honking.  Compared to a lot of negativity at antiwar events.

There was mention of carpools to Des Moines for the Supreme Court hearing on December 9.

---

by: Charles @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:04:53 PM CST

Long Beach, CA

4,000 people showed up, lots and lots of speakers-many people left before the rally ended thanks to the Palos Verdes fires-it's ALL sooty thanks to that. However, GREAT energy level and great crowd-I was amazed at all the straight people that showed up to show solidarity with our community.
No digital camera, dammit-but I'm sure pics and video will show up on other sites.
Also, what was really great was that five LB City Council people showed up along with Long Beach's CA Assembly representative. THEY ARE HEARING US, y'all.  

---

by: Mindyinlongbeach @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:08:59 PM CST

[ Parent ]

IOWA.... Good Luck.

At your Supreme Court DEC 9...keep us posted.  Been to Iowa City, interviewed for residency there.

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:59:23 PM CST

[ Parent ]

follow up

http://www.gazetteonline.com/ has a story on the protest in Iowa City.  Look for Video: Same-sex marriage ban prompts Iowa City protest, I'm in the video at 1:11, scribbling in a note book. That was right at 12:30, after I tried estimating the turnout.

---

by: Charles @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 15:33:17 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Albany, NY

Great event here in Albany! We had about 500 people! Thank you for showing up and standing up to discrimination across the country.

---

by: leah and brenda @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:27:32 PM CST

Richmond, VA

Oh my goodness, this is so exciting! I've never been to a protest before, and I only got to go for a little while, but yaaay...

I'd guess 150-200 people, though I could very well just be making that up, I fail at guessing. We waved signs and cheered when people honked at us, and in the few minutes I was there I didn't see any negative things. My sign said "Don't be H8in'." Lots of fun!

---

by: spiffykt @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:27:59 PM CST

Chicago Was Amazing

I just got back from Chicago's rally and march and it was truly awe-inspiring and galvanizing. We filled up Federal Plaza for the rally and the marched through the city, the crowd filling up at least 3 full blocks. I am terrible at estimating what size of crowd that means but I would estimate in the several thousands. It was a diverse crowd, largely (unlike me) under 30. The rally had a great group of speakers, including a marriage equality activist who had marched with Martin Luther King in the 60s, several California couples who flew in to talk about their marriages, a United Methodist Church minister who talked about her efforts to battle homophobia within her Church, and leaders of college lgbta groups. There were a number of straight allies who participated. There were a great range of signs and chants including "Obama, Obama, let mama marry mama" and "Life begins at the time you start fighting back against fundamentalist Christians." When we marched,we zigzagged up to Michigan Avenue, back to City Hall and the State of Illinois Building and then to State Street, up Wacker and eventually all the way up the "Magnificent Mile of Michigan Avenue and back (well over 2 miles). We got amazing applause and cheers from onlookers and drivers. The latter was especially surprising because we were bringing downtown traffic to a halt. The police were also cheerful and helpful. By contrast, there were very, very few pro-h8 phobes counterdemonstrating. Those that did had signs saying "Protect Marriage" and "It's Not Natural". I hope we can maintain and keep challenging the positive energy that prevailed today.

---

by: David Goroff @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:46:07 PM CST

Typo correction

I meant to end with the hope that we keep channelling the positive energy and didn't catch the typo until too late.

---

by: David Goroff @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 17:11:50 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Chicago Was Great!

I heard The Peter was among the counter-demonstrators. But honestly, I never saw the counter-demonstrators.

Good speakers, and a good walk through downtown/the gold coast.

---

by: the.sue @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:03:15 PM CST

[ Parent ]

The Peter WAS @ Chicago Rally!

The counter protest was sponsored by AFTAH.  I caught a glimpse of Petey unloading his signs out of his grey Dodge Caravan around noon, 30 minutes before the protest started.

I kept an eye on them for a while and their numbers didn't reach over thirty heads.  They were situated on the southeast corner of Adams & Dearborn pretty much lining the Dearborn side.

I managed to snap a couple of pics of Petey from a distance.  My digital zoom stinks but you can see that it's him.  Hehehe

Charley sez ---- Bat sh*t crazies amuse me!

---

by: vwboy81 @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 00:09:59 AM CST

[ Parent ]

D-bag

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 01:35:13 AM CST

[ Parent ]

It's Petey's two favorite things...

Gays and publicity. Without those, his life has no meaning.

Not that his life has much meaning now, but imagine if he wasn't able to fixate his fantasies on gays, and then pretend outrage to anyone who'll listen.

---

by: the.sue @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 10:11:11 AM CST

[ Parent ]

Raindrops on roses & whiskers on kittens?

We can't forget spreading false words and fear-mongering!  =)

Charley sez ---- Bat sh*t crazies amuse me!

---

by: vwboy81 @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 12:43:51 PM CST

[ Parent ]

I saw the Peter too

He needs a good exfoliating and some moisturizer.

---

by: Cheryl @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 14:35:09 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Raleigh, NC!!!

The rally in Raleigh was amazing!  So many people came out to support, and even though there was torrential rain, everyone stuck through it!  It was kind of like a symbolic representation of the movement for equal rights everywhere, because although when we started marching the rain was pouring and pelting us like crazy, we persevered, and by the end of the rally, the sun had come out and was shining beautifully!  The support we received from the police and those not involved with the rally, but just passing by, was also very heartening.  Unfortunately, I had to skip out on the NC Equality Conference early to go to the rally, but I can't imagine NOT  have going to this historic march!

---

by: Lopey @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:47:47 PM CST

Columbia, SC was amazing

We had an AWESOME turnout of 150-175 people who lined up at the State House to wave signs at passing cars.

And we got an excellent reception from a majority of the cars.

What I liked were the families who came out with their children. One five-year-old child came with his two mothers and got the lion's share of attention because of his t-shirt - "Got Moms?"

---

by: Alvin McEwen @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:50:11 PM CST

Cute SC Sign.

in CNN report... Guy at curb holding sign:

'HONK! Columbia so

CALIFORNIA can Hear it!'

We hear you! Thanks all. 

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 21:58:36 PM CST

[ Parent ]

DC: we're here, we're Queer, and we're really freakin' wet

With the area under a tornado watch and dark clouds all around, the festivites still began in front of the Reflecting Pool of the U.S. Capitol with a procession down the south side of the National Mall and around the "back" of the Washington Monument to Lafayette Park adjacent to The White House.  I estimated 7000-8000, based on some metrics shared by a Capitol Police officer during the viewing for Rosa Parks.  About halfway to the Washington Monument, rain arrived -- it was dramatic to watch the leading edge of the rain overtake buildings in the distance in Arlington, then the Monument, before hitting the crowd.  Few people bailed out, and I wound up briefly sharing my umbrella and walking the rest of the route with Andrew Sullivan.

The best part of the protest was how organic it was, though evidence abounded of mathematicians (those people with the yellow equal sign) and others attempting to leave their imprint.  Must download the pic from my phone of the rainbow that appeared near the Capitol as we rounded the west side of the Washington Monument.  The march was greeted by D.C. Police Chief Cathy Lanier when we were allowed to cross Constitution Ave. south of The White House, and motorist honked and cheered the last few blocks on 17th Street.

---

by: greatwhitebear @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:50:40 PM CST

Thanks gwb

Had to look up online. saw a little report on WASH Blade.  7000-8000 good.  One other person suggested a ONE MILLION MARCH? sometime...what do you think.

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:57:06 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Five Hours Earlier, In Another Capital...

Around 30 protesters met in front of the US Embassy in Grosvenor Square, London at 1.30pm GMT (8.30am EST, 5.30am PST). Rain threatened constantly, but it seems the rain-clouds found America's capital more inviting than the UK's. The group was roughly equally split between Britons and Americans with a few people from other nations; there were several straight allies, and at least three Californians.

Many of the Americans who came live in the UK because they have European partners who lack immigration rights in the US, while they themselves have immigration rights here - the partners (unmarried partners of over two years, civil partners and spouses) of all UK residents have immigration rights here, and citizens of EU/EFTA states (there are 31) have right of residency here - so many Euro-American couples end up living here. One such couple had been caught up in the rush-hour traffic-jams caused by the protests in LA last week, a few days before they moved here.

The police were very friendly and inquisitive - all they knew was that there would be a protest; they hadn't been told why - which was a great opportunity for sue to explain why Prop. 8 was wrong, and possibly win some support for marriage equality here!

Further protests are being planned, and an outreach program to British Mormons will begin at 8am GMT (3am EST, 12 midnight PST) tomorrow, educating them about the dishonourable way in which the LDS hierarchy has acted and the extent of the Catholic church's complicity in getting the LDS church involved.

____________________________________
Cuius testiculos habes, habeas cardia et cerebellum.

---

by: tavdy79 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 19:18:39 PM CST

[ Parent ]

God I love London

Thanks for that photo.  It's awesome!

Electricity's for light bulbs!

---

by: n8nyc @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:05:36 PM CST

[ Parent ]

love them

Love those Brits!

---

by: kccat @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:09:59 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Denver, CO about 1,500 of us.

  Great weather.  A lot of people, and only 5 yes on 8 clowns.  There was a lot of cheering from by standers.  I will get some pics up when I get them.  We had a lot of fun and made some noise.

If I make sense? it was quite by accident.

---

by: HappyCat @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:51:28 PM CST

About the yes on 8 clowns

  Thet were friendly.  being peaceful and were willing to exchange in debate.  They did agree that we will eventually win our rights, it is just a matter of when.  They really didn't make much of an argument on why to deny equal rights except for their bible told them so.

 That made of the signs my youngest daughter and I carried special,

My Jesus Will Forgive Your Jesus of Discrimination It had a rainbow colored Jesus Fish and Cross on it.

the sign, LOVE makes a Family!  

If I make sense? it was quite by accident.

---

by: HappyCat @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:10:30 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Video of the march in Denver,

 

If I make sense? it was quite by accident.

---

by: HappyCat @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 21:25:48 PM CST

[ Parent ]

LIFE BEGINS WHEN YOU START FIGHTING BACK AGAINST FUNDAMENTALIST XTIANS.

This is from Chicago...note, emphasizing it.

 LOVE IT! ... Good slogan in so many ways.

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 16:51:59 PM CST

Greenville, NC

So I'm hoping it's like this across the country, in Greenville there was a small spontaneous march through the streets to protest Prop 8, flags and all.  It really caused a stir and started some conversation in restaurants they walked past.  It's exciting, I'm not in Chapel Hill this weekend but I'd like to think something's happening there as well.

---

by: duskrose @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 17:19:06 PM CST

Pomona, California

In the Los Angeles County City near San Bernardino County we had 300+ people attend, mostly positive attention from people around us. People of all kinds were there eager to show that GLBT people and their straight allies are here and visible.

And its going to start a regional chain of rallies and demonstrations in the heartland of Yes on 8.

---

by: mmunson @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 17:31:58 PM CST

Raleigh Rally Pics

The opening rally in Raleigh at the protest I helped organize, across from the legislative building.

Jim Neal, whose senatorial campaign I worked on, was one of the speakers... you can see him there between the flag & the police officer.

Marching in the rain (Myself, & a few family members & friends are in this photo, but hard to see)

Protesting loudly at the governors mansion after the rain had cleared up.

I haven't verified it, but I heard it described as the largest gay rights event in NC history.

---

by: Jake Gellar-Goad @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 17:32:38 PM CST

Picture as a Symbol

I like this shot where you can see a building in NC's capital, and a sign with NC, on either side of this movement.

---

by: Jake Gellar-Goad @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 17:56:23 PM CST

[ Parent ]

PALM SPRINGS

The crowd was once again anesthetized by the group running it who chose speakers who basically said don't boycott anyone, don't offend anyone, be nice.

Oh, and for an issue that is all about trying to separate church from state, why do we feel the need to trot out every gay clergy person we can find.

We are in the process of trying to have the Mormon Church's tax exempt status revoked for becoming involved in politics, and we get up and proudly proclaim we did the same.

We are even going after Mormons for not reporting the use of church facilities as campaign contributions, and then the guy from MCC gets up and proclaims proudly how the No on 8 people were given full use of their church offices and phones.

Left hand, please learn what the right hand is doing for a change.

Plus, if they are so worried about not offending anyone, They might want to remember that there are a lot of gay people who are out and proud atheists. I did not attend this rally to preached at.  

That was my experience.  Love the lady in the wheelchair with the sign saying "Stop Spreading Aids.  Use a Buttplug"  Hint from Heloise I guess.

---

by: DavidinPS @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 17:38:10 PM CST

PALM SPRINGS-ADDENDUM

Oh, yeah, I forgot.  Looked like there were about 1200 people there.  In a town of 50,000 population!!!

The only anti-gay folks were the crazy lady from last week and the wheelchair/buttplug lady.

---

by: DavidinPS @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 17:44:15 PM CST

COOL Photo ablum

   http://jointheimpact.wetpaint....
1767 pictures

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 17:44:57 PM CST

Detroit here!

I was at the Detroit site, downtown by City Hall and the Spirit of Detroit...

Unfortunately, the weather was just horrible.  Temps were about 34 F with heavy rain/sleet.  About 100-150 showed up for the 90ish minutes we were there, and I know by the time we were done, we were all soaked and very cold.  

But, we got a surprising amount of honks and stuff from passersby and even the Detroit Police.  There were no religious nutters counter-protesting or anything like that.  Alas, I have no pics.  

---

by: xequar @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 18:22:18 PM CST

Frustrated, couldn't make it to the site today :(

Thank you to everyone who did!!

Question, earlier today I saw on the Flickr feed a picture of someone holding up a sign saying something like "Joseph Smith had 63, Brigham young had 52, I just want one". Now I can't seem to find it in the listing. Does anyone know where that would have been?

---

by: mcc @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 18:53:37 PM CST

Northampton, Massachusetts

About 1000 people in the drizzly rain -- full of energy, young and old.  A nice turnout.  Tuesday will mark 5 years since the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court established marriage equality in Massachusetts. So much to celebrate, so much work left to do!  

---

by: Diane95 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 19:06:08 PM CST

Eugene Oregon

One of the speakers said he had estimated the croud at 300 but then a lot more people had shown up. Weather was slightly cold, overcast, but fine.

I woke up feeling less sick and crappy then I did the night before, so I bundled up warm, grabbed my sign and headed out.

We gathered on the steps, on the sidewalk and across the footbridge at the Eugene City Hall. We had 3 great speakers. Then we marched by the Saturday Market (Hippy Crafts and Foods) to the Free Speech Square at the Lane County Court House. More speech and cheers. Went about an hour.

Liked the Signs "Love Cock Not War" and "Boobs Not Bans". Got photos of neither.
My Photos are in the Pam'S House Blend Flickr group and also Here.

This is moral and immoral. The moral thing, the thing that everyone knows is right inside, though some are afraid to say, is EQUALITY. Inequality is immoral.

---

by: mickdansforth @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 19:12:33 PM CST

More good pictures at slog

Dan Savage's paper, The Stranger, in Seattle also has a great selection of photos from around the country.  Just go there and scroll down. http://slog.thestranger.com/bl...

---

by: Paul In SF @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 19:14:21 PM CST

Seatte, WA

Police estimate 6000 participants.  The weather was gorgeous and energy level was high.  Favorite sign: Liberty and Justice for all! (Lady Liberty dipping Lady Justice into a full-on kiss)  An awsome day.

---

by: sammyseattle @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 19:14:29 PM CST

Seattle

Thousands turned out on this beautiful day.  And about half were ALLIES! :D  We ran out of "official" sign sticks at the sign-making table.  Undaunted, people picked up real sticks and improvised.  No one was going to be silent today.  I estimated 3,000, but a friend thought the crowd was even bigger than that.  Some allies cheering from their 2nd floor window said they were unable to see either end of the march.

And let me just say here, Ron Sims you ROCK!

Lurleen on Twitter

---

by: Lurleen @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 19:17:58 PM CST

Definitely

Ron's speech was great!

---

by: sammyseattle @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 19:59:35 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Just uploaded my picures to Pam's Flicker group.

If interested, search under "Lurleen the Elder". :)

Lurleen on Twitter

---

by: Lurleen @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:25:03 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Ron Sims rocked!

I've seen estimates from 6000 to 12000 ... great crowd!  I'll upload pics soon ...

jon

jon

---

by: jonpincus @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 01:41:18 AM CST

[ Parent ]

Oklahoma City

Darlajane's set is here
http://www.flickr.com/photos/6...

I've emailed her to join the Flickr group, but not sure how to tell her how just that one set would be part of it.

I couldn't make it, but she said 300 people.  

---

by: peacearena @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 19:18:14 PM CST

Thanks from Oklahoma, peacearena...

Guess Sally K didn't make it?

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 21:38:39 PM CST

[ Parent ]

San Diego

What an exhilarating day! Seems like we had about 10,000 or more folks show up. Many families with children. The weather was warm here,80 & sunny.What a warm feeling to know that so many hearts reached out from coast to coast simultaneously. Saw Autumn in the crowd & know she will have many more details. Thank you to all!!

---

by: SDRob @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 19:25:57 PM CST

Update

Channel 9,KUSI has stated that 20,000 marched for equal rights here in San Diego

---

by: SDRob @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:12:25 PM CST

[ Parent ]

San Diego pics..

Looks like 20,000...can't copy so here is link:

cnn.com/2008/US/11/15/same.sex.marriage/index.html?iref=mpstoryview#cnnSTCPhoto

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 21:56:10 PM CST

[ Parent ]

SITE for San Diego MOVIE....

Don't know if Autumn is in it or not. CNN ireport.

ireport.com/docs/DOC-148152

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 21:33:18 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Nashville, TN

Had an, um, field correspondent in Nashville, which was raining and cold, I am told.

My fiance -- err, field correspondent had never attended anything pride related, and was one of his estimate of 400 to 500 who showed up, and when asked for a show of hands, half said they were straight.  

http://www.dyssonance.com  Breaking all the rules...

---

by: dyssonance @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 19:47:03 PM CST

Cleveland

Great map, I love it.  We had a few hundred show up downtown Cleveland in the freezing rain and wind.  Good group considering the weather. I added Cleveland pics to the pool.

---

by: kccat @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 19:48:18 PM CST

some nyc pics

It was powerful at NYC's protest today.  I loved reading some of the comments above.  Below are some pics I took.  Sadly, I though that I shot about an hour of video.  I never had the record button pressed. I ended up with some crappy pans of the crowd :(  So sad...

Some others are at my album on PhotoBucket.

Electricity's for light bulbs!

---

by: n8nyc @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:11:05 PM CST

oops

sorry folks, should have used the WYSIWYG interface.  The above pics are way bigger than I intended.  Didn't mean to spatially hijack things :(

Electricity's for light bulbs!

---

by: n8nyc @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:12:59 PM CST

[ Parent ]

OK

Great pics n8nyc!  No prob with the size :)

---

by: ChuChu @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:46:48 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Re: voting on someone else's right to marry

Your second picture from the bottom reminded me of a conversation that I had with my husband the other day and I'd really like to hear from someone with legal training about this.  Now that a valid and legal marriage can be dissolved by the state just by going through a popular vote, has a precedent been set and now other marriages can have that happen too?  

My America includes LGBT families.

---

by: Mena @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 13:37:08 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Tampa and St. Petersburg Florida had rallies but they aren't on the map.

I was at the Tampa rally in downtown Tampa from 1:00 till about 4:00. There were about 200 people there. A little disappointing but the local organizations didn't get the word out until Tuesday so I guess it was pretty good considering the short notice.

The crowd was lively, very mixed men/women, white/black/hispanic, gay/straight/bi.

Linda Saulsena, a Tampa city councilwoman, gave a moving and rousing speech.

Some of our people were on the street corners where they were getting tons of honks and thumbs up.

There were no Yes on 2 protesters to be seen even though they sent out a press release calling for a counter protest.

The weather was beautiful, sunny, mid 80's until right after the rally when it started to rain. As we drove away a BIG, BEAUTIFUL RAINBOW formed in the sky. I kid you not. I snapped a picture of it.

---

by: Zeke @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:12:03 PM CST

Oh, I see Tampa Bay on the map now...

It never crossed my mind to look for us North of Tallahassie, way up in Georgia.

:)

---

by: Zeke @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:22:12 PM CST

[ Parent ]

My favorite sign at the Tampa rally...

It had a picture of Jesus at the top of it and it said,

"JESUS HAD TWO DADDIES"

---

by: Zeke @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:17:07 PM CST

very witty

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:45:55 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Took part in the Washington DC protest

My partner and I walked in the DC protest. First time ever either of us have taken part in such activism .. I am the type who usually supports the cause with my wallet.
But it felt good to be there today - despite the drenching thundershower. There were several thousand of us, and we mostly got a lot of support from the passing cars. We walked from the US Capitol, down the Mall, then looped right around the Washington Monument and ended in Lafayette Park in front of the White House.
There were so many of us .. young and old, gay and straight, married and single. Even when it rained heavily, no one left the parade to run for shelter.
In the end, I was thoroughly wet and shivering, but I felt we shall most definitely overcome!

---

by: troposphere @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:41:35 PM CST

Anybody see..JOE S

in the Washington crowd?

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 21:43:46 PM CST

[ Parent ]

there were collections of sign's saying on jointheimpact

my favorite

" If heaven discriminates, I'm not going"

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:45:17 PM CST

love it

That's definitely one of the best slogans I have heard so far!!  

---

by: kccat @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 21:53:40 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Atlanta Protest against Prop 8

Same as it ever was, yet different.

Today well over 1,000 protesters thronged Georgia's Capitol to speak out - hell, preach against - the evil of Prop 8. In true Southern form, preachers dominated the forum. Rev. Dr. Margaret Aymer, a straight ally, preacher and teacher, exhorted the crowd to "inconvenience" a few of our straight friends, to bring them out to lobby for human rights.

Rep. Karla Drenner, Georgia's only openly gay legislator, didn't mince words. Following the lead of Arkansas, the Georgia legislature will likely consider legislation to ban gays from adopting.

Just four years ago, I was on the steps of this same Capitol, launching my own activist career against Georgia's constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage. I worked my ass off for two months. We won once - the house voted it down. But on the last day, the legislature agreed to let the amendment go on the state ballot. Of course it passed.

The lesson is: the people are not always right. That's why we have the judiciary system. If only California had listened to and respected its judges.

I've posted photos from today's protest on the Flickr group.

---

by: phungrrl @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 20:58:53 PM CST

JUDGES...are back on the case phungrrl.

We do hope they make the correct decision for EQUALITY.

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 21:43:01 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Arkansas

The NYTimes says we had about 200 people, but we think it was more around 90 or so.  It was great--cold weather (for us) but enthusiastic people, chants and some great speeches.

Afterwards, a lot of us went to a meeting to talk about how to repeal Act 1.  We're gonna beat this thing back!!!

---

by: rhetor1999 @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 21:51:20 PM CST

Give it Up

Folks, gay marriage was shot down for the second time in California.  Thank God!  Give it up and go home.  If you want to get married, go to CT or MA, but stay out of Cali.  You folks have way too much free time on your hands.  If this vote is even thought of being overturned by the California State Supreme Court, you haven't witnessed protests.  The judges will be impeached and recalled and I can assure you that the current law will be imposed.

---

by: SteveJJ @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:04:03 PM CST

You, SteveJJ, have way too much free time on your hands

What, your girlfriend dumped you? Or you are still at your parents home, taking a break from the new WOW upgrade?

---

by: NancyP @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:18:29 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Har!

When you look for the bad in mankind, expecting to find it, you surely will.

- Abraham Lincoln.

---

by: Fritz @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:28:25 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Please stop yelling at SteveJJ, please

It probably brings him to orgasm.

---

by: Nancy in NYC @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 00:47:02 AM CST

[ Parent ]

Heil, Steve!!

---

by: Patrick @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:53:38 PM CST

[ Parent ]

If H8 is overturned and you guys protest,

  It will be interesting to watch.  For all the right reasons Prop 8 will be overturned.  The yes on 8 people will go bonkers.  It will prove you idots forgot what the constitution says about minority rights.  Your great hope the dope GW Bush did shread almost every part of the constitution, but noy all of it.  You see, in 2000. the majority voted for Al Gore and we all know that Majority Rule doesn't work. You Idiots forget that part.  It is actually called a Representative Republic.  

 And did the Judges back in 1967 face impeachment for ruling in favor of Loving?  You know, Loving vs. Virginia.  Nope.  You see, when it comes to the Constitution, you must have a better understanding of that document than Bible Spice (Sarah Palin) has.

If I make sense? it was quite by accident.

---

by: HappyCat @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 23:26:53 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Santa came early for ya ....stevie

   http://www.bondageblog.com/bon...

I knew nothing breathing would f*ck ya.

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 02:05:46 AM CST

[ Parent ]

Protest in South Central Los Angeles

I showed up to protest in South Central Los Angeles and I was the only one who showed up.  What's up with that?  I got my ass kicked by some gang bangers and ended up in the emergency room.  I thought you guys said we were supposed to protest the black communities since they were responsible for the ban on gay marriage in California.

---

by: SteveJJ @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:09:05 PM CST

Nope, Steve - its the crackers fault

If it weren't for white closet cases like you we wouldn't have to keep fighting to allow women to vote and African Americans to be granted civil rights and to free the asians from camps.

Its always you white guys...white white white...stupid stupid stupid....and no matter how long it takes....you always lose.  

And you are losing this one too.

Its nice to hear you squeal.

I'm not afraid.

---

by: Patrick @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:56:47 PM CST

[ Parent ]

thanks steve

When I read you got your ass kicked in South Central by gangbangers....well it was the silver lining in the cloud that was Prop H8

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 23:34:03 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Shizzle Dizzle

Sho nuff!  O-Shit!  

---

by: SteveJJ @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 00:24:16 AM CST

[ Parent ]

We have a lesson in organizing here

The website, facebook, email/text/twitter use allowed national and local volunteers to pull together simultaneous local events in a week.

The simultaneous nature of the nationwide protests attracted press attention - locally, the upcoming rally got a front page, bottom of fold sympathetic story with front page picture of two men in their 50s working in their yard.

We need to hold simultaneous local protests for T-inclusive ENDA when it appears likely that an ENDA version will be introduced. Same for federal hate crimes legislation.

---

by: NancyP @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:15:10 PM CST

R U Afraid

NancyP, are you afraid of free speech and can't handle the truth?  Gay marriage is dead.

---

by: SteveJJ @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 01:53:48 AM CST

[ Parent ]

Tell That To...

Netherlands, Belgium, Massachusetts, Spain, Canada, South Africa, Connecticut, Norway and Sweden.

____________________________________
Cuius testiculos habes, habeas cardia et cerebellum.

---

by: tavdy79 @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 03:51:30 AM CST

[ Parent ]

News Media I Saw

The Wild Fires in California and Bush's G20 Summit trumped Join the Impact on MSNBC. Around 11:00am Pacific they showed some live footage out of SF on their way to commercial.

Locally (Eugene) all 3 stations led with it. One of the stations gave equal time to some jack-ass sitting on his couch, who called the protesters intolerant of him. I was sick, got my ass up early, and went down there. People who can't bother to show up, should not be heard.

Another local station gave equal time to some Yes on 8 group that called the Protests and Boycotts "The Very Definition of Terrorism". El Coyote Lady should have supported those she needs support from. Stealing rights should not be an easy thing.

SNL mentioned it a bit as well.

This is moral and immoral. The moral thing, the thing that everyone knows is right inside, though some are afraid to say, is EQUALITY. Inequality is immoral.

---

by: mickdansforth @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 13:20:22 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Ugh!

A racist homophobic troll.

Please ban SteveJJ, Pam.

When you look for the bad in mankind, expecting to find it, you surely will.

- Abraham Lincoln.

---

by: Fritz @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:15:55 PM CST

No, Don't

Once he sees how many people protested against Prop. 8 (i.e. once we have some figures to quote - both for the US and international protests) perhaps he'll realise he needs to start taking us seriously.

____________________________________
Cuius testiculos habes, habeas cardia et cerebellum.

---

by: tavdy79 @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 03:56:49 AM CST

[ Parent ]

Dealing with trolls

If you use Firefox, you can download Greasemonkey.
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-...
Once it is installed you will see a couple additions after the ratings box, "kill" and "hide comment".  Clicking on "kill" will make it so that you never have to see anything that he posts ever again if you don't want to.  It will show that he posted something and you have the choice of clicking on "unkill" or "show comment" if you would like to reinstate him or if you want to see the comment but I'm going to go out on a limb and guess that you will just scroll past those comments.  ;^)

My America includes LGBT families.

---

by: Mena @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 13:59:38 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Report from Impact Rally at New York City Hall

My wife Joan and I were there at today's Impact rally at New York City Hall with the sign we'd made featuring our 2004 Massachusetts license. Along with around 4,000 other folks, mostly in the 20s-40s range, we squeezed into a few fairly tight pens under the watchful eye of quite a few (very nice) police officers while we listened to the usual mix of politicians, political activists (with or without spouse, partner, betrothed, or family) poets, and folks from Broadway. Frankly, I was a little surprised by the lack of outrage or irony: less than a generation from AIDSACT UP and it's all very positive spin and "Yes we can." I'm very glad that we were there, and am grateful to the organizers who have put in so much time and work and to my fellow demonstrators. But for my money, the best part was waving our signs and shouting "Write my name in the book of love" at the open-air tour buses.

---

by: Nancy in NYC @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:32:32 PM CST

Nope

Must be a Cali thing.  He looks like he couldn't get a real job, so he ended up being the local NAACP Chapter President.  Great!  Yo Prez, Shizzle Dizzle.

---

by: SteveJJ @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 01:55:56 AM CST

[ Parent ]

NAACP

The leader of our local NAACP chapter addressed the crowd in Monterey. He said that civil rights for one group is civil right for all and pledged to join in the fight to overturn Prop. 8.

Anyone have a similar experience in other cities?

When you look for the bad in mankind, expecting to find it, you surely will.

- Abraham Lincoln.

---

by: Fritz @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:34:38 PM CST

Hey!

Now there are only four photos in the pool. What's up?

When you look for the bad in mankind, expecting to find it, you surely will.

- Abraham Lincoln.

---

by: Fritz @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 22:53:54 PM CST

Blacksburg Virginia at Virginia Tech....

The day started with pouring rain as the wife and our 4 and 8 year olds and I loaded into the car to head into town and eat food from the Indian International students before the rally. With visions of soggy signs, we had a lovely authentic luncheon, then as we were leaving saw a ray of sun. YAY!

The drillfield as per usual was a wind tunnel, and the skys were an impressive dark gray, but somewhere between 80 and 120 folks gathered (by my estimate), mostly college students, but a few of us older folks...initially we were the only one's with kids, but as we trecked across campus were joined by a couple others. One rude comment yelled at us from Pritchard Hall (the largest all male non military dorm in the east, as well as the place I was most likely to clean up puke in when I worked in housekeeping there), lots of honks and a fair number of stares....seems there was an open house going on, and tons of incoming and prospective freshmen and their parents trotting around on tours. Hee hee. One word of advice...Don't take your 4 year old unless you also think to take a wagon or something to avoid carrying 36 pounds a mile or 2.

School paper, local progressive paper, and someone from afterellen.com, who shot video and interviewed us. There was another guy too, but never caught who he was with. Left the camera in the car, mainly figuring it was bad ju-ju if it was going to pour, but had one shot from my cell turn out, which I just now figured out how to post to the flicker page :) My sweetie and our 4 year old are in the center, but kinda hard to see.

---

by: wildclover @ Sat Nov 15, 2008 at 23:04:04 PM CST

JOINtheIMPACT...wants attendance figures...

Here is link: add your city if not there.

jointheimpact.wetpaint.com/page/Attendance+Totals+%28How+Many+Attended+in+Your+City%29

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 00:05:32 AM CST

It's the Law

It's the law baby, so live with it.  No gay marriages in Cali.

---

by: SteveJJ @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 00:18:28 AM CST

Laws Change

Live with it.

____________________________________
Cuius testiculos habes, habeas cardia et cerebellum.

---

by: tavdy79 @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 04:07:44 AM CST

[ Parent ]

Response to NancyP

Actually I was with your Mom tonight satisfying her inner desires.  Man, can she scream!

---

by: SteveJJ @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 00:22:31 AM CST

Really?

I think you were with my mom, not Nancy's (we were playing Scrabble and eating Funyuns with her book club tonight). And, I think you should know, my mom has some, ummm... viruses. It seems when she escaped got out of rehab, she started turning tricks for drugs, which led to some visits to the clinic, but I don't think they got everything. You should see your doctor before you start leaving your no no parts scattered around the trailer park and the NASCAR rally. Just a suggestion!

Seriously, though, it'd be a lot better for you, me, everyone, if you could turn down the Troll dial just a bit and actually engage in some dialogue. Maybe you could even answer some questions, like why you think Prop 8 isn't the establishment of religion since defining marriage as between a man and woman is inherently a religious concept? Or, why gay folk shouldn't be considered a minority at all (and hence, why they don't deserve any rights afforded to heterosexual people). You know, make a statement and back up your case with some reasoning? Otherwise, I think you'll become the PHB blog poster child for why traditional marriage isn't really so sacred or special or unique or sanctified or whatever, given the predilection of your parents to breed and keep such a darling child right smack-dab out of the shallow end of the gene pool. We wouldn't want such a gross stereotypical label being applied here. It'd be shameful.  

---

by: lo_pan @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 01:21:54 AM CST

[ Parent ]

R U Kidding

Nancy,
I don't need to answer squat.  The vote in Cali was 52% to 48% in favor of the ban on gay marriage.  The fat lady sang, the whistle blew, the score was posted.  What more, or should be, said.  The people have spoken.  I cannot for the life of me figure out why you and your peeps think that you can protest to overrule the people's vote.  Do you realize that the more you protest, the more you look like a bunch of disgruntled lunatics?  It's actually entertaining watching you and your peeps crying because you couldn't have your way in liberal Cali.  Gavin Newsome was on suicide watch on November 4th from what I heard.  There is no argument here, the people voted and you side lost.  Over and out.

---

by: SteveJJ @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 02:03:51 AM CST

[ Parent ]

No, I am not kidding

Hmmm, I'm not Nancy, but thanks for the compliment. Anyway, your reply was something, and it wasn't even trollish too much. I am so proud!

The issue isn't that the people voted, Prop 8 got passed, and now everything is finished. If Americans felt that way about civil legislation, nothing would change. Here in America, we have this silly idea about majority rule with minority rights, which Prop 8 clearly goes against. But let's suppose that LGBT folk aren't considered a minority, or shouldn't be, then Prop 8 needs to be looked at a different way: whether Prop 8 is constitutional on a federal level. And really, that's the beauty of Prop 8, that it now opens wide the door for some serious legal action that once and for all removes the rights of any state to define marriage, or refuse to recognize same-sex marriage.

There are a few legal tests that are applied to laws to see if they meet the establishment clause in the First Amendment. The Supreme Court uses them based on the specifics of each case, but I'll argue all three so you can see how unconstitutional Prop 8 is. After all, I'd hate for you to be labeled as unAmerican or even worse, a hater of the Constitution of the United States.

The most popular of these tests is the Lemon Test, where the court must determine whether the law has a bona fide secular purpose. In the case of gay rights in general, and defining marriage specifically, laws such as those proposed by 2, 102, and 8 serve no secular purpose since marriage is both a civil and religious right (you can have a civil marriage without a religious marriage, but cannot have a religious marriage without a civil marriage -it's a convenience a religious marriage is also civilly recognized). The court must then determine if the law has the primary effect of advancing or inhibiting religion. Clearly Prop 8 does not inhibit religion, though it would be an interesting argument to see if churches that do perform gay marriages could successfully challenge Prop 8 on the grounds it inhibits their free exercise of religion in marrying gay couples. This prong of the Lemon Test is the most important, as it can be established by the actions of the LDS and Catholic Churches that Prop 8 is an advancement of the religious interests of at least these two organizations, and probably religion in general, while having no civil benefit, which goes to the final prong of the test that considers whether the law excessively entangles religion and government. Prop 8 clearly interferes with the idea of civil marriage. By defining marriage in religious terms and ideology rather than by any civil definition, the government enforces civil and religious marriage on singularly religious terms.

The Lemon Test has changed somewhat since the 1971 Lemon v. Kurtzman case. The second prong has evolved to test any law where recipients of the legal benefit are based on religion. This makes the argument more clear: by defining marriage on religious grounds, heterosexual marriages receive government benefits while civil marriages do not (by the very act of not being "marriages," regardless of whether the rights are the same, as is the claim in California). That gay marriages and civil unions are not recognized in all states is likely the largest indicator a religious definition of marriage denies benefits to homosexual couples afforded to all heterosexual couples, thus a religious definition of marriage benefits heterosexual couples exclusively and are the sole beneficiaries of the law/definition.

In the Endorsement test, the court must determine whether a law creates a perception in the mind of a reasonable observer that the government is either endorsing or rejecting religion. This is essentially the same argument as the second prong of the lemon test, with reasonableness thrown in because legal people like that populist homespun hokum.

And finally, a more conservative test, the Coercion test, argues any law would need to provide direct support for religion in such a way as to establish a state church or coerces people to support or participate in religion against their will. Prop 8 and other measures designed to define marriage as between one man and one woman could be argued to establish the religious aspect of marriage over that of the civil, thus creating a foundation for a state church (at least a state Church of marriage). Prop 8, et.al. also seeks to coerce people to participate in religion against their will by denying them the right to marry and thus conforming to a religious definition of marriage.

I know you really want Prop 8 to be eternal and "the people have spoken" etc. etc., but people just can't pass laws that are unconstitutional, soiling the very fabric on which this country was founded, and expect them to remain laws. Keep up the hope, Steve, since it's the mantra for the season, but don't hold your breath. Over and out.

---

by: lo_pan @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 03:14:47 AM CST

[ Parent ]

It won with 52% this time...

but over 60% just 8 years ago - that margin is going down quicker than an Essex-girl on a footballer, SteveJJ.

____________________________________
Cuius testiculos habes, habeas cardia et cerebellum.

---

by: tavdy79 @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 04:14:21 AM CST

[ Parent ]

Wanda Sykes comes OUT....VIDEO

And she didn't even need the cover of People to do it.
from queerty.com
Having never (so?) publicly discussed her sexual orientation - but having made light of it on stage and on The New Adventures of Old Christine, where her character remains married to Julia Louis-Dreyfus - comedian Wanda Sykes surprised Las Vegas Prop 8 protesters by announcing she is gay and married her wife on Oct. 25. Why speak up now? Because of Prop 8's passage. "I felt like I was being attacked, personally attacked - our community was attacked. ... Now, I gotta get in their face. ... I'm proud to be a woman. I'm proud to be a black woman, and I'm proud to be gay. ... Instead of having gay marriage in California - no - we're going to get it across the country."

At 4:25, listen to an interview with Wanda about coming out. (She says she's talked about being gay on stage before; this we didn't know.) She also disagrees with the exit polling saying 70 percent of blacks voted for Prop 8. [Photo and audio via The Strip Podcast]
   http://www.queerty.com/wanda-s...

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 01:33:17 AM CST

Memphis

We had about 250 people.

I didn't get to go because my youngest was sick. But my husband, daughter and oldest son went.
Pictures here:
http://valarltd.livejournal.co...

No one ever talks about [extermination]. They just do it. And you go on with your lives, ignoring the signs all around you. And then, one day, when the air is still and the night has fallen, they come for you.

---

by: valarltd @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 05:24:57 AM CST

Moscow, Idaho

Small town, conservative state.  We had at least 100 people.  Boise State was playing the U of Idaho Vandals so lots of traffic going by.  Mostly honks, thumbs up, and enthusiastic waves from the passing vehicles!

---

by: plpsweet @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 07:40:22 AM CST

OUR STORY: 500 here! NAVY VET wants to marry.

CHICO -- As part of a nationwide protest to draw attention to their cause, about 500 opponents of Proposition 8 rallied in City Plaza Saturday in support of same-sex marriage.

"We will take to the streets until we're given our rights under the law," said Rob Regur, who married his partner Dan on Oct. 11 in anticipation of the initiative passing on Nov. 4.
The voter-approved ban amends the state constitution to define marriage as a legal union between only a man and a woman. This sparked a furious debate statewide about whether the wording counts as discrimination or if it preserves a sacred religious union.

The controversy boils down to whether the initiative is considered a constitutional amendment or a revision. Opponents argue it is the latter, which would require a two-thirds majority vote in the Legislature and make the recent ballot initiative irrelevant.

The group that organized the local protest, Butte County Families for Equality, was formed 10 days ago to garner community support to help repeal the gay marriage ban.

Carrying handmade signs and yelling chants denouncing hate and inequality, hundreds marched up Broadway, across Second Street, around the Farmers Market and back down Main Street to City Plaza.

Rally volunteers were stationed at street crossings to ensure the line streaming down the sidewalk did not disobey crossing signs. Several cars honked as they passed.
"We want people who may have supported Proposition 8 to know that we are your friends, your family and your neighbors," said organizer Sue Hilderbrand, who works at the Chico Peace and Justice Center.

There appeared to be no opposition supporters on any of the sidewalk corners or at City Plaza during the public protest.
"We prepared for it, but we saw nobody," Hilderbrand said.

Before the march, a program was held featuring local musicians and leaders of the gay community. Chico Mayor Andy Holcombe, Vice Mayor Ann Schwab and City Councilor Scott Gruendl (who married his partner this year)  also made appearances at the rally. (One of our commentors was a speaker, not me!)

One of the protesters was Tyler Johnson, 24, who was unable to marry his partner, James Temple, before the passing of Proposition 8 because Temple's 18th birthday falls next January.
Having spent three years - 2003 to 2006 - serving in the Navy, Johnson said he feels cheated out of his basic rights.
"I fought for our right for freedom and free speech, and we're all supposed to be created equal, but according to the law I'm not equal to marry the person I love," he said.

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 10:39:13 AM CST

Is everyone as P*SSED as I am at the lack of media coverage of yesterday's demonstrations in 150 cities?

you know damn well if African Americans or Latinos staged THAT many demonstrations in a single day it would have been covered Wall to Wall.
If the MSM is purposely down playing peaceful demonstrations, the demonstrations will CEASE to be peaceful.

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 10:51:23 AM CST

Not really

Young people don't watch the news. They will be watching all of the YouTube videos (Check them out at Good As You).

http://www.goodasyou.org/good_...

The old farts who still watch News at 6, will never accept us anyway. Let's hear it for the kids. They're inventing their own media.

When you look for the bad in mankind, expecting to find it, you surely will.

- Abraham Lincoln.

---

by: Fritz @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 10:56:52 AM CST

[ Parent ]

RALEIGH FIGHT H8 RALLY

Here in this video, 2 of the 3 organizers speak to the almost 1400 people gathered at the Halifax Mall in Raleigh. Even though driving rain tested our will, we continued to march throughout downtown, culminating in a 20 minute chant at the governor's manion.  Tom Greene and Will Elliott, speak, respectively.

---

by: whoastatusquo @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 12:10:05 PM CST

Reno NV's official count "over 300"

It was a very enthusiastic candlelight vigil and march to the "Reno Arch" between 5:30pm and 7:30pm. 300+ isn't bad, but our community is much larger than that.  We had lots of support from a very crowded downtown on a Saturday night, no organized opposition and very few negative comments from the community at large.
Honesty the organizers could have been a better job getting the word out.  The Join the Impact site time and place was WRONG until the day before.  I had posted the wrong information based on that on yourgayreno.com.  It wasn't until I did that, that the organizers got it right.
I will admit, the Reno GLBT community is rather unorganized politically, and that is why this wonderfully accepting and pro human freedom's state of mine managed to pass the anti marriage amendment in 2002.
We have a newish branch of the Human Right's Campaign that is aiming a being very political, and I hope and pray it can be a useful organizing tool from now on!
Our community has been supportive of the gay youth and has many AID's related fundraisers, I hope after last night, these too can join together for full human rights in my state.

"They say that time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself." - Andy Warhol



"Men never do evil so completely and cheerfully as when they do it from religious conviction" - Blaise Pascal

---

by: TruthandLove @ Sun Nov 16, 2008 at 14:41:50 PM CST

Jill Bennett

Does anyone have video of Jill Bennett speaking at the No on H8 rally in Chicago?

---

by: ChuChu @ Mon Nov 17, 2008 at 02:15:54 AM CST

Towerload has a nice photo gallery

   http://marriage.towleroad.com/...

What have you done today, to make ya feel PROUD?


~Heather Small

---

by: peteyPornpig @ Tue Nov 18, 2008 at 00:22:34 AM CST