Shower Curtain Chronicles

Al Gore Wants A Revolution, A Real One

2011-08-19T10:23:00.007-05:00

No one in the media seems to have noticed that the former Vice President of the United States and former President Elect (not sworn in), Al Gore is calling for revolution, as reported in Aljazeera English. He is quoted as saying he wants to see an "American Spring" ala Arab Spring, modeled after what happened in Tunisia and Egypt...a fucking revolution! At least, so far, as is so typical of Democrats, he hasn't bowed from the ankles or licked Rupert Murdoch's ass after saying something real. So, he apparently recognizes that our system has failed the people and holds no hope for producing the kind of government that will meet the needs of the vast majority of Americans. It has been a thirty year downhill slide starting with the neocon puppet, Reagan with successively crazier Republican and successively weaker Democratic presidents. We all know it. No matter who we put in power we get the same shit.

For two years, the Democrats had complete control of the federal government. What did we get?:

No desperately-needed liberalization of labor laws
No minimum wage increase
Extension of unaffordable tax cuts for the wealthy
Continuation of two costly, unnecessary wars
Continued illegal operation of a concentration camp at Guantanamo
Continuation of illegal domestic wire tapping
Failure to hold Bush war criminals to account
Extension of unconstitutional "Patriot Act"
No universal healthcare
Jailing of single payer healthcare advocates
No prosecutions of "financial crisis" criminals
No halt to the hemoraging of American jobs to other countries
Harry-it's-too-politically-difficult-our-hands-are-tied-Reid

The repeal of DADT was their highest profile accomplishment. This long overdue, "daring" move was supported by nearly the whole fucking population. Way to fight for it Dems!

The mass media is owned or controlled, in it's entirety, by right wing Republicans. All of it, including "Public Media" is a propaganda machine for right wing principles, so there are always just enough numb skulls to keep the vote close enough to be easily stolen by Republican-owned voting machines and election officials. We don't even bother to contest it anymore.

So, wages are falling; Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security are under attack and hanging by a thread because they make the people too secure to be completely enslaved; our personal communications, finances, medical records and even physical movements are laid bare to government surveillance; our born-in-the-USA citizenship can be erased by the stroke of a pen from any Attorney General (didn't know that, did you?) and no matter who we vote for, nothing changes.

Revolution? Viva Gore!

BLOW ME kisses

2011-08-16T15:50:00.005-05:00

As you may know, I am proud to be the Senate author of a bill to repeal DOMA, now that the Dems are finally out of power and it doesn't have a snowball's chance in hell of passing. And I want you to know, my GLBTLMNOP friends, that no matter how long it takes to repeal this awful law (which will be a long time because the Republicans hate you more than we Dems do and even if the Dems do regain power it will of course be too "politically difficult" to pass), we (meaning I), will continue to reap the political benefits of carrying this bill without actually having to risk a goddamn thing for you. Meanwhile, you can all BLOW ME kisses as I shuffle along in the gay pride parades remembering my most famous quote about marriage equality, "It's too much, too soon." By the way, Harvey Milk was a bowler.

Love,

This War Needs Two Fronts

2011-08-16T13:03:00.001-05:00

No question, the bigots in the legislature have temporarily succeeded in screwing us over, doing what they've been trying to do since 2004 with their first introduction of an anti-gay marriage amendment. In previous years, their bills have all contained wording that would exclude legal recognition of any same-sex relationship, however, this year's bill has omitted that exclusionary language with the Republican authors in the Senate and House expressly admitting that the amendment allows for same-sex civil unions. That's a big change from previous years and it's a change that occurred, in part, because Marriage Equality Minnesota has had a constant presence at the Capitol, and initiated the first marriage equality bill in the Minnesota's history to be introduced in both houses of the legislature. We repeated the introduction of that bill in 2009 and now our bill, the Marriage and Family Protection Act, has been re-introduced in 2011, for a third biennium in a row. The pushing forward of that bill, plus the filing of the lawsuit last year by Marry Me Minnesota against the State for same-sex marriage rights, created an expectation of impending equality that made it impossible for the bigots in the legislature to offer up the same exclusionary amendment they have repeatedly introduced and have any chance of passage. They were forced to put a hole in the amendment, accommodating civil unions, because we pushed forward with REAL action, not just talk, for marriage equality in the legislature and in the courts, action that has moved public opinion in our direction, as born out by recent polls.

Do we need to organize against the amendment? YES! But let's take some of the new-found energy this anti-gay marriage amendment has created and use it to push forward for equality. We must do both!

Marriage Equality Minnesota's marriage equality bill is in play, in both houses of the legislature, through the end of the 2012 session and Marry Me Minnesota has a marriage equality lawsuit making its way through the Minnesota courts. We still have hope! Nobody knows what the future will bring no matter how much they profess to be able to predict elections. Who correctly predicted the outcome of the 2010 election in Minnesota? Nobody! Many of our so-called experts were telling us pro-equality officials would have complete control of state government after the 2010 election. They were wrong. Marriage Equality Minnesota discounted those predictions and said we need to push marriage equality as far as we can get, RIGHT NOW, because we don't know what will happen in the next election. That position was right, and it still holds true. We have to push forward for marriage equality, RIGHT NOW, like there's no tomorrow because pushing forward is the only thing that brings progress!

The truth is, with enough action we CAN get a marriage equality bill through the legislature and signed by the governor; we CAN defeat the anti-gay marriage amendment; we CAN have success in the Minnesota courts, overturning the statutory ban on same-sex marriage. And, let's not forget that there are marriage equality cases making their way through the federal courts, as well, that could ultimately overturn all state-level same-sex marriage bans, including the anti-gay marriage amendment the bigots are currently trying to pass in Minnesota. We have hope!

So, while you're talking to friends and neighbors about opposing the anti-gay marriage amendment, please mention the marriage equality bill that is currently in the legislature that will bring full marriage equality to same-sex couples in Minnesota, the Marriage and Family Protection Act, SF 1427 and HF 1710, as well. Encourage them to frequently call their legislators demanding support for its passage. And, support the marriage equality lawsuit, currently on appeal.

We've just begun to fight! - Doug

I'M NOT A BIGOT!

2011-08-13T12:24:00.009-05:00

First, let me say to my homosexual friends that I AM NOT A BIGOT for authoring Minnesota's anti-gay marriage amendment! I just want your neighbors to be able to define marriage in a way that excludes people like you. WHAT!? We're just giving the mob the rope...they can do what they want with it! Geez.

Call me,

Warren

Today, We Are All Cheese Heads

2011-02-18T16:41:00.007-06:00

This situation in Wisconsin might have an up side for us all by presenting the workers of this country with a moment of clarity. They will observe the proceedings and have to decide which side they're on. Will they side with the people who they have everything in common with, their fellow workers, or will they side with the employing class that steals from them, the wealth they create with their labor? Either way, in this country where the corporate-owned mass media has trained us all to think of ourselves as "independent" contractors so we don't band together and demand a greater portion of the wealth we create, people will have to think about what it means to be a worker, who's on our side, and that's a good thing for the working class and democracy.

I can't help but wonder if this Wisconsin assault on workers would even be happening if the Democrats, when they had complete control of the federal government for the last two years, had used their power to pass the Employee Free Choice Act and, in general, strengthen labor laws that empower workers to organize and provide them with the protections they need to fend off hostile employers like the governor of Wisconsin. If they had, the Dems might still be in power and we might be glad they were.

And, where is the resolution from the Democratic-controlled U.S. Senate supporting the union workers under siege by this lunatic Wisconsin governor? Perhaps what we need is a Labor Party!

No Dogmas Allowed

2011-02-15T10:45:00.019-06:00

Our fellow citizens who find themselves in public office do not have a right to tell two of their fellow citizens that they cannot go to the court house and get a government issued marriage license because it violates their personal religious beliefs. Any politician who makes such an assertion should be removed from office. It is a violation of their oath of office to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution and, let's face it, it is a blatant display of contempt for the core concept of freedom that is basic to our way of life in America.

As an example of this contemptible mindset, let me introduce you to a Minnesota legislator who believes his religious beliefs should govern all of our lives in this state. He is DFL Rep. John Ward of the Brainerd area. When I asked him to sign onto the marriage equality bill, the Marriage and Family Protection Act in the last biennium, he cheerfully refused, citing his personal religious beliefs, and skipped along his merry way. And, I was apparently supposed to just excuse him, as a matter of course, as if his religious beliefs were a perfectly valid pass for this PUBLIC office holder from respecting and upholding the constitutional rights of the citizens of this state.

Well, religious beliefs are NOT a free pass for John Ward or anyone else in public office. It is their obligation to divorce themselves from the dogma dictated by their religion when fulfilling their responsibilities to the diverse population of this state that depends on its public officials to approach public policy without the injection of bigotry. Any public official that declares that their religious beliefs don't allow them to serve ALL the citizens of this state without bias, is unqualified for public office and should resign or be removed.

"My Little Brother Finally Came Out"

2011-02-14T20:45:00.005-06:00

A young lobbyist planted herself against the railing near where I was protesting at the top of the Senate stairs this morning and without looking at me, said, "I'm so glad to see you here again." And then she began to tear up, saying, "I just think you're amazing to keep doing this." After I playfully told her she was amazing, she went on to say that her little brother had "finally" come out of the closet; that she had known since he was nearly a toddler that he was gay and now his coming out as a young man was a relief for her. Unfortunately, their father is not accepting of his gay son. She sarcastically snarls the word "christian" in reference to him and says he is anything but...

So, big sister has taken her little brother into her own home where he will have the love and acceptance of family. I told her how lucky her little brother is to have such a wonderful sister to look out for him.

Marriage Equality Advocates Shun Former Governor

2011-02-10T09:54:00.007-06:00

While displaying marriage equality messages and chanting, "GAY, STRAIGHT, BLACK, WHITE, MARRIAGE IS A CIVIL RIGHT" in front of public office holders entering the MN House chamber to hear Governor Dayton's State of the State Address, Marriage Equality Minnesota demonstrators were approached by two former governors. Former DFL Governor Wendy Anderson detoured from his path to the House chamber door to shake our hands as we stood behind the cordon capitol security had set up. Next, was former Republican Governor Al Quie, the same person I photographed attending the Minnesota Family Council's anti-gay marriage mob meeting at the Kelly Inn just three weeks ago (see previous article). He tried to shake our hands but was refused by our entire contingent. When he enquired as to our refusal, I told him that he was working to keep our families from having the same rights his family has, "So, we don't want to shake your hand." I said further that, "You were at a meeting at the Kelly Inn a few weeks ago with the sole purpose of keeping our families from having the same rights yours has." He denied being at such a meeting, saying, "Well, I've been to the Kelly many times. I just came from there this morning." I told him he was photographed at the meeting. He also, spoke with our protester, John Rittman, at the event. He lowered his voice and furrowed his brow saying, "Now, if you're talking about gay marriage, I'm against that." I said, "I know. That's why we're not shaking your hand." There was plenty I could have said to him at that point, but he was blocking our sign and I just wanted him to go away and stop bothering us with his phony glad-handing.

He attacks our families behind our backs and then tries to create this theatre of tolerance at a high profile event. No thanks.

Anti-Gay Bigots Repent Your Sin!

2011-01-15T09:09:00.026-06:00

Gay activist and agent provocateur, John Rittman, sported this sign while protesting the Minnesota Family Council's anti-gay marriage organizing symposium at the Kelly Inn, near the Capitol on Friday. He was able to respectfully dissent inside the

hotel, standing next to the event's registration table until the beginning of their proceedings because he and his husband, Tom, had rented a room at the hotel the night before. So, they were guests of the hotel with access to all public areas, including the hallway that runs by the meeting room where the event was located. At one point, as John stood quietly, a woman from the group came up and told him he would have to leave. He ignored her. Later, there was a dust up with unenlightened hotel management, but the protest was over by then.

Outside the hotel, Impact TC's protest was in full swing, with picketers plying the snow-covered sidewalks, admonishing the anti-gay bigots as they slithered into their evil rendezvous.

Speaking of anti-gay bigots, did you know this guy (below left) was an anti-gay bigot? That's right, it's the 87 year old former Republican congressman and governor, Al Qui, making his way into the unholy conclave of shadowy figures conspiring to deprive gay and lesbian Minnesotans of their constitutional right to marry. Does he use his rare experience and knowledge to encourage greater unity and understanding among his fellow Minnesotans? No. Qui exploits his stature as a former holder of high public office to harm people who have done nothing to him - just another cruel bigot plotting to preserve an unjustifiable, exclusive privilege for himself and those like him, while the rest are kept out. NICE LEGACY, GOVERNOR.

Below, we see that freshman Republican legislator, Carolyn McElfatrick wastes no time in using her new influence as a state representative to persecute a recognized minority she apparently doesn't like. Oppressing members of a minority by pretending to defend something that doesn't need defending, is persecution just as vile as burning a cross in someone's yard. Perhaps she should be using her time on the state's payroll to focus on job creation, or improving education, or expanding healthcare, or rebuilding the crumbling infrastructure.

For those of you in the Deer River area (District 3B), formerly represented by Loren Solberg, you might want to let your new "representative" know what you think about her participating in this anti-gay hate fest at the Kelly Inn, on your dime. Her office phone number is 651-296-2365.

Gays Turned The Legislature In 2010

2010-11-11T07:23:00.013-06:00

The bracketed text is an article I wrote April 25, 2010 posted to the Marriage Equality Minnesota facebook page.

[ The legislators who continue to refuse to take meaningful action on marriage equality talk about "next year, next year," as if there were a DFL governor and DFL-controlled legislature already in existence, just sitting out there in 2011 waiting for us all to catch up to it. Well, nobody knows what will happen in the November election. We could certainly lose control of the legislature...it does happen, and 20 years without a DFL governor is a lot of history to overcome. We mustn't waste our current opportunities to make real progress on marriage equality by deferring to an imagined future DFL utopia. With current 2 to 1 DFL majorities in both houses, we need a floor vote on marriage equality THIS YEAR.

And, this imagined utopia we're supposed to defer to may not live up to its billing, anyway. Because Pawlenty has lowered the bar to such depths (on everything), a DFL governor could get away with doing practically nothing for gays and still seem like an improvement...and that is exactly what he or she would do. Look at what's happened, or rather NOT happened at the federal level with ENDA, DOMA, DADT...nothing. Marriage equality??? Don't count on that being a priority for the next governor no matter what party they're from. It is IMPERATIVE that we pull out all the stops for progress on marriage equality, right now in 2010, and get as far as we can while we still have a favorably configured legislature.

For the remainder of this session, until the final gavel falls, I will be pressing for a floor vote on marriage equality in both houses of the legislature because I believe, with leadership, the votes are there for passage.
One thing is certain, and that is that only you can make this happen. Please visit or call your legislators and let them know that you don't need rosy prognostications and promises of future action from them that only serve as an excuse for doing nothing in the present. Tell them
you expect real action from them, right now, in passing marriage equality legislation, this session! - Doug ]

I did everything I could think of up to the last day of the 2010 session to convince the DFL leadership to act on marriage equality before the opportunity passed, including presenting Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher and Senator Majority Leader, Larry Pogemiller with hundreds of petition signatures urging them to act before the session ended. They refused. Margaret, later lost her bid for governor, in the primary

When calling and writing and protesting don't bring the desired effect on those in power, an election becomes a blunt instrument. For gays, this past election became their weapon of choice against a DFL that failed to produce a SINGLE VOTE on marriage equality when it had control of the legislature for the last 4 years and 2 to 1 majorities in both houses of the legislature, for an entire biennium. When public office holders drag their feet, make lame excuses and outright obstruct efforts to recognize our long-awaited freedoms, as voters, we are left with few choices. One choice is to continue putting the same betrayers of our trust back in office and hope they will change, or we can throw them under the bus the way they have repeatedly thrown us under the bus and face the consequences. This year, gay voters in Minnesota chose the latter.

From the beginning, Marriage Equality Minnesota has told it's now 9000 plus facebook members the way it really is at the legislature. There's been no whitewashing to score meaningless pats on the head. We told of the slow-walking of our bill, the duplicity of House and
Senate leadership, behind the scenes obstructions, insistance on information-only hearings when the bill would have easily passed a vote. Nationally, a third of gays, demoralized over a lack of action on gay rights, voted Republican, up from 19% in 2008. Control of our legislature was lost by only 600 votes. The DFL "carefulled" themselves right out of power.

Senator Jim Carlson, who refused to sign on to the Marriage and Family Protection Act when it was introduced a second time in 2009, told me, "I have to be careful. I have an election coming up in two years." He lost his seat, anyway. I guess he was a little too careful. Not one senator who signed onto our bill, lost their seat.

On the House side, Rep. Dave Olin, DFL co-sponsor of the ANTI-GAY MARRIAGE AMENDMENT, lost his bid for reelection by nearly 20 percentage points. If distancing yourself from gays is the key to being reelected, how anti-gay do you have to get? Good riddance to this gay-hating asshat.

DFL Rep. Tim Faust refused to sign on to our bill, saying it would be his last act as a rep. because if he did sign on, he would never get reelected. He told me at Pine City Pride this year that he'd sign on if a DFL governor was elected. Well, maybe if Tim had signed on last year he would have gotten that opportunity, but he lost his election.

One major obstacle to getting a full committee hearing in the House
was that the comittee chair wanted to "protect" a first term DFL
member of the Civil Justice Committee, Rep. Gail Kulick Jackson, from
having to vote on marriage equality, because she would be a yes vote
and he feared that that would doom her reelection. Well, she lost
anyway, without ever getting to make that vote. If she had been given
the opportunity to vote for equality, she might still be in office.

Perhaps if the former Senate Judiciary Committee Chair, Sen. Moua had
had her way as expressed at a meeting in early 2009, wanting a very
brief committee hearing with a vote and then a floor vote, the DFL
might still hold the senate. And, if the behind the scenes message
from the House leadership to committee chairs in 2009 hadn't been "no
gay marriage bills this session," then, there may have been real
progress on marriage equality and the House might still be in DFL hands.

If courage and a genuine interest in fighting for marriage equality
had been displayed by DFL leadership in the last two years, gays
would have been compelled to flood to the polls in support of DFL
candidates and that 2011 DFL utopia might actually be our current
reality instead of the Republican hell we all now face.

The Senate and House DFL caucuses have had the good sense to replace
their leadership with new blood. Let's hope they have the courage to
champion the cause of equality, bring the gay votes back, and make the Republican reign a brief one.

Gee, We DO Have A Constitution...Who Knew?

2010-04-17T22:02:00.001-05:00

A federal judge in Wisconsin ruled the National Day of Prayer unconstitutional Thursday, saying the day amounts to a call for religious action.

U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb wrote that the government can no more enact laws supporting a day of prayer than it can encourage citizens to fast during Ramadan, attend a synagogue or practice magic.

"In fact, it is because the nature of prayer is so personal and can have such a powerful effect on a community that the government may not use its authority to try to influence an individual's decision whether and when to pray," Crabb wrote.

My DFL History

2010-02-20T09:13:00.006-06:00

I was born a DFLer and grew up in a union, DFL world where Hubert Humphrey was a god. In rural Duluth, Republicans were few and far between. As a kid, to meet one was like discovering a space alien. When I reached high school age and had to go to school downtown, I was able to skip the bus ride home and volunteer at Humphrey campaign headquarters after school, getting a ride home with my Dad when he was done with work. One of the enduring sadnesses of my young life was Humphrey's loss in '68. I still wonder what kind of forward-looking, culturally and scientifically advanced, working class utopia this country might be right now if he had won.

My older sister took me to my first caucus when I turned 18. At the next caucus I was proud to be elected precinct captain and held that position a number of times. In 1990, I founded and chaired the Northland DFL Lesbian/Gay Caucus and later became the Affirmative Action Director of my senate district. I went on to manage a city council campaign and a successful DFL legislative campaign that unseated a longtime Republican incumbent. I worked in the office of DFL Lieutenant Governor, Marlene Johnson as part of her transition team and was a contender for a staff position with the newly-elected Senator,Paul Wellstone. In 1992, I set up and ran an all-volunteer campaign office for Jerry Brown's Democratic presidential bid, taking advantage of free media and creative campaign events, winning in the City of Duluth. In 1994, I was a delegate to the DFL State Convention. Earlier that year I founded the International Workers' Day Committee to stage a worker rally in the Duluth Civic Center each May Day.

I have strong DFL ties and I believe in the economic and social justice principles of the party, more so, I dare say, than many DFL office holders. However, I am no longer a member of the DFL. After a long learning process, I came to believe that I could do more for DFL principles from outside the DFL or any other party. That's what I'm doing, now.

"That Hurts Me"

2010-02-04T13:11:00.002-06:00

Those are the words of Speaker of the House, Margaret Anderson Kelliher, today, when I asked her why she appointed a closet homophobe like Rep. Joe Mullery to chair a committee that all gay rights legislation would have to go through.

As a group of us protested at the entrance to the House chamber at the Capitol this morning, our banner read, "MARGARET! MOVE MARRIAGE EQUALITY HEARING, FEB 12." Soon, the Speaker of the House appeared in front of us, saying that she would talk to Rep. Joe Mullery about getting a hearing but that she doesn't have the power to "fire people," just persuade them. She tried to leave us with the impression that she had no power and that Mullery can do whatever he wants. I said, "Margaret, you appointed him." She said that, "Well, he was a very senior legislator." I said, "Why didn't you appoint him the Public Safety Committee?" She said that that was complicated.

The Civil Justice Committee and the Public Safety Committee were a combined committee, chaired by Mullery until December 2008. Then, the Speaker of the House who has the power to configure committees, split the committee in time for the new biennium. When I first saw this happening, I was very excited because I thought the Speaker of House was paving the way for marriage equality legislation. But, instead of appointing a liberal to head the Civil Justice Committee, the committee that all gay rights legislation would have to go through, she appointed a red neck. When I called her out on this, her only response was to get personal, holding her finger up to me and saying, "That hurts me." Without letting me respond, she fled up the stairs.

Like my Mom always said, "The truth hurts."

No Rest For The Wicked

2010-02-01T21:13:00.002-06:00

It is tempting to hunker down in our happy comfortable homes, surrounded by love and pretend that if we don't make a fuss, if we don't raise our voices, if we don't militantly demand justice, that we will be left alone to live our quiet safe little lives. But that is not the case. Playing possum is a fools game because they will come for you. Never mind marriage rights, employment rights, housing rights, etc., the other side is unsatisfied that we merely exist. And they are at work, twenty four hours a day to correct that situation. So we must fight, we must be visible, we must always demand full equality, we must be fierce and we must not relent because the other side is diligent and unceasing in their wretched campaign to destroy us.

Teabaggers For Marriage Equality!

2010-01-26T11:55:00.004-06:00

As a gay person, giving money to the DFL and expecting to get your civil rights in return is like dropping a quarter in a pay phone and expecting the phone to jump off the wall and dance around.

With 2 to 1 majorities in both houses of the legislature, in the off-election year of 2009, our old friends in the DFL dominated legislature, through buck-passing, foot-dragging and lame-excuse-making did abolutely NOTHING to move marriage equality legislation forward. It was the best opportunity we have had to make progress on marriage equality in Minnesota and it was simply wasted. Why? Well, they pat us on the head, they show up at our Pride events to tell us how great they are, they promise us the moon, but when they get the opportunity to do something, they turn their backs on us because they don't respect us. And, they don't respect us because they think they have nothing for fear from us...and that is OUR FAULT.

Remember last summer when all those clueless, rude, anti-healthcare reform "Teabaggers" flooded town hall meetings across the country, screaming bloody murder and scaring the hell out of the Democrats? Well, they won! We are not going to get meaningful healthcare reform and it is because the Democrats, on a basic level, are too afraid of the militant right wing to do the right thing. It's the same in our case. DFL legislators are afraid of the right wing crazies tying up their phones and staff people with angry rants, and showing up at the Capitol getting up in their faces. Indeed, when I started demonstrating for marriage equality on a daily basis at the Capitol several years ago, I had DFL legislators come up to me and whine, "You're just gonna bring the nuts back!" They fear the nuts so much that they prefer to have us just shut up about our civil rights so they can avoid the right wing activists. This is something we need to learn from. Walking across our backs is the path of least resistance for the DFL. Let's change that by standing up.

No Room For Equality At DFL Function

2010-01-24T15:31:00.006-06:00

Last night I decided to attend the liberal radio AM950 event, the"Blue State Bash" along with my husband and our friend Matt. We brought and quietly displayed a banner that simply urged MN Speaker of the House, Margaret Anderson-Kelliher to move on a marriage equality hearing for February 12. Before long, officials at the well-publicised event, co-sponsored by Kelliher and several other DFL gubernatorial candidates, threw us out of the building into the cold rain. We continued to hold our sign that got rave approval from passersby, until we got too cold to continue. The only public official that came to encourage us was Congressman, Keith Ellison. We asked him to bring our message to the Speaker of the House. He said that he would.

Loring Park Freeway Blogging Parallels DC March

2009-10-12T09:29:00.003-05:00

It was refreshing being out freeway blogging again. Duane and I were there with dozens of others perched on that bridge with the long name that connects Loring Park to the Sculpture Garden, flying our flags of dissent. There were massive honks and waves of support from under-passing motorists and one asshole, in the biggest, most Republican SUV I've ever seen, sticking his privileged middle finger up at his fellow citizens that only want the same civil rights he has.

HRC, Good Bye.

2009-05-29T12:09:00.005-05:00

Letter to the Human Rights Campaign:

As much as I despise the right wing and Ted Olson's part in it, I believe he is sincere in this effort and this team he is PART of should be supported by the GLBT community.

I am dismayed at HRC's public attempt to obstruct this effort that could result in the nationwide recognition of our right to marry. You should be supporting this.

Of course, there is the risk that the case could fail, but I will accept the assessment of Boies and Olson, experienced constitutional scholars, who see a good chance to win, rather than the predictably overly-cautious response of a gay rights establishment that wants an iron-clad guarantee of success before it will make a move. Life does not work that way. We have to try when the opportunity presents itself and we might fail, but we have to try.

We still don't have ENDA, or hate a crimes law, or an end to DADT, or repeal of DOMA. I now believe that that lack of success is attributable to HRC's overly-cautious attitude as demonstrated over this issue. I will take my chances with Boies/Olson and their brave clients. My husband and I will not continue contributing to your organization.

Doug Benson

Prop 8

2009-05-27T11:08:00.006-05:00

Apparently, a federal suit has been filed on behalf of California gay couples by none other than the former Bush vs Gore adversaries, Ted Olson and David Boies...together. Wierd. Ted Olson stands for everything I despise in this country and he should be watched very carefully. He claims the case would stand a very good chance of success with the Supremes. He claims to support marriage rights and said he was against Bush's anti-gay marriage amendment even though he was Bush's Solicitor General. Maybe he's sincere. We'll be watching.

The suit seeks a preliminary injuction against Prop 8 until the federal suit is resolved. Presumably, if it's granted, same-sex couples could resume getting married as if Prop 8 didn't exist.

A Message From The Speaker

2009-05-19T11:06:00.011-05:00

Dear Queers,

About Marriage Equality going nowhere this session...SORRY. We're not avoiding dealing with it, it's just that BUDGETS COME FIRST! You can't have civil rights AND A BUDGET! Never mind about Vermont, Maine and New Hampshire passing marriage equality - they don't have budgets to deal with. And then there's healthcare. WILL SOMEBODY PLEASE THINK OF THE CHILDREN!?

Maybe we'll do something next year. Oh wait, that's an election year...SORRY. Two years from now...nope. We'll be just two years from the next election and there might be another Gail Kulick Jackson who's seat we need to protect. SORRY QUEERS! Better luck next decade...or whenever.

And, just let me say for the record, I DID NOT tell the chairman of the Civil Justice Committee, "NO MARRIAGE EQUALITY BILL HEARINGS THIS SESSION." I didn't. The Speaker of the House, who appoints and removes committee chairs, does not have that kind of influence anyway.

Remember, I'm from the gayest district in the state. EVERYBODY knows I LOVE THE GAYS and they love me. Don't be left out. Go to my campaign website and contribute. Did I mention I'm running for governor? Oh yeah, and just imagine how great things will be for the gays if I get into a position of power.

See you all at Pride!

Simply,
Margaret

Final Day of Session

2009-05-18T12:11:00.002-05:00

Wrapped up final day of protest this morning. Xandra Coe and myself were in attendance. Queers 2, Bigots 0. We win again! Ha ha.

Capitol Protest Sunday

2009-05-17T00:40:00.002-05:00

Stand for Marriage Equality at the Capitol from 1:00 to 2:00 today, Sunday, 5/17. Meet on the second floor, north side, at the House of Representatives. Signs available.

Saturday Protest

2009-05-16T19:08:00.008-05:00

My husband, Duane, at the Capitol today, held our shower curtain that graphically points out the fact that lawmakers are allowing the years to pass while we are held in second class citizenship.

Today's score is: Queers 4 - Bigots 0. The anti-gay crowd never even showed up. I guess they felt overwhelmed yesterday being outnumber 3 to 1 and just couldn't take another day of that.

Yesterday, one of them stuck a piece of filthy, anti-gay hate literature in my bag while my back was turned - while I was fighting for equality. I found it when I got home.

Judy and Xandra joined us at the Senate today with a great sign Xandra made that read, "Is it time for Gay Marriage in Minnesota? YES!" They've been together for 18 years too.

CAPITOL PROTEST TODAY, SATURDAY

2009-05-16T08:38:00.002-05:00

Protest from 11:30 to 2:00. Meet at the House.

The "Stand Off" Continues

2009-05-13T11:21:00.004-05:00

Times have changed. The Minnesota Family Council claims 250,000 members across the state. They sent an email to their membership pleading for volunteers to come to the Capitol and protest against Marriage Equality. Three people came yesterday, four today. It is reasonable to presume that these few people who bothered to show up would be the hardcore zealots on their side. Well, they support civil unions. I spoke with them this morning. Four years ago, there were hoards of them at the Capitol praying for us to die and now, the few that show at all, support civil unions!

WOULD SOMEBODY PLEASE TELL THE DFL LEADERSHIP TO GET OFF THEIR CHICKENSHIT ASSES AND MOVE ON MARRIAGE EQUALITY!?!!!

Stand For Marriage Equality At The Capitol

2009-05-11T14:45:00.004-05:00

The first day of Marriage Equality Minnesota's week-long protest, "STAND FOR MARRIAGE EQUALITY" was a success. We out-numbered the bigots in the 10 AM to Noon vigil that covered both the House and Senate entrances. The protest continues all week, from 10 to Noon. Greens, Democrats and Log Cabin Republicans were all present and pushing marriage equality. This is a multi-partisan issue that we need to keep in front of legislators in this final week of the session.

Friday's Protest

2009-05-08T16:12:00.002-05:00

No gay-hating bigots with signs today and actually, they didn't even show up at the Senate yesterday - just the House.

While in front of the House this morning, holding the "LET ME MARRY MY PARTNER OF 18 YEARS" shower curtain, Rep. Tom Rukavina from the Range came over chuckling and said something about celebrating my 25th anniversary "here." I exclaimed, jokingly, "Christ, I hope not!" "This better be over with by then!" He said he was sure it would be as he grabbed my shoulder, laughing.

I chatted with Rep. Phyllis Kahn, the House author of our gay marriage bill, who said the bill would get a hearing by the Civil Justice Committee this summer, probably in July.

While protesting at the Senate, I asked Sen. Dibble and Sen. Torres Ray, both co-authors of the Marriage and Family Protection Act, to encourage Sen. Moua, also a co-author, to hold a hearing, soon. Perhaps if she holds a hearing, first, that includes a vote, maybe the House committee will follow suit and hold a vote, as well. The current intention of the House committee is to hold just an "informational" hearing.

We need a demonstration of real intent by the DFL to move this issue forward and a concrete sign of progress like passage by a committee under their control, this year.

Prayer Day Brings Bigots Back To Capitol

2009-05-07T10:17:00.006-05:00

When I woke up this morning, MPR was talking about National Prayer Day, so I knew there would be the usual unconstitutional ritual on the Capitol lawn. I brought an appropriate banner for the day. It quotes the first amendment of the Constitution of the United States which reads, "CONGRESS SHALL MAKE NO LAW RESPECTING AN ESTABLISHMENT OF RELIGION." It doesn't say "A" religion, just "religion," meaning religion in general. So, I was holding that banner up at the entrance to the House and a Rep. came up to me and said, "I like your sign better than theirs." I thanked her and looked around seeing only disability funding advocates. So, I thought wow, what has she got against the disabled? Then later I noticed anti-gay marriage protesters standing right next to me. It's tough to get old.

Well, I switched signs then to, "LEGAL MARRIAGE FOR GAY COUPLES NOW" to make the distiction clear between messages. The bigots came late so nearly everyone was inside when they got there and the doors closed.

The pages I had addressed earlier in the week were gathered around the bigots to hear their rant, in the interest of education. Some of the pages came over after a while to tell me what the others were saying. One of the pages must have been getting into it with the bigots because Steve, the page director, had to drag him away by the arm. Later, the young man came back to tell me the bigots said that if we get gay marriage, their anti gay speech will be criminalized. Wouldn't that be nice. I told him, "The First Amendment protects their hate speech and they will be able to show up at the Capitol like they're doing today until hell freezes over. However, it may become socially unacceptible to speak disrepectfully about gays just the way it has become unacceptible to speak disrepectfully about black people and women. That's what they're afraid of." If that's their defense, that, boohoo, they will no longer feel comfortable pubicly advocating for our elimination, we've won.

They were still there when I left for coffee, which is where I am now. I'm headed back to do the Senate at 11:30. Not looking forward to this. I'm sure the nuts will be there in force praying for me to die.

Wednesday's Protest

2009-05-06T20:41:00.003-05:00

I used the "LET ME MARRY MY PARTNER OF 18 YEARS" shower curtain today, as yesterday. It really seems to touch people.

No DFL Caucus today on the House side so everyone just wandered in. I like that better. It gives me a chance to chat with people. When they come from caucus, they go by in a big herd and I miss contact with a lot of them.

Kelly Lewis from OutFront was there today. I've never seen her lobbying before. She was there for the House vote on the anti-bullying bill and didn't seem optimistic.

During the break, I had coffee at Amore Coffee in St. Paul. Never been there before. It's very good and very gay.

The Senate only started twenty minutes late. That was okay because I got to see just about everybody. Monica Meyer stopped by to inform me of the exciting Maine news. She had the message on her Blackberry and was very elated. Me too. It was fun telling some of the Senators the news. It really is great to be protesting for marriage equality at the Capitol and getting news about another state doing what should have been done here years ago.

Maine Goes Gay Marriage

2009-05-06T20:30:00.003-05:00

Their governor signed the bill today. Yay! That makes five. Is NH next?

The House meets at 9:30 tomorrow and the Senate at Noon. I'll be there at the usual times.

Today's Protest

2009-05-05T22:41:00.002-05:00

Had an encounter with Senator Bonoff on the Senate stairs. We were alone and I said hi as she was about to descend. She reciprocated and added, " It doesn't look like there'll be a vote this session. I agreed and said "I still have this clone (duplicate marriage equality bill) bill with me if you'd like to sign on.". She declined to sign on but said she'd vote for it. Not THIS session, I guess.

House Meets 9:30 All Week

2009-05-05T22:37:00.001-05:00

I'll try to be there at 9:00 each day. The Senate meets at Noon. Time for coffee and there at 11:30!

Monday Live Capitol Blog

2009-05-04T11:24:00.002-05:00

Finished the Senate protest. Bob, the security guy told me there was a busload of couples that went to Dubuque over the weekend to get married. Scott Dibble told of ten couples getting hitched today.

Well, off to the House.

Monday, 5/4, Senate Meets 11:00; House Noon

2009-05-03T20:06:00.002-05:00

I'll be there to protest at 10:30 Senate and 11:30 House. If you don't show up, they get to ignore gay marriage...

Monday 4/27's Protest

2009-04-28T11:04:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, I was joined at the Capitol by a living monument to gay rights activism in Minnesota, Robert Halfhill. He was an organizer of the first gay rights organizations in Minnesota back in the 1960s and has been a vigorous and tireless activist ever since. His sign drew many nods of agreement.

We protested at the Senate first, until the doors closed. While there, I had a brief conversation with Sen. Moua and expressed our desire to see a hearing on the Marriage and Family Protection Act before the session ends. Something might happen.

On the House side, we were joined by about thirty other protesters. Most of them were the disability funding advocates but some were Welfare Rights Committee folks. They're all getting screwed in this budget.

Monday 4/27 Senate Meets 11:00; House Noon

2009-04-25T23:11:00.002-05:00

I'll be at the Senate at 10:30; House 11:30.

Live At The Capitol

2009-04-24T10:39:00.002-05:00

The House delayed their start by an hour. Oh, my aching back. I guess they were here until 1:30 last night, hence the delay. I chatted with Rep. Phyllis Kahn for a while. She holds out hope for a hearing in the House this session. Hope she's right.

Waiting now to start on the Senate side. Just chatted with Matt, one of four lobbyists working for the City of Minneapolis. He's not the one who is pushing marriage equality as part of the city's agenda, but he tells me there is one. He was telling me that Sen. Scott Dibble's office is getting a lot of viscious hate mail from opponents of the bullying bill. No doubt they're concerned about their "right" to harrass and intimidate. Nice folks.

Lobby Day Morning Protest

2009-04-23T11:22:00.002-05:00

I started at the House and moved over to the Senate when the doors closed. I addressed a group of volunteer pages this morning. Steve, the director of the page program usually brings the new groups over to me. They gather around as I stand there with the shower curtain and I introduce myself as the Protester Exhibit. It's always good for a chuckle. I give them a quick explanation of why I'm there; "I'm here because I think same-sex couples should have the same ability to legally marry as, etc... " They're always interested and very polite. Some express support. At the end, I always thank them for volunteering as pages and tell them why I think it's important, then Steve leads them away.

Well, I'm at Black Dog having coffee right now, but I'm headed back to the Capitol for the Lobby Day Rally.

Senate/House Both Meet At 9:30

2009-04-22T23:06:00.001-05:00

There at 9:00. Probably at the House.

Live Capitol Blog

2009-04-22T11:12:00.003-05:00

I just finished protesting at the House entrance. Disability funding advocates were back protesting. Good! I wish there was a thousand of them. When our humanity is the focus of lawmakers, we all benefit.

The security guys were razzing me for being late this morning. Apparantly, my "pay" will be docked after I'm tazered. : ) I told them I'd be missing a few days while I'm out of town on business, soon. I do this because last year they had the State Patrol check up on me, out of concern, when I didn't show up for a few days. Good guys.

See everyone at Lobby Day tomorrow.

Monday Afternoon House Protest

2009-04-20T16:20:00.010-05:00

I got there a little late and my usual spot was taken by disability funding advocates which turned out to be good because my being in a new location resulted in more people noticing the new banner (left). Rep. Karen Clark, the longest serving openly lesbian lawmaker in the country, was tickled by the message and thanked me for bringing it. A lobbyist and former legislator sidled up and told me he thought the message should embarrass Minnesota legislators, but he doubted they would get it. Karen got it. I got a similar reaction to the message from former senator, Roger Moe last week. He was really amused by it. He also said he thought that in ten years there would be marriage equality across the country. I told him, "I hope you're right."

There were a couple of camera crews on hand at the House today, KSTP and WCCO, plus radio reporters from other stations. They were seeking the House Tax Committee chair. I suspect they were preparing to pounce on the DFL for proposing to add a new 4th tax bracket that would include married couples making upwards of $300,000 per year. Heaven forbid rich people should be fairly taxed.

It was a good day at the Capitol with many positive experiences...glad I went.

Monday Morning At the Senate

2009-04-20T12:12:00.003-05:00

Lots of visitors in the building today so I used the "LEGAL MARRIAGE FOR GAY COUPLES NOW" shower curtain. It's explicit enough for the non-legislator to understand the purpose of my being there.

Had a nice conversation with a man who testified at the anti-bullying bill hearing. He was anti-choice and didn't believe in marriage equality, but civil unions. He didn't really seem to have thought it out. It can be so disheartening to talk to gay people who are so conditioned by society to think of themselves as lesser beings that they oppose their own equality.

Monday 4/20, Senate Meets 11:00; House 1:00

2009-04-18T18:18:00.002-05:00

Protesting at 10:30 Senate; 12:30 House. Come on down!

Capitol Protest 4/14/09 a Success

2009-04-15T13:49:00.006-05:00

Thank you to all who participated in the protest. We had enough people to dominate the hall outside the House chamber and legislators noticed. Some commented on the growing number of marriage equality protests and protesters.

Participants included a group that came all the way up from Mankato and a representative of the Log Cabin Republicans.

This event was a success and a nice lead-in to Outfront's Lobby Day next week on the 23rd. Let's keep the momentum growing!

DFL LEADERSHIP CLEARS WAY FOR FLOOR VOTES IN BOTH CHAMBERS!!!

2009-04-01T11:05:00.003-05:00

In a joint press conference held by Speaker of House, Margaret Anderson Kelliher and Senate Majority Leader, Larry Pogemiller today, it was announced that they would seek a suspension of committee deadline rules so the Marriage and Family Protection Act could proceed to committee hearings and floor votes in both houses of the legislature.

The DFL leaders said that a generation of gay marriage bashing by the right wing is enough and the time for action on marriage equality is now. "The DFL will not stand by and allow this state to continue discriminating against thousands of gay families who's only demand is equality," said Speaker Kelliher. Senator Pogemiller said, "We have the power to bring the legislative branch into alignment with the founding principles of this country and the consciences of all good and fair minded people. Because the DFL has the numbers needed, we have the responsibility to pass this bill. To vote to end discrimination is our duty regardless of a likely veto by the governor. History will shine brightly on our actions."

When asked if the DFL feared retribution at the polls in 2010, Speaker Kelliher said, "We are not here to be re-elected. We are here to do the right thing."

APRIL FOOLS!!!

Senate Meets Noon, Wed., 4/1; House 12:30

2009-03-30T22:13:00.002-05:00

I'll be there to demonstrate for marriage equality at 11:30. Please come.

Monday, 3/30 Senate Meets 11:00; House 1:00

2009-03-28T21:56:00.002-05:00

I'll be there a half hour before both. I've emailed the protest group so there may be some company.

Protest A Success

2009-03-28T21:11:00.003-05:00

Wednesday's protest drew around 40 people to the hallway at the entrance to the House. People held signs calling for progress on the bill, chanted slogans and one person staged a die-in. Participants provided their names and emails for furture contact. Hopefully, some will become regulars. After an hour, the group dispersed.

Tuesday Surprise

2009-03-24T10:45:00.005-05:00

Both chambers are meeting today - the Senate at Noon, House at 12:30. The same schedule tomorrow, Wednesday, and oh yeah, there's a big protest at Noon at the entrance to the House demanding a hearing for the bill. This is crunch week, and if we don't get a hearing by Friday, the bill is done for this session. Isn't that just great? It's a non-election year, the DFL has 2 to 1 margins in both houses of the legislature but it's still not safe enough for the leadership to even give us a lousy hearing.

This all hinges on the actions of the Speaker of the House, Margaret Kelliher. She has the power to direct the Civil Justice Committee chair to hear the bill. Will she do it??? Please call her and encourage her to do so, today; 763-296-0171.

Monday, Senate Meets 11:00; House 1:00

2009-03-22T21:49:00.001-05:00

I'll be at the Senate at 10:30 to demonstrate for marriage equality, House at 12:30. Come on down!

Senator Mee Moua Is Pissed

2009-03-16T21:10:00.008-05:00

She wants very much for the Marriage and Family Protection Act, a bill she co-authors, to be voted on in both houses of the legislature. Unfortunately, the DFL House leadership is failing to arrange for a committee hearing with a vote on the bill. So, Senator Moua, the Senate Judiciary Committee chair, refuses to hold a hearing on the bill unless the House has a hearing and a vote, too. She understands how important it is to have the bill pass both houses of the legislature whether it is vetoed by the governor or not.

The Speaker of the House, who represents the gayest district in the state, is not behind a gay marriage bill that would pass if she demanded a proper hearing and a vote. She has the power to make that happen. We are not fighting the Republicans here. They can't stop this bill. The Republicans don't have enough power in this legislature to blow out a candle. We are fighting with the DFL leadership to get them to allow a vote on a bill designed to end marriage discrimination against thousands of gay and lesbian families across this state.

Monday 3/16, Senate Meets 11:00; House 1:00

2009-03-13T11:41:00.003-05:00

I'll be demonstrating for marriage equality at the entrance to the Senate at 10:30 and at the House entrance at 12:30. We are beginning to attract opposition protesters. Please come and support marriage equality.

Thurs. 3/12, House Meets 10:30; Senate 11:00

2009-03-10T11:49:00.001-05:00

I'll be there from 10:00 to 11:00. Please join me in promoting marriage equality.

Couples Intent On Suing State, Demand Marriage Licenses

2009-03-08T13:01:00.012-05:00

On Friday, member-couples of Marry Me Minnesota gathered near the first floor fountain at the Hennepin County Courthouse. Group pictures were taken to commemorate the day that this group, intent on suing the State of Minnesota for the right to marry, took the first step in the run-up to filing their case.

The three couples, one female, two male, proceeded to the service center two floors below to seek marriage licenses. With giddy anticipation, the couples qued up as each took their turn bestowing bewilderment upon the clerk behind the counter. "Where's your bride?" "I don't get it." "You can't do that in Minnesota." We finally called for the supervisor, who did get it and was prepared with copies of the state's discriminatory marriage statutes, which he handed out to all three couples.

I called our law firm from the sevice center to make sure we were getting what we needed to make our case and we had met the requirements. We were all told our applications would be rejected. The application does not accomodate same-sex couples. We were given business cards of the people we dealt with. One of the people actually told us he hopes we win.

Yesterday's Capitol Protest

2009-03-06T11:12:00.007-06:00

There were a lot of people at the Capitol yesterday. A large group from Gustavus Adolphus and red-shirted firefighters were crowded into the hall outside the House chamber. I'm not sure if these young women were Gusties or not, but they were very supportive of marriage equality and wanted their picture taken. They all accepted "Marriage Equality Minnesota" stickers and wore them when they went to sit in the gallery.

This picture was taken by a little girl who was there with her father. When she tried to frame the picture, her father, who was talking with someone else, was in her shot, so she literally kicked him in the ass until he moved. It was kind of shocking but mostly hysterical.

On the Senate side, I was opposed by Girard, the anti-gay "ex"gay, I've known and argued with for years. I don't argue with him anymore now, it's pointless and unpleasant. I try to keep the subject off marriage. We went over to the Senate side together and chatted about his recent fame as the Minnesota boy portrayed by an actor in the film, "Milk." He's been getting many radio and television speaking spots. Anyway, when we got there he parked his wheel chair across the hall from me and began telling people as they came up the stairs, "marriage between one man and one woman only." Most people either ignore him or sneer at him and turn to me and express their support for marriage equality. He is quite amazed and perturbed at the level of support for my message. : )

Mayor Rybak, came up the Senate stairs with an entourage and walked directly over to me, shook my hand and expressed emphatic support for the cause. Girard looked rather exasperated and said, "that's my mayor!" Yeah.

Senator Scott Dibble came out of the Senate chamber, gave me a hug and told me he had a marriage bill being introduced that day. I told him I thought the news was excellent and asked if this was the same bill Rep. Karen Clark is introducing in the House. He said it is. I believe this makes 4 marriage equality bills in play so far this session. Good! Something's gotta work!

House Meets Thursday, 3/5, 10:30; Senate 11:00

2009-03-03T21:35:00.002-06:00

Protest begins at 10:00 inside the Capitol at the House entrance. Senate protest begins at 10:30.

Monday 3/2, Senate Meets 11:00; House 1:00

2009-03-01T21:08:00.001-06:00

I'll be demonstrating for marriage equality at the Senate at 10:30, House at 12:30. Please join me.

Thursday, 2/26 Protest

2009-02-28T08:33:00.003-06:00

David Strand joined me at the entrance to the House, holding a sign that reads "EQUAL MARRIAGE RIGHTS NOW." He spoke with a group of young people that had gathered around him.

It was FFA lobby day so the Capitol was full of blue jacketed young folks checking things out and chatting with lawmakers.

There was also a contingent of Canadians from Vancouver present. They were there promoting the 2010 Winter Olympics that will be held in Vancouver. As I was standing there holding the "LET ME MARRY MY PARTNER OF 18 YEARS" shower curtain, three of them came up to me separately to offer support and to invite us to move to Canada where they don't have to do what I'm doing because nobody even blinks an eye about gay marriage. It's been the law there for 6 years. One gave me an Olympics pin.

I spoke with Senator Tom Saxhaug who has decided not to sign on to the bill "this year." We'll be talking again.

Thurs. 2/26, House Meets 10:30; Senate 11:00

2009-02-24T19:59:00.001-06:00

I'll be at the House at 10:00, Senate at 10:30. Please join me.

Pogemiller and Kelliher Are Blocking Gay Marriage

2009-02-19T09:54:00.007-06:00

Both protests went great, today. House Republicans came in through the front entrance today so I got to greet some of them for the first time. I even exchanged pleasantries with Mary Liz! It's nice to have the push for sponsors over with in the House. The pressure is off.

On the Senate side, I'm tryng to connect with Tom Saxhaug and succeeded in talking to Tom Bakk. He said he usually signs on to all "those" bills and "will probably sign it." He asked for a copy, which I supplied. We just need two more senators in order to fill the duplicate. We can still drop it in even if it isn't filled though.

I also learned today that Speaker Keliher and Senate Majority Leader, Larry Pogemiller are trying to prevent the Marriage and Family Protection Act from progressing in the legislature. They are actually trying to prevent the bill from even getting a hearing! Here are their phone numbers: Kelliher 651-296-0171 / Pogemiller 651-296-7809.

Thursday, Feb. 19, House Meets 10:30; Senate 11:00

2009-02-17T11:44:00.002-06:00

Join me at the Capitol in a demonstration for marriage equality - 10:00 at the entrance to the House, 10:30 at the entrance to the Senate. I guess Tom was wrong. They really are meeting.

Presidents Day Protest PM

2009-02-16T15:59:00.008-06:00

David Strand joined me for the afternoon protest at the entrance to the House. There was quite a good crowd on hand watching a history program going on in the rotunda. They had someone in Abe Lincoln drag speaking to the crowd and he was heckled by an organized group of Dakota people protesting Lincoln's involvement in the execution of 38 Dakota people in Mankato. One of the protesters was arrested right in front of us.

The Marriage and Family Protection Act was introduced today and has been issued a number - H.F. 893. The bill was referred to the Civil Justice Committee. Now, we have to get to work on that committee to get a hearing and to get the bill passed out of committee. The committee chair is Rep. Joe Mullery(DFL), District 58A. His number is 651-296-4262. Please call him and urge him to hear our bill.

Presidents Day Protest Going Well

2009-02-16T11:47:00.005-06:00

This photo was taken at this morning's protest at the entrance to the Senate. The young woman who's girl friend took the picture was touring the Capitol and wanted a souvinir. I wish I had thought to offer to take a picture, with their camera, of the two of them behind the banner. Oh well.

Lobbyist, Tom Lehman told me this morning that today is the only day the legislature will be meeting this week. The legislators will be attending meetings around the state on Thursday, taking the pulse of the citizenry on budget issues.

I met Coleen Rowley while protesting this morning. She was walking around the Capitol with David Strand who is trying to find a legislator to carry a bill repealing the state's version of the unnecessary, unconstitutional and oppressive, so called "Patriot Act." She was very nice. I told her I never thought an FBI agent would be my hero, but she certainly is after blowing the whistle on pre-911 misdealings by the agency.

-More after the House protest.

Great Marriage Equality Rally

2009-02-13T11:31:00.008-06:00

The marriage equality rally was a success. There was a good sized crowd of around 200, great media coverage and even some counter-demonstrators. Some of the speakers included: Reps. Phyllis Kahn, Karen Clark, and Frank Hornstein; Senators John Marty, Scott Dibble, Linda Higgins and Patricia Torres Ray.

Many supporting organizations were represented, including: Marriage Equality Minnesota, Marry Me Minnesota, Join The Impact - Twin Cities, Green Party of Minnesota, MN NOW, Outfront Minnesota, Rainbow Families, Lavender Greens, Stonewall DFL, and Log Cabin Republicans.

Who's that behind the podium?

Big Rally for Marriage Equality Thur. 2/12 at Capitol

2009-02-11T11:59:00.003-06:00

Tomorrow at 2:30 there will be a rally in support of the Marriage and Family Protection Act in the Capitol Rotunda. I will be speaking along with many other supporters of the bill. Please come.

3 More Lawmakers Back Gay Marriage

2009-02-07T15:14:00.003-06:00

This week, Rep. Tom Huntley of Duluth, Sen. Linda Berglin and Rep. Michael Paymar stepped forward to put their names on the Marriage and Family Protection Act. Thank you, lawmakers! That brings us to 8 senators and 23 representatives! I met with the House author, Rep. Phyllis Kahn yesterday and she said that at 23, this bill has more support than any of her other bills.

On Thursday, I protested at the House and was joined by a young woman who was working at the Capitol as an employee of the Minnesota Council of Churches. She said she needed to go on vacation in order to protest with me, which she did, and then informed her boss from behind the banner as he passed by. He seemed amused. She stayed for a half hour, then took off her Marriage Equality Minnesota sticker and went back to work. I went over to protest the Senate side.

Next protest is Monday, Feb. 9 at 9:30 AM on the Senate side for half hour; the House at 12:30, done at 1:00.

Thursday 2/5, House Meets 10:30; Senate, 11:00

2009-02-03T20:27:00.003-06:00

I'll be at the House entrance at 10:00, Senate at 10:30 for a shower curtainy good time. Please come.

Monday, Feb. 2 Senate Meets 11:00; House 1:00

2009-02-01T22:41:00.001-06:00

I will be at the Senate entrance at 10:30 and the House at 12:30. Please join me.

Come To The Capitol, Thursday, January 22

2009-01-20T17:46:00.001-06:00

I'll be demonstrating for marriage equality at the entrance to the House chamber on Thursday, January 22 at 10 AM. Then, I will move over to the entrance to the Senate chamber at 10:30. Please join me. FREE STICKERS!

SF120 Introduced In Senate

2009-01-16T21:24:00.002-06:00

The Marriage and Family Protection Act has been assigned a number and is on it's way to becoming the law of the land, making legal marriage an option for all same-gender couples just as it is for different-gender couples in the State of Minnesota. Next, is a hearing in the Judiciary Committee.

Senate Bill Dropped In

2009-01-13T22:01:00.002-06:00

After speaking with Senator Marty and his legislative assistant, Laura, I dropped in the Marriage and Family Protection Act today which will be introduced on Thursday when the Senate meets. Although we were considering having the bill introduced on February 12, National Freedom To Marry Day, there are advantages to getting the bill in early. It's an indication of good organization and that added credibility will help gain support.

No drop-in date for the House yet.

Monday Monday

2009-01-12T13:38:00.004-06:00

David Strand and I were in front of the Senate protesting and a group from Colombia came up to have their picture taken behind the banners. Que bueno!

Representatve Jeff Hayden signed on today, bringing the House total to 19. Thank you, Rep. Hayden! Senator Patricia Torres Ray signed on too, filling the senate bill. Thank you, Sen. Torres Ray!

Senate Meets Today, Monday, Jan. 12 At 11:00, House 1:00

2009-01-12T09:14:00.006-06:00

David Stand will be joining me at the Capitol today to protest and hustle for co-sponsors. We'll be in front of the Senate at 10:30, House at 12:30. I will have the shower curtain that reads, "LET ME MARRY MY PARTNER OF 18 YEARS." The numbers 16 and 17 from previous years of protest are crossed out on the banner.

Thursday January 8 at the Capitol

2009-01-12T08:55:00.003-06:00

I started the day out with a pass through the State Office Building looking for potential co-sponsors. Representative Bill Hilty from Finlayson was in his office and signed on after a brief pitch, bringing the House total to 18.

The Senate had a floor session at 11. I was joined by David DeGrio for shower curtain duty in front of the Senate. Thank you David! He got right into it and pitched a senator for co-authorship of the bill.

David also spoke with Rep. Joe Mullery, the chair of the committee the bill will be going to, and obtained important information about Mullery's support level. He'll vote for it but we need more than that from him as committee chair.

If you live in Joe Mullery's district, please call his office, 651-296-4262, and thank him for his support but also ask him to fight for passage of the Marriage and Family Protection Act in his committee, the Civil Justice Committee.

Opening Day At The Capitol

2009-01-06T21:18:00.003-06:00

David Strand and I arrived at the Capitol about an hour before the legislature convened. When we entered the hall in front of the House chamber, the first person we saw was Speaker Keliher whom I smiled and nodded to. She was speaking to a woman who glared at me as I put my bag down, pulled out a shower curtain and unfurled about five feet away from them. It felt good to be back.

There was a camera crew from Albert Lee set up in the middle of the hallway. David was chatting with them and then came over and asked if I would do and interview with them, whispering "don't forget to plug the website." They asked the basic questions of what I was doing there and how long I'd been doing it. And, I did plug the website.

We picked up three more co-sponsors during the time in front of the House, sporting the bill jackets in my back pocket, ready to fold the shower curtain and whip them out when a prospect came by. Reps. Carolyn Laine, Tina Liebling and Linda Slocum became co-sponsors of the Marriage and Family Protection Act today. Thank you!

Yesterday, while attending the single payer healthcare rally in the rotunda, David picked up a co-sponsor that was a surprise to me because I didn't really know him at all. Rep. David Bly of Northfield signed on. Thank you!

About ten minutes before the hour, I left David at the House and went over to the Senate to display until the doors closed. The shower curtain said, "I WANT MY CIVIL MARRIAGE RIGHTS."

There was no anti-gay protest whatsoever though I thought there might be one. I did see Ruth Ann once but she was just passing through.

We now have 17 lawmakers signed on in the House. That's 3 more than last year and it's only opening day.

Legislature Convenes Tuesday, January 6 at Noon

2009-01-03T22:48:00.002-06:00

David Strand will be joining me inside the Capitol in front of the House chamber at 11:00. The usual shower curtainage will be on display. As always, anyone is welcome to join the peaceful protest. I have extra signs.

Marriage Equality Bill Gathers Momentum

2008-12-18T22:21:00.005-06:00

The Marriage and Family Protection Act, the first marriage equality bill ever introduced in the Minnesota legislature is making a return run in 2009. Once again, we are fortunate to have Senator John Marty and Representative Phyllis Kahn carrying the bill. The bill has to be reintroduced this session because it is the first year of the biennium. I have been at the Capitol seeking co-sponsors since the bill came back from the Revisor earlier this month. It has been difficult finding people at the Capitol because it's an off time but so far we have 3 senators signed on, out of a possible 5, and 10 representatives. Among those signed on are, Senator Scott Dibble and Representative Karen Clark. There are more people who have pledged to sign on that I just haven't run into yet. I will keep at it.

Marriage Equality Rally and March Saturday 11/15

2008-11-14T23:47:00.002-06:00

Please come to the Hennepin County Government Plaza tomorrow at 12:30 to protest the outrage of Proposition 8, cheer for the efforts of Marriage Equality Minnesota, an organization trying to get the legislature to make marriage equality the law, and march to Loring Park for more fun. This could be the start of something big!

Interest In Lawsuit Continues To Grow

2008-09-19T23:44:00.003-05:00

Nine families are now preparing to sue the State of Minnesota to end marriage discrimination. We have had to find a larger venue for our meetings. The network is expanding as new couples join us and pass the word to their friends.

Palin Doesn't Love The Gays

2008-09-04T19:05:00.003-05:00

Gay City News has an article outlining Palin's support for an Alaskan constitutional marriage ban and having a popular vote on domestic partner benefits for gay state workers. She says she has "good" friends that are gay. What kind of "friend" forces her "friends" into second class citizenship and takes their family's health care benefits away? She's a fucking liar...perfect for the Republican ticket.

SARAH PALIN SUPPORTS GAY MARRIAGE!?

2008-09-03T14:27:00.003-05:00

I was protesting in front of the Minneapolis Hilton just minutes ago with the "LEGAL MARRIAGE FOR GAY COUPLES NOW" shower curtain, unaware that Sarah Palin, the GOP Vice President nominee, is apparently staying at that hotel. Really, I was downtown just to recharge my parking card when I went by the Hilton and there were mounted police and a small group of demonstrators dressed in pink on the street. I wasn't planning on protesting anywhere but the banner was still in the van from a previous occasion and I thought, what the hell, maybe I can get trampled or gassed. So I parked a few blocks away and walked there, positioning myself across the street from the hotel's main entrance which was crowded with SUVs, Cadillacs and police. During the half hour I was there, there was nothing but affirmations of my message from pedestrians and passing motorists.

One well-dressed man in his thirties, looking very much like a Republican delegate and later identifying himself as an Alaskan, walked up and stood beside me, leaned forward to look at the sign and said, "Palin supports that. I know, I'm from Alaska." I guffawed, "She doesn't' even support domestic partner benefits." He said, "Yes she does." I said, "She stopped domestic partner benefits for state workers." He said, "Only three people signed up for that program." I said, "It's the principle." He reiterated that he is absolutely sure Palin supports gay marriage. I expressed more disbelief and he said, "I'll go ask her." He crossed the street, went passed the police and into the Hilton. I stayed for another five minutes or so but my meter was running out so I had to go.

I think it would be pretty funny if she actually supports marriage equality. My, wouldn't that convention feel screwed by McCain?

Still, we have a lesbian friend, Amy, who used to live in Wasilla, AK and likes Palin. She told us of Palin, "She loves the gays." Hmmmmm.

Outfront MN Blocking Road to Gay Marriage?

2008-08-28T12:06:00.003-05:00

DUANE GAJEWSKI CONTRIBUTED THIS POST IN RESPONSE TO OUTFRONT MN AND COMPANY'S DISCOURAGEMENT OF MARRIAGE EQUALITY LAWSUITS.

The proclamation by OutFront (and other pseudo-advocacy groups) which discourages the pursuit of gay marriage in Minnesota should surprise no one.

For years OutFront has been in front of the gay marriage issue like a road block. Since the early 1990's, those who seek real progress on gay marriage have been told, “it’s not the right time." When pressed to identify the “right time,” OutFront cites the need for getting more Dem’s elected to government and more favorable justices appointed to Minnesota courts. Unfortunately while following OutFront’s do-nothing strategy, Republican governors have been appointing judges throughout the state, Michele Bachmann has been elected to Congress and most Democrats (bolstered by OutFront’s timidity) can’t flee fast enough from the gay marriage issue.

Another argument is the fear that a gay marriage lawsuit could set bad legal precedence. As an example, OutFront notes that the U.S. Supreme Court took 17 years to reverse itself on the 1986 Hardwick sodomy case. The Minnesota Supreme court did rule against gay marriage in the Baker case, but that was nearly 40 years ago. Hence, OutFront continues to work against gay marriage based on a Minnesota ruling that has remained on the books over twice has long as it took the Hardwick case to get reversed. Of course, no one - not even OutFront - knows the outcome of any case a priori. Unfortunately, OutFront prefers to passively assume defeat and actively stymie the efforts of those who seek to pursue change.

In a display of their own disarray, OutFront fails to abide by the words of their own staff attorney, Phil Duran. Regarding the pending Minnesota gay marriage lawsuit, Duran characterized some of the legal arguments as “fascinating.” Duran also said, “If it works, that’s terrific. But before we take a firm position on this thing, we’re going to have to take a look at the arguments they’re going to advance.” On the contrary, OutFront issued their proclamation of discouragement without even contacting the litigants nor their legal consultants.

Although our community assumes gay “advocacy” groups have our best interests at heart, a healthy dose of cynicism may be in order. Consider Project 515 for example. Founded just a few months ago, the sole mission of this group is to correct 515 instances of discrimination which gay couples suffer as a result of not being allowed to get married. On the surface, it sounds like a good idea. Dig a little deeper and one finds a profound conflict of interest. If a gay marriage lawsuit were successful in Minnesota, Project 515 Executive Director, Laura Smidzik, would be out of a job because the mission of Project 515 would cease to exist. Incidentally, Smidzik is the former Executive Director of Rainbow Families, the third gay “advocacy” organization to sign the proclamation against gay marriage. Last April under Smidzik's direction, Rainbow Families merged with the Family Equality Council, a group based in Boston. As a result, the current direction of Rainbow Families is uncertain.

Rather than relying on the likes of OutFront, the gay community would be better served by heeding the advice of a reputable law firm with a track record of SUCCESS – a law firm which is encouraged by the merits of a gay marriage case in Minnesota. Minnesota needs to move forward on gay marriage because NOW is always a good time.

Group Suing State Grows

2008-08-09T10:25:00.002-05:00

The size of the group suing the state of Minnesota for marriage rights has more than doubled in the past couple of weeks. Seven families are now preparing to move forward with the case as the effort continues to grow. The recent, limited, unplanned publicity plus word-of-mouth is credited with the increased interest of couples wanting to join the litigation. The door is still open to couples who would like to join the fight for their family's equality. Call: 763-219-1206. Email: dugby3@yahoo.com.

Lawsuit Effort Widens

2008-07-23T09:48:00.002-05:00

Someone apparently forwarded my last post to the local media. Thank you! We are now getting inquiries from couples interested in joining forces with us and offers of support and assistance from others. What a difference a day makes!

I love it when people take charge of their own citizenship and trust their own judgement.

Gay Couples Prepare to Sue State

2008-07-09T10:04:00.009-05:00

Three Minnesota couples, including Duane and myself, are preparing to sue the state of Minnesota for denying us our constitutional right to civil marriage. The Minneapolis law firm of Mansfield, Tanick and Cohen has been approached to bring the case against the state. Because the legal fees associated with this case are expected to be thirty to forty thousand dollars, litigants are seeking thirty to forty lesbian and gay couples to join in the suit, which is expected to be filed later this summer.

If you and your same-sex spouse would like to be a part of this historic battle for civil marriage rights in Minnesota, or know of any couples who are sick of being treated like second class citizens and having NOTHING done about it, please call 763-219-1206. Email: dugby3@yahoo.com. Thank you.

It's Official

2008-06-18T13:46:00.001-05:00

Norway's upper house passed the gay marriage law and it will take effect January 1, 2009. Six countries.

And Then There Were Six

2008-06-14T22:07:00.003-05:00

This week Norway moved toward becoming the sixth country to institute equal marriage rights for same-sex couples, a fact largely if not completely ignored by the main stream media. Yay Norway!

Marriage Equality Minnesota

2008-05-29T10:36:00.003-05:00

The domain is purchased, the new website is up and the new organization is headed for glory. Here's the link: http://marriageequalitymn.org. It's simple but functional.

Strib Commentary Urges Bill's Passage

2008-05-23T10:34:00.003-05:00

In a commentary written by a straight Minneapolis couple touting their intention to marry in Canada as a protest of Minnesota's marriage laws that discriminate against gay couples, the couple urges the legislature to pass the" recently introduced Marriage And Family Protection Act." Oh, hell yes! I believe this is the bill's debut in the Star Tribune even though I sent them a press release last week. We'll take it! This should stimulate some discussion.

To All Those Involved - Thank you!

2008-05-20T14:52:00.016-05:00

The Marriage And Family Protection Act is now introduced in the legislature and on the record. Even though there wasn't a vote on the bill this session, the fact remains that a bill designed to end official and unconstitutional discrimination against same-sex couples in the state's marriage statutes took the first step to becoming law. That step required the actions of many people of courage who believe in equality. I thank them here.

First, thanks to my old friend Representative Mike Jaros for allowing me to bring a marriage bill to the Revisor's office, on his authority, and for initially carrying the bill.

Next, thanks to Senator John Marty for carrying the bill in the Senate and for making improvements to its content. Thanks to Senators: Patricia Torres Ray, Linda Higgins, Sandra Pappas and Mee Moua for co-authoring the bill.

Thanks to Representative Phyllis Kahn for carrying the House bill and to Representatives: Mike Jaros, Cy Thao, Karen Clark, Alice Hausman, Carlos Marianni, Erin Murphy, Diane Loeffler, Augustine "Willie" Dominguez, Mindy Greiling, Neva Walker, Frank Hornstein, John Lesch and Ryan Winkler for co-sponsoring.

Thank you, to my wonderful husband, Duane, who makes me feel like the luckiest guy on the face of the earth and who makes it possible for me to be at the Capitol protesting, where I am fortunate to have him occasionally join me.

Thanks to Matt Peterson and Robert Halfhill for their contributions to the effort and to my sister, Dilly, for cheering on her little brother .

Thanks to David Strand for bringing his superior political knowledge and skills to the effort in the waning days of the session, helping to identify and secure some support for the bill and for agreeing to take a leadership role in the campaign to make the Marriage And Family Protection Act the law of the land.

Thanks to the many DFL lawmakers who frequently express solidarity and encouragement to me while I'm protesting and to a few GOP legislators who have stopped to express respect for the effort.

Also, a tip of the hat to the opposition lobbyists, Keith and Ruth Anne for being friendly enemies.

Thanks to the Revisor, Craig Lindeke, for his guidance and supportive words. Thanks to lobbyist, Dave Engstrom and other lobbyists, Capitol staff, security people, state troopers, local police officers patroling in the Capitol and visitors, young and old, for their support, encouragement and kindness.

I want to pay respect to someone I've never met, whose activism was a comfort and inspiration to me as a closeted young gay man in the seventies. Jack Baker tried to end marriage discrimination nearly four decades ago in this state through the courts and remains a symbol of the marriage equality movement. His effort is a reminder that even though the numbers may not seem to be on our side, it's important to try. That's what we're doing and we're gonna win.

Last Day Good Day

2008-05-18T19:30:00.006-05:00

Duane joined me at the Capitol today and held the "LEGAL MARRIAGE FOR GAY COUPLES NOW" shower curtain. He had fun. A couple came up and had their picture taken behind the banner with him. On the Senate side, a security guard said to Duane, "you get one day off and he makes you come here?"

David also came to protest and held the "CIVIL MARRIAGE CIVIL RIGHT" sign. Rep. Karen Clark and Sen. Scott Dibble had their picture taken with the three of us and the signs.

Rep. Phyllis Kahn, the House author of the Marriage And Family Protection Act presented me with an autographed copy of the bill. She wrote, "ON TO VICTORY!" Yeah!

We knocked off about 2:30.

Bill Introduced In Both Houses

2008-05-17T13:33:00.004-05:00

H.F. No. 4248, the Marriage And Family Protection Act was officially introduced in the House today. I found out while protesting at the Capitol this morning when Rep. Kahn brought me the list of bills introduced today while I was in front of the Senate. There weren't any bills introduced yesterday even though Rep. Kahn turned the bill in on Thursday. I guess they wanted to wait for them to pile up a bit. Senator Marty happened upon the scene as well so we had a brief moment of celebration over our accomplishment.

This is a link to the Senate bill, S.F. No. 3880.

Still Waiting For House Bill To Show Up

2008-05-16T19:44:00.004-05:00

The House bill still hasn't shown up but no bill has shown up today and I know there are other bills to be introduced this session...so who knows. We'll just keep watching. The Senate bill is in and on the record.

Andy Birkey of the Eleventh Avenue South blog did a nice story on our effort today. It's worth checking out.

The Senate Bill Has A Number...3880

2008-05-16T10:54:00.003-05:00

The press release has been released. It was sent to AP, MPR and the newspapers. The House bill has not shown up on the House website yet but it was dropped in and will come up today.

This is a great day for my family and thousands of other families across this state. We have a bill and hope.

Today's Protest

2008-05-13T22:18:00.004-05:00

While I was protesting in front of the Senate this morning, lobbyist, Tom Lehman told me he ran into an elderly couple who were shocked that I was allowed to protest there. Later, an elderly couple passed by on the opposite side of the stairs. The woman's face was contorted with anger as she glared at me, violently shaking her hand in a thumbs down gesture. The man moved toward me briefly while angrily mumbling something about my civil marriage rights. I smiled at them and said, "thank you," as they moved on.

House, Senate Meet 9:00 Thursday

2008-05-13T22:06:00.002-05:00

They deserve a day off. They'll probably be in session all weekend. I'll be there.

Marriage Equality Bill To Be Dropped In Thursday - Really...This Is It

2008-05-13T12:44:00.005-05:00

I met with Senator Marty this morning and he said he will drop the bill in on Thursday morning, coordinating the drop-in with Rep. Kahn. That means the bill will be introduced on Friday. Senator Marty took some pride in the fact that this bill means Minnesota will take the lead in the Upper Midwest in the legislative push for Marriage Equality. Indeed.

As I told many legislators while I was in the process of gathering sponsors, "this bill is an effort to turn the train around and get it headed in the right direction." No matter what happens with this bill after it is introduced on Friday, the train will be turned.

14 On Bill In House; Senate 5

2008-05-13T09:35:00.005-05:00

The bill has been returned to Rep. Kahn with a total of fourteen representatives signed on and is ready for introduction. It should be noted that five is the maximum allowable on a senate bill. I talked with her this morning and she will talk to Sen. Marty to coordinate the drop in. I will visit him this morning. The Senate meets at 10:30.

Marriage Equality Bill Now Has 11 House Sponsors

2008-05-08T22:30:00.003-05:00

Picked up two yesterday and three today. Back at it tomorrow.

Kahn Says Gay Marriage Bill Goes In Next Week

2008-05-06T21:18:00.002-05:00

David Strand and I were at the Capitol today seeking additional sponsors for the MARRIAGE AND FAMILY PROTECTION ACT in the House. The newest sponsor is Rep. Carlos Mariani of St. Paul who just signed on today. Thank you, Representative Mariani! We visited Rep. Kahn earlier to pick up the bill jackets and she told us the bill would go in next week.

Tomorrow, the House meets at 11:00, the Senate at 3:00. I have the jackets and we will be back at it.