Ten Years: Working With You For Change

By Ian Palmquist

Ten years ago today, something happened that changed my life in ways I couldn't have imagined then: I started my first day of work at Equality NC.

I'd graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill that May and had been looking for a way to get into LGBT movement work. I was sure that was going to mean leaving North Carolina and heading off to New York, DC, or maybe San Francisco.

Happily, Equality NC's then-Executive Director, MK Cullen, asked me to come on staff. I have to admit, I was pretty nervous about it. It was the first time Equality NC was hiring a permanent second staff person. Plus, I was leaving my $11 per hour full-time job at UNC Student Stores for an $8 per hour half-time job.

My parents thought I was crazy. But I knew that chances to do paid movement work right here in my home state were few and far between, and leaped at the chance.

I've never regretted it.

At lunch today, a former intern of ours asked me what my favorite thing about working for Equality NC was. I thought a minute, and realized that the answer was clear.

The thing that his given me the most joy these ten years has been the chance to work with amazing leaders across the state and the nation who are fighting to make all of our lives better:

• Incredible volunteers who work tirelessly to win local policy victories or collect hundreds of postcards to legisaltors in conservative areas;
• Dedicated board members who work to realize a vision of what Equality NC could become;
• Amazing coalition partners who time and again stand up to insist that the LGBT community be included and protected;
• Hard-working colleagues at other Equality Federation organizations who have made me a better leader, and our movement more effective; and
  
• Talented co-workers and interns who pour their heart and soul into
  improving the lives of LGBT people in our state.

MK, and her successor Jo Wyrick, taught me so much about politics, grassroots organizing, and running a non-profit as I became the Assistant Director. Ed Farthing stuck with me as Co-Executive Director through some tough financial times and encouraged me to keep fighting because the work we were doing was so important.

Now Kay Flaminio, Shawn Long, and Rebecca Mann make coming to work as Executive Director these last three years something to look forward to, and have made our recent successes possible.

Ten years is a long time, and sometimes people ask my why I've stayed at Equality NC. I've been recruited a couple times to work for national organizations, but when I thought about it I realized that I could have the greatest impact working right here with you.

I truly believe that the most important work we can do to win full equality nationwide is to fight the fight in the states. The federal work is unquestionably important, too. But no amount of lobbying in DC will make a difference if our community isn't on the ground in local communities building public support for equal rights, passing local and state policies, and creating a climate for change.

That's why I'm so proud to work with Equality NC. Thanks to the amazing hard work of everyone that makes up this organization, we have achieved things no one thought were possible.

Here in our proudly Southern state, no bill that would diminish the rights of our community has passed since 1996, while our neighbors have seen attacks on our families enshrined into their state constituions.

Instead, we've increased protections for same-sex couples by ensuring basic hospital visitation rights. We've made life safer for our young people by making sure schools address bullying and harrassment. We've protected the lives and health of people by securing comprehensive sex education in public schools, increased funding for HIV prevention programs, and expanded access to HIV/AIDS drugs for low-income North Carolinians.

Most importantly, we've made our voices heard and laid a foundation that will, in time, allow us to build a state of equality.

I'm so proud of what we've done together. But I'm even more excited about what we can achieve going forward.

Thanks for being a part of my journey this past decade. I'm counting on you to stick with us as we keep moving forward together.

Equality in the News for September 26-October 2

Happy October! Time sure is flying by quickly! I hope everyone had a great weekend and enjoyed Pride this year! I was unable to attend because of work, but heard some many great things!

-Jennifer

STATE

Pam Spaulding Speaks at NC Pride

Many of you were well aware that North Carolina’s 25^th Pride took place in Durham! Please take a look and listen at Pam Spaulding’s keynote address, where she mentions ENC and the passage of the School Violence Protection Act.

Speaking of Pride…

The News & Observer reports that 4,500 attended this year’s pride fest which has been the largest number yet! Woo-hoo! The Herald-Sun also covered the event, and includes a small slide show.

A University Study Confirms What We Already Know…

East Carolina University (which just so happens to be my school), states that a study published this month in Adoption Quarterly found that: “the sexual orientation of adopted parents was not a significant predictor of emotional problems.” Well of course it isn’t. The only thing that should matter is whether or not the parents are going to love their children!

Orange County: The New Travel Hot Spot?

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau held a symposium for the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association and ENC Executive Director Ian Palmquist was quoted giving some details about the political climate in the area.

Local Teens' Perspectives on the Need for Ally Week

The teen column in Wilmington's Star-News focused on making schools safer for LGBT students this month, and highlights the need for allies to speak out against name-calling.

NATION

Pro-Prop 8 Campaign Seeks to Shield Internal Memos

On Friday U.S. District Chief Judge Vaughn Walker in San Francisco heard arguments from lawyers seeking internal campaign records from sponsors of California’s voter-approved gay marriage ban. The attorneys are challenging Prop 8, saying it denies equality to LGBT couples in violation of the U.S. Constitution. The judge is expected to rule on the issue next week.

Illinois: Marriage Equality Bill Introduced

On Thursday Illinois Senator Heather Steans introduced a marriage equality bill in the Illinois State Senate. The bill is co-sponsored by Representatives Deb Mell, Sara Feigenholtz, Constance Howard, Harry Osterman and John Fritchey. Our friends at Equality of Illinois applaud the sponsoring legislators! Congrats to Illinois!

“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”

An article in Joint Force Quarterly--the Pentagon's top scholarly journal--argues forcefully for repealing "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." Adm. Mike Mullen who is the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff states that, “after a careful examination, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that unit cohesion will be negatively affected if homosexuals serve openly.” You don’t say? It amazes me how there have to be “studies” for many citizens in this country to believe in equal rights.

Well, that is it for this week’s round up. Please tune in next week for additional news briefs. Also, fan us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for daily updates!

Equality in the News August 7th - 14th

Hey everyone. Drop by our table at the 14^th Annual N.C. Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, which starts today in Durham.

In the State …

The Associated Press released its review of the year in the N.C. legislature, mentioning the School Violence Prevention and Healthy Youth Acts.

Ian Palmquist, of Equality NC, issued our own “year in review” as well.

Last week was “Family Week” in Provincetown, MA – advertised as “the largest national gathering of LGBT families and their friends in the United States.” Read a review of the town-guest relationship – including comments from a Greensboro, NC family.

Indyweek.com proclaims that the annual N.C. Gay and Lesbian Film Festival is something for us all to get excited about, not just the organizers. "We always try to be cutting edge," says Carl, senior director of the Carolina Theatre, "but this year we hit the jackpot."

In the Nation …

At Salon.com N.C. blogger Pam Spaulding gives a detailed and thoughtful commentary on "At the Intersection: Race, Sexuality, and Gender," a comprehensive report released this week by the the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. It is a must read for anyone hoping for coalition building beyond the boundaries of race, sexuality, and religion.

To read the original HRC report in pdf, click here.

“Are Black people really homophobic?” bluntly asks columnist Mary C. Curtis in Politics Daily. Answer: It’s really much more complicated than that.

The American Bar Association has approved a resolution to repeal the section of DOMA that prevents same-sex married couples from receiving federal benefits. Read more from Edge.

For a great summary on this bill, check out this piece from the CCH Aspen Publishers Technical Answer Group.

Equality California has announced that, after months of research and consultation with experts and grassroots activists, they will are now working towards an initiative FOR marriage equality in the 2012 election. They believe that a 2010 campaign is not likely to succeed for a host of reasons. All Headline News covers the controversy over this approach. Check out Equality California's full plan to win.

Dice Equality California que se debe posponer la lucha por el matrimonio gay hasta el año 2012. ¿Porque? Reuters América Latina tiene la respuesta.

Out in the World

The second ever gay rights march in Mumbai is planned to take place today and tomorrow. “There is a need for the gay community to find an identity that is connected to Indian culture, said Pallav Patankar, a trustee with the Humsafar Trust, a community-based organization. “Our homosexuality is not about being Western. We’re trying to find our own path.” Read more from the N.Y. Times.

That’s all for this week – hope it got you thinking!

Sweet Sorrow

Farewell blog by departing ENC Foundation board member Jami Taylor

Recently, I accepted a faculty position at the University of Toledo. As such, it is with great sadness that I must stand down as a director of Equality NC Foundation. On the bright side, I leave after we won important legislative battles with the School Violence Prevention Act and Healthy Youth Act. In particular, the School Violence Prevention Act victory marks the first time that a fully inclusive and explicitly pro-LGBT law has been enacted in the state. By my count, it is also the first state level transgender inclusive law in the South. These accomplishments, along with our on-going fight to block a constitutional amendment banning same sex marriage are items to which we should all be extremely proud.

Out of fear of missing the efforts of any person, I will not single out the work of any individual for special praise. Staff members, volunteers, board members and interns have all been important in achieving our recent gains. More importantly, you, the people who support our work, have been vital. Without your generosity, our organization would not exist. Without your willingness to live openly, attitudes would not change. Without your willingness to contact legislators, political actors would not do what is right. It has been a privilege to work with and for such a such a group of dedicated and talented individuals. I will miss everyone and I hope that we can collaborate in the future.

Equality In the News June 27 – July 3

Special thanks to intern Harmony Pringle for reporting on this week's Equality in the News!

This week’s theme is solidarity – with the President, with the LGBT communities in other nations, and with other marginalized communities within our own nation. As author Elie Wiesel eloquently stated

This is the duty of our generation as we enter the twenty-first century -- solidarity with the weak, the persecuted, the lonely, the sick, and those in despair. It is expressed by the desire to give a noble and humanizing meaning to a community in which all members will define themselves not by their own identity but by that of others.

And now, the news!

The continuing commentary from the Legislature …

Healthy Youth Act

• Q-notes points out that while “an incredible step forward” (quoting our own Ian Palmquist), the Healthy Youth Act still includes problematic language, offering faithful, monogamous, heterosexual relationships as the “best” option for preventing sexually transmitted diseases.
  

• If by now you still aren’t convinced, you can read a strongly-worded editorial supporting the HYA from the Wilmington Star News.
  

School Violence Prevention Act

• The Hickory Daily Record received two letters to the editor this week chastising pastors for their criticism of the SVPA and using Christianity to support the act, rather than tear it down.
  

• Ragan Robinson gives voice to senators and citizens on all sides of the debate over the SVPA and its connection to LGBT rights, especially same-sex marriage. It is a WONDERFUL summary!
  

In other NC-related news...

• Our own North Carolina native and founder of the Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network Kevin Jennings will take his post as assistant deputy secretary of education for the department’s Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools on July 6th, but not before the conservative Family Research Council has their say. Q-Notes has the story.
  

• Indy Week reminds us that determining what happens to a partner and his or her property after death is another important bundle of rights denied same-sex couples.
  

• For the year in review – in regards to marriage equality in the nation and the state – check out Indy Weeks recent post!
  

• Charlotte and Raleigh are part of a pilot market for a new program of the Human Rights Campaign called “Ya Es Hora” (It’s Time), which aims to help legal resident Latinos through the citizenship process. “The time has come to unite the LGBT and Hispanic Community. We have more in common than differences and we should work on our common issues,” says Cynthia Leigh Lewis, HRC Arizona Political Co-Chair. She hopes that new Latino voters would be able to weigh in on issues important to both communities. Hurrah for Allies!

Across the country, and the world...

• This past Monday, 250 LGBT leaders met with President Obama to commemorate the Stonewall riots and to hear the President’s plans for the future. While a gesture of solidarity from the President, who connected the struggles of the LGBT community to those of the African-Americans and allies that made his election possible, the dinner did not satisfy everyone, and the President offered no hint as to when we could expect his promises to be realized. But he did try to reassure the audience, stating that "I want you to know that I expect and hope to be judged not by word, but by the promises my administration keeps" and that "By the time this administration is over, I think you guys will have pretty good feelings about the Obama administration." We certainly hope so!
  

• Monday was also a big day for LGBT communities of India, where “Several BJP [Bharatiya Janata Party] leaders on Monday defied the ‘gag order’ imposed by the party leadership as they came out in the open in support of gay rights even as the official party line was to skirt the issue.” These comments came out following Sunday’s Queer Pride march – complete with signs, drums, and colorful clothing – in Bangalore. The march was part of a weeklong celebration organized to raise awareness in time with the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots.
  

• The New York Times examines lagging political action versus popular culture in this week’s article
  

Thanks for reading and Happy Fourth!

Equality in the News: June 20 - 26, 2009

As you have probably already heard, the School Violence Prevention Act PASSED on Tuesday by one vote in the House! This is, as you can probably guess, incredible news for young people in North Carolina and a victory for the LGBT community. This is the first LGBT-inclusive bill to be signed into NC state law and our state becomes the only one in the South to include gender identity in a protective law. What a profound accomplishment.

We must also mention that the Healthy Youth Act passed the Senate 25-21. Though not the original, stronger version, this bill is a great first step in equipping our young people with knowledge to make informed decisions when it comes to sex. More on that below.

We also wanted to say a quick 'thank you' to our talented volunteer and supporter, Daniel Wiggins, who designed the flashy new logo for each week's "In the News" installment.

Without further ado - here's the really good news:

School Violence Prevention Act

• First things first, please take a look at this awesome inside scoop on how the bill got passed, written by our Executive Director and legislative rockstar, Ian Palmquist.
• News14, our state's 24-hour news channel, has an article and video on the bill's success, featuring Ian Palmquist and a great ally, Linda Griffin, who's son will be more protected as a result of the bill's passage.
• After the first vote, the News & Observer ran a front page banner headline Tuesday: "House votes to protect gay kids." The article's failure to make clear the bill protects against all bullying wasn't too helpful as we fought to keep votes for the final vote Tuesday.
  
• As we've seen through the process of trying to get this bill passed, personal stories are of utmost importance in convincing weary legislators of the need for this legislation. Check out the Charlotte Observer's take on our victory, and be sure to read on about Mark James, a student who felt the effects of bullying.
• Greensboro's News & Record mentions how we join only 11 other states with similar protections for making all students safer.
• The Hickory Daily Record was quick to provide an editorial of support of the SVPA after it passed - better late than never!
• Coverage was all over the state - from Western, NC, at GoBlueRidge.net, who noted the bullying bill's success to Eastern NC, where the Rocky Mount Telegram shares news of the win (and a bit about the Healthy Youth Act).
• Our friends at Q-Notes, who graciously helped us spread the word and gain support when the bill was in trouble, has great coverage of the bill and the debate at Monday and Tuesday's votes. They also discuss what's going on with the Healthy Youth Act.
• The Human Rights Campaign's Back Story Blog congratulated us on the landmark victory this week.
  
• GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network, applauded our efforts on their official website. GLSEN is the leading national organization advocating for safe schools for LGBT students.
• Awesome blog Feministing mentions our victory with a personal story.
  
• 365Gay, an LGBT-blog, also picked up the story and dished just a little bit on the right-wing effort to get harsh, violent punishments incorporated in the bill.
  
• OutImpact of Wilmington has an awesome article which includes a list of how the Representatives voted. See if your legislator supports protecting all students!
• The work continues - though this is a huge victory, it's also a chance for the misinformed to spread misconceptions and lies. Take, for example, the Beaufort Observer's online edition, which posted an article (editorial?) on the bullying bill. Keep those letters to the editor coming - especially to combat false "reporting" like this!
• We can't forget to mention Pam's House Blend and her coverage of the SVPA. She has brought so much attention and awareness about this bill, and we must thank her for her advocacy and support!
  
• Last week, before the bill was passed, there were ridiculous attempts of connecting being gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender to being a pedophile, incestuous, or any other number of sexual disorders. As we all know, this fundamentally isn't true and it's outrageous that our lawmakers can make such false claims. Check out the Progressive Pulse's awesome categorical debunking of every one of those falsehoods.
• Last, and certainly not least, we urge you to read IndyWeek's transcript of the eloquent speech in support of the School Violence Prevention Act from Wake County Rep. Darren Jackson.

On a personal note - I attended the second reading and vote and watched the debate, and it was absolutely stunning to see the strong advocates in support of this bill in action - advocates like Rep. Haire, Rep. Cotham, Rep. Adams (my very own), Rep. Parmon, and of course, Rep. Glazier (and on the Senate side - Sen. Julia Boseman). Their words inspired me and made me feel like LGBT people indeed have thoughtful supporters in Raleigh. I've sent my legislators a thank you for their support - you can look yours up too and either thank them, or press them for real answers as to why they didn't support this important bill.

Healthy Youth Act

• The Fayetteville Observer has an extensive article about the Sex-Ed bill's success in the Senate on Tuesday, and an article ahead of yesterday's House vote.
• Asheville's Citizen-Times also features a story on the Healthy Youth Act's final passage and a quote from supportive legislator Susan Fisher.
• The Winston-Salem Journal reports that the bill is ready to be signed by Gov. Perdue.
  
• WRAL has an editorial in support of more choices for parents when it comes to their child's sex-eductaion.

Other news...

• Just wanted to mention briefly that Equality NC received 3 awards from Q-Notes' reader-decided "QList" - best of the Carolinas awards. Find out what we won. Congratulations to Ian, and Board Members Addison Ore and Mike Nelson for their awards, as well!

Phew! I knew it was going to be a busy week when victory was declared on Tuesday - and I wouldn't have had it any other way. Enjoy your weekend!

On a personal note - It has been an honor working with the small, dedicated and powerful staff of Equality NC to get this bill passed. It's also been an eye-opening journey as I traveled across the state, gathering and listening to stories of people who have felt the affects of bullying. I know that this victory will be seen for years to come in the halls of schools in North Carolina - all of which just got a little bit safer. Congratulations, Equality NC!

Equality in the News: June 12 - June 19, 2009

It's been a tumultuous week for Equality! Nationally, President Obama has come under fire for the questionable brief regarding a federal lawsuit challenging the Defense of Marriage Act. Interestingly, he signed a memorandum this week extending some partner benefits for federal employees. A good start, but we need more.

On the local level, we've seen a lot of action with the School Violence Prevention Act and the Healthy Youth Act. Though it passed committee this week, the SVPA has come under fire from a legislator who is actively persuading other legislators to vote 'no' based on misinformation. As we've seen with the legislature - anything can and will happen, and it's up to us to keep the pressure on our representatives to vote for this important bill. E-mails are great, but personal phone calls are even better if you can - and you can look up who your legislator is and how to contact them here. Here's your weekly news roundup:

• To find out more about the School Violence Prevention Act's roller coaster ride this week, check out Q-Notes story on the events.
• The Fayetteville Observer has the story on how the bullying bill passed it's committee hearing, preparing it for the first of two votes by the House of Representatives on Monday, June 22.
  
• A big reason why we've seen votes in jeopardy this week are because of Rep. Paul Stam's irresponsible and untrue statements at the committee hearing about sexual orientation in the DSM-IV. BlueNC has a must-read about the blatant lies and how damaging they've been to the support for this bill - which, let us remind you, is supported by a strong majority of North Carolinians across party lines.
  
• Charlotte's Creative Loafing blog covers the even morereprehensible comments made by Rep. Paul Stam about same-sex parenting at the committee hearing. Seems like he's modeling his leadership style after the late, not-so-great Jesse Helms.
• OutImpact in Wilmington calls its readers to action for the School Violence Prevention Act and includes great talking points for talking to your legislators or friends about the bill.
• Raleigh's News & Observer wrote about the SVPA's progress and included an anecdote of a mother who removed her child with autism from school because educators blamed him for bullying he received. This bill is meant to protect all students!
• The Fayetteville Observer has the goods on the Healthy Youth Act action for this week. It will be voted on! Keep your calls and e-mails of support coming, folks!
  
• Speaking of allies, the Daily Tar Heel has the story about how some of our supporters organized Boomtown Live, a concert event held to benefit Equality NC. Thank you!

As we're seeing on a national level (and state level), keeping the pressure on our elected officials with impassioned voices of reason is the way to equality. It can get frustrating at times, but we urge you to keep the incredible work towards progress alive by having your voices heard until there's no need. Imagine it - a state of equality, a country where we're all treated equally. It's within our reach - just keep at it!

We look forward to giving you some great news (cross your fingers!) about the School Violence Prevention Act after its vote next week - keep the phone calls and e-mails coming! And enjoy your weekend!

Calling for Equality

Guest post from Equality NC Intern Hillary Waugh.

Today, Equality NC Fellow, Seth, and I spent the afternoon making phone calls. Admittedly, I am not the biggest fan of speaking on the telephone, especially with so many other forms of technology available. However, today’s calls were important, since we were speaking with individuals associated with Equality North Carolina.

The School Violence Prevention Act (SVPA) has faced a good amount of trouble within the House of Representatives, with several representatives potentially changing their “yes” vote on the bill to a “no.” The vote count on this legislation has been close from the start, so any changes can be damaging. Since these vote changes are relatively last minute, we wanted to make sure as many supporters of the bill in these districts are aware that their representatives’ votes are on the fence.

The vote on the SVPA has been pushed back to next week, and we were tasked with getting in contact with as many people in these districts as possible. While Equality NC has been sending email messages and action letters, sometimes an even more personal form of contact can make a big impact.

Although I was initially apprehensive about cold calling those from our mailing list, I was extremely pleased with the responses we received. Everyone we spoke with either had already taken action by emailing and/or calling their representatives, or was willing to do so. Many also said they would pass the word on to their families and friends living in the area to make sure their support is heard here in Raleigh.

Nearly all of these individuals thanked us for the work we were doing, which was extremely inspiring. I thanked them in return, since showing their support of the SVPA to their representatives can do much more than any of the phone calls that Seth and I made. I am reminded that while we are doing worthwhile work here, others across the state that are inspired to take action on behalf of Equality NC do the greatest work by responding to emails and action requests, calling your legislators, and talking about issues that are important to LGBT North Carolinians.

So if you received a phone call from either Seth or myself, or have taken any action on behalf of Equality NC, thank you so much for all that you do in creating equality for all.

Boomtown Raises Local Awareness

by ENC intern Graham Hunter

Last Friday, Chapel Hill students came together to show their support for LGBT rights in the first ever Boomtown showcase. The rock and hip-hop concert, organized by college students Alison Bryan and Jonathan Gedney, was designed to spread awareness of important social issues (this year’s theme being LGBT rights) as well as promote local musical talent. Ticket sales from the concert were donated to Equality NC and Lambda Legal.

Approximately sixty individuals came out for the event, which stayed strong into the night despite some ominous lightning and hints of rain.

In addition to fund-raising, the event provided a wonderful opportunity to spread the good word about Equality NC and its efforts with the School Violence Prevention Act. Many of the people that we met had never heard of Equality NC but were very supportive to our cause. A few individuals were shocked that North Carolina did not already have such anti-bullying legislation on the books, which only goes to show the greater need for visibility and information. At the end of the night, we had a few more postcards to add to our already expansive number and hopefully a few more allies.

The Boomtown showcase was a venue by the youth, for the youth. The most rewarding part of the night was to see youth actively confronting social problems and working toward greater understanding and equality. The notion of “change” (like its conservative cousin, “maverick”) may be a hackneyed phrase by now, but I have to believe that its frequent use only highlights its necessity.

As the struggle for LGBT rights extends into the coming years, today’s youth must be willing to take up the mantle of their forebearers. The fight for tomorrow’s change starts today. Boomtown showed that a growing number of youth are becoming more involved in LGBT issues and are willing to fight for that change.

Wilmington Pride is a Day at the Beach!

by ENC intern Brittany Cox
(picture from left to right; Nikki B., Billy M., Brittany C., Suzanne W., Corey K.)

Hello Readers! My name is Brittany Cox and I am an intern for Equality North Carolina. On Saturday June 13, I made the trek from Buies Creek to Wilmington to captain the Equality NC table at Wilmington Pride.

My main objective while at Wilmington Pride was to advocate for the School Violence Prevention Act by getting people to sign postcards which would be subsequently sent to their district representative. This is crucial at this time because the bill is headed to the House floor very soon!

Arriving at 9 am my friends, Suzanne and Corey, and I set up the tent. Jessica Probst, our volunteer, was promptly on time and did an amazing job getting people to sign the postcards. By herself, within 2 hours, Jessica managed to get approximately 50 cards signed! We were all very impressed with her effort and enthusiasm for the cause, and want to thank her for all of her hard work!

We managed to get approximately 100 cards signed, and we met some great people.

I was briefly featured on a Pride broadcast. I also met Matt Comer, Editor of Q-Notes, an LBGT newspaper, who kindly took our picture. Thanks to Matt for letting us use this picture on the blog!

Next to Pride was a farmers market. Periodically some of these people would stroll into the festival. Many of them merely walked around and took in the sights, whereas others walked a few steps in, realized where they were, and proceeded to leave. My friends and I got a good chuckle out of this.

All in all the day was beautiful, colorful and exciting! We spread the word about the School Violence Prevention Act and had an amazing time!

Equality in the News: June 6 - June 12, 2009

This week's Equality in the News is brought to you by one of our fabulous new interns, Harmony! Don't be fooled by the "Posted by: Wes" at the bottom, because it was all her, and she did a great job! :) Let's get right to it...

So what is happening?

In the legislature …

• News 14 Carolina questions the changes made to the Healthy Youth Act in committee last Wednesday. Watch or read their report.
• Our friend Sean Kosofsky of NARAL Pro-Choice NC posted about the Senate gutting the Healthy Youth Act over at the Progressive Pulse.
  
• The Fayetteville Observer did a great editorial in support of passing the School Violence Prevention Act.
  
• A correspondent of The Durham News writes that “Bullying laws must cover gays,” connecting the “School Violence Prevention Act” to personal experiences to defend the enumeration.
• Q-Notes has the story of how North Carolina’s only openly lesbian Senator, Julia Boseman, was also the only legislator to vote against a resolution in which “The General Assembly of North Carolina expresses its appreciation for the life and public service of Jesse Alexander Helms, Jr., and honors his memory,” although many members of the Black legislative caucus were purposefully absent during the voting.
• Our video to raise awareness about the School Violence Prevention Act, which encourages you to take action now has been featured on Pam's House Blend and The Independent Weekly blog. Check it out, if you haven't already!

Around the state …

• The Winston-Salem Journal tells about the small but passionate group protesting the ruling on Prop 8 last Saturday, not on Sunset Boulevard, but in our own downtown Greensboro.
• “After election time, we noticed a lot of people talking, wanting change and not having a good way to channel that energy into something,” says 19-year-old Alison Bryan to The Daily Tar Heel. A Chapel Hill native, Bryan co-organized this evening’s concert, Boomtown Live, both to promote civil rights and to resuscitate the declining Chapel Hill music scene. Some proceeds from the concert will support our own Equality – thanks Alison and Jonathon!
• The Carolina Peacemaker explores the experiences of, and resources for, LGBT individuals in Guilford County, NC. Check out this interesting read!
  

In the nation …

Don’t ask about the state of “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell,” and Obama, don’t tell us to wait. Fox News reported back in January that the Obama administration planned to repeal the discriminatory policy, but this week the Supreme Court denied the appeal by discharged officer, James Pietrangelo II, against it. No comment from the White House. President Obama may have named June “LGBT Pride month,” but if the nation is really proud of its LGBT members – and their service to their country – then it’s time it took a stand.

• The Associated Press reports that a Quinnipiac University poll shows that a majority of Americans support the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, yet the Supreme Court shut down former Army Capt. James Pietrangelo II’s appeal this week. No word from Capitol Hill...
• The Star-Ledger brings us an interesting editorial “Revisting the "Don't ask, don't tell" policy” which provides a good counter to the “bad for morale” argument...
• Por los que hablan español: Qué.es nos diga que “La máxima instancia judicial estadounidense decidió no aceptar la apelación planteada por el ex capitán del Ejército James Pietrangelo II, contrario a la política de "no preguntes, no lo digas" que sigue el Pentágono respecto a los homosexuales.” Obama, ¿dónde estás?

That does it for this week's roundup!

Equality in the News: May 23 - June 5, 2009

Since we last updated you on the equality-related happenings around our state, the United States gained another state that recognizes same-sex marriage: New Hampshire! In addition to this, the Nevada legislature, in an exciting move, went rogue and overrode the governor's veto of a domestic partnership bill for state employees. We congratulate these outstanding strides by NH and NV's state legislatures for protecting the rights of their constituents.

June has officially been proclaimed as LGBT Pride Month by President Obama. Many of you may know that Obama's action/inaction on LGBT issues has been a growing dialogue within our community and beyond - whether or not you feel he's doing enough or has fallen short on promises, it's still exciting to have a President who has a good track record of acknowledging our issues.

Without further ado, here's what's happening in your neck of the woods:

• Q-Notes mentions our upcoming PAC Reception at the RBC Plaza in Raleigh on June 9. You can always check out our website to RSVP, or stop by Q-Notes for the general information.
• News 14, NC's 24-hour news outlet covers the debate on the School Violence Prevention Act as it went through committee last week. Unfortunately, most of that debate focused on wording, and not about the children who are directly affected by intense bullying on a daily basis.
• Raleigh's News & Observer briefly mentions the Healthy Youth Act & SVPA in an article that mostly focuses on the education budget crisis we're currently experiencing. They fail to mention that both of these bills would cost very, very little (if anything) if enacted. (Unlike the Marriage Discrimination Amendment ballot initiative, which would cost our state upwards of $2 million.)
• The good news is that the SVPA has proceeded through the first of two committees, and is heading to the House for a vote very soon. The Greenville Reflector has the story.
  
• If you've been keeping up with the Healthy Youth Act (we know it's difficult!), you may know it's been battled tirelessly. News 14 has that story. If you haven't already, we urge you to take action to help us get this bill passed the way it was intended.
• Heard any good rumors about that former Raleigh mayor? The News & Observer has, specifically the one about how he's gay, and how he considers that to be "vicious" enough to file a libel suit against a Wilmington DJ for spreading it. Our very own Ian Palmquist is on the scene to counter this sad form of homophobia.
• Props to our friends in Asheville for starting a wonderful awareness-raising campaign on HIV/AIDS. The Asheville Citizen-Times has the story on the campaign, called "I Need You to Know." It was started by the Western NC Aids Project.
• Coming up next weekend is both Boone's and Wilmington's PRIDE Festivals. Equality was on the scene last weekend at Triad Pride. Thanks to all the volunteers who helped us out and to all of those who stopped by to learn more about our work.
• We launched a video this week to raise awareness about the School Violence Prevention Act before it heads to the House for the final vote. The video is below, and we encourage you to share it on Facebook, Twitter, your blog, your web page, or with the folks in your address book. The video features real quotes from true stories of bullying gathered from around the state. Help us make this viral campaign a success and take action, if you haven't already. The link for sharing is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVyuIX73B2k

Thanks for checking in with us this week! We'll see you next time.

Equality in the News: May 16 - 22, 2009

It's time for another news roundup! First things first: today marks Harvey Milk's would-be 79th birthday. It's befitting that his birthday should fall on this Memorial Day weekend, a time when we remember our nation's great service men and women. Harvey was a service man of a different kind: a true soldier for gay rights and equality. And he's a soldier whose presence is greatly missed.

And now, the week in equality.

• Our very own Ian Palmquist has an excellent piece featured on NC Policy Watch's website about the recent tragedies in bullying nationwide and a call to action to prevent those kinds of unhappy endings in our state.
• A little while ago, Q-Notes featured an article about the Healthy Youth Act that's currently going through the state legislature. They claim that there is much to be desired with the current version. Sean Kosofsky of NARAL Pro-Choice NC (one of the coalition members for the Healthy Youth Act) and Ian give their opinion here.
• We mentioned last week how one of our strongest advocates, Sen. Julia Boseman, is being recognized for her diligent work for equality. Q-Notes has more on that in case you missed it.
• We also mentioned a little while ago how the great folks at PFLAG Winston-Salem are taking a stand against Virginia Foxx's reprehensible comments (and lack of adequate apologies) with ads. Q-Notes has a great, extensive article about their campaign.
• Much congratulations to one of NC's very own, a fierce advocate for equality and one of the nation's leading bloggers, Pam Spaulding of Pam's House Blend. She's being honored by the Women's Media Center Awards (along with the likes of Rachel Maddow and Tina Fey!) Thanks for all you do, Pam!

Next week is going to be a big one for the School Violence Prevention Act and the Healthy Youth Act. Let's hope for some good news. Keep checking your e-mail, follow our Twitter for relevant updates, and spread the word - encourage friends and family to call/e-mail their representatives urging their support!

Have a wonderful, relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

Walking the (AIDS)Walk

by ENC volunteer, Félix Araújo-Pérez

Lending a helping hand has always been an idea I've had in my mind but seldom pursued. So when I heard that Equality NC needed volunteers to help promote the School Violence Prevention Act during this year’s AIDSwalk+ride, I gathered up my courage and offered myself.

You may ask why I needed courage for this. Well, most new experiences terrify me. As I was walking toward Halifax Mall in downtown Raleigh, I felt as if my heart was about to break my chest open. Fortunately, Seth Maid was waiting at the Equality NC table with another rookie volunteer, and after his crash course training I felt confident that I could make it.

All in all this was the perfect opportunity to conquer my fears while helping to promote a safer school environment for students in North Carolina and promoting HIV/AIDS awareness. We were surrounded a by cheerful crowd that danced to the rhythm of live music while bike riders and walkers arrived to the area. A diverse group of sponsors offered freebies that included massages, food, and even the opportunity to adopt a pet.

May 2, 2009 marked the 14th anniversary of this fundraising event organized by the Alliance of AIDS Services-Carolinas. For North Carolinians this was yet another successful celebration of life, an education in HIV/AIDS awareness, and a time to take an active stance on this important social issue.

I could summarize this year’s AIDSwalk+ride with a few words: walking, riding, eating, dancing, volunteering, and no bullying.

Lately, turning the TV on and reading my favorite news source has not helped my unemployed/grad-student reality. As the clock ticks my present situation remains static, even after countless efforts to change it. I needed an outlet through which I could channel all that unhealthy negative energy. Volunteering proved to be therapeutic to me.

Equality in the News: May 9 - 15, 2009

It seems like every week now, we have another state to congratulate on marriage equality. This week, it's New Hampshire, who is thisclose to passing the bill. The governor requests more clear religious freedom protections in the legislation, and then he'll sign it into law. Seems reasonable enough to calm the fears of those on the fence. 6 states now (or within the coming weeks will) have full marriage equality!

On the home front, our state has been buzzing about the success of the School Violence Prevention Act's success in the Senate. To keep you up-to-date: Both the SVPA and Healthy Youth Act met the crossover deadline for bills, and they are one step closer to heading to the Governor's desk. So, keep those calls and e-mails to your Representatives and Senators coming! Here's this week's roundup:

• Raleigh's News & Observer was full of SVPA tidbits over the week, with an excellent column in support of the legislation, as well as a strong editorial supporting the bill. Doesn't stop there - there were also two great letters to the editor: one discussing how wrong it is to exclude LGBTs and one showing some religious compassion.
• Blue NC also features an article about some alarming statistics on bullying. Definitely worth checking out.
  
• Speaking of bullying, The Independent Weekly, a progressive news source out of the Triangle wrote about the School Violence Prevention Act's success and features some good quotes from Ian and mentions a lot of our great allies with this legislation. Check it out!
• Star News Online out of Wilmington has the story of the Frank Harr Foundation's honoring Sen. Julia Boseman for her outstanding efforts with the SVPA. Congratulations to one of our strongest advocates for equality!
• That Marriage Discrimination Amendment is still lurking around the NC State Legislature, and the wonderful folks at BlueNC have a great blog about it, specifically mentioning Advocates for Youth, yet another group who is opposed to this discriminatory legislation. You can also check out WRAL's report from "crossover day," and why Republicans are disappointed (hint: it's near the end of this article.)
  
• Further proof that the far-right isn't letting this bill die without a fight: A rally was held last week in Grifton, NC in support of "traditional marriage." ENC Today (not to be confused with us) has the sad story. The rally's sponsors are a new grassroots group called... wait for it... We Luv Marriage. I'm guessing "We Love Marriage" was already taken?
  
• Carrboro's community newspaper, the Carboro Citizen has an outstanding article on the benefits of the Healthy Youth Act, written by Paige Johnson - a wonderful ally of ours.
• Q-Notes has the story about how hopefully we're one step closer to justice in this tragedy, as the Fayetteville police arrested a suspect in the murder of drag performer Jimmy McCollough.
  
• The Moderate Voice has an interesting article on the new documentary film "Outrage" that's been getting a lot of buzz. (It seeks to out closeted politicians with strong anti-gay voting records - pretty controversial.) It features some quotes from our board member, Dan Gurley.

That's all for now! Stay tuned for next week's roundup, and enjoy your weekend!

PS - We want to say a quick congratulations to all of our supporters who are graduating from college! Having your support while you're dealing with all the stress of college means the world to us, and we wish you only the best in your future endeavors.

Someone Ought to Write a Letter! Public Support and the Antibullying Bill

This past weekend, the News & Observer had a nice POV piece in support of the School Violence Prevention Act, as well as several positive letters to the editor. Recently the N&O and the Charlotte Observer ran their own editorials in support of the bullying bill.

Now that the SVPA has passed the Senate and we're waiting for it to be heard in the House in the second part of the legislative session, voices in the public are an easy and great way to make a difference and help support this legislation.

Letters to the editor are simple to do, they're excellent tools for community education, and they're a good way to draw attention to an issue (as well as to highlight people or groups around the issue, either positively or negatively).

They're also a way to get a bit of small, local celebrity and spark some interesting conversations in your community. And let's face it, it's thrilling to see yourself published in a newspaper.

Here are some tips to getting your letter in your local paper.

• If you're responding to a specific article, editorial, or previous letter, refer to it at the beginning of your letter. And the sooner you write in response to that item, the better.
  
• If there's a specific local connection relevant to the paper you're submitting to, mention it. Local community connections always make for a better story.
• If you have a personal anecdotes, especially for the bullying issue, tell it.
  
• Be sure to follow any specific guidelines the paper proscribes, e.g., maximum letter length. You can generally find the guidelines and contact information on your paper's opinion page.
  
• Be brief and to to the point. Shorter letters are more likely to be printed than longer ones.
  
• State your main point immediately, i.e., "We need laws that protect all students from bullying."
  
• E-mail your letter if you can. This makes it easier for the paper to publish your letter with a minimum of work, and it's more immediate.
  
• Tell the truth - both stating facts and telling your personal truth - and avoid personal attacks.
• Always include your name, street address, phone number, and e-mail addresses. In general, papers will not publish anonymous letters, and many will call or e-mail you to verify that you want your letter printed.

Here're links to letters and articles on the issue. Use their arguments and structures as samples for crafting your own individual letter:

• letter from Chapel Hill
• letter from Raleigh
• POV column with religious angle
  
• N&O Editorial from today
  
• Charlotte Observer Editorial from last week
  

In our information age, it's never been easier to share your opinion. Someone ought to write a letter, and that person is you!

Equality in the News: May 2 - 8, 2009

First things first: The School Violence Prevention Act passed in the Senate on a final vote of 26-22! We know this has everything to do with the e-mails, phone calls, personal meetings, postcards that you were a part of, so thank you for helping to pass the first ever LGBT-inclusive bill in the North Carolina State Senate! Now, let's get it passed in the House and make schools safer for all students in NC. Lots of stories on that bill from across the state below.

The Healthy Youth Act still needs your help, so keep making those calls and sending those e-mails to give parents a choice on which sex-ed curriculum is taught to their students. Of course, on the national level, we can't forget to congratulate Maine on becoming the 5th state to take a stand for same-sex marriage. It's all happening so fast, isn't it? And now, on to the news:

School Violence Prevention Act:

• North Carolina Public Radio's fabulous Laura Leslie covers the Senate debate on the bill in her blog, including the opposition's indignity towards openly gay and bill champion Sen. Boseman, and it includes a great audio clip from the debate from Sen. McKissick of Durham.
• The Charlotte Observer has a great editorial supporting the bill.
• Public Policy Polling's blog has an interesting article on how Republican Senators may or may not be following their constituent's opinions when it comes to the bullying bill, considering most Republican voters support the bill, but no Republicans in the Senate voted for it).
  
• Raleigh's News & Observer's political blog, Under the Dome, notes the crazy idea being pushed by the Catholic bishops that protecting LGBT kids from bullying will lead directly to same-sex marraige. Seems like they're missing that the bill that clearly states it creates no protected or suspect classes. (Bill sponsor Sen. Julia Boseman even directly refuted this claim, which you can read about at WUNC.)
• Q-Notes offers their take on the historic passage.
  
• National gay blog Queerty discusses the School Violence Prevention Act here. Be careful, they refer to us as "New Hampshire" towards the end of the article, but it's really us they're talking about!
  

Healthy Youth Act:

• Wilmington's Star News online covered the bill's action here. New Hanover County is the only in the state to offer the three options - comprehensive, abstinence-only or no sex education and finds that most parents prefer comprehensive over any other.
• The Daily Reflector of Greenville, NC also weighed in on the Healthy Youth Act in this editorial.

Non-Discrimination:

• Carborro's recent attempt to create equal and fair housing opportunities for all of its citizens (the attempt was to add sexual orientation/gender identity and expression to the enumerated list) was blocked by the House of Representatives. The Carrboro Citizen has an opinion piece about that here.
  

Virginia Foxx:

• Kudos to Winston-Salem's PFLAG for having their voices heard in the Winston-Salem Journal and YES! Weekly with ads denouncing Virginia Foxx's recent appalling comments on Matthew Shepard's death while debating the Federal Hate Crimes Bill.

That about does it for this week. There's sure to be more stories and opinions about the passage of the SVPA over the weekend, so we'll be looking! Enjoy your weekend, and thanks again for all that you do for Equality NC.

Equality in the News: April 25 - May 1, 2009

Time for another news update! First things first...

If you've been keeping up to date with our Action Alerts, you know that things are happening with the School Violence Prevention Act and the Healthy Youth Act. Try forwarding this link to 3-5 of your family members and friends across the state - ones you may not have tried before. The web address to forward is: http://eqfed.org/campaign/svpa_2. The opposition is organizing as best as they can, and they can be a powerful bunch so let your voices of reason be heard. Let's make next week's news roundup full of good news about these important bills!

On a national level - the federal Hate Crimes Bill (Matthew Shepard Act) passed in the House, with no help from our very own Representative Virginia Foxx! And now, the week in news.

• WXII of the Triad featured a little video about the Virginia Foxx controversy, featuring School Violence Prevention Act advocates Kate & Neena Mabe. If you haven't yet checked out the Mabes moving remarks during our SVPA Press Conference, check them out at our YouTube channel.
• Continuing their coverage on Ms. Foxx, WXII sought our very own Ian Palmquist for his thoughts on the controversy here.
  
• The Hickory Daily Record becomes yet another ally supporting the Healthy Youth Act. They know that North Carolina needs to give young people information they need about sex.
  
• To read about the Healthy Youth Act and School Violence Prevention Act advancing out of committee, check out the AP article here.
• By now, you're probably familiar with Carl Walker-Hoover and Jaheem Ferrera, the 11-year old victims of bullying who ended their own lives within weeks of each other. Although this didn't happen in North Carolina, we know that bullying affects everyone - from students, to staff, parents, families, and communities. The New York Times blog features their story and alarming statistics about nationwide bullying. It's a must-read, and you can check it out here.
• One of our wonderful board members, Dan Gurley, is quoted in an article about Pennsylvania Senator Arlen Specter's headline-grabbing shift from Republican to Democrat. Salon.com has the story here.
• Raleigh's News & Observer mentions how Marriage Discrimination Amendment supporters are having a hard time finding that support on Facebook. Find out how many more people support marriage equality than discrimination (on Facebook, anyway) here.
• Equality NC has Twitter, and Ian does a great job posting live updates from Legislative Sessions concerning our bills - it's almost like you're there! Make sure you follow us to get those updates.

Congratulations to Seth and Stephen, our fabulous interns who are graduating from their Master's in Social Work program this week! We're proud of you.

Thanks for reading! Stay dry this weekend, and enjoy yourselves!

Equality in the News: April 19 - 24, 2009

Wes here with this week's news roundup. Nationally, things have been very exciting with justice for transgender hate crime victim Angie Zapata, Connecticut makes same-sex marriage official, and the federal hate crimes bill passing a major hurdle all this week! Plus our colleagues in Iowa, Maine and New York launched great videos to support their marriage equality campaigns. And now, the rumblings around our neck of the woods...

• Our friend Sarah Preston of the ACLU has a great post up over at NC Policy Watch about the need to pass the Healthy Youth Act and the School Violence Prevention act.
  
• The Raleigh News & Observer's Under the Dome blog has an interesting article on a bill concerned with gender neutrality in state laws. What are the implications of this with marriage? Find out here.
• CNN has a moving account of Jaheem Herrera's mother speaking out after bullying drove him to suicide. Will the NC legislature act to address bullying before a child dies in our state?
  
• Commissioners in Hoke County unanimously passed a resolution in support of the Marriage Discrimination Amendment this week. The Fayetteville Observer has the story.
• You probably heard that one of our very own, Kristen Dalton, is now Miss USA, but more than likely, you heard more about Miss California's ...interesting response to Perez Hilton's question on her views of same-sex marriage. We're going to avoid the whole judgment mess that's going on with those two right now, but you might be proud to hear what Kristen Dalton thinks about same-sex unions.
• Another Letter to the Editor mentioning our radical homosexual agenda, this time out of Spring Hope, NC in the Spring Hope Enterprise. You can read that here. If you're from the area, perhaps you could write a letter of your own that refutes the myths that pervade that letter!
  
• Q-Notes has an article about Ted Haggard coming to town on Sunday, April 26. If that's your sort of thing, you can check that out here.

That about does it for this week. If you happen to find an interesting article regarding Equality's work here in North Carolina, feel free to send me a tip. Stay cool this weekend! See you next Friday!

Blowing Out Bullying

Teasing and blowouts may be acceptable in a hair salon, but never in our schools. Kyle Britt, a Greensboro hair stylist, knows this. Which is why he decided to organize "All Tangled Up," a hair show/fashion show to benefit Equality NC in Greensboro last Thursday at the fabulous Studio B event space downtown.

To be quite honest, we weren't sure how exactly a this show could tie in to what we're trying to accomplish this year in session. It didn't take long for us to realize that we're just conditioning these students to think that bullying is okay if we don't try to pass legislation like the School Violence Prevention Act (HB#548 / SB#526) now. Some of these kids come home from school and want to curl up and dye. It's hard for these kids to just relax in class and learn, and it's inevitable that some are walking away from these bullying experiences with permanent damage. Just last week, I heard about a boy named Bobby being pinned down on the playground for wearing ugly sneakers. Kyle agreed that it was a good idea to help cut bullying rates by supporting the SVPA, which enumerates commonly targeted individuals, based on things such as real or perceived sexual orientation, class, physical appearance, disability, or color.

Having been to the show, I quickly realized that the idea was just so crazy it worked. This was an excellent opportunity for us to reach a group of people who had never heard or heard very little about us. We brought along the postcards from our postcard campaign, and we're happy to report that Kyle was able to raise money on our behalf. We can't thank him enough for the opportunity to build more support for this important bill. If you're in or around Greensboro and looking for a new 'do, may we suggest giving Kyle a visit? He's at Studio 207 off Lewis Street downtown.

One thing that I've especially loved about working with Equality these past few months is all the wonderful folks I've met from across the state. "All Tangled Up" was no different. We brought along some temporary tattoos with our logo (as modeled by Aimee and some friends in the picture), which people seem to love. We were also able to get a great number of postcards signed from folks in Davidson, Rockingham, Guilford, Forsyth, Alamance and Stokes counties. Mostly, it's just great to meet new people who are inquisitive and enthusiastic about the work that we're doing.

This is a great example of one more way you can help build a state of equality. Kyle took an unconventional idea and made it work for him (and us!) within the realm of what he was able to achieve. The best part of all is that he was able to raise awareness and funds for something that's important to him. We're very open to your ideas for fundraising and awareness-raising, and Kay can be a great resource if you think of any.

Thanks to Allen Broach, a committed supporter of Equality NC and owner of the beautiful Studio B for providing the space for what was such an entertaining and enjoyable event. And of course, thanks again to Kyle, and the over 200 attendees of "All Tangled Up" who rallied for Equality (and great hair!)