A Couple Things

I called Dennis Moore's office to voice my support for the Matthew Shepard Act. I actually found out from the guy that answered the phone that he is a co-sponsor of the bill and has been in years past when they've tried to pass it as well. I felt kind of embarrassed that I didn't already know that (I'm a former intern for his campaign office), but it was good to hear that he supports the bill. The vote is tomorrow! Since we're getting support from our House Representative you might want to start thinking about the Senate vote. 

Also, I sent in an application today for the Soulforce Q Camp. If you are not familiar with Soulforce, they are a terrific organization that does peaceful demonstrations on gay rights around the country everywhere from Christian colleges to mega-churches. The are founded by the wonderful Mel White (who, along with his son Mike, were on this past season of The Amazing Race). The deal with the camp is, if you get accepted, they will pay for your entire stay at the camp including travel, food, lodging, everything (!) provided that you agree to lead an LGBT supportive event in your community. The purpose is to build LGBT rights leaders across the country. I think this would be a really good opportunity for me to learn about what I can do to take the JCEP to the next level.

And finally, Iowa same-sex marriages have begun. Yay! If there's hope for Iowa, there's hope for Kansas, too.

Over and out,

Matt

Johnson County Equality Project (JCEP) Coordinator