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

Hate Crimes

If you've been following the gay blogosphere, you've probably heard about the recent deaths of some teenagers that were killed because they were perceived to be gay. Now, more than ever, it is important to stand up against acts of hate against LGBT people. A bill called the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act is being pushed through Congress right now. A similar bill was passed by both houses of Congress last year, but was vetoed by President Bush. Now we finally have a President who has been a vocal supporter of hate crimes legislation inclusive of LGBT people. If there is a time to act, it is now. I doubt this would be the case, but there is always the chance we might not have President Obama in the White House four years from now. 

A lot of lobbying organizations have been publishing lies and misinformation about this bill saying that it's really a "though crime" bill and will punish pastors for standing against homosexuality. Unless they plan to be to execute acts of violence or murder, these claims are bogus. States across the US (including Kansas, by the way. I know it's unbelievable but look it up) that have sexual orientation in their hate crime laws do not experience cases of pastors and Christians being victimized. However unconvincing these arguments might seem, it is important that we contact our elected officials and let them know what we think about this bill in order to counter the lies being told.

If you live in Johnson County, here are your elected officials contact info:

Dennis Moore (House Democrat):

1727 Longworth House Office Building,
District of Columbia 20515-1603
Phone: (202) 225-2865

Sam Brownback (Senate Republican):

303 Hart Senate Office Building,
District of Columbia 20510-1604
Phone: (202) 224-6521

Pat Roberts (Senate Republican):

109 Hart Senate Office Building,
District of Columbia 20510-1605
Phone: (202) 224-4774