From Ethan Jacobs associate editor, Bay Windows a brilliant look inside the body of politics as Massachusetts strives to become the only state in the union to offer both Marriage equality and transgender inclusive legislation.
From Ethan;
"LGBT advocates have already persuaded a majority of the legislature to back the transgender rights bill, but that doesn’t mean that passage of the bill is a done deal. In fact, the bill’s fate will ultimately be determined by a handful of legislative "gate-keepers" who must decide both to support it and to make it a legislative priority. Without their support and commitment to expend political capital on the measure, the bill is dead in the water this session."
Ever wonder how one bill passes both houses in one session and another languishes to die never to have been introduced for consideration? Read all about it at "I’m just a (trans rights) bill"
3/18/09
US to sign UN gay rights declaration!
Source Associated Press US to sign UN gay rights declaration! The US condemned worldwide by human rights organizations for the Bush administrations refusal to sign the United Nations declaration decriminalising homosexuality will join with the western world by signing the UN document, sources now say.
Still refusing to sign the UN document are Islamic countries, Russia, China and the Vatican.
planetransgender USA Refuses to Sign UN Gay and Transgender Rights Declaration
ABC News Sources: US to Sign UN Gay Rights Declaration
Queers United: Catholic Church Against Making Gay Death Penalty Illegal
365 Gay US refuses to sign UN gay rights declaration
Gay Couple Beaten After Britney Spears Newark Concert
Source The Star-Ledger. Gay Couple Attacked after Newark New Jersey Concert say police slow to help.
Pictured Daniel Caldwell who's jaw was broken during the attack. According to security guards police drove away despite being flagged down by witness's after a group of twenty people beat the couple. Forty five minutes after Cadwell was transported by ambulance the police finally appeared at the crime scene according to Caldwell's partner, Joshua Kehoe.
The police, reluctant to label attacks 'hate crimes' are looking at DOT video's from the area to help make a determination if the attack was bias motivated. According to the victims, the assailants yelled hate slurs that defame homosexual's while hitting and kicking the couple.
Steven Goldstein, chairman of Garden State Equality said his group is looking into the attack.
"Two people have the living daylights beaten out of them, while they are called a (epithet)," he said. "If that's not a hate crime, then I don't know what it is."
By Kelli Busey
March 18, 2009
planetransgender
Pictured Daniel Caldwell who's jaw was broken during the attack. According to security guards police drove away despite being flagged down by witness's after a group of twenty people beat the couple. Forty five minutes after Cadwell was transported by ambulance the police finally appeared at the crime scene according to Caldwell's partner, Joshua Kehoe.
The police, reluctant to label attacks 'hate crimes' are looking at DOT video's from the area to help make a determination if the attack was bias motivated. According to the victims, the assailants yelled hate slurs that defame homosexual's while hitting and kicking the couple.
Steven Goldstein, chairman of Garden State Equality said his group is looking into the attack.
"Two people have the living daylights beaten out of them, while they are called a (epithet)," he said. "If that's not a hate crime, then I don't know what it is."
By Kelli Busey
March 18, 2009
planetransgender
3/16/09
Union Bar Reaches Agreement With GLBT Community
The Houston GLBT Political Caucus and Union Bar released the following joint statement Monday evening. Because of the resolution of this matter, the Facebook group "United Against Union Bar" will be shut down on Wednesday.
Representatives from Union Bar and Lounge met with leaders from the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community Monday and reached a resolution that actions that led to the perception of discrimination were unintended.
“Due to a miscommunication between management of Union Bar and Lounge and the door staff, we acknowledge that actions by the door staff caused an unintended perception of discriminatory actions towards the gay and lesbian community. We wholeheartedly did not want or intend for this to happen. We also acknowledge that this unintended action caused hurt and bad feeling within the gay and lesbian community towards Union Bar and it staff. We also extend this apology to all of our regular gay and lesbian customers who may have been hurt by this misunderstanding.”
“We deeply appreciate Union Bar and Lounge coming to us to clear up this incident,” said Kris Banks, president of the Houston GLBT Political Caucus. “We accept Union Bar’s explanation that miscommunication was at the heart of the problem. We understand that there was no discriminatory intent, but circumstances led to a strong perception that we were excluded because of our sexual orientation.’
“Our community is sensitive to discrimination, an understandable sentiment given the unfinished nature of our civil rights movement. Discrimination still exists, and should be addressed with legislation like House Bill 2215. We were happy to hear that the owners of Union Bar and Lounge are supporters of this legislation 100%."
“We are happy for resolution and call for the GLBT community to move on and continue working for equality. We urge the community to cease negative bombardment, especially highly inappropriate harassment and threats.”
The Union Bar and Lounge will continue to work with the GLBT community and intends to hold a fundraiser in the near future
Reaceived March 16, 2009 via facebook from "United Against Union Bar"
Related Article
Houston Texas Bar Refuses Gay People
Representatives from Union Bar and Lounge met with leaders from the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community Monday and reached a resolution that actions that led to the perception of discrimination were unintended.
“Due to a miscommunication between management of Union Bar and Lounge and the door staff, we acknowledge that actions by the door staff caused an unintended perception of discriminatory actions towards the gay and lesbian community. We wholeheartedly did not want or intend for this to happen. We also acknowledge that this unintended action caused hurt and bad feeling within the gay and lesbian community towards Union Bar and it staff. We also extend this apology to all of our regular gay and lesbian customers who may have been hurt by this misunderstanding.”
“We deeply appreciate Union Bar and Lounge coming to us to clear up this incident,” said Kris Banks, president of the Houston GLBT Political Caucus. “We accept Union Bar’s explanation that miscommunication was at the heart of the problem. We understand that there was no discriminatory intent, but circumstances led to a strong perception that we were excluded because of our sexual orientation.’
“Our community is sensitive to discrimination, an understandable sentiment given the unfinished nature of our civil rights movement. Discrimination still exists, and should be addressed with legislation like House Bill 2215. We were happy to hear that the owners of Union Bar and Lounge are supporters of this legislation 100%."
“We are happy for resolution and call for the GLBT community to move on and continue working for equality. We urge the community to cease negative bombardment, especially highly inappropriate harassment and threats.”
The Union Bar and Lounge will continue to work with the GLBT community and intends to hold a fundraiser in the near future
Reaceived March 16, 2009 via facebook from "United Against Union Bar"
Related Article
Houston Texas Bar Refuses Gay People
Integrity Marching to Anaheim
All of the sacraments for all of the baptizedPlease share this video with your friends and fellow parishioners--and encourage them to support this crucial effort.
You might also consider holding a "screening party" in your home or parish. Please contact me if you would like a supply of contribution packets for your guests.
If you have already contributed, THANK YOU! If you have not yet given, please GIVE NOW by clicking here and designating your contribution for the "Anaheim Appeal." Making a secure, online donation using your debit or credit card will help us keep costs as low as possible.
If you prefer, you can donate by mailing a check--made payable to "Integrity" and with "Anaheim Appeal" in the memo line--to...
Integrity USA Anaheim Appeal
274 N Goodman St #B267
Rochester NY 14607
Thanks for helping make all the sacraments of the Episcopal Church available to all the baptized.
Sincerely,
R. Bruce Colburn
Development Coordinator
bruce@integrityusa.org
Walking With Integrity
Houston Texas Bar Refuses Gay People
MIDTOWN BAR REFUSES GAY PEOPLE
Gays not feeling the love after being made to wait in rain as others admitted.
Nearly 100 gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people were refused entry to Union Bar and Lounge in Midtown Friday while others were welcomed.
Patrons started lining up at about 9:40 p.m. and were told to wait in line and not allowed inside, even as straight-appearing people were waved through. As the line grew and patrons waited in the rain, employees at the door told those who were that they were maintaining a “ratio.” Later, the bar employees simply indicated they had the right to refuse anyone.
“I was shocked to be a victim of that kind of discrimination in a city like Houston in 2009,” said Neal Falgoust, a Houston law student. “I have never experienced anything like that before in my life.”
A patron who arrived at the bar early reported that the bar was nearly empty at about 9:40 p.m., when gay people started arriving and were stopped at the door.
Gay people continued to line up to the street and around the corner as people who appeared to be straight went to the front and were ushered in. Kris Banks, who stood at the front of the line, said the bar employees were asking the women who were entering with men if the men were accompanying them. If the men were with the women, they were allowed in.
“I arrived and heard that they were not allowing gay men in, so when I got to the door with three women I asked if we would be allowed in, and the door employee said ‘I was told to keep you out,’ ” said Lindsey Dionne. “This was supposed to be a social event, but now it’s political.”
That this kind of discrimination is still legal in Houston makes it more outrageous. A coalition of GLBT rights groups, including the Houston GLBT Political Caucus, the Houston Stonewall Young Democrats, the Harris County Impact Houston and Amicus at South Texas College of Law said Saturday that the incident is proof of the necessity of legal protections for sexual orientation and gender identity for public accommodations.
“Houston is the only major city in Texas without a law that prevents this kind of discrimination,” said Jerry Simoneaux, GLBT civil rights lawyer. “This incident is exactly the reason Houston should implement such an ordinance.”
The event was organized as Houston’s first “Guerilla Gay Bar,” a tongue-in-cheek event that has been popular in other cities in which GLBT individuals come to traditionally straight bars to interact with other communities. Though Guerilla Gay Bars are usually a surprise event in other cities, Houston organizers informed the bar owner in advance out of courtesy and were told they would be welcomed.
Contacts: Kris Banks,
President of Houston GLBT Political Caucus,
281-797-1507
Jerry Simoneaux,
GLBT civil rights attorney,
713-577-9587
On the Web
[transgendernews] [News] [TX, USA] Gays Banned From Bar Event in Houston[transgendernews] [News] [TX, USA] Gays Banned From Bar Event in Houston
The Advocate "Bar Crashers Say Straight Venue Shut Them Out"
The Caucus "Midtown Bar Refuses Gay People"
Yep.com Reviews
Google Map and review
3/14/09
Pray for Jackie! EXPECT MIRACLES!!!
The young lady gracing the slide show is Jackie Murphree from Decatur Texas. A college student who's life was forever changed when her car was hit by a drunk driver. Jackie's brain was shifted and she remained in a coma for several months until finally emerging. But now Jackie's eyes must now speak for her.
Jackie's faith family prayed that time forward for miracles. The miracles the world awaits for began to occur to the people that Jackie's life touches. Adversaries found common ground. People began finding ourselves in the grace of our lord and being brought together in the Methodist faith. Recovering substance abuser's refreshed, pausing to wonder in the beauty of the lives we had taken for granted.
Why should we not pray with Jackie because she needs us now. She is going to China where stem cell research has progressed to the point that it offers her a opportunity to become a vibrant interactive woman once again.
We can be part of this miracle. If you can come to Decatur there are many opportunities to help, but if you can't, you can be a miracle maker by sending a check to; Legend Bank/ Attn: Jackie Murphree Benefit Account/ P.O. Box 1001/ Decatur, TX 76234.
Pray for Jackie! EXPECT MIRACLES!!!
DECATUR — Sitting in a wheelchair, Jackie Murphree's eyes must now speak for her.
Benefit Fun Run May 23, 2009 sign up form
My space Pray for Jackie! EXPECT MIRACLES!!!
First UMC Decatur, Decatur, TX
Jackie's faith family prayed that time forward for miracles. The miracles the world awaits for began to occur to the people that Jackie's life touches. Adversaries found common ground. People began finding ourselves in the grace of our lord and being brought together in the Methodist faith. Recovering substance abuser's refreshed, pausing to wonder in the beauty of the lives we had taken for granted.
Why should we not pray with Jackie because she needs us now. She is going to China where stem cell research has progressed to the point that it offers her a opportunity to become a vibrant interactive woman once again.
We can be part of this miracle. If you can come to Decatur there are many opportunities to help, but if you can't, you can be a miracle maker by sending a check to; Legend Bank/ Attn: Jackie Murphree Benefit Account/ P.O. Box 1001/ Decatur, TX 76234.
Pray for Jackie! EXPECT MIRACLES!!!
DECATUR — Sitting in a wheelchair, Jackie Murphree's eyes must now speak for her.
Benefit Fun Run May 23, 2009 sign up form
My space Pray for Jackie! EXPECT MIRACLES!!!
First UMC Decatur, Decatur, TX
Pedophiles in Church : Catholic Abuse of Christianity
The Catholic Church's refusal to accept sexual diversity as a god given undeniable human condition has resulted in thousands of children sexually abused and more victimized daily by the very institution entrusted with the sanctity of life.
With the single minded determination of a bloodied fighter covering on the ropes the Catholic Church is swinging wildly hoping to inflict a mortal blow on what it mistakenly perceives as its opponent, sexual minorities.
Ultimately it is the silent innocent victim who suffers as the Catholic Church pays hush money and allows this abhorrent practice to continue. It's secrecy and duplicity condoning religious violence against boys and girls. As Sex claims against US Church rise over one half of the Catholic victims are just babies, children under 10 years old.
Sex claims against US Church rise
Priests to face 'sex drive tests'
Pope sorry for priests' sex abuse
Vatican opposes UN Declaration on decriminalisation of homosexuality
Pope 'did not help girls abused by Florence priest'
Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests (SNAP)
Vatican
Catholic Church Facing Biggest Threat Ever
by k.a. Busey
March 19, 2009
planetransgender
About the author.
I am a transgender woman of faith. It is my love of Christianity which motivates me to reach out to the Catholic Church. It is my hope that this effort will in some small way help.
3/13/09
Sex-change for Free : Tamil Nadu India
BREAKING NEWS From planetransgender april 16, 2009 "Tamil Nadu : Forced Prostitution In Exchange for Sexual Reassignment Surgery(SRS)"
Laying in the southeastern corner of India is Nadu Tamil. The state of தமிà®´்நாடு with culture predating recorded history has transitioned back to the future as a world leader of progressive thinking by offering sexual reassignment surgery. In a country suffering from current western transphobic influences, the present treatment of India's transgender people often mirrors that of it's contemporaries, with indifference and cruelty being the norm. This has not always been true of India and once again the ancient reverence of humanity is manifesting in popular culture.
Published by Indian Express.com the article by Vinay Sitapati is much more than a story about getting a Sex-change for free, it is the story of societal success..
"In the midst of all this, Tamil Nadu stands out in how it treats transgenders. The state has set up a Transgender Welfare Board with a budget of 50 lakh rupees per year. That’s around 100 rupees per eunuch — meagre but without parallel in the rest of India. More than money, it’s the schemes themselves that are eye-catching: special ration cards for eunuchs and “admission to transgenders in Government colleges,” to quote DMK MP Kanimozhi. But it’s Tamil Nadu’s decision to pay for sex-change surgery that is truly path breaking." read on Sex-change for free
MURDERED : Ebru Soykan Turkish Transgender Human Rights Activist
Turkey: Another Transgender Activist Murdered
Government Should Prosecute Violence, Prohibit Discrimination
Ebru's murder was the second this year of transgender activists in Turkey. She was a leading figure in an organization that worked to end police harassment and ill treatment of transgender people. She was stabbed in her home in spite of having notified the police of the dangerous man who they presently have in custody in connection with her murder.
Many people in Turkey feel that the police if not committing the violence, turn a deaf ear to warnings and a blind eye to crime if it is committed against transgender people.
The Human Rights Watch published the report "A Social Hell: State Violence, Abuse, and Harassment against Transgender People" in 2008 which describes Turkey as a place that “We Need a Law for Liberation”.
by k.a. Busey
March 13, 2009
planetransgender
Related on the web
Pink News U.K. "Transgender activist murdered in Turkey"
3/12/09
Task Force Executive Director Rea Carey attends White House Forum on Health Reform
MEDIA CONTACT:
Inga Sarda-Sorensen
Director of Communications
(Office) 646.358.1463
(Cell) 202.641.5592
isorensen@theTaskForce.org
“In the coming months, the macro themes and issues raised at the summit will work their way through to concrete policy and funding decisions that will affect the day-to-day lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.”
— Rea Carey, Executive Director, National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
WASHINGTON, March 6 — National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Executive Director Rea Carey was among those participating in yesterday’s White House health-care reform summit convened by President Barack Obama.
Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
“The White House Forum on Health Reform was a powerful start to reforming health care and how our country views health generally. With Sen. Ted Kennedy in the room, people couldn’t help but be inspired to focus on solutions. In the coming months, the macro themes and issues raised at the summit will work their way through to concrete policy and funding decisions that will affect the day-to-day lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. The Task Force will be working to make sure our needs, lives and families are not left behind. For example, how families are defined will be critical to ensuring full coverage of LGBT people, our partners/spouses and our children. The days when we must pay taxes on domestic partner health benefits must end.
“Other issues of great concern to LGBT people are the need for inclusive services; quality health care for those who are not employed; funding for community-based health centers with culturally sensitive services; addressing the ‘preexisting conditions’ barriers that far too many in our community face by having to move from job to job due to lack of employment protections or barriers faced by transgender people; and the racial and economic disparities that have plagued the existing system.
“Our community has a great deal at stake in the outcomes of this process but we also have a lot to offer in terms of solutions, creativity and engagement — after all, our community created an entire infrastructure of HIV/AIDS care when the government was unwilling to take action in ways that addressed the scale of the problem.”
Inga Sarda-Sorensen
Director of Communications
(Office) 646.358.1463
(Cell) 202.641.5592
isorensen@theTaskForce.org
“In the coming months, the macro themes and issues raised at the summit will work their way through to concrete policy and funding decisions that will affect the day-to-day lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.”
— Rea Carey, Executive Director, National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
WASHINGTON, March 6 — National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Executive Director Rea Carey was among those participating in yesterday’s White House health-care reform summit convened by President Barack Obama.
Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
“The White House Forum on Health Reform was a powerful start to reforming health care and how our country views health generally. With Sen. Ted Kennedy in the room, people couldn’t help but be inspired to focus on solutions. In the coming months, the macro themes and issues raised at the summit will work their way through to concrete policy and funding decisions that will affect the day-to-day lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. The Task Force will be working to make sure our needs, lives and families are not left behind. For example, how families are defined will be critical to ensuring full coverage of LGBT people, our partners/spouses and our children. The days when we must pay taxes on domestic partner health benefits must end.
“Other issues of great concern to LGBT people are the need for inclusive services; quality health care for those who are not employed; funding for community-based health centers with culturally sensitive services; addressing the ‘preexisting conditions’ barriers that far too many in our community face by having to move from job to job due to lack of employment protections or barriers faced by transgender people; and the racial and economic disparities that have plagued the existing system.
“Our community has a great deal at stake in the outcomes of this process but we also have a lot to offer in terms of solutions, creativity and engagement — after all, our community created an entire infrastructure of HIV/AIDS care when the government was unwilling to take action in ways that addressed the scale of the problem.”
Top Task Force staffer on hand as President Obama signs executive order creating White House Council on Women and Girls
March 11, 2009
MEDIA CONTACT:
Inga Sarda-Sorensen
Director of Communications
(Office) 646.358.1463
(Cell) 202.641.5592
isorensen@theTaskForce.org
WASHINGTON, March 11 — President Barack Obama signed an executive order today creating the White House Council on Women and Girls. The council is designed to provide a coordinated federal response to the challenges confronting women and girls, and to ensure that all cabinet and cabinet-level agencies consider how their policies and programs impact women and families. National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Deputy Executive Director Darlene Nipper attended today’s signing at the White House.
The White House Council on Women and Girls will be chaired by Valerie Jarrett, a senior adviser to the president, and the day-to-day operations will be run Tina Tchen, currently director of the White House Office of Public Liaison.
Statement by Darlene Nipper, Deputy Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
“Women and girls have made great strides in the United States, but challenges clearly remain. The highest echelons of government need to be aware of and actively engaged in finding solutions to critical issues affecting women and girls — issues like pay equity, threat of violence, work-life balance for working women, and access to affordable health care and child care. Women and their families are particularly vulnerable on all these counts during an economic downturn. Lesbian, bisexual and transgender women face additional obstacles because they are unprotected by most nondiscrimination employment laws and family recognition laws. This new council will hopefully ensure the voices of women and girls are heard and that these issues remain front and center in the White House.”
MEDIA CONTACT:
Inga Sarda-Sorensen
Director of Communications
(Office) 646.358.1463
(Cell) 202.641.5592
isorensen@theTaskForce.org
WASHINGTON, March 11 — President Barack Obama signed an executive order today creating the White House Council on Women and Girls. The council is designed to provide a coordinated federal response to the challenges confronting women and girls, and to ensure that all cabinet and cabinet-level agencies consider how their policies and programs impact women and families. National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Deputy Executive Director Darlene Nipper attended today’s signing at the White House.
The White House Council on Women and Girls will be chaired by Valerie Jarrett, a senior adviser to the president, and the day-to-day operations will be run Tina Tchen, currently director of the White House Office of Public Liaison.
Statement by Darlene Nipper, Deputy Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
“Women and girls have made great strides in the United States, but challenges clearly remain. The highest echelons of government need to be aware of and actively engaged in finding solutions to critical issues affecting women and girls — issues like pay equity, threat of violence, work-life balance for working women, and access to affordable health care and child care. Women and their families are particularly vulnerable on all these counts during an economic downturn. Lesbian, bisexual and transgender women face additional obstacles because they are unprotected by most nondiscrimination employment laws and family recognition laws. This new council will hopefully ensure the voices of women and girls are heard and that these issues remain front and center in the White House.”
Senator Renfroe : Respect Justice During Angie Zapata's Murder Trial
Ask Senator Renfroe of Greeley to Respect Justice During Angie Zapata's Murder Trial
By Kelli Busey
March 12, 2009
planetransgender
***************************
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Feb. 25, 2009
Contact: Jeremy J. Shaver
Work: 303-733-4089
Cell: 303-324-7923
Interfaith Alliance of Colorado challenges harmful rhetoric in debate over Senate Bill 88
DENVER – The Interfaith Alliance of Colorado is concerned and saddened by the inflammatory rhetoric and disregard for the boundaries between religion and government displayed on the Colorado Senate floor on Monday.
The disturbing comments came during debate on Senate Bill 88 – legislation that would provide health benefits to the same-gender domestic partners of state employees. Sen. Scott Renfroe, of Greeley, quoted Bible verses to argue that the state should not condone homosexual relationships. He went even further by saying homosexuality is an “abomination” and an “offense to God.”
Continue reading press release "Interfaith Alliance of Colorado challenges harmful rhetoric in debate over Senate Bill 88"
***********************************
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Allies with religious convictions and atheists alike are equally upset. Take Action and contact Senator Renfroe.
Sample Statement
[written by kelli Busey, feel free to cut and paste]
Senator Renfroe,
As we are sure you are aware, there is on going murder trial in Greeley CO. where impartiality of Justice could not be of more importance.
In respect of Angie Zapata's murder trial, family, friends and allies of the Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual and Transgender community respectfully ask that Senator Renfroe contain his comments to those that do nor disparage LGBT people.
As this Murder trial will be directly affected by a State Senators comments that reflect his religious convictions and not the legislative mandates of Colorado, we ask Senator Renfroe to respect justice for this period of time and join the state of Colorado, the United States and indeed the world in efforts to find common ground.
Respectfully,
Contact Senator Renfroe and voice your opinion!
By phone:
303-866-4451
By e-mail:
scott.renfroe.senate@state.co.us
By mail (for official business):
Senator Scott Renfroe
State Capitol
200 E. Colfax Avenue
Denver, CO 80203
By mail (for campaign business):
Scott Renfroe for Senate
3201 Grandview Drive
Greeley, CO 80631
On Twitter:
On Twitter
On Facebook:
Facebook
By Kelli Busey
March 12, 2009
planetransgender
***************************
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Feb. 25, 2009
Contact: Jeremy J. Shaver
Work: 303-733-4089
Cell: 303-324-7923
Interfaith Alliance of Colorado challenges harmful rhetoric in debate over Senate Bill 88
DENVER – The Interfaith Alliance of Colorado is concerned and saddened by the inflammatory rhetoric and disregard for the boundaries between religion and government displayed on the Colorado Senate floor on Monday.
The disturbing comments came during debate on Senate Bill 88 – legislation that would provide health benefits to the same-gender domestic partners of state employees. Sen. Scott Renfroe, of Greeley, quoted Bible verses to argue that the state should not condone homosexual relationships. He went even further by saying homosexuality is an “abomination” and an “offense to God.”
Continue reading press release "Interfaith Alliance of Colorado challenges harmful rhetoric in debate over Senate Bill 88"
***********************************
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Allies with religious convictions and atheists alike are equally upset. Take Action and contact Senator Renfroe.
Sample Statement
[written by kelli Busey, feel free to cut and paste]
Senator Renfroe,
As we are sure you are aware, there is on going murder trial in Greeley CO. where impartiality of Justice could not be of more importance.
In respect of Angie Zapata's murder trial, family, friends and allies of the Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual and Transgender community respectfully ask that Senator Renfroe contain his comments to those that do nor disparage LGBT people.
As this Murder trial will be directly affected by a State Senators comments that reflect his religious convictions and not the legislative mandates of Colorado, we ask Senator Renfroe to respect justice for this period of time and join the state of Colorado, the United States and indeed the world in efforts to find common ground.
Respectfully,
Contact Senator Renfroe and voice your opinion!
By phone:
303-866-4451
By e-mail:
scott.renfroe.senate@state.co.us
By mail (for official business):
Senator Scott Renfroe
State Capitol
200 E. Colfax Avenue
Denver, CO 80203
By mail (for campaign business):
Scott Renfroe for Senate
3201 Grandview Drive
Greeley, CO 80631
On Twitter:
On Twitter
On Facebook:
Amnesty International : Say No to Internet Censorship on March 12
World Day against Cyber Censorship is this Thursday, March 12. It is a day to advance and celebrate a free Internet as an open window to the world and denounce the attacks made on the free flow of information online. Urge Google, Yahoo!, and Microsoft not to censor any of their search engines or blog platforms anywhere around the world on this day.
Take Action With Amnesty International
Angie Zapata Trial : Andrade's Murder Confession Thrown Out
March 12, 2009 by k.a. Busey
Weld District court Judge Marcelo Kopcow has ruled that defendant statements made after 39 minutes of questioning while be dissallowed after Andrade told Greeley detective Greg Tharp ‘I’m done. Yeah, I’m not talking right now’ [that] "... is a clear statement of the defendant’s request to remain silent and cut off further questioning.."
Also disallowed is evidence possibly increasing the severity of sentencing due to Andrade's alleged gang membership in which sexual activities outside of the heteronormative is punishable by beatdown, expulsion and even death making killing of Zapata seem as imperative to Andrade.
What is not known is the content of the confession prior to the 39 minute point.
According to the comprehensive article by the Greeley Tribune the evidence that will be allowed at the trial scheduled to begin on April 14;
"Statements to police admitting to stealing Zapata’s car.
Recorded phone calls Andrade made from jail to his girlfriend.
Evidence from a friend saying Zapata looked convincingly like a woman.
Evidence and photos from Andrade’s cell phone (though some pictures are out). The cell phone notes 670 separate communications between Andrade and Zapata between July 1-16, 2008."
Related articles on the web;
Greeley Tribune by Sharon Dunn "Andrade's murder confession thrown out"
bird of paradox "Judge to rule on confession in Angie Zapata killing"
planetransgender Jan 01,09 "Angie Zapata's Life and Death : changed how we are treated"
planetransgender Sept. 19,08 "Angie Zapata's accused killer to be tried for for 1st degree murder"
3/11/09
Urge Senator Saxby Chambliss of Georgia to Support a National Hate Crimes Bill
Contact Senator Saxby Chambliss of Georgia and urge him to support the Mathew Shepard Hate Crime Legislation.
The below correspondence was received in response to a request made to Sen. Chambliss that he support national hate crimes legislation.
"Thank you for contacting me regarding your thoughts on hate crime legislation. I appreciate hearing your concerns on this matter."
"There is little evidence that indicates that violent crimes motivated by "hate" go unpunished in the United States. Most states already have criminal laws that prohibit the anti-social behavior addressed by hate crime legislation - including laws against murder, rape, arson, assault, and battery."
"I oppose the creation of Federal hate crime legislation for a variety of reasons. First, I do not believe the Federal government should interfere with the criminal laws already on the books in our states. Second, many hate crime bills attempt to establish a "protected class" of crime victims who would receive special protection under the law. And finally, we already have laws to prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes. Those people guilty of violent crimes against anyone should be prosecuted under existing law."
Some back ground information
A sample Letter
I hope you will support a Senate hate crimes bill.
The LGBT community has long unjustly suffered from violent crime targeted directly against Transgender, Bisexual, Queer, Gay and Lesbian people, law enforcements inability to identify hate crimes against LGBT people and the judicial systems inability to enforce harsher sentencing for hate crimes against LGBT people.
Sen Sen. Chambliss contact page
The below correspondence was received in response to a request made to Sen. Chambliss that he support national hate crimes legislation.
"Thank you for contacting me regarding your thoughts on hate crime legislation. I appreciate hearing your concerns on this matter."
"There is little evidence that indicates that violent crimes motivated by "hate" go unpunished in the United States. Most states already have criminal laws that prohibit the anti-social behavior addressed by hate crime legislation - including laws against murder, rape, arson, assault, and battery."
"I oppose the creation of Federal hate crime legislation for a variety of reasons. First, I do not believe the Federal government should interfere with the criminal laws already on the books in our states. Second, many hate crime bills attempt to establish a "protected class" of crime victims who would receive special protection under the law. And finally, we already have laws to prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes. Those people guilty of violent crimes against anyone should be prosecuted under existing law."
Some back ground information
A sample Letter
I hope you will support a Senate hate crimes bill.
The LGBT community has long unjustly suffered from violent crime targeted directly against Transgender, Bisexual, Queer, Gay and Lesbian people, law enforcements inability to identify hate crimes against LGBT people and the judicial systems inability to enforce harsher sentencing for hate crimes against LGBT people.
Sen Sen. Chambliss contact page
'Man in the Shower' says eye witness Mary Ann Ondray er I mean Mary Ann Andree, I mean Mary ann, oh whatever.
"Have Hate" and no way to express it?
"We have a speical today on the ever popular 'shower' method." According to Mary Ann Jane Doe of the 'Concerned Citizens of whatever' "We have refined the shower method allowing the creation of an extremly dangerous precedents by getting close friends (or club members and even husbands) to cross dress, commit crimes by invading the opposite sex's most personal space while they are most vulnerable."
"Apparently success was achieved in our last effort" according to Whatever Jane Doe, "Not only can someone claim at some point that this was a only 'test' of a law, but it gives credence to potential criminals that this behaviour is permissible hopefully perpetuating violence and validating our incredibly outrageous claims."
"It's a win win for us haters" says Mary Ann Whatever Dope "We can lobby against human rights laws while actually promoting hate crimes and violence against woman and children!"
"Its all for a just cause. Our cause. Hate and Bigotry." says Doe Jane Whatever, "Now here is the kicker. You can even change the names of the perpetrators and continue to highlight this event as 'Evidence' of the dangers of enacting human rights laws and our husbands, club members and good ole buddies can walk away, scott free in full view of law enforcement."
'Concerned Citizens for something or another' did not return latter calls regarding possible 'Testing' of federal perjury laws.
Some links possibly related found somewhere on the web
January 17, 2008
Eye witness Mary Ann Andree told WJLA-Television
transadvocate.com Theresa Rickman Admits To Locker Room Media Stunt
Eyewitness "Ondray" recounts man in shower to Channel 7 News
Pams House Blend Theresa Rickman Admits To Locker Room Media Stunt
teachthefacts.org
Examiner.com Kelly Nicholson, general manager for the gym questioned whether the person was actually transgendered
Possibly written by kelli Anne Busey
testing of planetransgender's ablity to withstand bullshit
Could have been written on March 11, 2009
"We have a speical today on the ever popular 'shower' method." According to Mary Ann Jane Doe of the 'Concerned Citizens of whatever' "We have refined the shower method allowing the creation of an extremly dangerous precedents by getting close friends (or club members and even husbands) to cross dress, commit crimes by invading the opposite sex's most personal space while they are most vulnerable."
"Apparently success was achieved in our last effort" according to Whatever Jane Doe, "Not only can someone claim at some point that this was a only 'test' of a law, but it gives credence to potential criminals that this behaviour is permissible hopefully perpetuating violence and validating our incredibly outrageous claims."
"It's a win win for us haters" says Mary Ann Whatever Dope "We can lobby against human rights laws while actually promoting hate crimes and violence against woman and children!"
"Its all for a just cause. Our cause. Hate and Bigotry." says Doe Jane Whatever, "Now here is the kicker. You can even change the names of the perpetrators and continue to highlight this event as 'Evidence' of the dangers of enacting human rights laws and our husbands, club members and good ole buddies can walk away, scott free in full view of law enforcement."
'Concerned Citizens for something or another' did not return latter calls regarding possible 'Testing' of federal perjury laws.
Some links possibly related found somewhere on the web
January 17, 2008
Eye witness Mary Ann Andree told WJLA-Television
transadvocate.com Theresa Rickman Admits To Locker Room Media Stunt
Eyewitness "Ondray" recounts man in shower to Channel 7 News
Pams House Blend Theresa Rickman Admits To Locker Room Media Stunt
teachthefacts.org
Examiner.com Kelly Nicholson, general manager for the gym questioned whether the person was actually transgendered
Possibly written by kelli Anne Busey
testing of planetransgender's ablity to withstand bullshit
Could have been written on March 11, 2009
"Man in the Womans Shower" says witness Mary Ann Ondray er, I mean Mary Ann Andree, I mean of whatever....
"Got Hate" and no way to express?
"We have a speical today on the ever popular 'shower' method." According to Mary Ann Jane Doe of the 'Concerned Citizens of whatever' "We have refined the shower method allowing the creation of an extremly dangerous precedent by getting close friends (or club members and even husbands) to cross dress, commit crimes and invade the opposite sex's most personal spaces, while they are most vulnerable."
"Apparently success was achieved in our last effort" according to Jane Doe, "Not only can someone claim at some point that this was a only 'test' of a law, but it gives credence to potential criminals that this behaviour is permissible hopefully perpetuating violence and validating our incredibly outragious claims."
"It's a win win for us haters" says Mary Ann Whatever Doe "We can lobby against human rights laws while actually promoting hate crimes and violence against woman and children!"
"Its all for a just cause. Our cause. Hate and Bigotry." says Doe Jane Whatever, "Now here is the kicker. You can even change the names of the perpetrators and continue to highlight this event as 'Evidence' of the dangers of enacting human rights laws and our husbands, clubmembers and good ole buddies can walk away, scott free in full view of law enforcement."
'Concerned Citizens for somethin or another' did not return latter calls regarding possiable 'Testing' of federal purgery laws.
Some related links found on the web
http://transadvocate.com/autumnsandeen/archives/1493
http://www.teachthefacts.org/2008/01/there-they-go.html
"We have a speical today on the ever popular 'shower' method." According to Mary Ann Jane Doe of the 'Concerned Citizens of whatever' "We have refined the shower method allowing the creation of an extremly dangerous precedent by getting close friends (or club members and even husbands) to cross dress, commit crimes and invade the opposite sex's most personal spaces, while they are most vulnerable."
"Apparently success was achieved in our last effort" according to Jane Doe, "Not only can someone claim at some point that this was a only 'test' of a law, but it gives credence to potential criminals that this behaviour is permissible hopefully perpetuating violence and validating our incredibly outragious claims."
"It's a win win for us haters" says Mary Ann Whatever Doe "We can lobby against human rights laws while actually promoting hate crimes and violence against woman and children!"
"Its all for a just cause. Our cause. Hate and Bigotry." says Doe Jane Whatever, "Now here is the kicker. You can even change the names of the perpetrators and continue to highlight this event as 'Evidence' of the dangers of enacting human rights laws and our husbands, clubmembers and good ole buddies can walk away, scott free in full view of law enforcement."
'Concerned Citizens for somethin or another' did not return latter calls regarding possiable 'Testing' of federal purgery laws.
Some related links found on the web
http://transadvocate.com/autumnsandeen/archives/1493
http://www.teachthefacts.org/2008/01/there-they-go.html
3/10/09
Queers United: Take Action to Support Civil Unions in Hawaii
Queers United: Take Action to Support Civil Unions in Hawaii
From Queers United;
The civil unions bill has already passed the Hawai'i State House of Representatives, but it has hit a roadblock in the State Senate. It's not too late for the Senate to take action and pass this legislation, but we need your help. We need your voices, speaking in favor of equality, to let the State Senate and Governor Lingle know that many residents of Hawaii reject discrimination and support civil unions. Please sign the attached petition in support of the civil unions bill.
Follow the link above to sign the petition now to demand civil unions and pass this on to friends.
From Queers United;
The civil unions bill has already passed the Hawai'i State House of Representatives, but it has hit a roadblock in the State Senate. It's not too late for the Senate to take action and pass this legislation, but we need your help. We need your voices, speaking in favor of equality, to let the State Senate and Governor Lingle know that many residents of Hawaii reject discrimination and support civil unions. Please sign the attached petition in support of the civil unions bill.
Follow the link above to sign the petition now to demand civil unions and pass this on to friends.
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