Dear Friend:
I'm writing today to encourage you to join me in the Valentine's Day
Actions for Same-Sex Marriage on Monday, February 14, 2005.
This year, it is more important than ever that we
make a bold, public statement in support of marriage equality.
Your voice is vital to the work of
justice!
Even though we experienced some setbacks at the
ballot box last year, we are surrounded by hopeful signs:
- Just last week, the second highest court in
the State of New York ruled that same-sex marriage must be made legal there.
Another historic breakthrough!
- Canada is now moving into the final stage of
parliamentary action which will make same-sex marriage legal in every Canadian
province.
- Israel, South Africa, England and Scotland
have all had recent successes in advancing marriage equality and LGBT partner
rights.
This year, I encourage you to do what thousands
and thousands of LGBT people, along with our friends and families will do:
- Go to your local courthouse or marriage bureau
on Feb. 14.
- Tell your local press and media what you'll be
doing.
- Apply for a marriage license.
- If your application is rejected, step before
the cameras and reporters and tell them why marriage equality is important to
you and your family!
On Monday morning, February 14th, my partner
Phillip and I will join couples from across Southern California at the Beverly
Hills Courthouse -- the same courthouse where our own application was rejected
two years ago... and where we announced last year that we were filing the first
lawsuit in California for recognition of our Canadian marriage.
We'll be joined by famed attorney Gloria Allred
and other couples who are suing the state of California. And we'll use this
opportunity to share our story through the media.
If you need an Action Kit to
help you organize your event, or a sample press release that you can send to
your TV stations and newspapers, simply write to
info@MCCchurch.org.
I hope you'll stand with me on Monday, February
14. Together, we'll take another step forward for equality.
/signed/ Rev. Troy D. Perry
P.S. Don't forget to register your event on-line
by sending details to
webmaster@dontamend.com.
