My "friend" [insert airquotes cause I did] said, "I hope you're not offended, but I'm going to vote yes on Prop. 8." What was strange is that we were talking about the economy. It was such a strange, jarring non sequitur.
You know that yes means you're voting against gay marriage, right.
"Right. It's just that I just don't think that marriage should be between people of the same sex. I mean you know I don't have a problem with being gay...you being gay. I mean clearly I don't have a problem with that."
How can you say that? You know that when you two get married, I'd be completely be in support...
"But if you get married, I'd be there for you too."
That's the point, in your hands I never will be!
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"What a fucking jackass! And that dude's supposed to be your friend? Assholes like that are a waste of air."
OK. The response was maybe a little extreme, but I can't say it wasn't nice to have that kind of passion for marriage equality from a straight man. Unfortunately, Razor Burn wasn't planning on voting this November. California was sure to go to Obama.
"What about the other issues? Like Prop. 8?"
You know what, I'm gonna vote just so I can for for Prop. 8
"OK, you're awesome, but when you get out there, please please please vote AGAINST it."
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The point is that at this point Prop 8 support has been buttressed by the $27 million raised by those who want to reverse the recent, but hopefully not temporary, strides forward for gay rights. The point is that the tide has recently turned in favor of those opposing marriage equality, with the most recent polls indicating 47% in favor of Prop 8 and 42% against. The point is we are at risk of taking a step backwards.
The point is we can't do it alone. We can't just count on the GLBT community to vote this down; we just don't have the numbers. But we all have straight friends, co-workers, relatives who may not be aware of the issue. So before the election talk to them. Secure the vote.
Just make sure they know they're voting AGAINST and not FOR the stupid proposition.
Good for you Van.
It's a shame a country so known for being inclusive is now trying to be so exclusive.
Keep fighting..you make America a better place
Posted by: Mike | October 19, 2008 at 05:01 PM