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May 19, 2009
Civil Debate
Tonight I was able to go to the Ward 6 Democrats meeting where a resolution to endorse marriage equality legislation was overwhelmingly endorsed, by a vote of 73-3.
I was pleased to see that Bishop Harry Jackson (the scowlingest man in right wing politics) was able to show up to witness such an ignominious defeat—I might add, arriving only after the presentation on green jobs that took up most of the meeting.
I doff my cap, however, to the woman who spoke out against the resolution.
The meeting went something like this. After the resolution was introduced: massive applause. After a representative spoke in favor: massive applause. After to floor was opened for someone to speak against the resolution: silence.
Eventually, one of the pro-gay activists supporting the resolution said quietly, but loud enough for everyone to hear: sweeeeet.
But one woman decided that she had to speak out against the resolution. Sure, she was crazy. Sure, she derided the religious integrity of everyone in the room. Sure, she said that all our ancestors would “roll over in their graves” because of the decision to end civil discrimination against gay couples. But she spoke out. Good for her.
Judging by today’s meeting, marriage equality in the District is a foregone conclusion. This is unquestionably a good thing. And it’s hard to do anything but laugh at the cynicism of people like Harry Jackson. But it’s good and healthy to people speak out on both sides of the issue. It’s not easy sometimes. Good for them.
Posted by Drew at May 19, 2009 10:59 PM