Today is a sad day for equality in Maine, throughout the country, and around the world. Yesterday Maine voters who were frightened by misinformation went to the polls and voted away marriage equality in their state, saddening GLBT activists and supporters everywhere, but our fight is not over. Those close to Boston can assemble with friends at the Boston Common 6:00PM tonight and hear a host of speakers who are committed to continue the fight for equality. We are Americans, which means we know defeat is temporary and that our determination will in the end win our cause for us. Tonight and in the coming days all of us may want to ask the same question of ourselves; "Did I do my part?"
Our country was founded on the principle that although we are all different we are as equal as our actions afford. When you deny an entire class of people equal rights, such as marriage, it casts that principle aside and shows that fear can govern our minds more than our logic. Once, not so long ago, people were proud to stand up for civil rights on principle alone. Is there anyone left out there that cares enough to stand up and be counted without regard to ridicule or personal cost?
Are you angry enough to start fighting back yet? How much does it take before the GLBT community unites and starts working to end this ugliness once and for all for the benefit of everyone? Put your checkbook away and instead give your time. Find a group near you and join the fight for equality, because next time it could be your rights that's being put up for public vote.
By John Hosty-Grinnell