tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89455902011-08-16T20:12:27.192-07:00K Fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803006283303626964noreply@blogger.comBlogger2631100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-66526974229567432732007-11-06T15:26:00.000-08:002007-11-06T15:41:00.138-08:00

From now on, we'll be posting at the new blog at www.basicrights.org. Please join us over there.Thanks!

K Fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803006283303626964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-24002592320161432832007-09-26T17:57:00.000-07:002007-09-26T18:00:07.271-07:00

Amid reports that their efforts to roll back Oregon's new anti-discrimination laws were faltering, anti-gay activists today turned in barely enough signatures to meet the 55,179 minimum required by the Secretary of State to force a referendum on the laws. Because of likely duplications and other errors by signature gatherers, it is too early to tell whether the effort was successful."We are

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-48936925643693198492007-08-14T17:03:00.000-07:002007-08-14T17:08:13.987-07:00

I'm writing today with an update about the efforts by anti-gay groups to force a public vote on our new Basic Fairness laws. I’m also writing with a simple message: We absolutely must not underestimate our opponents.As you know, opposition groups have pledged to bring both the Oregon Equality Act and the Oregon Family Fairness Act to a public vote on the November 2008 ballot. Last week we asked

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-16451637843072406612007-07-11T15:11:00.000-07:002007-07-11T16:43:37.704-07:00

Wasco County Court Unanimously Approves Anti-Discrimination Ordinance Wasco County answers moral call to treat all it's residents with fairness and dignity--barring discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity(Portland, Oregon) Today the Wasco County Court voted unanimously to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. In doing so, Wasco County becomes

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-73782467482212326152007-07-11T13:14:00.000-07:002007-07-11T13:54:42.633-07:00

Basic Rights Education Fund Launches Statewide Public Education Campaign: 50 Voices for EqualityFrom Faith Leaders and Elected Officials to Parents and Business Leaders, Fifty Straight Oregonians Speak Out About Fairness for Gays and Lesbians(Portland, Oregon) Today, Basic Rights Education Fund, the 501(c)(3) arm of Basic Rights Oregon, launched a large-scale statewide education campaign,

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-2504107765976940542007-06-21T10:53:00.000-07:002007-06-21T11:26:27.364-07:00

Today, Thursday, June 21st, you will have the amazing opportunity to eat out at any of over 70 establishments in Oregon and 15% of the proceeds will go directly to Basic Rights Oregon to help defend Oregon's new basic fairness laws. That's right! Bites for Rights is here! You can eat lunch, dinner or even go to happy hour at one of the over 70 establishments and you will be supporting equality!!

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-37924761169788680012007-06-20T15:01:00.000-07:002007-06-20T15:05:34.235-07:00

Legislation to legalize same-sex marriage in New York, supported by Gov. Eliot Spitzer, was approved 85-61 by the state Assembly Tuesday after an often emotional three-hour debate. Despite the victory for supporters of the legislation, the bill is not expected to be acted on any time soon in the Republican-led state Senate.Read the entire story here.

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-31439496521937590742007-05-15T16:52:00.000-07:002007-05-16T16:39:14.647-07:00

That was the headline in today's Oregonian and unfortunately, it's true. Together we won tremendous gains toward equality at the Legislature, and together we can - and will - protect those rights at the ballot. But we cannot do it alone. The Oregon Family Fairness Act and The Oregon Equality Act together seek to ensure fundamental fairness for all Oregonians and their families, but a vocal

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-87742566912984312822007-05-09T14:40:00.000-07:002007-05-09T19:12:44.679-07:00

Today marks a landmark victory for Oregonians and their families. Senate Bill 2 and House Bill 2007 will become law January 1, 2008.View our press release here.

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-758444657726418702007-05-02T16:28:00.000-07:002007-05-03T12:53:06.947-07:00

Voted for HB 2007 and in favor Oregon families:Brad  Avakian-DAlan  Bates-DKate  Brown-DGinny  Burdick-DMargaret  Carter-DPeter  Courtney-DRyan  Deckert-DRichard  Devlin-DAvel  Gordly-IBetsy  Johnson-DRick  Metsger-DLaurie  Monnes Anderson-DRod  Monroe-DBill  Morrisette-DFrank  Morse-RDavid  Nelson-RFloyd  Prozanski-DKurt  Schrader-DJoanne  Verger-DVicki  Walker-DBen  Westlund-DVoted Against

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-29743266890224968102007-05-01T23:21:00.000-07:002007-05-03T12:50:12.651-07:00

11:38am HOUSE BILL 2007 PASSES 21-9!!!11:37am Vote begins.11:35am When nature calls...11:35am Here it goes. Oh - looking for a missing Senator.11:33am ROLL CALL.11:32am CALL OF THE SENATE. VOTE ABOUT TO BEGIN.11:32am Sen. Burdick has 7:30 left to speak.11:31amHB 2007 is landmark for all oregonians. With this legislation we say that Oregon values all families. With this legislation we are telling

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-68065971426528258792007-05-01T13:03:00.000-07:002007-05-01T13:05:23.192-07:00

Just a reminder that BRO Staff will be blogging live from the Senate vote on our Domestic partnerships bill (HB 2007). Blogging will start around 10:15am.

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-41104481156943577812007-04-25T13:31:00.000-07:002007-04-25T13:32:39.926-07:00

Aisling Coghlan, Interim Executive Director of Basic Rights Oregon, issued the following statement today in reaction to the recent comments by Oregon State Representative Dennis Richardson (R- Central Point) in a weekly newsletter to his district. In the newsletter, Richardson made a reprehensible comparison between the massacre at Virginia Tech last week and the passage of a Domestic Partnership

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-9114070269626153342007-04-24T11:11:00.000-07:002007-04-24T11:31:58.430-07:00

After the huge success of the first annual STRUT Fashion show in 2006 (photos), 2007's show is ready to blow it out of the water.This year's event in on Friday, May 11, 7pm @ The Wonder Ballroom,128 NE Russell in PortlandThe designers include:Jonny Shultz Designswww.jonnyshultzdesigns.comRachel Mara www.rachelmara.comLeAnimal www.leanimal.comWema Designs www.wemadesigns.comSameunderneath

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-9575631704189141602007-04-23T13:19:00.000-07:002007-04-23T14:48:57.194-07:00

Fellow Oregonians, today we ask you to take 60 seconds of your day to use our online advocacy tool to tell your Oregon State Senator to vote YES on House Bill 2007, the Domestic Partnership bill.60 seconds of your time can go a very long way. Please click here to send them an email of support.Tell your friends!

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-58778620786780281892007-04-19T10:15:00.000-07:002007-04-19T12:12:19.954-07:00

12:15There have been a lot of questions about when these two bills, once law would go into effect. Please go to www.basicrights.org and sign up for our e-newsletter (on the left hand side of the home page). We will be sending out a newsletter today (Thursday) explaining what's next.Thanks to everyone!11:05amThat's it folks. Basically no debate. Painless. Senate Bill 2 has passed all hurdles. As

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-40451764495222963472007-04-18T20:32:00.000-07:002007-04-18T20:34:41.061-07:00

Don't you worry! We'll be blogging LIVE tomorrow from the Senate Floor as debate happens and as the vote occurs!

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-89634523870303118072007-04-17T09:44:00.000-07:002007-04-17T18:32:44.381-07:00

1:51PMOutside of the House Majority Leader's office supporters are gathered to celebrate this historic moment. Speaker Merkley, Majority Leader Hunt, Rep. Rosenbaum, Rep. Macphearson, and Rep. Kotek all gave a few remarks before supporters relaying their excitement over the passages of HB2007 and SB2. Majority Leader Hunt mentioned that this is a great moment in our history and giant stride on

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1174598340412523982007-03-22T15:14:00.000-07:002007-03-22T15:27:33.266-07:00

Queer & Trans students come together to build community and break down barriersBy Jessica Lee - Basic Rights Oregon Youth OrganizerBasic Rights Oregon and the Oregon Student Equal Rights Alliance (OSERA) partnered to host the first statewide queer and trans students of color gathering in February, 2007. This event was part of Basic Rights Oregon's Youth Organizing Project, and conducted as part

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1173134003998288142007-03-05T14:20:00.000-08:002007-03-05T14:47:49.796-08:00

Just an update on Lon Mabon's two ballot initiatives for 2008. Both have just been approved by the Oregon Secretary of State for circulation. Meaning they can begin to gather signatures. Read below for information on these hateful attempts by Mabon and his ilk...From our Feb. 1 Newsletter:Just When You Thought He Was Done... For all you who thought Lon Mabon had shuffled away with his tail

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1169513550673447052007-01-22T16:46:00.000-08:002007-01-22T16:53:43.553-08:00

Two dedicated Oregon queer political activists, Kristin Flickinger and Laura Calvo are candidates running for seats on the National Stonewall Democrats Board of Directors. Both are also longtime, super volunteers for Basic Rights Oregon.The National Stonewall Democrats is a grassroots network connecting LGBT Democratic activists from across the United States. With more than 90 chapters across the

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1167762023372546142007-01-02T10:12:00.000-08:002007-01-02T10:20:23.393-08:00

With only hours left in the day, Massachusetts legislators will decide to either vote on referring gay marriage to the ballot or to not vote on it at all. Many in the chamber are not wanting to vote on it--stating, "This is the first time that the petition process has ever been used to consider reinserting discrimination into the constitution."From MassLive.com:Lawmakers are scheduled to meet in

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1166736222732926562006-12-21T13:21:00.000-08:002006-12-21T14:36:19.856-08:00

Basic Rights Oregon applauded the recommendations of the Governor's Task Force on Equality contained in a report made public by Governor Kulongoski today. The report summarizes the work of the Task Force this year and recommends two major changes to State policy: State law should prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity and should provide a framework for legal

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1165525488197582572006-12-07T13:02:00.000-08:002006-12-07T13:04:48.200-08:00

Following our community's historic victories in the 2006 Election Cycle, Basic Rights Oregon is now in the midst of strategizing, planning and prioritizing for our next fight in the Oregon Legislature in 2007 to push for pro-equality legislation. Your thoughts and feedback are a critical part of that process. Only 130 people have completed our survey so far. If you haven't given your thoughts and

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1165525367650162732006-12-07T13:01:00.000-08:002006-12-07T13:08:08.176-08:00

Last weekend more than 80 activists gathered at the University of Oregon for Basic Rights Oregon's 2nd Statewide Leadership Summit. Key activists from Western, Central, Southern and Coastal Oregon made the trek to Eugene. The day started off with an opening from Eugene Mayor Kitty Piercy, followed by the Voices From the Field panel. This showcased the diversity and realm of work being done in

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1164051212029934752006-11-20T11:32:00.000-08:002006-11-20T11:36:20.320-08:00

Vigils, services and a variety of other events are being held in 250 cities around the world today to mark Transgender Day of Remembrance - the day set aside to memorialize those who were killed due to anti-transgender hatred or prejudice.The first Transgender Day of Remembrance was organized by Gwendolyn Ann Smith in 1999 in San Francisco to honor the memory of Rita Hester who was murdered on

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1163042919961404682006-11-08T19:22:00.000-08:002006-11-08T19:28:39.976-08:00

Just thought I would share a quote from Minority Leader Jeff Merkley who could soon be Speaker of the Oregon House.Last night at the Benson Hotel Jeff said:"This is an opportunity for us to present a wonderful agenda on healthcare, on prescription drugs, a full school year for children, biofuels, and a real conversation about civil rights and civil unions."This is quite a welcomed change that we

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1163038525036511352006-11-08T18:03:00.000-08:002006-11-08T18:15:25.053-08:00

KOIN is calling a win for Karen Minnis in House District 49. She is currently leading by around 600 votes. So is there a light at the end of the tunnel? A bright light. Karen Minnis' destructive record as Speaker of the House is OVER. Since the House Dems pulled off that incredible victory last night we will have a new Speaker, a Democrat. Minnis' was also forced to spend an incredible amount of

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1163031367946519512006-11-08T15:55:00.000-08:002006-11-08T16:16:08.963-08:00

Nearly one year ago, we resolved to change our state. We swore to ourselves, our families and our friends that we would defend those who have courageously stood up for equality time and time again and defeat those who have cynically and cruelly blocked efforts to end discrimination in our state. We set out to re-elect our Governor, send at least one anti-equality legislator in the Oregon House

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1162965115308491022006-11-07T21:50:00.000-08:002006-11-07T21:51:55.360-08:00

Victory for the GLBT and choice communities. Oregon has defeated Measure 43, the measure broughht to us by the notoriously anti-equality Oregon Right to Life and The Oregon Family Council.Again, Measure 43 has been defeated.

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1162962530402589742006-11-07T21:07:00.000-08:002006-11-07T21:08:50.403-08:00

BRO endorsed NO votes on both 41 and 48 and they have both failed say the Oregonian.More here.

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1162962403698747512006-11-07T20:49:00.000-08:002006-11-07T21:06:43.716-08:00

The following are the results for some BRO endorsed candidates:Already called:Governor Kulongoski: WINNERCurrently:Larry Galizio (HD 35): 63% Suzanne Bonamici (HD 34) : 63.6%Chuck Riley (HD 29): 55%Viciki Walker (SD 7): 51.86%Rob Brading (HD 49): 51%Virginia Linder (Supreme Court Position 6): 52%Ballot Measures:Measure 39: YES 65%Measure 40: NO 57%Measure 41: NO 64%Measure 42: NO 65.7%Measure 43:

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1162961040061034472006-11-07T20:41:00.000-08:002006-11-07T20:44:00.083-08:00

The Oregonian is calling the Governor's race. They are calling it for Kulongoski. More to come.We can also call House District 44 for Tina Kotek. Tina Kotek is a out Legislator with a background in making Oregon a better place for all Oregonians.More to come...

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1162960781118064672006-11-07T20:37:00.000-08:002006-11-07T20:39:41.133-08:00

In the realm of bad news tonight, several states waging campaigns against anti-gay constitutional amendments to ban same-sex marriage have lost their battles this evening. For the full story, click here.

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1162959887676621602006-11-07T20:10:00.000-08:002006-11-07T20:24:47.713-08:00

The first Oregon election results are in and a minimum number of votes have been counted, but there is already good news:Tina Kotek has become the only out Legislator in the Oregon House, leading her opponent at 77%!!!!With just under 8,000 votes counted, Rob Brading--who is challenging House Speaker Karen Minnis--is up: 51% to 48.5% Early statewide results with 21% percent of precincts reporting

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1162837033468799252006-11-06T10:06:00.000-08:002006-11-06T10:51:45.526-08:00

Never before has Basic Rights Oregon focused so much of its time, energy, resources and dollars on electing pro-equality candidates to office. Tomorrow we will see the results of our efforts. What can you do to promote a state of equality? VOTE! Never before have we had such an opportunity to turn the tide for equality. We've said it before and we will say it again, "the future of equality is on

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1162595748153954362006-11-03T14:57:00.000-08:002006-11-03T15:15:48.170-08:00

I thought we would share some news with you all. Governor Kulongoski just called to thank Basic Rights Oregon and the countless amazing volunteers that have put in so many hours to assist in securing his likely victory. So to all of you who have helped out--Thank you!We only have FOUR days left until election day. Kulongoski's victory is not certain until all the results are in and that is where

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1162407589440462462006-11-01T10:11:00.000-08:002006-11-01T11:40:26.536-08:00

That's right. Values voters, a word that I have personally come to detest over the past 5 years. The word has been dominated by the far-right in order to instill fear into its far-right base. Sadly, "values" have come to be defined as hate, bigotry and sheer ignorance. These so-called "Values voters" have knocked us down time after time, trying to shove us back into silence, back into the closet.

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1162253148113061182006-10-30T15:34:00.000-08:002006-10-30T19:33:01.543-08:00

Basic Rights Oregon is proud to support Rob Brading for House District 49. Rob Brading is taking on House Speaker Karen Minnis for the second time in two election cycles. In their last match up, he ran a bare-bones campaign against the Speaker's big money effort and nearly defeated her. This time, he has the support and resources of a broad coalition behind him. Rob has worked and lived in House

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1162149563913304532006-10-29T10:33:00.000-08:002006-10-29T11:39:04.776-08:00

Former gubernatorial candidate, Senator Ben Westlund, as well as, Former Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber have both thrown their support behind Governor Ted Kulongoski. As we all remember, Senator Westlund was a key sponsor the last session's SB1000, a bill that would have created a statewide, omnibus anti-discrimination policy for the GLBT community. It would have also created civil unions. These

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1161986814927663192006-10-27T14:00:00.000-07:002006-10-27T15:13:52.676-07:00

It is being reported that Oregon Speaker of the House, Karen Minnis, was involved in a cover-up involving the attempted rape of a minor, then paying the victim $20k to keep her quiet.Here is the information we know at this point:The attempted rape involved a 17 year-old girl. According to information uncovered in an ongoing investigation, John and Karen Minnis paid off this 17 year-old girl who

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1161890855807253502006-10-26T12:26:00.000-07:002006-10-26T12:27:35.810-07:00

Nearly eleven months ago we began our biggest effort ever to elect fair-minded lawmakers and replace those lawmakers who have stood in the way of equality. On Election Day, we said, we want to wipe out at least one anti-equality vote in the Oregon House, jeopardize the return of Karen Minnis to the Speaker’s seat and reelect Governor Ted Kulongoski. Throughout the last eleven months, BRO

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1161890759253594492006-10-26T12:25:00.000-07:002006-10-26T12:25:59.273-07:00

Each week from now until election day, BRO will bring you an in depth focus on the most critical ballot measures of this election. This week we focus on Measures 44 and 40. Vote YES on Measure 44 Prescription drug costs have been sky rocketing for years, so have the number of people without health insurance and prescription drug coverage. Measure 44 will help make prescription drugs more

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1161822567111983942006-10-25T17:03:00.000-07:002006-10-25T18:11:10.843-07:00

In the wake of the historic ruling from the New Jersey Supreme Court today that has opened the door to full marriage equality for New Jersey same-sex couples and their families (story here), we thought it would be a good idea to keep you up-to-date on the eight constitutional amendments coming up in other states across the nation.Currently, eight states will vote on ban-gay-marriage amendments in

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1161804627184674572006-10-25T12:20:00.000-07:002006-10-25T12:51:56.530-07:00

Early reports from New Jersey today are that the New Jersey Supreme Court ruled today that it is unconstitutional to deny same-sex couples the protections of marriage. The court stopped short, however, of the Massachusetts Supreme Court decision which allowed same-sex couples to marry. Instead the court took a similar position to the Vermont Supreme Court in a marriage case decided several years

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1161731878690794022006-10-24T16:19:00.000-07:002006-10-24T17:07:03.806-07:00

Headed by Speaker Karen Minnis, The Oregon Family Council and the Oregon Republican Party Rev Up Anti-Equality Campaigns and Get Even Uglier.Last week we told you about the anti-GLBT campaign that had been started by the Defense of Marriage Coalition.Anti-equality extremists - the same groups that sponsored Measure 36 and fought against SB1000 in the legislature - are waging a campaign of lies

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1161730183471269212006-10-24T15:41:00.000-07:002006-10-24T15:49:43.493-07:00

From Lambda Legal:The New Jersey Supreme Court is set to rule in Lambda Legal’s case seeking marriage for same-sex couples tomorrow at 3:00 p.m. EST! We wanted you to be among the first to know.Lambda Legal will hold a press conference at 5:00 p.m. EST. We’ll release our analysis and interpretation of the groundbreaking decision as soon as we can. Check our website tomorrow afternoon for updates,

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1161630992376716722006-10-23T12:08:00.000-07:002006-10-23T14:50:50.793-07:00

By Thomas Wheatley, BRO Organizing DirectorJust about every week I drive from the BRO office in Portland to a Methodist church in Corvallis. It's gotten to be my Thursday ritual. A lot of my job is driving around the state to meet with local activists and volunteers and help people put their values to work in the struggle for full equality.Over the last 10 weeks, I've visited six counties and

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1161130319837290182006-10-17T16:25:00.000-07:002006-10-18T09:29:14.700-07:00

Let us be the string around your finger. Basic Rights Oregon is proud to introduce text message reminders to get you to vote! Want to sign up? It's easy. Visit Vote Equality, our website featuring all candidate and ballot measure endorsements by the Basic Rights Oregon Equality PAC. Click here to sign-up for a text message reminder!

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1161108841574271282006-10-17T11:12:00.000-07:002006-10-17T11:25:35.786-07:00

We need campaign finance reform in Oregon, but Constitutional Amendment 46 & Measure 47 will have unintended consequences that will benefit rich individuals and hurt the rest of us.Constitutional Amendment 46 & Measure 47 Overview:The proposed 46 & 47 are campaign finance changes that will limit political non-profits, such as, Basic Rights Oregon by restricting when and how much we can spend on

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1161040836099563152006-10-16T16:13:00.000-07:002006-10-16T16:24:26.493-07:00

Final reminder. It is too late to mail in your voter registration BUT it isn't too late to drop it off at your county elections office.The last day to register to vote is tomorrow-Tuesday, October 17th.Click here to download the registration form. On the registration form you will find the address for your county elections office, you can also click here to view a list of all the election offices

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1160778944435406452006-10-13T15:30:00.000-07:002006-10-13T15:36:33.733-07:00

That's right. This upcoming Tuesday is the last day to register to vote. Have you moved? Just turned 18? Have never been registered? You have a matter of days to help change history. Click here to register to vote.Once ballots go out, make sure to visit Vote Equality.com for a complete list of endorsements of candidates of equality.

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1160677013415495002006-10-12T11:11:00.000-07:002006-10-12T11:19:35.903-07:00

In celebration of National Coming Out Week, join Basic Rights Oregon for a Statewide Day of Action for GLBT Equality. Click here to learn more and to participate in events around the state to create a fair and equal Oregon. Never has education been more important. Never has your action been more needed. Join your community's events Oct. 14th and get Out for Equality.ALREADY SCHEDULED EVENTS:In

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1160519549886313672006-10-10T15:21:00.000-07:002006-10-10T15:33:05.636-07:00

Over 90% of Oregon’s general fund budget goes to fund education, health care and public safety. Ballot Measure 41 and Constitutional Amendment 48 will devastate health care and human servicesMeasure Overview(s):Measure 41 is retroactive, cutting $151 million in revenue. Measure 41 would also reduce funding for health, seniors and children services by an estimated $170,280,000 in 2007-09.

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1160166359085651872006-10-06T13:25:00.000-07:002006-10-06T14:23:58.200-07:00

Last week we told you that our goal during this election cycle is to keep pressure on Speaker Karen Minnis and jeopardize her return to the Speaker's seat. Putting the pressure on Minnis is a key part of our election effort, but removing her from the Speaker's seat isn't enough to bring pro-equality legislation to a Vote in the Oregon House in 2007. Even though we have the bipartisan votes needed

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1159551096335381362006-09-29T10:30:00.000-07:002006-09-29T10:31:36.353-07:00

We all remember the bitter end to the 2005 Legislative Session when House Speaker Karen Minnis, through a series of extreme political maneuvers, blocked Senate Bill 1000 from a vote on the House Floor where we knew -- and she knew -- it would have passed. Our community vowed then and there to make her next race the toughest she'd ever faced and we are already succeeding. Normally, the Speaker of

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1159480269996430432006-09-28T14:44:00.000-07:002006-09-28T14:51:10.000-07:00

In the coming weeks we'll tell you more about our fight to reach each of our three campaign goals, but the any victory will mean little if we do not reach our third winning objective: to reelect Governor Ted Kulongoski. Here's why: Governor Kulongoski's opponent, Ron Saxton, is an anti-GLBT candidate who supported Measure 36, has stated publicly that he doesn't believe discrimination is a problem

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1159469415844873512006-09-28T11:48:00.000-07:002006-09-28T14:44:34.296-07:00

In just 30 days Oregonians will begin receiving ballots in what will be--for better or for worse--a defining election for the future of GLBT equality in Oregon for years to come. Never has there been more at stake in local, legislative and statewide candidate races for our movement. That's why Basic Rights Oregon has more than doubled any of our previous efforts to elect pro-GLBT legislators and

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1156802752879510442006-08-28T14:54:00.000-07:002006-08-28T15:05:52.896-07:00

Despite extensive work on the part of detectives, Washington County’s only known hate crime remains as much a mystery today as it did five years ago when Loni Kai, a transgender woman, was murdered. Loni Kai, who was born Lorenzo Igisaiar Okaruru, was beaten to death and her body dumped in a field early on the morning of August 21, 2001. Although Oregon is one of 24 states that include sexual

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1156444926911880052006-08-24T10:51:00.000-07:002006-08-24T11:57:15.080-07:00

That's right. Over 26,000 doors in 9 weeks across 4 counties--educating voters on GLBT equality. It is pretty amazing when you think about it. Our canvass team is rockin'. The conversations with voters are happening and we are putting a real face to the GLBT community. Mike Grigsby, BRO's Summer Canvass Director brings us this from the road:I'd just had several tough doors in a row, one woman who

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1155852625775566492006-08-17T15:01:00.000-07:002006-08-17T15:35:32.353-07:00

The atmosphere at the Hillsboro Civil Rights Ordinance Hearing Tuesday night was overwhelmingly energetic and inspiring, and makes me grateful to work for Basic Rights Oregon. It's almost too much to write in a short blog entry. The show of support and solidarity was reflected in the shining and triumphant faces, all wearing bright neon stickers reading: "YES! I support the CIVIL RIGHTS Ordinance

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1155700835710067712006-08-15T21:00:00.000-07:002006-08-16T13:28:04.370-07:00

Earlier this year we told you that we would go city-by-city and county-by-county to pass anti-discrimination legislation until either the whole state is protected or the Oregon Legislature finally does its job and passes a statewide anti-discrimination law. Now, after months of hard work by the grassroots activists of the Washington County Basic Rights Action Team, we have made another giant step

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1155665469449473232006-08-15T11:07:00.000-07:002006-08-15T11:17:17.273-07:00

The City of Hillsboro will hear testimony this evening on whether to enact a city-wide ban on discrimination in housing, employment and public accommodations on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Hillsboro activists affiliated with Basic Rights Oregon have been lobbying the city council and organizing local support for the law since January 2006. Members of the Hillsboro Basic

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1155327028628440482006-08-11T12:55:00.000-07:002006-08-11T13:11:10.246-07:00

We're looking for members of the community to contribute to the Basic Rights Oregon Blog. We invite diversity in thought and want the community to discuss the issues important to the fight for GLBT equality in Oregon.We'll post a few contributions a week from guest columnists. Obviously, we won't be able to publish everything we receive. Interested in writing a guest column? Just submit your

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1155244187062034962006-08-10T13:55:00.000-07:002006-08-11T12:11:34.703-07:00

State Senator Ben Westlund announced at a news conference in Salem today that he is dropping his bid to become Oregon's next Governor. This news makes the battle for the Governor's seat a clear two way race between a sitting Governor with a more than 30 year record of advocating for equality and a challenger who has aligned himself with the most virulent anti-GBLT forces in Oregon and who has

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1154641387389536182006-08-03T14:41:00.000-07:002006-08-03T14:44:55.396-07:00

Earlier this year we pledged to take our fight for anti-discrimination across Oregon city by city and county by county until the Oregon Legislature finally steps up and does its job by passing a comprehensive statewide anti-discrimination bill. Now, Corvallis may join the ranks of cities that honor diversity in both theory and practice when citizens are given the option of revising the city

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1153932492999674482006-07-26T09:43:00.000-07:002006-07-26T10:38:57.546-07:00

Supporters of marriage equality for same-sex couples will gather in Vancouver this afternoon to mark the Washington Supreme Court Decision upholding discrimination against same-sex couples and their families. The gathering will begin at 3 PM, at Esther Short Park, West Columbia at 8th St. in Downtown Vancouver. We urge those in the Vancouver area to attend in support of equality and fairness

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1153932188551661472006-07-26T09:40:00.000-07:002006-07-26T10:49:11.833-07:00

Basic Rights Oregon, the state's largest and most influential gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender advocacy organization, denounced a Washington State Supreme Court decision today on same-sex marriage that upheld discrimination against same-sex couples and their families in the state of Washington. In a splintered 5-4 decision, Washington's highest court held that the state constitution does

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1153927975186981252006-07-26T08:30:00.000-07:002006-07-26T08:32:55.200-07:00

This morning, the Washington Supreme Court issued a decision in Andersen v. King County, a consolidated case regarding Washington’s ban on same-sex marriage. The Court’s lead opinion was authored by Justice Barbara Madsen, holding the Washington "Defense of Marriage Act" does not violate the Washington State Constitution. This decision overturns trial court decisions in King and Thurston

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1153858178875315482006-07-25T13:08:00.000-07:002006-07-25T13:09:38.893-07:00

The state Supreme Court is set to announce tomorrow whether Washington will become the second state to let same-sex couples marry -- a controversial issue that's left people on both sides waiting more than a year for an answer.In a case that some have called the court's most significant in years, justices could decide Washington's law that defines marriage as a union between one man and one woman

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1153853405330631402006-07-25T11:41:00.000-07:002006-07-25T12:06:53.640-07:00

Dear Friends:I am honored to have received the endorsement of the Basic Rights Equality PAC and the Human Rights Campaign in the race for Oregon's Governor and am proud to be a partner with Basic Rights Oregon and HRC in this important struggle for equality in our state. For more than thirty years in public service, I have stood in solidarity with the GLBT community in Oregon and I pledge to

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1153427132150853022006-07-20T13:21:00.000-07:002006-07-20T13:28:48.340-07:00

A Message from Basic Rights Oregon & the Human Rights Campaign: Reelect Governor Ted KulongoskiBasic Rights Oregon and the Human Rights Campaign wholeheartedly support and urge you to reelect Ted Kulongoski for Oregon Governor in the upcoming November election.As GLBT Oregonians, we have been fortunate to live in a state where our Governor has continuously supported our community. Governor

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1153349942188845402006-07-19T15:55:00.000-07:002006-07-19T16:01:33.806-07:00

Two weeks ago we told you about the anti-gay record of Republican nominee for Governor Ron Saxton and the danger for the GLBT community if he were to get elected.If you missed that message, here's a reminder:During the Primary election, we got to see the real Ron Saxton: a candidate who has allied himself with the most virulent anti-gay forces in Oregon. As a result, the GLBT community faces an

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1152637582643846282006-07-11T09:55:00.000-07:002006-07-11T10:06:22.750-07:00

Over at Blue Oregon folks are weighing in on each of the Gubernatorial candidates as they relates the future of GLBT equality in Oregon. Which candidate will be a stronger Governor in the fight for fairness? The Basic Rights Oregon Equality PAC has not yet made an endorsement decision in the race for Governor. But that shouldn't stop you from heading on over to Blue Oregon to join the discussion.

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1152212806674714102006-07-06T12:06:00.000-07:002006-07-06T12:48:46.606-07:00

(Portland) Basic Rights Oregon, the state's largest and most influential gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender advocacy organization, denounced a New York Supreme Court decision today on same-sex marriage that failed to end discrimination against same-sex couples in the state of New York. In a 4-2 decision, New York's highest court held that the state constitution does not require extending the

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1152204550324221782006-07-06T09:48:00.000-07:002006-07-06T09:49:10.346-07:00

(The Advocate) New York's highest court ruled this morning that there is no right to same-sex marriage under current state law. In a 4-2 decision, the Court of Appeals asserted that marriage is restricted to opposite-sex couples in the state and that the constitutional rights of gays and lesbians are not violated because of that, the Associated Press reports.However, the judges acknowledged the

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1151609156551898682006-06-29T12:22:00.000-07:002006-10-25T12:41:21.013-07:00

With the Primary election over, Basic Rights Oregon is beginning its focus on the candidates in the November election for Governor.For the GLBT community the portrait of one of the candidates isn't a pretty one.When Ron Saxton began his quest to be Oregon's next governor, many of us hoped that he might represent a return to a more moderate Republicanism.But that's not what happened.During the

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1151534071707208832006-06-28T15:31:00.000-07:002006-07-01T11:47:36.086-07:00

Two years ago this summer, opponents of GLBT equality submitted signatures for Oregon's Measure 36.It was a very tough campaign. We phone banked. We canvassed. We stuffed envelopes, unstuffed our wallets, and much, much more.If you're like us, you miss the community, the camaraderie and all those queer and friendly faces.So how about a ReUnion party?Let's celebrate our work, drink punch and tell

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1151533764411058462006-06-28T15:25:00.000-07:002006-06-28T15:39:04.933-07:00

We wanted to let everyone know that there is an upcoming meeting with the Governor's Taskforce on Equality that you are welcome to attend.The Governor's Taskforce on Equality will meet June 30, 2006.Time: 9am - 12pmLocation: Bureau of Labor and Industries800 NE Oregon St., Room 120Portland, OregonThe Governor's Taskforce on Equality website is located here. The website contains meeting locations,

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1151452374970033132006-06-27T16:43:00.000-07:002006-06-27T21:06:18.630-07:00

An update on our previous post. There are two military funeral protests by the Phelp's clan--not just one. Four hundred "Patriot Guard's" from seven Western States are riding their motorcycles to Oregon to shield the Westboro Baptist Church protesters. More information below.Rev. Fred Phelps and his followers will be coming to Oregon on Thursday, July 29 and Saturday, July 1st, to protest at the

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1151431293418372292006-06-27T10:31:00.000-07:002006-06-27T21:04:36.466-07:00

[UPDATE: Click here to read]Kidnapped, tortured and killed. A fallen hero and a fellow Oregonian. We wanted to bring this horrific event to your attention. Fred Phelps, leader of the cultish "Westboro Baptist Church" is coming to Oregon to protest at the memorial service of Pvt. Thomas Tucker who was recently killed in Iraq.This message comes from a dear friend of Basic Rights Oregon, Becky

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1151353017278157372006-06-26T13:08:00.000-07:002006-06-26T13:25:11.576-07:00

We would like to extend a special invitation to you, a supporter of basic fairness and equality for all Oregonians. As you know, Roey Thorpe, our Executive Director for the past five years, will be leaving Basic Rights Oregon on June 30th. We invite to to join us on Tuesday, June 27th to bid her farewell.Since taking the top position at Oregon's largest and most influential statewide GLBT-rights

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1151083210021059822006-06-23T10:16:00.000-07:002006-06-23T10:21:09.203-07:00

Position Announcement: Executive Director. Basic Rights Oregon is seeking a passionate and experienced civil rights leader to serve as Executive Director.To view requirements/description for the position, please click here for pdf.

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1150996146299630512006-06-22T10:04:00.000-07:002006-06-22T11:44:26.413-07:00

An amazing 75 restaurants have signed on to donate 15% of their sales today to Basic Rights Oregon. To find what restaurants are participating in your area, please visit www.BitesForRights.com. Eat out all day! Breakfast, lunch and dinner... oooh and don't forget dessert.

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1150752762659480432006-06-19T14:14:00.000-07:002006-06-19T14:34:57.560-07:00

Bites for Rights is back for 2006! Eat out all day--and don't forget dessert! Click here to learn what restaurants are participating in your area. They're all over Oregon!Visit www.BitesForRights.com for all the information that you'd ever need--AND EAT!!!

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1150408677338651252006-06-15T11:15:00.000-07:002006-06-15T14:57:57.446-07:00

Meet Peter Paige of Queer as Folk at the Portland Premier of his new movie "Say Uncle"! Buy Tickets Now!Film Action Oregon and The Portland Lesbian & Gay Film Festival will present the Portland premiere of the film, "Say Uncle" on Friday, June 16 at 7pm. Director Peter Paige and others will participate in a panel discussion to explore the gay themes in the film including discrimination and

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1150220349754850682006-06-13T10:37:00.000-07:002006-06-13T15:37:48.436-07:00

Join Basic Rights Oregon this summer and get paid to stand up for equality! We're launching a massive project to educate the public about issues important to the GLBT community and progressive Oregonians. This is a chance to be part of history.Job responsibilities include:Community outreach and educationRecruit volunteers and build the movement for equalityYou get:A good paying job for the

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1150220079065990742006-06-13T10:33:00.000-07:002006-06-13T15:36:34.576-07:00

Happy Pride Month! Basic Rights Oregon is planning a substantial presence in this year's Pride Parade, and we want you to join us! Partners, friends, family, allies the more the merrier. We'll have a number of elected officials joining us this is your chance to grill them! We'll have signs. And on top of everything, we'll have fun!Meet us at 10:30 am on Sunday, June 18th in the North Park Blocks

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1149696828622440442006-06-07T09:08:00.000-07:002006-06-07T09:15:40.770-07:00

The Senate voted 49 to 48 today to defeat the discriminatory Federal Marriage Amendment, an amendment that would have denied marriage to same-sex couples and seriously threatened civil unions and domestic partnerships. Thank you to all of you who took action here in Oregon--and beyond.As expected, Sen. Ron Wyden voted against it, while Sen. Gordon Smith voted for this discriminatory measure.Bryan

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1149644527372016652006-06-06T18:37:00.000-07:002006-06-06T18:47:46.006-07:00

I just wanted to let everyone know that BRO is working to find out more information regarding the alleged hate crime that took place outside of "The Escape" on Stark St. It is deeply concerning to us and any additional information that we obtain, we will quickly share with you.From kgw.com:Three gay men were beaten near a Portland nightclub last weekend during what police described as a hate

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1149611146498867572006-06-06T09:12:00.000-07:002006-06-06T09:32:08.806-07:00

Senator Gordon Smith (R) supports the Federal Marriage Amendment. He needs to hear from us Oregonians. The last time Republicans tried this they failed, but they're expected to make gains this year. Senator Gordon Smith and Senator Ron Wyden are going to be key. Can you call Sen. Smith and tell them that you, as an Oregonian, adamantly oppose any amendment that would permanently write

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1149288695499831402006-06-02T15:45:00.000-07:002006-06-06T09:12:25.686-07:00

Next week, the U.S. Senate will vote on the so-called "Marriage Protection Amendment" -- a constitutional amendment that will write discrimination into the United States Constitution by banning same-sex marriage. We all know the destructive consequences of such an amendment and we all must act as one to stop it.Senator Gordon Smith plans on voting yes to pass this amendment to permanently write

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1149014679007791492006-05-30T11:43:00.000-07:002006-05-30T11:54:52.703-07:00

In a column for the conservative magazine, The Weekly Standard, Fred Barnes broke the news that President Bush has decided to bow to the weeks of demands from the right-wing extremist groups and hold a press conference in the Rose Garden of the White House to reiterate his support of the Federal Marriage Amendment. According to Barnes, the Rose Garden press conference is scheduled for Monday,

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1148849401694911992006-05-28T13:44:00.000-07:002006-06-02T16:16:48.553-07:00

Kevin Cook (aka Poison Waters) emcee's STRUT, a fashion show at the Wonder Ballroom on June 7 that benefits Basic Rights Oregon.STRUT marks the debut of Jonny Shultz' full line for women. Designing for years, in the past he'd focused on handbags and has been selling pieces from his women's apparel line in YES (811 E Burnside) more recently. We'll also see collections by Vancouver-based Diego (

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1148673488353191662006-05-26T12:57:00.000-07:002006-05-26T15:15:05.363-07:00

Video: July 20, 2005 at the Oregon State Capitol. A rally for SB1000 as Roey Thorpe delivers a message to the crowd.

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1148650335339569602006-05-26T06:21:00.000-07:002006-05-26T10:32:36.046-07:00

Dear Friends,Over the past few years, Basic Rights Oregon has experienced so many changes: we're stronger, more influential, and more respected than ever before. I feel like the luckiest person in the world to have had the opportunity to lead BRO during such a time in the history of this organization and at a time when the LGBT civil rights movement is so dynamic. And now, after five amazing

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1147974821450425852006-05-18T10:51:00.000-07:002006-05-18T11:19:16.006-07:00

First the short of it. Lon Mabon is back and swinging. He has filed an initiative nearly the same as 2000's Measure 9. This time he takes it a step further by including transgender people--an inclusion that likely means they will lead the campaign with a brutal and nasty anti-trans message.Now the additional details.Freshly out of jail, Lon Mabon, is bringing his dirty politics to Oregon's

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1147973596545550832006-05-18T10:20:00.000-07:002006-05-18T11:08:59.783-07:00

Bad news. Basic Rights Oregon has learned that the Oregon Family Council PAC (view report here) and the Defense of Marriage Coalition PAC (view report here) (the backers behind 2004's Measure 36) are busy building an extraordinary war chest-having collectively raised more than one million dollars since the 2004 election. ONE MILLION DOLLARS. To some, this may seem like a paltry sum when Dick

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1147718080337068202006-05-15T11:27:00.000-07:002006-05-15T11:39:38.763-07:00

Judging by the primaries voter turnout, you have no voice. Get those ballots in! Tomorrow, Tuesday, May 16th, is the last day to get those ballots in. It is TOO LATE TO MAIL THEM.In 2004, over 3,000 gay couples were married in Multnomah County. 2005 showed overwhelming disappointment with the defeat of SB1000 and a rallying cry to every newspaper in Oregon for basic rights-fairness and equality

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945590.post-1147372344740212642006-05-11T11:26:00.000-07:002006-05-15T11:44:25.920-07:00

By now we all know about the high profile campaign to oust House Speaker Karen Minnis from her elected position in House District 49. Democratic challenger Rob Brading is running a strong campaign and a number of organizations have joined forces to force her out of office.But now it appears that there may even be a coup from within, if you believe this week's Willamette Week.According to an

Bryan Boydnoreply@blogger.com0