NOW Joins Prop 8 Protests Nationwide and in the Nation's Capital

May 28, 2009

The decision by the California State Supreme Court to uphold Proposition 8 and reinstate discrimination against same-sex couples is a devastating setback on the march to equality. Taking away the right to marry was a huge blow to those who missed the "rainbow window" -- the opportunity to be married after it was made legal in California and before the vote on Proposition 8. NOW activists and leaders across the country organized and joined in demonstrations of protest and solidarity.

In Washington, D.C., Dupont Circle was awash in signs, including lots of Equal Marriage NOW rounds. Local activists, leaders, officers and Action Center staff were there chanting and protesting alongside LGBTQ activists and allies.

The somber mood of the protest turned to a message of change and hope. Vice-President Membership, Latifa Lyles was invited to speak at the protest, and she called for action: "We came together at the polls for hope, change and equality in order to change the face of Washington. To move forward a progressive agenda in that same spirit, we cannot be for equality and justice for some of the people some of time."

Under a gentle rain, hundreds of activists vowed to take their energy and reach out to continue changing hearts and minds, one person at a time. Change will come to California, as activists commit to future action and victory, and hope is alive in Washington, D.C. as the City Council's decision to honor marriages performed in other states moves to Capitol Hill and debate in Congress.

While D.C. has voted to recognize marriages from other states, this is only a step along the way. We will not stop working until discrimination is no longer accepted. NOW activists have been working on winning marriage equality and full federal benefits for same-sex couples for more than a decade and while we have several recent state victories (yes, Iowa too!), we must call on those we have elected, to fulfill their promises and lead in the fight for equality, justice and marriage for all.

NOW chapters across the country are continuing to participate in Prop 8 actions and protests and we would love to hear your stories. Please tell us about your actions by emailing chapter and state development and we will share them to inspire everyone to get out in the streets, to raise your voices, and to make equal marriage a reality for everyone.