I went to the Equality NC conference and gala yesterday

[dsc]

For those who don't know Equality NC is the North Carolina state level organization that works for gay rights issues. This year our victories were mostly preventing bad things from happening. We prevented a same sex marriage amendment from appearing on the 2008 ballot. We also almost passed an anti bullying bill.

It was an energizing experience. I loved being with my peeps. But it was also amazing to have all four candidates for Lt Governor at our conference. We had the Speaker of the House at the gala that night. Several lawmakers attended as well.

We also heard from Alabama's Patricia Todd who is a lesbian representing Birmingham in the Alabama House. She is an inspiration.

But the most inspiring person I met, hands down, was a teacher from Ashville. He came out to his students and their parents this year. Things have gone well so far for him. I also met the pastor who asked the youtube question on gay rights. For those who would like to find an inclusive black minister try him.

It is great so see how far we have come.

[NC_Nurse]

1. Thanks for sharing, dsc!

It's always nice to hear some GOOD news for a change. :hi:

[dsc]

2. Jim Neal also made an appearance there

and was great.

[sniffa]

3. thanks for sharing

we're quite proud of you fighting down there; i know it's not easy. :hug:

k&r

[dsc]

4. the 4th grade teacher is who you need to be proud of

I was blown away by him.

[gateley]

5. Thank you for this! I didn't even know that Equality NC existed. I also didn't

know there was a same sex marriage amendment. You're to be commended - keep up the good work! :hi:

[terrya]

6. Thank you for your hard work.

I appreciate what you and other GLBT people in your state are doing to erase the legacy of people like Jesse Helms.

That sounds like a encouraging conference. Thanks for sharing your experiences with us.

[NMMNG]

7. Good for you!

I was reading about that conference earlier today on Pam's House Blend. You didn't happen to run into Pam there by chance?

[dsc]

8. she spoke

but I didn't get a chance to speak to her privately.

[NMMNG]

9. I'd love to see her sometime

Her blog is amazing.

[gratuitous]

10. Gatherings like this mean trouble for Sen. Dole

A bunch of organized, committed advocates spells trouble for Senator Do-Little. Look for change in the so-called "Solid South."