How We Win Marriage in DC
Saturday, August 22nd, 2009Much has been made of the external challenges we face in DC as we build a movement to win and keep marriage for same-sex couples including the possibility of a Prop 8 style ballot fight and potential intervention from members of Congress. Each of those is a challenge that we must deal with, but for the moment I want to deal with some of the internal opportunities we face and how we can take advantage on them.
Disclosure: I am co-chair of DC for Marriage, a grassroots group working to win marriage in DC.
The DC LGBT community, led largely by groups such DC Coalition of Black Lesbian and Gays, Gay and Lesbian Activists Alliance, and Gertrude Stein Democratic Club, has many legislative accomplishments for which it should be proud. The District has one of the strongest domestic partnership laws in the country, non-discrimination protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and the recent passage of marriage recognition legislation show the degree to which we have become a powerful political force that has built strong relationships with members of the City Council and various mayors. These successes speak to the tenacity, visibility and policy talents of local activists.
There are, however, three key areas where we will need to strengthen our local community in order to win marriage equality:
1. building stronger and more diverse organizations
2. working together in coalition with other LGBT groups and
3. building relationships with District residents outside of the LGBT community.
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