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NEWS & LETTERS, September-October 2010
Civil rights movement win over Prop. 8
Chicago--Proposition 8, the 2008 California ballot measure that took away the right to marry for same-sex couples, was overturned by a federal judge on Aug. 4. He ruled that it violated both the equal protection clause and the due process clause of the U.S. Constitution. Judge Vaughn Walker's strongly worded decision was a vindication for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Queer (LGBTQ) equality activists, as it affirmed that Prop. 8 opposition drew upon unfounded fears and animosity to treat a class of citizens unfairly, and that "moral disapproval alone is an improper basis on which to deny rights to gay men and lesbians."
The decision is stayed pending appeal, meaning marriages will not resume in California until at least December. At that point, the case could either be refused by the appeals court because the official representatives of the state, the California Governor and Attorney General, refuse to defend an unjust law, or the court could grant standing and rule, which would send the case up to the U.S. Supreme Court.
RALLIES HELD NATIONWIDE
All over the nation, rallies to celebrate this decision sprang up, some impromptu, others planned ahead of time, though the verdict and the date the decision would be issued were unknown until 24 hours beforehand.
In Chicago, over a hundred people gathered in Daley Plaza at 6 PM that night, despite the short notice, looming rain clouds and huge traffic snarls due to President Obama's motorcade shutting down part of Lake Shore Drive.
The rally was cosponsored by Join The Impact Chicago, LGBTChange, and the Gay Liberation Network. Speakers from those groups emphasized that while the verdict was cause for celebration, a lot of work still lay ahead to secure marriage nationwide, as well as an end to the other forms of discrimination the LGBTQ community faces. Matthew Zaradich of LGBTChange noted that it had been a long time since the community had had some news to celebrate, but pointed out that Illinois still does not even have the second-class status of civil unions, despite years of promises, let alone marriage equality. Betsy Johnson of Join The Impact Chicago, a mother who has both straight and gay sons, reminded everyone of the importance of sharing personal stories in changing hearts and minds.
The crowd, buoyed up with excitement and determination, set off to march down Michigan Avenue. Chanting slogans such as "This is what democracy looks like!" and "Two, four, six, eight, equal rights in every state!" the marchers drew cheers from onlookers as they waved signs and rainbow flags.
Speaking after the march, Andy Thayer of Gay Liberation Network urged everyone to stay active, pointing out that every civil rights movement needs direct action to create momentum and propel progress. Said Thayer, "A movement in the streets is the way that civil rights have always been won."
--Amy Waters
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