One Iowa | News & Events

Stonewall: LGBT Rights 40 Years After the Riots

jeremy — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 20:54:51 +0000

Stonewall: LGBT Rights 40 Years After the Riots

Sunday marked the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, widely considered the birth of the modern gay rights movement. As we commemorate the anniversary, it’s time to reflect on the last 40 years of gay rights advocacy.

Social acceptance of LGBT Americans has grown widely over the last 40 years. A large majority of Americans now support laws that protect LGBT individuals — including relationship recognition, employment protections, and hate crime protections. Yet, despite broad public support, federal lawmakers have failed to make necessary changes to protect LGBT Americans.

40 years after Stonewall few federal laws exist to protect LGBT Americans. In 30 states you can still be fired because of your sexual orientation!

Take Action: Ask President Obama and Congress to make equality a federal priority!

Iowa has led in recent years by expanding state protections to LGBT individuals. Among Iowa’s accomplishments:

Marriage equality for gay couples
Legislation to protect LGBT Iowans in employment and housing
A Safe Schools law to ensure a safe and nurturing learning environment for all
Hate crimes legislation that protects on the basis of sexual orientation, but still lacks protections for gender identity

While there’s still room for progress, Iowa has earned a reputation as a national leader in protecting civil rights.

Leaders of anti-equality groups nationally have their sights set on Iowa as the key to turning the tide against recent victories for equality nationwide. Iowa, with it’s reputation for good sense and strong values, has sparked a national conversation about marriage equality.

Anti-equality extremists would like nothing more than to turn back the clock and put a stop to marriage equality in Iowa and nationwide. We only have a few crucial months to prepare for what looks to be the most challenging legislative session we have faced in years.

The Stonewall anniversary is a moment to celebrate those civil rights forerunners at Stonewall and beyond and make a commitment to continue the work of equality in Iowa. Please support our efforts today by donating what you can or contributing your time and energy to volunteering in the coming months.

One Iowa Canvassers Recieve a Rose in the Des Moines Register

jeremy — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 20:15:31 +0000

From the Today’s Des Moines Register:

Today’s Inbox: Protect the rights of all people

A rose for the two young men who were canvassing Altoona Monday evening with the petition in support of the Supreme Court decision that recognized the rights of all Iowans to marry.

It is young people like these, who work to protect the rights for all people, who keep the rights for all of us safe.

After all, if we, as a people, allow our elected representatives to take away the rights of any group, no matter how strange they may seem, the rights of everyone will be in danger.

—Jackie Webster, Nevada

Want to support these efforts? Make a donation today!

One Iowa summer canvassers

June 17: This Week: Pride Success and Deace’s Warning

jeremy — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 20:02:47 +0000

June 17, 2009 www.oneiowa.org

Breaking: Obama to offer benefits to gay partners of federal employees

Capital City Pride Success!

Thanks to the many One Iowa volunteers who made Capital City Pride weekend a tremendous success! With your help, we gathered thousands of signatures to support marriage equality and made our presence known with our bright orange volunteer shirts!

One Iowa volunteers begin the parade

There are still opportunities to help out!

June 20th Iowa City Corridor Pride Festival
Sign up to volunteer!

June 20th for the Omaha Pridefest
Sign up to volunteer

June 27th in the Quad Cities
Sign up to volunteer!

Pride Month Phone Banks!
On June 28, 29, and 30, One Iowa will be hosting special Pride Month phone banks to identify voters who support equality! Phone banks will take place in our Des Moines office at 500 E. Locust St. and will feature a training and pizza and drinks for volunteers!
June 28, 2009 4:00-7:00 PM
June 29, 2009 5:30-8:30 PM
June 30, 2009 5:30-8:30 PM
Sign up for a shift now!

Upcoming Events

June 19, 4:30 pm-10:00 pm
Iowa Cubs Night with One Iowa
Planned Parenthood Young Leaders,
and the 21st Century Forum
Click for details and to RSVP

June 19, 6 PM
PRIDE Patio Party at the Sheraton Hotel
210 S. Dubuque St., Iowa City

June 20, 2009
Omaha Pridefest
Lewis & Clark Landing
515 N. Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE
Volunteer with One Iowa

June 20, 2009
Iowa City/Cedar Rapids Corridor Pride
Upper City Park, Shelter 3
200 W Park Rd, Iowa City
Volunteer with One Iowa

June 21, 2009 2:00-4:00 PM
Interfaith & Affirming Churches Picnic
LeClaire Park, Beiderbeck Dr, Davenport, IA

June 21, 2009 4:00 PM
Colors Across the River for Equality (CARE)
Centennial Bridge over Mississippi River
Join 500 LGBT and ally Quad Citians as they hold 1000 PRIDE flags across the bridge. Participation in the event is free and you can keep your rainbow PRIDE flag for just $5. Contact Rich Hendricks with questions at richdhendricks@msn.com

June 27, 2009
Quad Cities Pride
LeClaire Park
Beiderbeck Dr., Davenport
Volunteer with One Iowa

Take Me Out to the Ballgame!

One Iowa, Planned Parenthood Young Leaders, and 21st Century Forum invite you out for tailgating and baseball! Join us June 19th for a 4:30 tailgate and 7:05 game to cheer on our very own I-Cubs as they battle the Memphis Red Birds.

Cost: Suggested Donation of $15.00 provides beer, ticket, BBQ, snacks and refreshments.

Please RSVP so we can get your tickets reserved today!!

ONE IOWA IS HIRING!

We’re adding to our team of dedicated employees. Do you have the skills and passion we’re looking for? One Iowa is now hiring for the following positions. To apply, please follow the instructions on the job posting(s) of your choice. No calls please.

Field Director
Regional Field Organizer
Communications/New Media Organizer
Development Associate

MARRIAGE MATTERS: FAMILIES IN FOCUS

Jack and Bob from Pleasant Hill

Jack and Bob in the 2009 Capital City Pride Parade
MARY CHIND/REGISTER PHOTOS

This fall, Jack and Bob from Pleasant Hill will celebrate 25 years together. The two met on Halloween in Chicago at a Theater Convention and have been together ever since.

Both are grandparents and were married on June 6, 2009 after some 24 years of commitment. Bob describes being “shocked and elated” after hearing the unanimous Iowa Supreme Court ruling recognizing the freedom to marry in Iowa. “What a surprise and a blessing for this to happen in Iowa,” said Jack.

continue reading this post…

A NOD OF SUPPORT FROM VERMONT

Among the attendees to the recent Howard Dean reception was a visiting legislator from Dean’s home state of Vermont. State Representative Thomas Stevens sent a thank you note to One Iowa for the work we have done towards marriage equality in the Heartland. He says the Iowa decision gave fair-minded legislators in Vermont momentum as they joined Iowa as the fourth state to recognize the freedom to marry.

An excerpt from his letter:
“It was a wonderful event and a real treat to feel the same blush of emotion regarding this issue as I do in Vermont. Iowa’s actions leading up to and including the court decision were courageous and inspiring. When the decision was announced and received in Vermont during a Democratic caucus meeting, the room burst into tears and applause — it gave us all a rush of strength and a confirmation that we too were doing the right thing at the right time.”

Rep. Thomas Stevens (VT)

EXTREME RIGHT WATCH: THEY’LL STOP AT NOTHING

Blast from the Past: Deace Warns County Recorders

There isn’t a more vocal opponent of marriage equality than WHO Radio extremist Steve Deace. On April 27, while committed gay and lesbian couples were applying for marriage licenses, Deace took to YouTube to joke about the H1N1 virus and send a warning to County Recorders across Iowa who dared to uphold marriage laws.

Watch it Now!

GET INVOLVED: MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Volunteer for One Iowa at Pride events around the state!
Click on the Pride at which you wish to volunteer to sign up:
June 20: Omaha Pridefest
June 20: Iowa City/Cedar Rapids Corridor Pride
June 27: Quad Cities Pride

Phone for Equality!
Join One Iowa for one of our nightly phone banks Sunday through Thursday. Never phoned before? No problem - our staff will give you all the tools you need to succeed and spread our message of equality! Sign up for a shift now!

In the News

June 15 Des Moines Register: Gay Pride event in Des Moines draws biggest turnout
Sunday’s PrideFest festival in Des Moines had its biggest turnout in its 30 years following the April ruling by the Iowa Supreme Court that allowed same-sex marriage.

June 17 Omaha World Herald Midland Voices: New marriage equality law means adjustment for gays

Along the Missouri River, the border between Iowa and Nebraska, lie two cities ? Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Omaha, Neb. They are both part of the same metropolitan area, and yet both have distinct differences in the way they treat their gay and lesbian citizens.

June 14 Chicago Tribune: 3 days in Iowa, for gays and progressives alike
Gay marriage took effect on April 27, but there are no quickie marriages here: Iowa law mandates a three-day waiting period between applying for a license and walking down the aisle.
The good news is that there are tons of ways to make those three days fabulous.

June 13 Des Moines Register Guest column: Is gay marriage part of appealing to young people?
When Iowa lifted the ban on same-sex marriage, joining the ranks of liberal Massachusetts and Vermont, most people were taken aback. How could Iowa beat California and New York in permitting gay marriage?

*We want to know what you’re reading! If you see an Iowa-related LGBT news item in your local newspaper, please forward it to justin@one-iowa.org.

One Iowa Pride Month Phonebank! Sign Up Now!

jeremy — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 19:18:45 +0000

Pride PhonebankWith opponents of equality working hard to undermine the Iowa Supreme Court’s decision to treat all Iowans fairly, it’s more important than ever that we identify and activate Iowans that support the freedom to marry for committed gay and lesbian couples.

We need your help NOW to make sure this freedom isn’t taken away.

SIGN UP NOW!

Opponents of equality are organized and pressuring legislators to support a divisive constitutional amendment that would undercut equality in Iowa. We’re working hard to encourage Iowans to share their support for equality with their legislators by asking them to sign on to a postcard we’ll send to their state representative.

A few hours of your time can make a huge difference towards protecting the freedom of Iowa couples to marry. The time is now. Please make this work a priority and sign-up to Call for Equality

Volunteers like you will make calls in the One Iowa office from 4:00 - 7:00pm Sunday, June 28 as well as from 5:30pm - 8:30pm on Monday, June 29 and Tuesday June 30. We’ll provide all the information and training you need to have a great time protecting the freedom to marry in Iowa, even if you’ve never made a call before.

Thank you for stepping up and volunteering at this critical time.

Free Pizza and Drinks!!

If you have any questions, please e-mail organize@oneiowa.org or call us at 515.288.4019!

Weekly Word - This Week: Pride Month and the Power of Grassroots

jeremy — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 21:26:30 +0000

June 10, 2009 www.oneiowa.org

One Iowa Celebrates Pride Month

June is the month that our community and supporters show their pride and we celebrate with the joy of knowing that the freedom to marry is now available to committed gay and lesbian couples in Iowa. This month is a chance to celebrate all we have achieved and recognize those who have paved the way. In the months ahead, we’ll need your help to protect our freedoms and work towards future advancements to protect all Iowans.”

Kick off your Pride weekend with One Iowa’s Happy Hour! Join us Friday, June 12 from 5:00-7:00 PM at Dos Rios (316 Court Avenue, Des Moines). Please RSVP if you plan to attend!

Join us as we celebrate this momentous year for Iowans at Pride celebrations across the state. For your efforts, you’ll receive a free One Iowa shirt!

June 13th and 14th is Capital City Pride in Des Moines
Help out during the Saturday night street party or the Sunday festival, or walk with us in the Pride Parade on Sunday at 1:00 pm.
Sign up here!

June 20th Iowa City Corridor Pride Festival
Canvass the crowd or help at our booth for two-hour shifts during the events at Iowa City Upper City Park on Saturday from 2-6 pm.
Sign up here!

June 20th for the Omaha Pridefest
If you’re in Western Iowa, help for a two-hour shift at the Omaha Pridefest.
Sign up here!

June 27th in the Quad Cities
During the last weekend of June, spend some time in Davenport with One Iowa for some Pridefest excitement!
Sign up here!

Upcoming Events

June 11, 2009 6:00 PM
Queer Youth Discussion Group
First Meeting
GEEZ Louise
515 28th St., Suite 106, Des Moines
More information

June 11, 2009 7:00 PM
Clarence Page on Marriage Equality
Iowa State Historical Building
600 E. Locust St., Des Moines

June 12, 2009 5:00-7:00 PM
One Iowa Happy Hour
Dos Rios
316 Court Ave., Des Moines
Click to RSVP

June 13-14, 2009
Capital City Pride Events
Click for more details
Volunteer with One Iowa

June 19, 4:30 pm-10:00 pm
Iowa Cubs Night with One Iowa
Planned Parenthood Young Leaders,
and the 21st Century Forum
Click for details and to RSVP

June 19, 6 PM
PRIDE Patio Party at the Sheraton Hotel
210 S. Dubuque St., Iowa City

June 20, 2009
Omaha Pridefest
Lewis & Clark Landing
515 N. Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE
Volunteer with One Iowa

June 20, 2009
Iowa City/Cedar Rapids Corridor Pride
Upper City Park, Shelter 3
200 W Park Rd, Iowa City
Volunteer with One Iowa

June 21, 2009 2:00-4:00 PM
Interfaith & Affirming Churches Picnic
LeClaire Park, Beiderbeck Dr, Davenport, IA

June 27, 2009
Quad Cities Pride
LeClaire Park
Beiderbeck Dr., Davenport
Volunteer with One Iowa

Power Summit and Summer Canvass Aim to Build Grassroots!

On Saturday May 30th, approximately 40 volunteer leaders from across the state gathered in Des Moines to share their organizing experiences and learn how to apply new grassroots organizing tools. The goal of the summit was to empower local volunteers to better organize their communities and identify new supporters of equality.

Attendees were given a campaign update from Brad Clark and former legislator Tom Jochum, followed by a series of training sessions ranging from grassroots messaging to canvassing a neighborhood.

Matt Skuya
Deputy Field Director

If you weren’t able to make it, but still want to organize in your local community, please email organize@oneiowa.org and a member of our organizing team will contact you and help you get involved!

I also want to welcome to some new additions to the One Iowa team. Last week, our team of summer canvassers set out to identify supporters of marriage equality across the state. The team of canvassers will supplement our planned volunteer canvass efforts this summer.

These efforts are vital to show support for marriage equality statewide and to protect our fair-minded legislators! Please donate today to help us support these canvassers!

ONE IOWA IS HIRING!

Field Director
Regional Field Organizer
Communications/New Media Organizer
Development Associate

ONE IOWA SUPER VOLUNTEER

Want to make a difference and meet great people while doing it? Simply give a few hours of your time a week to the cause, and you too may find yourself being named a One Iowa Super Volunteer! Take it from this week’s super volunteer, Nick Tormey.

Nick Tormey

Nick Tormey from Des Moines enjoys volunteering with One Iowa, calling it an “excellent organization that has done much to promote equality in Iowa.” Tormey is a 70 year old therapist, who specializes in human sexuality issues. He says that now that Iowa has achieved marriage equality, “we have to do all that we can to keep it.” Tormey frequently shows up to help at One Iowa phone banks and has attended many one Iowa events. One Iowa Regional Organizer Felipe Gallardo describes Tormey as “one of our most consistent and passionate volunteers.”

As this week’s One Iowa Super Volunteer, Nick Tormey, we salute you!

ONE IOWA VIDEO CONTEST WINNER

One Iowa is pleased to announce the winner of it’s video contest, announced shortly after the historic Supreme Court decision. Congratulations to W. Scott Lincoln and the team from Delta Lambda Phi for the winning entry and thanks to all who participated!

See it now!

High School Students: Take the Iowa Pride Network’s 2008-2009 School Climate Survey!

EXTREME RIGHT WATCH: THEY’LL STOP AT NOTHING

An Early Look at Potential GOP Gubernatorial Candidates
Field lacks any pro-equality candidates

As reported in the Iowa Independent WHO radio host Steve Deace is profiling potential GOP candidates for Governor this week. Noticeably missing in the slate of potential candidates is a pro-equality candidate. At a time when Republicans are trying their best to attract new voters, does it amount to “building a new machine to sell old ideas?” More on the four potential candidates:

WHO Radio’s Steve Deace

Jeff Lamberti, Former State Senator
In 2005 referred to Lambda Legal’s historic legal case Varnum v. Brien as a “direct attack on Iowa law,” that brought “new urgency” to amend the Iowa Constitution to deny marriage to gay and lesbian couples.

Paul McKinley, Senate Minority Leader
While heading the Senate’s attempt to undermine the Supreme Court’s unanimous decision McKinley disparingly referred to the Justices as “seven elites” and failed at four different attempts to undermine the Court’s ruling.

Christopher Rants, former Speaker of the House
In a move to undermine the Supreme Court’s unanimous ruling, Rep. Rants tried to gut the Health and Human Services budget to include an amendment to the Iowa Constitution that would have denied marriage to gay couples. Gutting vital services to deny protections to gay families - is that “family values?”

Bob Vander Plaats, Sioux City Businessman
Showing a lack of understanding of how democracy works, Vander Plaats implied that Governor Culver could issue an executive order to defy the Supreme Court’s ruling and deny marriage equality to gay couples and has even pledged to do so if he’s elected as governor.

GET INVOLVED: MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Volunteer for One Iowa at Pride events around the state!
Click on the Pride at which you wish to volunteer to sign up:
June 14: Capital City Pride
June 20: Omaha Pridefest
June 20: Iowa City/Cedar Rapids Corridor Pride
June 27: Quad Cities Pride

In the News

June 3 Ottumwa Courier Letter: Reject attempts to amend the Iowa Constitution
When the state of Iowa is still reeling with disastrous floods, a budget shortfall and families are struggling just to put food on the table, let?s continue to focus on issues of common concern.

June 8 Ottumwa Courier Letter: Civil rights for all isn’t a threat to moral fabric
The recent Iowa Supreme Court ruling requires that such marriages now being performed in Iowa will be subject to the same civil recognition as the ?traditional marriages? that Rev. Tanner wants to preserve. The ruling grants the civil rights for Iowans to marry the person they choose.

June 4 Associated Press: In NH and Iowa, Gay Marriage Has Political Angle
Iowa and New Hampshire traditionally offer presidential candidates vastly different political landscapes when they seek their party nominations. Yet legalizing gay marriage, as both states have now done, is unlikely to have much impact in 2012 because of party dynamics and the different emphasis voters place on social issues.

June 9 Des Moines Juice: Iowa’s Pride: How a historic court ruling changed the lives of local same-sex couples
Iowa has a history of leadership on equal rights - the state was one of the first to allow interracial marriages, and admitted women to the bar association years before the rest of the country - but the April 3 ruling sent shock waves through politics in the state and beyond.

*We want to know what you’re reading! If you see an Iowa-related LGBT news item in your local newspaper, please forward it to justin@one-iowa.org.

June 3, 2009: This Week: Support Sotomayor; Maddow Exposes Iowa Extremists

justin — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 22:01:55 +0000

June 3, 2009 www.oneiowa.org

Pride Ride Rescheduled: See Below for New Date and to Register!

A Justice for All – Judge Sonia Sotomayor

This week, we ask you to take action on President Obama’s Supreme Court Nominee. One Iowa is proud to join with civil rights groups across the state and country to support the confirmation of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the US Supreme Court. Judge Sotomayor has a demonstrated record of excellence and integrity and will bring a common sense understanding of how laws affect the daily realities of people’s lives.

If confirmed, Sotomayor would be the first Latina Justice on the Court. Born to a Puerto Rican family, Judge Sotomayor grew up in a public housing project in the South Bronx. Driven by her mother’s belief in the power of education and her own work ethic, Sotomayor excelled in school, eventually graduating from Yale Law School. Judge Sotomayor deserves a fair and impartial confirmation process and would make an excellent addition to the US Supreme Court.

Please contact Senators Grassley and Harkin now to express your support for Judge Sotomayor and a fair and impartial confirmation process!

Upcoming Events

June 5, 2009
First Friday Breakfast Club
Click for more details

June 5, 2009 5:30 PM
Matthew Shepard Scholarship Awards Dinner
featuring Judy Shepard
Click for more information

June 7, 2009 5:30-8:00 PM
Gay Wedding Expo
Top of the Tower
Downtown Holiday Inn, Des Moines
A portion of the proceeds go to One Iowa
Additional details

June 9, 2009 7:00 PM
Ames PFLAG Meeting
Youth and Shelter Services, Paul Room
420 Kellogg Ave, Ames
More information

June 11, 2009 6:00 PM
Queer Youth Discussion Group
First Meeting
GEEZ Louise
515 28th St., Suite 106, Des Moines
More information

June 11, 2009 7:00 PM
Clarence Page on Marriage Equality
Iowa State Historical Building
600 E. Locust St., Des Moines

June 12, 2009 5:30 PM
One Iowa Happy Hour
Dos Rios
316 Court Ave., Des Moines

June 13-14, 2009
Capital City Pride Events
Click for more details
Volunteer with One Iowa

June 19th, 6 PM
PRIDE Patio Party at the Sheraton Hotel
210 S. Dubuque St., Iowa City

June 20, 2009
Omaha Pridefest
Lewis & Clark Landing
515 N. Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE
Volunteer with One Iowa

June 20, 2009
Iowa City/Cedar Rapids Corridor Pride
Upper City Park, Shelter 3
200 W Park Rd, Iowa City
Volunteer with One Iowa

June 21, 2009 2:00-4:00 PM
Interfaith & Affirming Churches Picnic
LeClaire Park, Beiderbeck Dr, Davenport, IA

June 27, 2009
Quad Cities Pride
LeClaire Park
Beiderbeck Dr., Davenport
Volunteer with One Iowa

Howard Dean Recap!

Governor Howard Dean visited Iowa last week and shared his support for the freedom to marry in Iowa. He also praised Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal and Speaker of the House Pat Murphy for their leadership. For those who couldn’t attend, Governor Dean recorded a special message to One Iowa supporters. See it now!

Governor Dean has been a fearless advocate for equality and we’re grateful for his support for marriage equality in the Heartland. One Iowa Board Chair, Sharon Malheiro has prepared a letter expressing our gratitude to Governor Dean that you may view here.

The visit also generated attention from the press. Here’s a roundup of some of the best coverage:

IowaPolitics.com: Dean doubts ballot-box influence…
Includes photos, audio of Dean’s speech, and an interview with Dean.

Radio Iowa: Dean predicts gay marriage will be a “non-issue” in 2010

Iowa Independent: State legislative leaders vow no action on gay marriage

Bleeding Heartland: Dean reminds us how far we’ve come…

Pride Ride Rescheduled

To better accommodate additional riders, this year’s PRIDE Ride has been rescheduled for October 10th, during National Coming Out Week. Please click here to reserve your spot and stay tuned for additional details on the upcoming ride!

EXTREME RIGHT WATCH: THEY’LL STOP AT NOTHING

Rachel Maddow Profiles Iowa Extremists: “Encouraging Violence”
Iowans Steve Deace, David Leach, and Dan Holman defend Dr. Tiller’s Murder

Steve Deace again makes our Extreme Right Watch - this week for defending the murder of Kansas abortion provider, Dr. George Tiller. Tiller was gunned down by an anti-choice extremist Scott Roeder at his church last Sunday in front of family and friends.

It’s no coincidence that many of the same extremists who defend violence against abortion providers also seek to deny gay and lesbian families the protections of marriage. No matter where you stand, we can all agree that violence is never an appropriate response.

Watch Now!

For additional information about reproductive freedom in Iowa, visit our partners at Planned Parenthood of Greater Iowa.

One Iowa Welcomes New Director of Development

One Iowa recently hired Jeremy Lewis as the new Director of Development. Jeremy brings a wealth of fundraising experience to One Iowa and will be tasked with building a strong and sustainable donor base to support our efforts. Welcome to the team Jeremy!

Click Here to Read Jeremy’s Bio

Jeremy Lewis

MARRIAGE MATTERS: FAMILIES IN FOCUS

Dean and Gary from Mason City

Dean Genth and Gary Swenson from Mason City were married last Sunday. Their wedding in Mason City’s Music Man Square was attended by over 400, was officiated by Soulfource founder Rev. Mel White, featured the Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus, and was covered by media from as far away as Norway!

Dean and Gary have been wonderful supporters of One Iowa and allowed us to share with you a brief excerpt from their wedding program:

“This is a day long hoped for, but one many of us never dreamed possible during our lifetimes. This was always a dream for future generations, but who could be so bold as to claim it for oneself? Yet dreamers were bold, and fought for change today rather than tomorrow. Because of those visionaries, those bold challengers of the status quo, we sit here today to witness history. We are party to an event few in Iowa have yet had the privilege of experiencing.”

GET INVOLVED: MAKE A DIFFERENCE

In the News

June 1 KIMT Mason City (Video): “I Pronounce You Husband and Husband”
Gary Swenson and Dean Genth exchanged vows at Music Man Square Sunday. The Mason City couple says it’s a day they didn’t think would happen.

June 3 Des Moines Register: Wedding Day
Kelly Bertelsen and Lori Septer have no need for a wedding registry.
“We’ve got the gift, because they’re allowing us to get married,” Septer said. “That’s all we wanted. We’re not looking for a blender or anything like that.”

May 30 Radio Iowa: Culver: gay marriage not a major issue
“I really understand and appreciate the fact that there are very strong emotions on both sides of this issue, but I think the court has spoken loudly and clearly, they had a unanimous decision — 7-0 — granting equal rights under our constitution to everyone including those who are gay and lesbian,” Culver says. “And because of that decision and the fact that it was unanimous, I do not believe longterm it will have a real political implication.”

May 31 Des Moines Register LTE: King off-track with gay-marriage focus
There are far too many pressing problems in our country to be worried about by responsible politicians and lawmakers than trying to obstruct a person’s rights based upon their sexual orientation.

*We want to know what you’re reading! If you see an Iowa-related LGBT news item in your local newspaper, please forward it to justin@one-iowa.org.

May 27, 2009: This Week: Prop 8 Upheld, Howard Dean in Iowa

justin — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 21:59:43 +0000

May 27, 2009 www.oneiowa.org

California Supreme Court Upholds

Proposition 8

Progressive Groups in California vow to continue the fight!

Yesterday, the California Supreme Court upheld Proposition 8, which denies gay and lesbian couples access to marriage in California. Pro-equality groups have pledged to continue the fight for marriage equality in the Golden State.

Sign our online petition now to show your support for California: Iowans Stand Against H8!

One Iowa Executive Director, Carolyn Jenison had the following response:

“Today’s ruling in California is heartbreaking for committed and loving same sex couples who want to marry. Banning same-sex couples from marriage is unfair. We are relieved the Court protected couples who married before November 5. The presence of thousands of married same-sex couples across California will show those who don’t yet know us that marriage strengthens families and communities and threatens no one.”

“Same-sex couples have the same hopes, dreams and concerns for their families as everyone else. They should be allowed the dignity, recognition, and responsibility that come with marriage, just like everyone else. In Iowa we will fight any attempts to undermine the Iowa Constitution or the Iowa Supreme Court’s unanimous decision granting the freedom to marry in Iowa. Our hearts go out to the couples in California and across the country who continue to wait for legal recognition of their relationships.”

Upcoming Events

May 28, 2009 7:00-8:30 PM
“History in the Heartland”
in honor of Sen. Gronstal and Rep. Murphy
with Special Guest Gov. Dean
Home of Carolyn Jenison
1330 9th Street, Des Moines
Reserve Your Ticket!

May 30, 2009 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
Grassroots Power Summit
Des Moines Central Library
1000 Grand Ave., Des Moines
RSVP

June 5, 2009
First Friday Breakfast Club
Click for more details

June 5, 2009 5:30 PM
Matthew Shepard Scholarship Awards Dinner
featuring Judy Shepard
Click for more information

June 7, 2009 5:30-8:00 PM
Gay Wedding Expo
Top of the Tower
Downtown Holiday Inn, Des Moines
A portion of the proceeds go to One Iowa
Additional details

June 9, 2009 7:00 PM
Ames PFLAG Meeting
Youth and Shelter Services, Paul Room
420 Kellogg Ave, Ames
More information

June 11, 2009 6:00 PM
Queer Youth Discussion Group
First Meeting
GEEZ Louise
515 28th St., Suite 106, Des Moines
More information

June 11, 2009 7:00 PM
Clarence Page on Marriage Equality
Iowa State Historical Building
600 E. Locust St., Des Moines

June 12, 2009 5:30 PM
One Iowa Happy Hour
Dos Rios
316 Court Ave., Des Moines

June 13-14, 2009
Capital City Pride Events
Click for more details
Volunteer with One Iowa

June 19th, 6 PM
PRIDE Patio Party at the Sheraton Hotel
210 S. Dubuque St., Iowa City

June 20, 2009
Omaha Pridefest
Lewis & Clark Landing
515 N. Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE
Volunteer with One Iowa

June 20, 2009
Iowa City/Cedar Rapids Corridor Pride
Upper City Park, Shelter 3
200 W Park Rd, Iowa City
Volunteer with One Iowa

June 21, 2009 2:00-4:00 PM
Interfaith & Affirming Churches Picnic
LeClaire Park, Beiderbeck Dr, Davenport, IA

June 27, 2009
Quad Cities Pride
LeClaire Park
Beiderbeck Dr., Davenport
Volunteer with One Iowa

LAST CHANCE: Reserve your spot to see Howard Dean!

Don’t miss out on a special opportunity to see Governor Howard Dean speak about his support for equality! Now is your last chance to reserve tickets to tomorrow’s fundraiser honoring Iowa Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal and House Majority Leader Pat Murphy. They stood up for you in the Statehouse, now will you stand with them in support of equality?

LAST CHANCE: Reserve your tickets today!

ONE IOWA SUPER VOLUNTEER

This week we present a new recurring feature, One Iowa Super Volunteer! Simply give a few hours of your time a week to the cause, and you too may find yourself being named a One Iowa Super Volunteer! Take it from Cara Hoppes McCulley, this week’s winner.

Cara Hoppes McCulley

Cara is a straight ally from Newton, Iowa who has been volunteering with One Iowa for over a year! “I volunteer because I would like my gay friends and family members to have the same rights and protections that I enjoy,” says Cara. As a volunteer with One Iowa she has done numerous activities, including making phonecalls, canvassing to support fair-minded legislators, staffing events like the Harkin Steak Fry, and doing data entry at the One Iowa office.

Hoppes McCulley, a mother of three, an artist, actress, and substitute teacher, still finds time to volunteer. “I like the people I meet through volunteering and the feeling that I’m making a difference,” says Cara. As our first One Iowa Super Volunteer, Cara Hoppes McCulley, we salute you!

EXTREME RIGHT WATCH: THEY’LL STOP AT NOTHING

Deace, pastor insult Senator Matt McCoy’s Christianity
Deace longs for days when gays could not “live this way without any sort of societal retribution for them.”

As the Iowa Independent recently reported, WHO radio host Steve Deace and pastor Bob Deever of Grace West Church recently questioned Iowa State Senator Matt McCoy’s Christianity on air.

Deever went so far as to say that McCoy, Iowa’s only openly gay legislator, cannot be a Christian because he is gay.

WHO Radio’s Steve Deace

McCoy is an active member of Plymouth Congregational Church in Des Moines and passionately defended his religious beliefs on marriage equality in a recent Des Moines Register forum.

The story illustrates the need for people of faith to speak up in support of equality.

Take Action! Please sign our petition:
As a Person of Faith, I Support Marriage Equality!

For more information about progressive communities of faith in Iowa, visit our friends at the Interfaith Alliance of Iowa and their Faithful Voices program.

GET INVOLVED: MAKE A DIFFERENCE

One Iowa Grassroots Power Summit: On May 30, 2009, supporters from across the state will gather at the Des Moines Central Library to discuss the grassroots strategies moving forward. At the summit, we’ll give you the tools you need to help protect marriage equality in your community. The summit lasts from 10:00 AM-5:00 PM and includes a complimentary lunch with a suggested donation of $15 to cover expenses. PLEASE RSVP NOW to join us!

In the News

May 23 Des Moines Register Guest Column: May other states join Iowa as beacon of equality
When gay friends around the country had asked me what I thought would happen with the Iowa Supreme Court case, I always said, “They’ll do the right thing.” And they did. I also expect that after a short while the furor will die down - that’s how we roll in the heartland. There is soil to till and crops to plant.

May 26 Des Moines Register: Guest View: Gay marriage is not a threat to religion
The distinction between religious and civil marriage in Iowa’s landmark decision granting equality to gay couples hasn’t stopped opposition leaders from attempting to scare us with religious disasters.

May 26 KCRG Dubuque: Iowa Gay Marriage One Month Later
Tuesday marks one month since same-sex couples first lined up to apply for marriage licenses in Iowa.

May 24 Mason City Globe Gazette: Editor’s Inbox
I have been both amused and annoyed by the ignorant blabberings by some of the letters in the Globe Gazette from the religious zealots regarding same-sex marriage.

*We want to know what you’re reading! If you see an Iowa-related LGBT news item in your local newspaper, please forward it to justin@one-iowa.org.

Statement on CA Supreme Court Upholding Prop 8

justin — Tue, 26 May 2009 17:14:36 +0000

In response to the California Supreme Court Decision upholding Proposition 8, Carolyn Jenison, Executive Director of One Iowa released the following statement:

Purchase Your Tickets for Howard Dean Today!

justin — Mon, 25 May 2009 21:46:01 +0000

Howard Dean to headline One Iowa reception!
Gov. Dean to join us in honoring Senator Mike Gronstal and Speaker Pat Murphy

Protect the Freedom to Marry in Iowa with Special Guest Governor Howard Dean. Join us to honor Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal and House Speaker Pat Murphy for their committment to equality.History in the Heartland Reception
Thursday, May 28, 2009 7:00-8:30 PM
Home of Carolyn Jenison
1330 9th Street
Des Moines, IA 50309

Host: $2,500
Sponsor: $1,000
Supporter: $500
Friend: $250
Individual Ticket: $100
Student Ticket: $35

Gov. Howard Dean

Reserve your ticket today!

“When all is said and done, we believe the only lasting question about today’s events will be why it took us so long.”

-Senator Mike Gronstal & Representative Pat Murphy

Weekly Word - May 20, 2009

justin — Thu, 21 May 2009 18:28:55 +0000

May 20, 2009 www.oneiowa.org

Join One Iowa for PRIDE RIDE 2009!
Proceeds for annual ride benefit One Iowa and the LGBT Community Center of Central Iowa.

Join us for Pride Ride 2009, as we gear up for equality! This year’s event is all the more special considering gay and lesbian couples may now ride together as legally recognized partners by the state of Iowa. Bring your family and friends out for a nice ride with other supporters of equality. Together, we’ll pedal for continued progress and equality for LGBT Iowans.

Reserve your spot today!

Pride Ride 2009
Saturday, June 6, 2009 10:00 AM
Saylorville Lake-Cherry Glen #4
5600 NW 78th Avenue
Johnston, IA 50131

On-site registration will begin at 9 AM. You can register online now and pay in advance. Price is $25 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under.

Upcoming Events

May 21, 2009 7:00 PM
Newton PFLAG meeting
Featuring Guest Dean Genth
Congregational United Church of Christ
308 E 2nd St. N, Newton

May 30, 2009 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
Grassroots Power Summit
Des Moines Central Library
1000 Grand Ave., Des Moines
RSVP

June 5, 2009
First Friday Breakfast Club
Click for more details

June 5, 2009 5:30 PM
Matthew Shepard Scholarship Awards Dinner
featuring Judy Shepard
Click for more information

June 6, 2009 10 AM
Pride Ride 2009
Saylorville Lake-Cherry Glen #1
5600 NW 78th Ave.
Click for more details

June 7, 2009 5:30-8:00 PM
Gay Wedding Expo
Top of the Tower
Downtown Holiday Inn, Des Moines
A portion of the proceeds go to One Iowa
Additional details

June 11, 2009 7:00 PM
Clarence Page on Marriage Equality
Iowa State Historical Building
600 E. Locust St., Des Moines

June 12, 2009 5:30 PM
One Iowa Happy Hour
Dos Rios
316 Court Ave., Des Moines

June 13-14, 2009
Capital City Pride Events
Click for more details
Volunteer with One Iowa

June 19th, 6 PM
PRIDE Patio Party at the Sheraton Hotel
210 S. Dubuque St., Iowa City

June 20, 2009
Omaha Pridefest
Lewis & Clark Landing
515 N. Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE
Volunteer with One Iowa

June 20, 2009
Iowa City/Cedar Rapids Corridor Pride
Upper City Park, Shelter 3
200 W Park Rd, Iowa City
Volunteer with One Iowa

June 21, 2009 2:00-4:00 PM
Interfaith & Affirming Churches Picnic
LeClaire Park, Beiderbeck Dr, Davenport, IA

June 27, 2009
Quad Cities Pride
LeClaire Park
Beiderbeck Dr., Davenport
Volunteer with One Iowa

One Iowa Education Fund Receives Community Foundation Grant

Yesterday the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines announced that the One Iowa Education Fund had been awarded an Organizational Effectiveness Grant. The $4000 grant funds collaborative strategic planning with the LGBT Community Center of Central Iowa. The grant is part of a group of grants awarded by the Community Foundation to strengthen 18 local nonprofit organizations.

“These grants directly address challenges and opportunities defined by nonprofit organizations and leverage the ability of the Community Foundation to significantly impact the efficiency and effectiveness of our local nonprofits,” said Kristi Knous, vice president of community investment for the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines.

More about the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines

MARRIAGE MATTERS: FAMILIES IN FOCUS

A message from Maryfrances and Stephanie

Photo by J. Alex Cooney

Our friends Maryfrances and Stephanie from Urbandale were recently featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show in a segment discussing marriage equality in Iowa. Maryfrances and Stephanie have been wonderful ambassadors for equality and wanted to share their thoughts with you.

We are lucky - and we know it. Lucky to have found the love of our lives in each other - lucky to have been given the opportunity to raise two stunning little girls - lucky to be a strong family living in THIS time in history - in THIS nation - in THIS TREMENDOUS STATE!

We met in 1992 and became a couple in 1997. We’ve lived our commitment through births and deaths - mortgages, diapers, jobs, bills, vacations, toddlers and all the laughter and responsibility included with any family. We were lucky to be surrounded by loving, smart people (who happen to be attorneys), and we sheltered our family as best we could with as much legal and financial protection as they could write. Powers of attorney, wills, joint accounts, you name it. But no matter how much paper we put in place, our family was never fully protected - because our marriage was denied legal recognition. We were lucky - but we were vulnerable.

On April 3rd, the Iowa Supreme Court voted unanimously to remove those barriers. Three weeks later, we joined hundreds of couples across the State in applying for our marriage license. May 1st, less than a month after the Court’s decision, we joined hands and stood before a judge - speaking the simple words that finally made our marriage and our family legal. Our rings, our daughters, our family and friends - the extraordinary realization that with one simple, intimate civil ceremony, everything we’ve built together over the years was now respected and protected by the State of Iowa. After all this time, do we feel different? Yes - we feel extraordinary, we feel blessed and we feel so lucky.

We know that it took more than luck to bring us this far. It took years of hard work by so many people. People like the folks at One Iowa. We know that none of this would have happened without them - and we know that the fight is not over. The attacks on our families continue - so our family’s support for One Iowa will continue. Please join us in making a donation to One Iowa today. Your donation will help One Iowa continue their vital work to strengthen and protect the rights of all families in our state.

RADICAL WATCH: THEY’LL STOP AT NOTHING

Congressman Steve King called out on “Pants on Fire” Lie about Hate Crimes.

The St. Petersburg Times recently profiled Iowa’s very own anti-gay Congressman Steve King. In their Truth-O-Meter segment, the Pulitzer Prize winning Politifact.com website clasified King’s statement on federal Hate Crimes legislation a “Pants on Fire” Lie.

He claimed the federal Hate Crimes Prevention act would provide “special protection to pedophiles:

Politifact: “Pants on Fire” Lies from Steve King

“The definition for sexual orientation was defined by one of the principal authors, Tammy Baldwin of Madison, Wisconsin, as being either heterosexual or homosexual. Well, so within that definition, though, of sexual orientation by the American Psychological Association you’ve got a whole list of proclivities — they call them paraphilias — and in that list, among them are pedophiles.”

“And so I don’t want special protective status for a pedophile when a regular person would get less — lesser protection under this law…This sets up sacred cows in this legislation. So some people are protected more than others in this society.”

Continued at Politifact.com

GET INVOLVED: MAKE A DIFFERENCE

One Iowa Grassroots Power Summit: On May 30, 2009, activists from across the state will gather at the Des Moines Central Library to discuss the grassroots strategies moving forward. At the summit, we’ll give you the tools you need to help protect marriage equality in your community. The summit last from 10:00 AM-5:00 PM and includes a complimentary lunch with a suggested donation of $15 to cover expenses. PLEASE RSVP NOW to join us!

In the News

May 10 Mason City Globe Gazette: Guest column from Dean Genth: The Greatest of These is Love
When so many around us are hurting in one way or another, why do we choose options that do not reflect love?
We have recently witnessed a unanimous Iowa Supreme Court decision that allows all people in Iowa to be treated equally when applying for a marriage license.

May 16 Time.com: The Fragility of Gay Iowa
It’s a brand new day here in Iowa since April 3 when we became the nation’s third state ? and the Midwest’s first ? to permit same-sex marriage. But during the state’s first three weeks of legalized gay marriage (the law went into effect April 27) some things haven’t changed.

Columnist to speak on same-sex marriage
Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Clarence Page is scheduled to speak next month in Des Moines about same-sex marriage at an event sponsored by several gay-marriage advocacy groups.

*We want to know what you’re reading! If you see an Iowa-related LGBT news item in your local newspaper, please forward it to justin@one-iowa.org.