Something encouraging happened on an old Obama organization list

[Renew Deal]

I am on one of the NYC for Obama lists. At least a few of these lists from 2008 are active, including this one. There is a special election in 11 days to replace Hiram Monserrate who was expelled for http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hiram_Monserrate#Assault_of_Karla_Giraldo">"slashing Karla Giraldo in the face with a broken drinking glass during an argument in his Jackson Heights apartment." Monserrate is running to get his seat back against Jose Peralta. Monserrate voted against marriage equality in the NYS Senate. Peralta supports it...

So, today a message comes through from someone named "kechia06" saying: "Is he for "Gay Marriage? If so he will nit get my support or my volunteer or donations."

That's a pretty frustrating message to get from an Obama list, but the replies are great. Here they are:
"I believe that Jose Peralta is more marriage equality (gay marriage). He should thank you. Because of you, and that answer, I've decided to support him."

"Me too"

"Let's get 'em, Jacki. Folks are entitled to their own opinion and, as a result, we have the right to support candidates who line up with our beliefs. Equality for ALL."

"Are you for institutionalized discrimination? Apparently so."

[TheWraith]

1. Yes, Peralta is for marriage.

The odds are good that Peralta will beat Monserrate, so that's one down seven to go.

[Renew Deal]

2. Another interesting reply

I remember in Denver - about 18 years ago now - sitting with members of the famed Black Ministerial Alliance when somehow the discussion drifted to a debate of whether or not gay rights and gay marriage (terms of the time) were civil rights issues. The debate was lopsided - a passionate case for "apples and oranges" was winning the room. Then my minister, the late Rev. J. Langston Boyd, who had sat quietly through it all, rose slowly from his chair and stood in the center of the room. All discussion stopped and he said, "Most of us walked with Dr. King. Where would any of us be if it weren't for Bayard Rustin?"

Marriage equality. Equality period. If you're not down with that, I am not down with you.