Calling in 'gay' to work is latest form of protest

[The Straight Story]

Calling in 'gay' to work is latest form of protest


SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- Some same-sex marriage supporters are urging people to "call in gay" Wednesday to show how much the country relies on gays and lesbians, but others question whether it's wise to encourage skipping work given the nation's economic distress.

Organizers of "Day Without a Gay" - scheduled to coincide with International Human Rights Day and modeled after similar work stoppages by Latino immigrants - also are encouraging people to perform volunteer work and refrain from spending money.

Sean Hetherington, a West Hollywood comedian and personal trainer, dreamed up the idea with his boyfriend, Aaron Hartzler, after reading online that a few angry gay-rights activists were calling for a daylong strike to protest California voters' passage last month of Proposition 8, which reversed this year's state Supreme Court decision allowing gay marriage.

The couple thought it would be more effective and less divisive if people were asked to perform community service instead of staying home with their wallets shut. Dozens of nonprofit agencies, from the National Women's Law Center in Washington to a Methodist church in Fresno collecting food for the homeless, have posted opportunities for volunteers on the couple's Web site.

http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/C/CALLING_IN_GAY?SITE=OHCOL&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT

[The Straight Story]

1. night kick(nt)

[firedupdem]

2. Interesting idea! If I had a job I would do it! n/t

[boppers]

3. Wednesday Go!

adaywithoutgays.com.

[FreeState]

4. Web link for those interested in it..

http://daywithoutagay.org/

On December 10, 2008 the gay community will take a historic stance against hatred by donating love to a variety of different causes.

On December 10, you are encouraged not to call in sick to work. You are encouraged to call in "gay"--and donate your time to service!

[Joe the Liberal]

5. Interesting. nt

:kick: