Organizers solidify plans for march on Washington

[canis_lupus]

From The Washington Blade:

Organizers are solidifying plans for a LGBT march on Washington, despite objections from some in the movement who are criticizing the timing and insisting it is diverting resources from other important tasks.

Longtime gay activist Cleve Jones, who called for the march during a Utah Pride event in June, said in an interview with the Blade July 31 that the steering committee for the National Equality March has been assigning responsibilities, negotiating with authorities and increasing outreach to straight allies.

<snip>

Jones said he still sees the march, set for the weekend of Oct. 10, as a grassroots movement and that organizers are “absolutely committed to doing it with as little money as possible.” Activists have raised about $150,000 for the event, Jones said, adding he doesn’t think much more money will be necessary.

The goal of the march, according to the organizers’ web site, is to achieve “equal protection in all matters governed by civil law,” including the passage of federal legislation such as a hate crimes bill and the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, as well as repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act and “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”

http://www.washblade.com/2009/8-7/news/national/14983.cfm

I have very mixed feelings about this. I was glad I went to the march in '93, but the millenium march was a wasted effort, IMO. Frankly, I'd love to see a 50-state march on all the state capitols, but that would be difficult to arrange logistically.

[Smarmie Doofus]

1. I think the timing is right for a national march.

There has never been this much *potential* for change at the federal level. It may be a long time ( it may be NEVER ) before we have again these kinds of majorities in congress and an - at least - nominal supporter in the White House at the same time.

Underachiever on these issues though he may be. ( i.e. President Nominal Supporter).

If there's ever been a time to call a national march this is the time.

[Meeker Morgan]

2. It's just the right time for it.

If not now, when?

Our rights do not need to wait until after the Democrats have everything else perfect, thank you.

[mitchtv]

3. I wish I could go

The time is NOW