Two cheers for Lesbian Life Guide Kathy Belge's home state Oregon. Earlier this year Oregon passed two gay rights bills—one granting same-sex couples domestic partnerships (with the full benefits of marriage) and another outlawing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, public accommodations and housing.
However, under Oregon law, opponents of the bills had 90 days to collect signatures to put the bills up for a public vote. Such an initiative was started, but after 90 days the organizers failed to collect enough signatures to put the bills on the ballot.
Here's what Kathy had to say about the victory:
Today we learned that our anti-gay opponents failed in their efforts to collect enough signatures. Equal rights in Oregon will not go up for public vote! Beginning January 1, 2008 gays and lesbian in Oregon will have protections on the job, in housing, in public and will be able to register their relationships for many of the rights of marriage. Go Oregon!More on Oregon Gay Rights:
Oregon Passes Two Gay Rights Bills
More on Same-Sex Marriage:
Where is Gay Marriage Legal?
Benefits of Legalized Marriage
Image: Ron Wold and Ken Hindes of Eugene, Oregon, partners for 30 years, embrace after Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski signed two bills protecting gay rights into law at the Oregon State Capital May 9, 2007 in Salem, Oregon. © Craig Mitchelldyer/Stringer/Getty Images.
GO OREGON! Its about time. I just pray that the remainder of our states begin to realize the importance of these issues. If we had more support on these issues we would have faster results. I truly believe we need to get more involved as a community. If you aren’t a part of HRC and other organizations please think about joining. -Jasmin