Now Is the Time in Rhode Island

Update: The House Judiciary Committee hearing has been rescheduled for February 9. The hearing will begin at 5pm.

 

Whether or not Rhode Island becomes the sixth state to offer the freedom to marry will be decided between now and early spring, and we need your help to bring about a win. 

 

This Wednesday afternoon, February 2, the House Judiciary Committee is holding a hearing on a bill to legalize the freedom to marry in our smallest state.  Please join same-sex couples and others to show your support at the Statehouse.  The hearing will begin at about 4:30 PM in room 313 of the State House.  Contact Marriage Equality Rhode Island for details and be there to support those testifying.  Our opponents are mobilizing and we must be there in force. 

 

One week later, on Wednesday February 9, MERI is holding a rally at the State House to urge the legislature to move a marriage bill this year. 

 

On the ground, MERI—along with Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders and MassEquality—has been preparing for years for this opportunity, persistently making the case while waiting to replace anti-gay Governor Don Carcieri to move a bill. Last month, new Governor Lincoln Chafee called the question, urging lawmakers to deliver a marriage equality bill to his desk this year.  

 

I’ve just returned from my second trip to Rhode Island, and I can tell you that now is the time to act. This battle will not be an easy one (none of them is).  The Catholic hierarchy in Rhode Island is mobilizing, and the National Organization for Marriage has already unleashed an attack ad against Governor Chafee.  

 

The best way you can help is by joining the Call for MERI effort.  From the comfort of your own home, you can reach out to supportive Rhode Islanders in key legislative districts and make the case for them to contact their lawmakers.  Click here, sign up, and an organizer will train you so you can get right to work.  Invite friends over and have a phoning party—equality in Rhode Island depends upon it!  

 

Stay tuned—and please join in the work today!