Freedom to Marry Week Events

Podcast

Coach Sappho's LIVE Podcast - Live talk about lesbian love and relationships!  Join Relationship Coach Barb Elgin as she celebrates the 11th Annual Freedom to Marry Week on the show Wednesday, February 13, 2008 at 8pm ET.  To listen, sign up here. Also, there will be a one hour tele-party on Tuesday evening, February 12, 2008 at 8p ET. Click here for more information.

Arkansas

Event: Freedom to Marry Week
Host: P.R.I.D.E.
Type: Causes - Rally
Start Time:Sunday, February 10, 2008 at 12:00am
End Time: Saturday, February 16, 2008 at 11:55pm
Location: University of Arkansas
City/Town: Fayetteville, AR
Contact InfoEmail: pride@uark.edu

California

Partial List of Statewide Valentine’s Day Marriage Counter Events at County Clerks Offices

Alameda County  3:30 – 4:30 pm
County Clerk’s Office, 1221 Oak Street, Room 249, Oakland, CA 94612
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to local contact persons: Moe Perez and Ryan James :  ca-alameda@marriageequality.org or 510-387-9398.

Contra Costa County   2:30-3:30 pm
County Clerk’s Office, 823 Marina Vista, Martinez, CA 94553
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to local contact persons:  Pamela Brown and Shauna Rajkowski at ca-policy@marriageequality.org  or 510-384-3655.

Fresno County   2:30-3:30 pm
County Clerk’s Office, 2221 Kern Street, Fresno, CA 93722
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to ca-fresno@marriageequality.org  or contact chapter leader Jason Scott at 559-307-0807

Humboldt County   12:00 pm
County Clerk’s Office, 825 5th Street, Room 108, Eureka, CA 95501
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to MEUSA leaders Jamila Tharp and Michele Hastings at ca-humboldt@marriageequality.org or 707-445-3435.    

Kern County   12:00 pm
County Clerk’s Office, 1115 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to chapter leader/Bakersfield GLBTQ Advocacy Director Lisa Buckner at cuteness40@hotmail.com.or 661-835-3545.

Lake County   12:00 pm
County Clerk’s Office, 220 South Lassen Street, Susanville, CA 96130
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to chapter leaders Laura Lamonico ca-lake@marriageequality.org or (707)367-1557

Los Angeles County   10:00 – 11:00 am
Beverly Hills Courthouse, 9355 Burton Way, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Join Robin Tyler and Diane Olson, the Los Angeles lead couple in the upcoming CA Supreme Court Marriage Case, and their attorney, Gloria Allred. 
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to Robin Tyler at robintyler@aol.com or (818)893-4075.

Marin County   8:30-9:30 am
County Clerk’s Office, 3501 Civic Center Drive, Room 247, San Rafael, CA 94913
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to Spectrum LGBT Center and Paula Pilecki at pilecki@spectrumLGBTcenter.org or 415-457-1115 ext 209 or Dolores Caruthers of Love Savers at zahwa1@aol.com or 415-456-9010.

Nevada County   2:15 pm
The Rood Center, 950 Maidu Ave., Nevada City, CA 95959
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to chapter leader Christine Allen at nevada@marriageequalityca.org  or (530)575-6195

Orange County   12:00 pm
County Clerk’s Office, 630 N. Broadway Building 12, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to Stephanie Wells at slwells2@verizon.net or 562-481-2140

Sacramento County
(Joining the event in Yolo County see below)
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to chapter leader Kinna Crocker at ca-sacramento@marriageequality.org or 916-284-3680.

San Diego County   10:00-11:00 am
County Clerk’s Office, 1600 Pacific Highway #103, San Diego, CA 92101
Couples asking for licenses include Jamie Leno Zimron, Assemblymember Mark Leno’s sister and her fiancée Jennifer Schumaker.
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to Jennifer Schumaker at Jennifer@walkfortogetherness.org (760) 492-4653

San Francisco County   Noon – 1pm
County Clerk-Office, City Hall, Suite 168, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, San Francisco, CA 94102
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to local MEUSA leaders Stuart Gaffney and John Lewis at stuartjohn@marriageequality.org or 415-386-6710

San Joaquin County   3:30-4:30 pm
Pacific State Bank Building, 6 South El Dorado Street Second Floor, Stockton, CA 95202
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to chapter leader Martina Virrey at ca-sanjoaquin@marriageequality.org or (209)518-9102

San Luis Obispo County   12:00 pm
County Clerk’s Office, 1144 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to local contact person: David Kilburn at dkilburn@charter.net or (805)440-6487…

San Mateo County   9:00 -10:00 am
County Clerk’s Office, 555 County Center, Redwood City, CA 94063
Description: Bay Area kick-off rally with Marina Gatto, and other elected officials.
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to local contact persons: Marina and Ramona Gatto at marina@marriageequality.org or 650-740-1475.

Santa Cruz County   Noon-1:00 pm
County Clerk’s Office, 701 Ocean Street, Room 230, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to MEUSA Youth Director Matt Palm ca-youth@marriageequality.org or (858)472-5439

Solano County   4:00-5:00 pm
County Clerk’s Office, 701 Texas Street, Fairfield, CA 94533
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to chapter leaders Jeff and David Janis-Kitzmiller at ca-solano@marriageequality.org  or 707-428-6684.

Stanislaus County   Noon-1:00 pm
County Clerk’s Office, 1021 I Street, Suite 101, Modesto, CA 95354
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to chapter leaders Beth Holden and Cynthia Soto at ca-stanislaus@marriageequality.org or (209) 575-2771.

Yolo County   Noon-1:00 pm
County Clerk-Recorder, 625 Court Street, Room 105, Woodland, CA 95695
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to local contact persons:  Ellen Pontac at ep@dcn.org and Shelly Bailes at shelly@dcn.org or 530-753-8283.

California

DIVA and oneGoodLove.com present "Hearthrobs 2: Kiss the Pride", an LGBT Valentine's Day Mixer to Raise Awareness for Let California Ring, featuring works by Adam Bouska

On Wednesday February 13, 2008, DIVA, oneGoodLove.com, Adam Bouska and HOTEL will host a pre-Valentine's Day social mixer for the LGBT community at The Standard Hotel, Hollywood. The event's focus is to raise awareness and funds for "Let California Ring", a public education campaign to open hearts and minds about the freedom to marry. Funds will be raised via donations and a silent auction featuring many works from renowned photographer, Adam Bouska.

DIVA (Diverse and Inclusive Visionary Artists) in collaboration with oneGoodLove.com will host an Industry networking mixer targeting gay and lesbian professionals. A portion of the proceeds from this event will benefit Let California Ring. The event will take place at The Purple Lounge in the Standard Hotel Hollywood on February 13th from 8pm to 11pm.

California

“Expression Not Suppression”

A FREE conference for LGBTQI and Straight Ally youth, ages 14-23, with two very exciting keynote speakers, informative workshops and literature, time to mix-it-up with local activists, an impressive drag show and an amazing Freedom to Marry Dance Party to end the day!!!

This FREE event will be held on Saturday, February 9th from 12noon-9:30pm (includes snacks and dinner).

Workshops include:
Safe Sex
How to Do Drag
Trans 101
Understanding Sex and Spirituality
Queer Activism After High School
Your role in Changing the Political Climate
Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships
Feel Yourself
Coming OUT at home, school, work and church
Queer People of Color
Queer History of Fresno

The location of the event is 2131 N Van Ness Blvd, Fresno, 93704

If you’d like more info or would like to help with planning, please call 559-268-2780 or email robin@gsanetwork.org

Join us in our fight to eradicate homophobia and transphobia in schools across the Central Valley and beyond!!!

All interested youth should register at www.gsanetwork.org after 1/14/08

California

Equality California

2008 SAN FRANCISCO
EQUALITY AWARDS

Celebrating Our 10th Anniversary

Saturday, February 9
San Francisco City Hall
1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place
San Francisco

HONORING

Evan Wolfson
Founder and Executive Director of Freedom to Marry
6th Annual Del Martin & Phyllis Lyon Marriage Equality Award

Theresa Sparks
President, San Francisco Police Commission
"The highest elected transgender person in the United States"
2008 Equality Leadership Award

Other Freedom to Marry Week events hosted by Equality California:

February 12: Los Angeles Premier of “The Year of Paper”

February 13: AT&T showing of “Pursuit of Equality” at the Herbst Theater

February 14:  Let California Ring Day of Visibility

California

Frameline at The Center: Free Screenings for the Community

presents
 
The Year of Paper

Directed by Kelly Rouse & Nikki Parker
 
Thursday, February 14, 2008 at 7:30pm
 
San Francisco LGBT Community Center
1800 Market Street @ Octavia
Please arrive early as seating is limited!
Screening followed by question & answer with Freedom to Marry Steering Committee member Sam Thoron, National Center for Lesbian Rights Staff Attorney Melanie Rowen, and a representative from Let California Ring.
.
Co-presented by: Freedom to Marry, Let California Ring and National Center for Lesbian Rights.
 
The fourth season of Frameline at the Center continues on Valentine’s Day with the Frameline Distribution documentary The Year of Paper.

When officials began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples in 2004, this country went to war over a word.  How different is a “gay marriage” from a heterosexual one?

The Year of Paper chronicles the newlywed year of three couples -lesbian, heterosexual and gay- exploring why they got married and how saying “I Do” has changed their relationships.  Although each newlywed year takes a different path, these couples deal with similar issues. Family acceptance of their relationship, finances, resolving conflict and starting a family of their own are among the experiences they share. In experiencing their everyday lives, we see the human faces behind this contentious issue.

While The Year of Paper focuses on these three couples and their experiences, it also follows the firestorm of debate that surrounds the very idea of marriage for same-sex couples. Historians, activists, politicians, sociologists and clergy weigh in on the debate, examining the history of the institution and whether it should evolve to include same-sex couples.

The traditional first year anniversary gift is paper and it’s an appropriate symbol of the legal struggle two of the three couples endure as the validity of their marriage licenses is questioned. As we face a future in which half of the states have constitutional amendments that ban same-sex marriage, we ultimately ask, is the life-long committed relationship of two women, or two men, so different from that of a man and a woman, that one word cannot describe it for them all?
 
Kindly arrive early as seating is limited. Don’t miss this FREE screening of this fantastic film!

With generous support from Folsom Street Events, Frameline proudly presents admission-free screenings at the San Francisco Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center at 7:30pm on the second Thursday of every month throughout 2008.
 
Please join us for the fourth season of Frameline at The Center, a provocative series of films and discussions focusing on social issues of particular relevance to the LGBT community. For more info please visit: http://www.frameline.org.

Colorado

Freedom to Marry Day Rally, Fort Collins, CO

Saturday, Feb 23rd 12:30, Old Town Square

Music by the Young and the Naïve and the Unitarian Church Choir
Keynote: Dr. Denise Hall
March to Avos for cake and festivities!!!
Music by Emily Fehler and entertainment by the Lambda youth
Come and bring signs and have fun celebrating all committed relationships!!

Connecticut

Wednesday, February 14th: Youth for Marriage Equality Day. Gay-Straight Alliances in schools and colleges all over Connecticut will raise awareness for marriage equality, and will let our government leaders know that youth stand for justice and fairness for same-sex couples. Order your YME Day kit today! Contact intern@lmfct.org

Film Premieres!
Join us for a reception and screening near you!

Friday, February 8th at 6:30pm at ACES Center for the Arts, Arts Hall, 55 Audubon Street, New Haven

Sunday, February 10th at 6:30pm at Central Connecticut State University, Vance Academic Building 105, New Britain

Sunday, February 17th at 6:30pm
Triangle Community Center, 16 River Street, Norwalk

Emmy award-winning director Fran Rzeznik of Guilford has created a remarkable and compelling film, Marriage Makes a Word of Difference, which portrays the personal struggles and political challenges of Connecticut’s same-sex couples and their families who are fighting for the freedom to marry. Many of these loving couples have been in committed relationships for more than a decade, but despite their dedication to each other, they continue to be denied the respect, dignity, and legal protections that marriage provides.  Through compelling interviews and archival and “slice of life” footage, Marriage Makes a Word of Difference celebrates our common humanity, and illustrates why marriage equality is a fundamental civil right.

Meet the director, Fran Rzeznik, and the couples featured in the film. Receptions begin at 6:30! RSVP to charmane@lmfct.org or 860-525-7777, x301.

District of Columbia

The Howard University School of Law American Civil Liberties Union, American Constitution Society, OUTLaw, & Law Students for Reproductive Justice

Present...

JUMPING THE BROOM: GAY MARRIAGE AND THE BLACK COMMUNITY

Wednesday February 13, 2008
5pm, Houston Hall Room 3

Howard University School of Law
2900 Van Ness St. N.W.
Washington D.C. 20008

FEATURING

Elbridge James is the Executive Director of the Maryland Black Family Alliance and a civil rights activist and lobbyist for the NAACP in Annapolis, Maryland. Currently, he serves on the Maryland ACLU Legislative Committee and is President of Progressive Maryland. Over his career, James has lead campaigns for living wage laws, campaign finance reform, and for the rights of LGTB community members to marry and form families freely under the law.

H. Alexander Robinson, MBA is the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Black Justice Coalition, and president of NBJC Action Fund. NBJC is the nation's black lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization. From 1990-1996 Mr. Robinson was the senior congressional lobbyist for the American Civil Liberties Union Gay and Lesbian Rights and AIDS Projects. Mr. Robinson has also served as the Deputy Executive Director for the National Minority AIDS Council. The recipient of numerous awards and recognitions, Robinson served on the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS in the Clinton administration.

Mikki Mozelle and Lisa Kebreau, ACLU clients in the Maryland Court of Appeals gay marriage lawsuit Conaway v. Deane (2007). The Prince George's County couple will share how the inability to marry has adversely impacted their lives.

AND MORE...

Come armed with questions and an open mind!

RECEPTION TO FOLLOW

District of Columbia

American University Queers & Allies is having our annual Freedom to Marry Day events on Wednesday, March 26th all day.

AU Queers & Allies
c/o GLBTA Resource Center
Mary Graydon Center 201, American University
4400 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20016
queersandallies@american.edu

Florida

A Demonstration Of Love

Walk, Party, Rally -- speakers, cake, champagne, candel light walk to city place to hand out valentines, honor our local long term couples.

Hibiscus House
213 S. Rosemary Ave.
West Palm Beach, FL

2/14/2008
6pm - 8 pm

Event Sponsor: EQFL-PBC

Sponsor URL: www.eqfl.org

Email for more information: eqflpbc@yahoo.com

Phone # for more information: 561.541.3700

Price: free

Idaho

University of Idaho

11th Annual Observance of "Freedom to Marry" Week

Look for campus-wide programs, panels, and photo exhibitions throughout the week, commemorating the GLBT community and allies’ efforts to win marriage equality nationwide. Call 885-6616 for more details.

Illinois

Thursday, February 7, 2008

Lambda Legal Invites You to Get Engaged!

Be Part of a Movement.  
Juntos...Together
 
The 7th Annual Freedom To Marry Reception
A Special Evening of Love, Equality & Action
National Museum of Mexican Art
1852 West 19th Street, Chicago, IL
Thursday, February 7, 2008, 6:00 -9:00 p.m
 
Join Lambda Legal as we honor the commitment of local same-sex couples and shower appreciation on supportive family and friends. Our celebration will include music, cake cutting, bouquet toss, hors d'oeures and an open bar.
 
Free guided tours of the featured exhibit, 6:00 PM- 7:00 PM
 
Mistress of Ceremonies: C.C Carter, Center On Halsted
 
This is a Free Event! RSVP preferred. Please contact Lambda Legal Midwest Regional Community Educator Catina Lowery at clowery@lambdalegal.org or 312.663.4413 ext. 27.

Illinois

Thursday, February 14, 2008 1:00 PM

The Winter LGBT Love Reception is an opportunity for LGBTQI and allies to meet and mingle over hot and cold hors d'oeuvres. The reception coincides with Valentine's Day this year, so we expect love and support for the LGBTQI and allied community at NU to be shared!

Room 203, Norris University Center, Northwestern University, 1999 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL 60208

February 14 also happens to be National Condom Awareness Day and LGBT Freedom to Marry Day, so we have a lot to celebrate!
http://www.norris.northwestern.edu/

Iowa

One Iowa's 29 Days of Equality

This February, the movement for equality in Iowa is really picking up steam. Announcing 29 Days of Equality.

All month long, One Iowa will be hosting special events designed to promote awareness about equality for all Iowa families. We can't do it without you! Here's how you can get involved:

• 29 House Parties. Party for a cause - host a party for your friends and family to learn more about our journey toward equality and how they can help! Call (515) 288-4019 or email houseparty@oneiowa.org to get a house party toolkit!


• 29 New Personal & Family Stories. Your personal story and family photo will be evidence that all committed couples deserve basic legal protections and responsibilities. Submit your picture and story at www.oneiowa.org/story


• 29 New Volunteers. One Iowa needs your help for a variety of projects. Sign up to be a volunteer at www.oneiowa.org/volunteer29


• 29 New Donors. Your support will help One Iowa advance our common goal of strengthening and protecting Iowa families through equality. Donate today at https://secure.ga4.org/01/29_days


• 290 Pledges for Iowa Families. Take our pledge to show support for Iowa families and the protections they deserve - and need. www.oneiowa.org/pledge

Kentucky

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Bluegrass Fairness of Central Kentucky and the Kentucky Equality Federation are sponsoring the first LGBT lobby day of this session on February 12; Equality. Fairness. Nothing more, nothing less.  This shall be the day we take the fight for equality and fairness directly to our Capitol.

We need your support as the opposition has the voices and numbers that we fail to get to the Capitol. Pro and/or friendly LGBT policies are the minority, but we need to drum enough support to seem like the majority.

We plan on having many guest speakers; including Senator Ernesto Scorsone, and Representative Kathy W. Stein.

We have two exciting events planned for you; you may register for one or both events:

1. Speak to your elected officials from 9:00AM - 1:00PM
2. Rally in the Capitol Rotunda from 1:00PM - 2:00PM

Show your support by standing united with Kentucky Equality Federation and Bluegrass Fairness of Central Kentucky!  Your presence will make a real difference in the fight for equality and fairness for LGBT Kentuckians! 

Maryland

Equality Maryland's 2008 Lobby Day in Annapolis

Join Us for This Important Lobby Day

With one of the most extensive pieces of LGBT-legislation before them (The Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act) this is the time for our elected officials to see the strength of our community and its allies and to hear our stories and the passionate voices of our friends and family!

Monday, February 11th
Lawyer's Mall in Annapolis
(in front of the Statehouse)
Gather beforehand - Rally starts at 5pm

EQMD will be aggressively working to pass The Religious Freedom and Marriage Protection Act, the transgender anti-discrimination bill, domestic partner benefits for state employees, and a number of other measures that will help protect LGBT individuals and our families. Lawmakers must feel a human connection to the issue and know that their own constituents want them to stand up for fairness and for ALL families. 

You don’t need to use  lobbyist jargon or know the issues inside and out to come to Lobby Day!  Your elected officials need to hear you speak from your heart about why fairness for LGBT individuals and families is important to you.  The power of you and a group of other people from your district sharing this with your elected officials cannot be underestimated.  

If you don't stand up to be heard and counted, then who will? We need you!!

Sign up for Lobby Day 2008 now!

Meetings with Legislators are scheduled after the rally.  In order to schedule these appointments, we need your registration information as soon as possible. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Lobby Day 2008.

Fact Sheets for Lobby Day 2008 issues.

Transportation information, including maps, shuttle bus, and parking information. *
 
At the legislative center on Equality Maryland's site, you can find out who your representatives are, see their voting records on LGBT issues, and get their contact information.

*Freedom to Marry Bus Tickets On Sale Now: Bus tickets for a charter bus from Montgomery County to Annapolis for Monday, February 11 are on sale.  The bus will leave from Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church (9601 Cedar Lane, Bethesda, Maryland)  Bus leaves Cedar Lane at 4:00 making stops at Silver Spring UU and Paint Branch UU.  Contact Mike Benefiel at Mike@persuasiveinformation.com for tickets. 
$20.00 for one adult
$15.00 for youth/low income
$35.00 for two (bring a friend and save!)

Maryland

Howard University School of Law will host a forum titled "Jumping the Broom: Civil Marriage and the Black Community” on Wednesday, Feb. 13 from 5 - 6:30 p.m. in classroom three of Houston Hall, Howard University School of Law, 2900 Van Ness Street, NW, Washington D.C.

The groups sponsoring this forum are the ACLU chapter at Howard University’s School of Law, the ACLU of Maryland, the Maryland Black Family Alliance, the Howard Law American Constitution Society, OutLaw, and Law Students for Reproductive Justice. A dinner reception will follow.

Guests present will be: Elbridge James, Director of the Maryland Black Family Alliance; David Rocah, Staff Attorney and Litigator of Conaway v. Deane, from the ACLU of Maryland; H. Alexander Robinson, Executive Director of the National Black Justice Coalition; and Mikki Mozelle and Lisa Kebreau, a plaintiff couple from Conaway v. Deane, the Maryland civil marriage equality lawsuit.

Maryland

The Temple Shalom Tikkun Olam Committee

presents

Freedom to Marry Week

A Social Justice Havdalah*:

“Why Marriage Equality? Aren’t Civil Unions Good Enough?”

Saturday, February 9
5:30PM. – 7 P.M. followed by Pot Luck Dinner

Temple Shalom Chapel
8401 Grubb Road . Chevy Chase , MD 20815

Phone: 301-587-2273
www.templeshalom.net

We will hear from Michele Zavos, a local legal expert, on the rights marriage confers in the State of Maryland; from Rabbi Gerry Serotta reflecting the Reform Jewish perspective on same-sex marriage; and, from one of our own congregants with a personal perspective about how the ban on same-sex marriage impacts her family. We will also be joined by Dan Furmansky, Executive Director of Equality Maryland, our state’s Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, Bisexual Rights organization, who will tell us what we can do to make a difference.

After the panel, we will come together for a pot-luck dinner at 7PM. Please bring a vegetarian or dairy dish to share.

Separate program for children during the panel

*Havdalah is the brief ritual marking the end of Shabbat with candles, wine, and spices.

In preparation for Equality Maryland Freedom to Marry Lobby Day in Annapolis , February 11, 4:30-8PM

Questions or to request childcare call or email:

Nicole Berner-Kadish 301 891 3114
nicolebk@starpower.net

Michigan

Affirmations is celebrating Freedom to Marry Week this year with a series of 3 events.  If your organization would like to sponsor the events by having a representative speak at the marriage equality forum or assist in promotion please let us know and we will include your organization’s logo on our promotional materials and include you as a partnering organization in our press release.  Below is a brief description of the events.

Marriage Equality Forum
Why does marriage matter?  It's not just the 1,049 benefits the United States government provides to couples that are legally married.  Ask similar questions and learn more about the importance of relationship recognition. 
Takes place Wednesday, February 13th from 7:00pm-9:00pm at Affirmations. 

Valentine’s Day Domestic Partnership Registry
Couples - start your Valentine’s Day celebration at Affirmations.  Celebrate the holiday and your relationship by officially becoming part of the Domestic Partnership Registry, joining the couples that have signed up to-date.  All registering couples will receive authentic, notarized certificates.  Cost is $25.00 per couple.  Light refreshments will be served. 
Takes place Thursday, February 14th from 5:00pm-7:00pm.  

Rally on the Nine
Closing Freedom to Marry Week is the Rally on the Nine, a demonstration at the busy intersection of Nine and Woodward.  The rally is a great way to take a stand and spread the word about marriage equality.  Please RSVP by February 14th or just come by and join in on the rally.  
Takes place Friday, February 15th from 5:00pm-6:00pm. 

Please let us know by Friday January 25th!

Affirmations… The community center for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people and their allies.

290 W. Nine Mile Rd. Ferndale, MI 48220

Office. 248.398.7105

http://www.GoAffirmations.org

Missouri

Freedom to Marry Week - The Vagina Monologues - Feb 11th

Joplin Gay & Lesbian Center is proud to announce the showing of Eve Ensler's Broadway show, "The Vagina Monologues," as taped and broadcast by HBO, as part of the Center's Freedom To Marry Week events.

Monday, February 11th
6:30pm
Joplin Public Library
Free Admission

For more info, see http://freedomtomarry.org/ or www.myspace.com/gaylesbiancenter.

We'll see you there!

Missouri

"My Lawfully Wedded Spouse – Redux"
A Fundraiser for Joplin Gay & Lesbian Center

A "Freedom To Marry Week" Event

In Support of Equal Civil Marriage For Gays and Lesbians

Who
Me, You, & All Our Friends
(21 & over, ID required)

What
Dance & Reception
With DJ, Wedding Cake, and Cash Bar

When
Valentine's Day · Thursday Night
February 14th, 2008
7:00 pm – 1:30 am

Where
Groove Lounge
2331 East 7th Street, Joplin, MO

Why
To raise money for Joplin Gay & Lesbian Center
To have fun, to socialize, and to meet new people
To check out the new Groove Lounge

How Much
$5 Donation Per Person
Cash at the Door

RSVP Requested, Not Required
gaylesbiancenter@gmail.com
leemcd@alumni.brown.edu
Lee McDaniel @ 417/622-7821

More Info
MySpace - www.myspace.com/gaylesbiancenter
Yahoo 360˚ - http://360.yahoo.com/gaylesbiancenter
JoplinGays on Yahoo - http://tv.groups.yahoo.com/group/JoplinGays/

Missouri

Joplin Gay & Lesbian Center and Murphy's Irish Pub are pleased to announce Wedding Reception Karaoke as part of Freedom to Marry Week 2008. The event will take place on Wednesday, February 13th from 9pm - 1am at Murphy's Irish Pub at 22nd and Main in Joplin, MO.

No cover charge. Muphy's will have drink and shot specials throughout the night.

Donations may be made to the Center. For more info, see www.myspace.com/gaylesbiancenter, email gaylesbiancenter@gmail, or call Lee McDaniel at 417-622-7821.

New Jersey

Sunday, February 10, 2:00pm at LITM, 140 Newark Ave, Jersey City - Chillfest Second Sunday Series screens the award-winning documentary on faith and sexual identity, "For the Bible Tells Me So," followed by Q&A with Rev. Janet Broderick of Grace Church Van Vorst and director Daniel Karslake. www.chillfest.org

New York

Monday, February 11th
Let SHOOT THE MESSENGER be your funny Valentine!

Just in time for Valentine's Day
AND
Freedom To Marry Week...

Shoot The Messenger is thrilled to welcome Freedom To Marry Founder and Executive Director, and author of Why Marriage Matters...

Evan Wolfson !

Who's the most marriage-friendly candidate -- Hillary or Barack?
Join us on Monday and find out!

We'll be talking about all the political shenanigans the corporate media isn't reporting.

YOU DON'T WANNA MISS IT!

THE GREEN ROOM THEATER
45 BLEECKER ST. (@ LAFAYETTE)


Come join us!
Show starts at 8PM

IT'S MUST-SEE THEATER!

The Green Room Theater

45 Bleecker St. (@ Lafayette)
COST: $12.50
TICKETS: Telecharge

Lizz goes 1 on 1 with the one and only Evan Wolfson.

ShootTheMessengerNYC.com
www.shootthemessengernyc.com

Dear thoughtful human disgusted by the media, politicians, corporate scumbags and anyone else who uses their powers for evil :

Join us over at Shoot The Messenger for an evening of catharsis and hilarity at the expense of the aforementioned.

Shoot The Messenger is a satirical wrap-up of the week's news from the brain of Daily Show Co-creator Lizz Winstead. A live sketch-comedy show incorporating multi-media elements, it gives us the world as seen through the filters of the fictional producers and on-air talent at Wake-up World - America's first and only 6 hour Morning Show which is coincidentaly on 24/7 America's first and only infonewsment network.

It is an indictment, both hilarious and scathing - not only of the newsmakers, but of the news media that molds them. Shoot The Messenger will give the audience a glimpse into the behind the scenes decision making at a news show, and the process that brings those decisions to the air.

And of course the on-air results of the aforementioned horrific brainstorming.

But that's just half of it.

Not everyone in the media gets a flogging; those who are doing great work will be celebrated.

Each week Lizz interviews a media figure who digs deep and gets it right. They'll give us the lowdown on the big stories that were buried (or ignored) by our pals of the over at the corporate run media.

Past guests have included Roseanne Barr, Chuck D, Kate Clinton, Rachel Maddow, Mo Rocca, Anne Meara, Jerry Stiller, Mark Crispin Miller, Marie Wilson, Ted Rall, Paul Reikoff, Michael Signorile, Nick Flynn, David Rees, Shelley Lewis, Rachel Sklar, Phillip Dray and John Bowe.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST!

We are extra excited to be spending Freedom to Marry Week with marriage rights advocate... Evan Wolfson!

Evan Wolfson is founder and Executive Director of Freedom to Marry. Recognizing his longtime civil rights leadership in the movement for marriage equality, in 2004 TIME magazine named Evan one of the "100 most influential people in the world." Evan was co-counsel in the historic Hawaii marriage case, argued before the U.S. Supreme Court in Boy Scouts of America v. Dale, served in the Peace Corps in West Africa, and is the author of Why Marriage Matters: America, Equality and Gay People's Right to Marry.


WE'RE ALMOST NOT WORTHY....

The writers, actors and producers of Shoot The Messenger come from Air America Radio and The Daily Show and represent some of the best political comics and writers working today.

AND THERE'S MORE??????

OH YES.

Our website www.ShootTheMessengerNYC.com IS FINALLY UP AND RUNNIN'! bringing you the of bios of the actors as well as their characters. AND It also provides video highlights of our past shows - so if you don't live in NYC, you can see us live on the intercom.

Come join us this week, and check out what Time Out NY has to say about us!

New York

Marriage Equality NY

When: Mon, Feb 11, 6pm – 8pm

Where: Bamboo 52, 344 West 52nd Street, New York , NY 10019

Celebrate 10 years of Marriage Equality NY serving the community in its struggle for gender neutral marriage. We know, it is hard to believe it has been 10 years. While we we wish we could be along side Massachusetts, and are hopeful of changing things on the national scope, we have some more work to do here in our very own backyard. With out your support we couldn't fight the fight. So support Marriage Equality NY and get your tickets in advance for this much anticipated party at Bamboo 52. Tickets can be bought at http://marriageequalityny.org/gala.html Can't make it? you can always make a donation at http://www.marriageequalityny.org/donate.html

Thanks, Marriage Equality NY

Valentine's day Action

Thu, February 14, 12 – 2pm

Where: The Manhattan Municipal Building 1 Centre St # 265, New York, NY 10007
Please direct all questions and press inquiries to Marriage Equality New York contact persons: Tim Dubitsky at tim@marriageequalityny.org and Cathy Marino-Thomas at cathy@marriageequalityny.org

Ohio

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

An Inside Look at Same-Sex Marriage — 7:00pm, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Wayne County, 3186 Burbank Road, Wooster. Featuring a 30-minute screening of Freedom to Marry: Same-Sex Couples. Free.

Oregon

Eugene Valentines Day Event - An Evening of Love & Laughter

An Evening of Love & Laughter

Starring: WYMPROV! Eugene’s Favorite Improv/Comedy Troupe, with special guest host, award winning comedian Jennifer Self.  Featuring songs from RING of FIRE: the Music of Johnny Cash, by Actors Cabaret of Eugene (showing Jan 18 - Feb 23).

When:  Valentines Day, Thurs. Feb. 14th - Dinner begins at 6:30 pm.  Show begins at 8pm
Where: Actors Cabaret of Eugene
What: 

·        Dinner and Show tickets are $55 per person.  70 seats are available, with reserve seating only. Price includes dinner, wine, dessert, show ticket and a gift bag valued at more than $35.

·        Show only tickets are $25 each, with reserve seating only.  50 seats are available.

All proceeds from this event will benefit Basic Rights Oregon.

Make your reservations early. Call 541-683-4368.
Actors Cabaret of Eugene, 996 Willamette Street, Eugene, Oregon 97401

Event Co-Sponsors:
Swing-On-Home Realtor
Revolution Cycles
Ring of Fire Restaurant & Lava Lounge
Bonebrake Financial Planning and Investments
Mother Kali’s Bookstore, 541-762-1077   1849 Willamette Street, Eugene
QueerEugene.com

For more information email julieweismann(at)comcast(dot)net

Oregon

Southern Oregon University's Freedom to Marry Day

February 12, 2008
all day
Southern Oregon University
1250 Siskiyou Blvd, Ashland, OR 97520

In front of the student union there will be poetry/prose readings, speakers and an open forum for people to share their personal stories. There will be booths where people can make valentines day cards, and decorate small squares of cake. Information and quality conversations will be available at each table as well. Two commitment services will also be taking place.

Pennsylvania

February 11, 2008
PennGALA
University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA
Allies is looking forward to hosting two events on February 11th, in celebration of Freedom to Marry Day. In the afternoon, from 11am to 3pm, we will be hosting a wedding cake and petition signing event in Houston Hall. Then at 7pm at the Penn Bookstore, with the co-sponsorship of the LBGT Center, Lambda Law, and the Penn Bookstore, we look forward to hearing from American University Law Professor, Nancy Polikoff, as she discusses some of the topics raised in her new book, Beyond (Straight and Gay) Marriage. All are welcome to attend both events.

Pennsylvania

Freedom to Marry Rally

Dauphin County Courthouse
Front & Market Streets
Harrisburg, PA

4 pm - 6 pm

Sponsor: Rainbow EqUUality Advocates, Unitarian Church of Harrisburg

http://www.harrisburguu.org/Lay-Led/freedom2marry.asp

Email for more information: alannaberger@hotmail.com

Phone # for more information: 717-361-2992

Pennsylvania

'National Freedom To Marry Day Court House Action'
Metropolitan Community Church of the Lehigh Valley
MCCLV invites the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and allied community to meet around God's open and abundant table with two worship services on Sunday, with outreach that connects them to the Lehigh Valley and beyond.

National Freedom to Marry Day Court House Action: Same-sex couples are needed for MCC LV observance of this important day. Please consider seeking marriage license applications at the Lehigh County Courthouse at 5th and Hamilton on this day. The licenses will not be valid but will create a historical record of the discrimination we face. For info call MCC at 610-709-8800

Date: Friday, February 08, 2008 At 11:00 AM

Rhode Island

In celebration of National Freedom to Marry Week, Marriage Equality RI (MERI) is holding a press conference on Wednesday, February 13th at 3:30 pm to kick off our 2008 legislative efforts to secure equal rights for same-sex Rhode Island couples. MERI will be introducing a platform of basic rights protections, and introducing individuals who are or will be impacted by this legislation.

Join us at 3:30 in the State House Bell Room (Located on the far side of the Rotunda on the first floor) to hear more about our platform from Jenn Steinfeld, Director, Marriage Equality Rhode Island; Susan Heroux; Annette Berarducci, a funeral director in Johnston; Steven Brown, Executive Director of the Rhode Island ACLU; and Representative David Segal.

Currently, Rhode Island same-sex couples are excluded from marriage within our state borders. This exclusion carries with it insecurity and fear, and many worry about their ability to care for and protect their families in times of illness, infirmity, and death.

In celebration of the 11th annual National Freedom to Marry Week, MERI will be unveiling our 2008 legislative platform. This platform includes the Compassion for All Families Act, an effort to provide families in crisis with some basic protections in these uncertain times. We continue to call on our legislature to ensure that all Rhode Island families have the same opportunities to realize their hopes and dreams, and to provide all committed couples with the same freedom to marry.

South Carolina

SCGLPM announces Marriage Equality Day
Gay organization holds event seeking the recognition of families in SC

The Board of the South Carolina Gay & Lesbian Pride Movement (SCGLPM) will recognize Marriage Equality Week on February 12, 2008 participating in a series of nation-wide events focused on the freedom to marry and the recognition of same-gender couples and their families. SCGLPM will sponsor the 4th annual Marriage Equality Day on Tuesday, February 12, 2008 at the Richland County Judicial Center located at 1701 Main Street in Columbia, South Carolina.

This is the eleventh year that organizations and communities across the nation have recognized Freedom to Marry Week, and the fourth year that South Carolina organizations have participated. On February 12, 2008, Same-sex couples and their supporters will meet at 9:45 a.m. outside the Richland County Judicial Center. At 10 a.m. the group will enter the judicial center and proceed to the Richland County Probate Court located on the 2nd floor, where same-sex couples will apply for marriage licenses. SCGLPM encourages same-sex couples to participate in this demonstration and asks straight allies of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) individuals, to attend this event in support.

“These couples expect to be refused their equal right to marry their committed partner because of the discriminatory laws in South Carolina and the most recent amendment to the state constitution,” said Ryan Wilson, President of SCGLPM. Ryan, a graduate student at USC, continued, “My hope is that by the time I am ready to make such a great public commitment, I will be granted the same rights and privileges that my fellow South Carolinians take for granted.” Harriet Hancock, one of the event organizers said, “The importance of this event is to continue to raise public awareness of marriage inequality and discrimination against gay and lesbian couples and their families.”

According to Evan Wolfson, executive director of Freedom to Marry, “Every year, right around President Lincoln's Birthday and Valentine's Day, gay and non-gay people around the country gather to talk about our lives, our loves and our families, celebrate the victories from the year before and continue the fight for the freedom to marry." Freedom to Marry is a national non-profit dedicated to achieving marriage equality (www.freedomtomarry. org).

SCGLPM is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocacy, education, support and
celebration of the GLBT community in South Carolina. SCGLPM is located on 1108 Woodrow Street in Columbia. For more information contact Ryan Wilson at (803) 771-7713, prideinsc@yahoo. com, or visit www.scglpm.org.

Rhode Island

MERI will be kicking off our legislative advocacy with a press conference on Wednesday, February 13th at 3:30 pm in the State House, where we’ll be introducing our 2008 legislation and issuing a community call to action. Hope you can come by and join us!

Texas

National Freedom to Marry Week Celebrations in Houston

This year, the Foundation for Family and Marriage Equality will host a week of events in celebration.  Here is a listing of our events.  All events are free of charge and open to the public (donations are appreciated)

Monday, February 11, 7:00pm at the Magnolia Ballroom, 715 Franklin - Kick-off Party and Celebration of Phyllis Frye's 60th Birthday.  A panel of celebrities will "lightly roast" attorney and longtime GLBT activist Phyllis Frye for her 60th birthday.  Celebrities include Ray Hill, Deborah Bell, Jack Valinski, Jenifer Rene Pool, and special guest Annise Parker, to name a few.

Tuesday, February 12, 6:30pm at South Texas College of Law, Garret Townes Lecture Hall, 1303 San Jacinto - Discussion Series Part I - "A Biological Explanation for Sexual Orientation." Speaker is Dr. Cynthia Chappell.

Wednesday, February 13, 6:30pm at University of Houston Law Center, Heritage Room (Park in Lot 19B).  - Discussion Series Part II - "GLBT in America: A Historical Look at the Struggle for Civil Rights." Speaker is Professor Sophia Mrouri.

Thursday, February 14, 11:00am - DEMONSTRATION MARCH from CITY HALL to COUNTY CLERKS OFFICE.  Meet at City Hall at 11:00am 901 Bagby, march to 201 Caroline.  EVERYONE INVITED.  THE MORE THE BETTER. Once at the clerk's office, same-sex couples will demand marriage licenses. Couples, friends, family, clergy, and all other supporters are strongly urged to be present for the march and demonstration.

Thursday, February 14, 6:30pm at Grace Lutheran Church, 2515 Waugh Dr. - Discussion Series Part III - "The Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity." Speaker is Dr. Jeff Vannice.

Friday, February 15, 8:00pm at Blurr Nightclub, 71- Pacific St.  - Bachelor and Bachelorette Party.  Everyone is encouraged to come for an evening of outrageous fun.

Saturday, February 16, 7:00pm at Resurrection MCC, 2025 W. 11th St. - Film screening of the highly acclaimed documentary, "For the Bible Tells Me So," followed by an informal discussion with various faith leaders.

Sunday, February 17, 1:00pm at Resurrection MCC, 2025 W. 11th St. - "Texas's Largest Same-Sex Wedding Celebration and Demonstration for the Right to Marry." dozens of same-sex couples will exchange vows in a wedding officiated by 20 clergy leaders of various faiths.  Same-sex couples are invited to participate.  Family, Friends, and Supporters are encouraged to attend.  A reception with cake, music, and dancing will follow.

For more information, email info@FamilyMarriageEquality.org, call 713-227-1717, or visit www.FamilyMarriageEquality.org.

Vermont

Vermont Commission on Family Recognition and Protection

NINTH PUBLIC HEARING
Monday February 11th
Williston
Williston Central School Auditorium, 195 Central School Drive
5pm-6pm: Informational Session
6:30pm-8:30pm: Public Hearing

Visit Vermont Freedom to Marry to learn more and get involved.

Virginia

John Marshall Courts Building, Richmond, VA, February 14, 2008, 12:00 noon

Each Valentine's Day for the past several years, gay couples have gone to the court clerk to request permission to marry, knowing that they'd likely be turned away. Virginia law does not allow same-sex couples to obtain marriage licenses.

The couples apply each year in honor of National Freedom to Marry Week, a campaign to establish marriage rights for same-sex couples.

The court visit at noon will be followed by a statement outside the courthouse by members of the Metropolitan Community Church of Richmond, the local congregation of an international Protestant denomination that serves the gay community.

Washington

Saturday, Feb 9, at 1pm, don’t miss the opportunity to participate in your local caucus!
Collect Marriage Equality Postcards!   

Not only is this an important time for your voice to be heard about who our next president will be, it’s also a fantastic opportunity for you to inform your neighbors about LGBT issues. Below are links to materials you can print out and take to your caucus. Most importantly, we ask you to collect marriage equality postcards from voters. By doing this you will not only help us identify marriage equality supporters, you also will help show the party faithful that voters care about this human rights issue. Collecting marriage equality postcards is a perfect way to celebrate the 11th Annual National Freedom to Marry Week, February 10-16! 

Before your caucus, read all the candidates positions on LGBT issues and HIV/AIDS (pdf) .

If you are in the Seattle area, please stop by the office to pick up an important publication on why non-gay people should, and do, care about the freedom to marry. It also has suggestions for how to get involved in the cause for equal rights. These are perfect to give out at your caucus. These materials need to be picked up by Friday, Feb. 8th at 5pm.  

• We are located at:
  209 Harvard Ave E.
  Seattle, WA 98102

Washington

Washington State University Freedom to Marry Day

2/12/2008 11:00:00 AM - 2/12/2008 2:00:00 PM

• Email: giesorc@wsu.edu
• Phone: 335-6388
• Location: Terrell Mall