COMMUNITY GROUPS

The most effective action uses a pen or a keyboard

by Paula Toohey

Wouldn't you like to enjoy the same marriage benefits as a heterosexual couple? Did you know there are over 160 different legal rights and responsibilities including tax, parental and probate rights extended to a marriage? A gay couple without the legal right of marriage is excluded from these rights. If the state of Hawaii passes same-sex marriage into law we could begin to capitalize on some, if not all, of

these 160 legal rights. We live in the United States where the constitution was created to protect the rights of all citizens, but as gay citizens we are withheld from these rights solely on others' religious be-

We need you to be involved. As a community, we are under-staffed. We need the help of all gay citizens in making our equal rights heard. We cannot just sit back and let a small group of people write and speak for everyone. The more of us who speak out to our representatives, the more effective we will be.

STONEWALL

The job of a government official is to listen to constituents and vote accordingly. Remember, we voted them into office, and we have the power to vote them out of office. They will listen if we show up in numbers. Writing letters to representatives and government officials requires just a piece of paper, pen and a small amount of time. A short letter which briefly describes your position is effective. What is important is that our elected officials know your personal position and why he or she should vote to support our community. Not responding on issues that affect you is simply giving your power away.

CLEVELAND

A lesbian/gay political organization of Northeastern Ohio

liefs. Don't let the fears (f.e.a.r. = false expectation appears real) of groups that don't see our love and commitment stand in the way of your future. Why should we allow warped beliefs to speak for us? We all pay our gay tax dollars to our government just like every other citizen.

We too should have a voice to be heard. Unless we speak out to our congressmen and representatives telling them that we want these marriage rights, we may not ever enjoy them. It has always been the Christian right speaking louder than us. Let us now begin to speak louder and stand together for the constitutional rights we deserve.

DEFEAT HATE DEFEAT HELMS

Your letter will not cause you to lose you job, friends or family. Your letter is confidential between you and your representative. Don't be afraid to help! If you would like more information to help you write your letters please contact: S.C.A.N. c/o Stonewall-Cleveland, P.O. Box 5936 Cleveland, 44101; 216-741-9105.

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MARCH 22, 1996 GAY PEOPLE'S CHRONICLE 13

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