One day, as a society, we will look back at the absurdity of discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals as something as abhorrent as racial discrimination. But, that day is not here yet -- and it's likely the California State Supreme Court today will make the road just a bit harder. Which is why everyone of us must use today as a beginning point to push the Dallas Principles.
Just a couple of weeks ago, a group of "thinkers, activists, and donors gathered to discuss the immediate need for full equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual transgender people in the United States." Here is what they came up with:
The following eight guiding principles underlie our call to action.
In order to achieve full civil rights now, we avow:
1.Full civil rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals must be enacted now. Delay and excuses are no longer acceptable.
2.We will not leave any part of our community behind.
3.Separate is never equal.
4.Religious beliefs are not a basis upon which to affirm or deny civil rights.
5.The establishment and guardianship of full civil rights is a non-partisan issue.
6.Individual involvement and grassroots action are paramount to success and must be encouraged.
7.Success is measured by the civil rights we all achieve, not by words, access or money raised.
8.Those who seek our support are expected to commit to these principles.
It appears that today the California State Supreme Court will uphold Proposition 8 -- which banned same-sex marriage. Like many people around the country, I will take part in rallies today to protest (and, if predictions are wrong, celebrate) the decision.
But, then what? The Dallas Principles is a call to arms to begin to end discrimination. Spread the word.