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Written by Mary Griggs
New Orleans GLBT
I have been polite too long. I want to demand my rights but there is a slight problem. Historically when marginalized groups of citizens have demanded their rights it has taken the added pressure of those not in the margins to achieve them. I don’t know if this is because it adds “legitimacy” or it simply swells the ranks and turns the tide. I don’t care anymore about the why or how. I want my rights and I want them now.
I want the same rights as a couple as my married neighbors have. To be assured of the legal right to visit my partner in the hospital, of knowing that there is no legal question regarding my parental status of my children, of the benefits that are provided to married couples in taxes, insurance, social security and so much more.
I want the same rights that the people I play soccer with have.
I want the same rights as the people I sit next to at the movies.
I want the same rights as my co-workers.
I want the same rights.
I want my rights.
So I’m asking you, my straight friend, acquaintance, co-worker, parent, neighbor or maybe just a straight person who only knows me from my visits to your grocery store to stand with me.
Please stand with me, beside me and behind me. I’ve stood up for you. It’s your turn now. I am asking you to take ten minutes, right now, to email each of your Senators and Representatives and tell them to do whatever it takes to give me and my family the same rights that you and yours enjoy.
The fabric of a just and civilized society takes the diligence of the just and civilized to, not just thrive, but also survive.
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| Mary Griggs |
 Mary Griggs is the Managing Director for Forum For Equality, a civil rights organization dedicated to promoting good govenment and to protecting the civil rights of lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons in the state of Louisiana. She is also a senior consultant with Pacific Training and Resources, a consulting firm that specializes in assisting non-profits integrate their mission and administration.Mary is a founding Board member of The Community Coalition of Greater New Orleans, a member at large of the Greater New Orleans Women’s Soccer League, a board member of the Golden Crown Literary Society and was the past Female Co-chair of the LGBT Community Center of New Orleans. |
