[tdogg]

I think Florida's initiative did make the ballot. FL, AZ & CA are the three states being watched by the opposition. Closely and constantly. All 3 are/will be significant nationally. I think California has the potential to have the most impact on other state's actions, but that does not reduce the significance of what's going on in FL or AZ.

CA has a very active group - Equality for all, that is pushing hard to make contacts of voters and discuss the initiative with them. They have a large volunteer base and part of that is due to the support of HRC. I haven't heard what HRC is doing for AZ or FL, it would be interesting to look at that. Perhaps one of the reasons why CA is so publicized is because of the HRC support, but the main reason is because of the Supreme Court decision legalizing same sex marriage (especially because it's 'marriage' and not civil union or partnership). Basically, the tides turned a bit when the initiative moved from preventing equal rights to taking away equal rights that were granted.

For myself, I need to do more research on the AZ and FL initiatives. I've been a little lacking in that area. In these economic times it's also difficult for people to set aside money for every cause, but that is probably the number one necessity to continue our struggle. Hopefully, Zerbie, Arizona has a group/some groups that are taking action state-wide, calling citizens, meeting & greeting, passing out information. Information is probably the key to people actually voting on an issue instead of jumping on someone else's bandwagon. It's too bad the gov won't take a stand, I think it would lend a lot of credence to voting no. We are very lucky in CA, our Republican governor has publicly and loudly opposed Prop 8.

And of course, we can always pray and send you our support Zerbie. But seriously, there must be other Arizonians here on Soulforce? And do you think, during your 7SN, that you will address the initiative there? Perhaps with the media attention, possible news articles and such, the word will get out a little more. I feel such desperation but very little direction on how I could personally do from here. When Equalityforall did the decline to sign action, we basically stationed ourselves in public areas (where we would be allowed - mainly at Targets, Walmarts, Trader Joes, and a couple other places) and talked to everyone we could. Looking for supporters who pledged to talk to family & friends, and also those on the fence willing to listen and think about it. I don't know anyone in Arizona, except for some business contacts, and it's against CA state rules to approach them with something like this. I just can't think of anyone else (but you and DH) who might be able to help locally.