Monday, January 26, 2009

Party Politics the Size of the Grand Canyon

Saturday was quite the day in Arizona politics. Hotly contested races for party chairs resulted in no change for the state Republican Party and a surprising shift in the Democratic Party.

As a nonpartisan organization we followed these races closely to see what changes, if any, Arizona might see especially on the heels of national and statewide races that left a cavern the size of the Grand Canyon between the national mood of hope and optimism and in Arizona a dramatic conservative shift in the legislature.

At statewide meetings held on the same day text messages were flying fast. Randy Pullen the controversial Chair of the Arizona Republican Party was re-elected to another term. In a stunning turn of events Don Bivens was unseated as the Chair for the Arizona Democratic Party by veteran organizer Paul Ekerstrom. Ekerstrom who did not decide until the morning of the meeting to place his name in nomination electrified the room with a speech reminiscent of John Kennedy.

Even before taking office now Governor Brewer-R signaled her agenda would include repeal of many progressive gains made over the past six years under Democratic Governor Janet Napolitano. True to form the first bill introduced at the start of the 49th legislature proposes to take away a women’s right to make health care decisions for herself.

Under attack are domestic partner benefits for state employees, safe schools, education budgets, full-day kindergarten and many other policies that provide safety and quality of life for Arizonans.

This shift in politics signals a wake-up call not just for the LGBT community but for all those who believe in protecting our constitution, right to privacy and our Libertarian way of governing. With an unstoppable majority in the House, Senate and Executive office Equality Arizona will work across both parties to enact pro-family legislation while mitigating any attempts at regressive policies which would only serve to undermine Arizona’s LGBT families.

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Thursday, January 22, 2009

For the Bible Tells Me So

Equality Arizona is teaming up with First Run Features and faith organizations from across the state to bring award winning documentary "For the Bible Tells Me So" to Arizona through out the Spring.

Can the love between two people ever be an abomination? Is the chasm separating gays and lesbians and Christianity too wide to cross? Is the Bible an excuse to hate? The film notes, most Christians no longer feel it is necessary to kill anyone who works on the Sabbath or eats shrimp though the Bible still reads that way. "For the Bible Tells Me So" allows viewers to discover how insightful people of faith handle the realization of having a gay child by walking them through the experiences of five very normal, very Christian, very American families.


The opening presentation of For the Bible Tells me So will be held at the Church of Beatitudes on Tuesday, February 10th starting at 7:00pm. The film will be followed by an open and frank discussion with faith and community leaders about the impact and implications of the film and how this divide between the religious and lgbt community might be bridged in Arizona. All are welcome with an open mind and a $5 suggested donation.




Progressive Lobby Day 2009

Progressive Lobby Day 2009 is just around the corner! Come to the House Lawn at the Arizona State Capitol Tuesday, February 3rd from 10:00am to 2:00pm and join your fellow Progressives from around the state as we lobby together for the values we share: fairness, equality, opportunity, justice, a cleaner environment and a better life for ourselves and our families.
Join Arizona's progressive community to learn about important issues affecting our state. Learn how lawmakers work and how YOU can make a difference in creating a more fair, just and compassionate Arizona!



Tuesday, January 20, 2009


Listen up on Saturday, January 24th from 10:00AM to 11:00AM as Equality Arizona Radio learns about the Straight Spouse Network. The SSN raises awareness of the invisible minority of straight spouses in mixed orientation marriages. Joining Emmy award winning host Donna Rossi is Dr. Lisa Schwartz, licensed psychotherapist, Amity Buxton prior SSN Executive Director, and local participants of SSN. Tune into 1190NOVA M or online at http://www.blogger.com/www.1190novam.com, http://www.blogger.com/www.equalityarizona.org, or www.ntouchaz.com. If you miss out Saturday you can always download the podcast at your convenience at: http://equalityarizonaradio.podbean.com/

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Equality Arizona Radio Live at the Rodeo


Listen up for a good old time as Equality Arizona Radio airs live from the rodeo. Emmy Award winning host Donna Rossi as she interviews participants and organizers of the Roadrunner Regional Rodeo. Learn about how the IGRA puts a "Yehaw!" in our community this Saturday from 10:00am to 11:00am. Listen Live 1190NOVA M or online at www.1190novam.com, www.equalityarizona.org, or www.ntouchaz.com