Fight for Equality this Saturday in Oakland

This Saturday, people in hundreds of cities across the country will be rallying for equality. Why a nationwide protest? Well, in addition to the passage of Prop 8 in California, Arizona, Arkansas, and Florida all voted against equal rights in this past election.

In Oakland, we’ll be meeting at City Hall at 10:30 to speak out for civil rights and against Prop 8. I hope you’ll join me there. Here’s the info from the Oakland protest’s Facebook page:

Date:    Saturday, November 15, 2008
Time:    10:30am – 1:30pm
Location:    Oakland City Hall
Street:        1 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza
City/Town:    Oakland, CA

Election night was a bitter-sweet celebration. We came together to witness the first African American elected president, yet watched in sadness as Florida, Arizona, Arkansas, and California all voted down equal rights for all citizens. The government has taken rights away from its citizens, and you have to wonder what right might be taken away next? This is not a 4 state issue. This is an issue of equality across America. Stand up and make your voice heard. On November 15th, every major city in the United States (even some around the world) will be participating in a nationwide protest. If you live in Oakland, or a nearby city, please join us at the Oakland City Hall at 10:30am. Bring friends, family, home-made signs, and a whole lot of energy. Be part of the next Civil Rights Movement – Be part of history – Join the National Protest/March for Equality on November 15th!

Remember, these events are partly intended to raise visibility in the media and in the public’s consciousness, so we really want strong turnouts all across the country. If you’re debating going to the SF side instead please stay here in Oakland with us. We need large, passionate, (but peaceful) crowds in all the news and print coverage to show the rest of the country and world how many people are hurt and angry over the recent legalized discrimination!

I HIGHLY encourage everyone to bring handmade signs as they diversify yet strengthen, (kind of like adding gays to the list of people who can get married!) the message and add humor and wit to it.

UPDATE: Rebecca Kaplan, Oakland’s new City Council Member, and Sean Sullivan from Equality California are now confirmed speakers at the event. Assemblymember Sandre Swanson and Mayor Ron Dellums are likely speakers as well.