The 50 Spot: Pushing for Marriage in Vermont

by Michael Jones · 2009-02-06 01:48:00 UTC
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Equal marriageThe first state to enact civil unions might become the next state to enact full marriage rights for gay and lesbian couples. Today's tour 'round the country takes us to Vermont, Tennessee (two days in a row!) and Nebraska.

Vermont: Lawmakers in Vermont are looking to take the first state in the country to recognize civil unions, and make it the first state to recognize full marriage rights for gays and lesbians through legislation.  Today, more than 200 people are expected at the State Capitol to support a Vermont House Bill that would recognize same-sex marriage.  The bill is being introduced by Democrat Rep. Mark Larson and Progressive Rep. David Zuckerman.  (Reason #282 to move to Vermont?  They have a Progressive political party!)

Tennessee:  Sheesh, two days in a row Tennessee makes the list, and for the second day in a row, it's not particularly glamorous news.  A discrimination lawsuit has finally been filed against Brentwood hotel owner Tarun Surti, who last month was alleged to have fired two of his employees simply because they are gay.  Activists have been protesting the Arte' hotel over the firings, after Surti apparently dared one of the gay employees to sue him.  Looks like Surti's wish has now come true.  He's got a discrimination lawsuit on his hands, although legal experts seem mixed on whether it will move forward in Tennessee courts.

Nebraska:  After a two-year battle with school officials, students with Bellevue East High School have won the right to form an LGBT/Straight ally group that fosters more understanding over issues of homosexuality. The students have worked closely with the ACLU Nebraska to get the club recognized, and now they can claim victory.  According to the ACLU Nebraska, the school group will now have its announcements posted on the school's message board, and the group will be officially recognized in items like the Yearbook.  Kudos for the students who worked hard to make this a reality.

Michael Jones is a Change.org Editor. He has worked in the field of human rights communications for a decade, most recently for Harvard Law School.
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