Pledge to Defend Equality

Basic Rights Oregon has learned that Oregon State Senator Fred Girod and State Rep. Sal Esquivel have filed an initiative to repeal Oregon's domestic partnership law. Outrageously, this time around the effort is being spearheaded by state legislators whose duty it is to protect Oregonians.

We cannot afford to be complacent. To put this divisive and discriminatory measure on the November 4, 2008 ballot, they will need to collect about 83,000 valid signatures by July 3.
We knew this was in the works. When our opponents failed to gather enough signatures for their referendum effort last year, they vowed to try again. We knew that even though we fought them - and won - in court, they would not give up. And here they are, with yet another divisive and discriminatory proposal, backed by out-of-state groups with deep pockets to fund their unpopular agenda.
We now know most Oregonians aren't buying what these guys are selling. Oregonians don't want to put their LGBT neighbors in harm's way. Oregonians believe that loving couples who have made a lifelong commitment to one another should have the basic security provided by domestic partnerships.
The groups in charge of last year's referendum efforts still have investigations pending against them in the Secretary of State's office. We don't think they are above cheating again - and we'll make sure they don't get away with breaking the law. Basic Rights Oregon will monitor their efforts to make sure they follow the rules.
At the same time, we will continue to mobilize fair-minded Oregonians across this state to take a stand for equality - through voter outreach, public education, media engagement, and grassroots organizing.
In addition to the anti-equality petition that would repeal Oregon's domestic partnership law, our opposition has filed another that would overturn legislation that makes discrimination in housing, employment and public accommodations against the law. We know Oregonians support these laws, and we will do everything we can do stop these anti-equality activists from turning the clock back on equality.
Anti-equality interests need to collect nearly 83,000 signatures by July to put their petitions on the November 2008 ballot. Basic Rights Oregon is committed to closely monitoring the signature gathering process to ensure that all elections rules are followed.
Stay tuned! Basic Rights Oregon will keep you informed every step of the way.
Jeana Frazzini, Executive Director, Basic Rights Oregon
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