from the Wacky Mailbox:

“On December 28th, a federal court issued an order preventing Oregon from implementing its new domestic partnership law until at least Feb. 1. The court’s decision was in response to a lawsuit brought by an out-of-state right wing interest group. This unnecessary delay has put hundreds of caring, committed couples in harm’s way. It’s up to us to ensure that Oregonians understand what’s at stake. Join Basic Rights Oregon at the Rally to Defend Equality on January 30.

Gay or straight – it’s time to stand up and be counted.

Support Oregon families by joining us at Wednesday’s Rally to Defend Equality. Bring your friends and family with you!

As you may have heard, Basic Rights Oregon’s motion to intervene in this crucial court case has been granted. Briefs from all parties to the law suit have been submitted. The only piece left is next Friday’s hearing. In order to make our voices heard before the court makes its permanent ruling, we need as many supportive Oregonians as possible at this rally. Let’s show every judge and voter in this state just how important this legislation is for all of us.

Once again, here are all the details:

Come and Be Counted at a Public

RALLY TO DEFEND EQUALITY
Terry Schrunk Plaza / SW 3rd and Madison in Portland, Ore.
Wednesday, January 30th
5:30 pm
Pledge to attend online at Basic Fairness.com

We also need plenty of volunteers to make this event a success! If you’re able to help out on site to keep the rally running smoothly and to engage the crowd in the continued fight for basic rights for ALL Oregon families, please email me at aubrey at basicrights dot org and we’ll get you all set up!

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me at aubrey at basicrights dot org. Additional frequently asked questions are listed below.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Rally to Defend Equality

What should I wear? Warm clothes! The rally will be held outdoors, and temperatures in Portland have been in the 30’s this week, so be sure to bundle up!

I’m driving. Where should I park? Smart Park garages are located throughout downtown Portland. The nearest location is at SW 1st and Jefferson, just three blocks from the plaza. Additional Smart Park locations can be found online here. Given rush hour traffic, we recommend leaving ample time to drive and find parking.

I’m taking public transportation. How do I get to the plaza? Terry Schrunk Plaza is located on Portland’s bus mall, and is accessible by many major bus lines. The plaza is also just four blocks from all MAX lines. Plan your trip online here.

I’m outside the Metro area and need a ride! Contact your local BRO organizer to find a ride to the rally:
Marion, Polk, Benton, and Linn Counties: maceo at basicrights dot org
Lane County and Southern Oregon: becky at basicrights dot org
Deschutes, Jefferson and Crook Counties: tammy at basicrights dot org
Hood River and Wasco Counties: thomas at basicrights dot org
Eastern Oregon: thomas at basicrights dot org
Oregon Coast: thomas at basicrights dot org

Will the rally be accessible to those with disabilities? Yes! An accessible area will be set aside near the stage.

Will ASL interpretation be provided? Yes! Volunteer ASL interpreters will be on hand to sign the entire rally. An area will be set aside near the stage to ensure that those accessing interpretation will have a good view.

Can I bring a sign? Absolutely! Bring organizational banners, old BRO signs, or make a new sign for the rally. Want to make a sign of your own? Here are some ideas:
– “Basic fairness, basic rights”
– “My family deserves basic fairness”
– “Support ALL Oregon families”

FAQ specific to the court case can be found on our website.

… and remember what Wacky Mommy says, with some help from Bob Marley:

“one woman/one woman
one man/one man
one woman/one man
one love/one heart
let’s get together and feel alright…”