5 Ridiculous ‘War On Christmas’ Myths | Addicting Info:
'via Blog this'
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Friday, December 9, 2011
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Did We Put The Cart In Front of The Horse When It Comes to LGBT Rights? - LGBT TODAY
While I would never make the argument that we should give up the fight for equal rights, I have to admit that the author does make a valid point.
'via Blog this'
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Linda Harvey Says Gay Rights Activists Are Fascists | Addicting Info
I swear, this woman bring homophobic bigot to a new level.
'via Blog this'
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
The Death of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" And The Next Step
Unless you have been living under a rock the last couple of days you have learned that the much anticipated death of DADT came full swing at 12:01am Tuesday morning. This is a great step for the GLBTQ service men and women in this country. This is also a great step in equality for everyone. With the amount of support by lawmakers such as Nancy Pelosi and the president, Celebrities like Lady Gaga, and even straight service members at all levels and branches of the military it gives me hope to what else we can accomplish. While this is possibly the best news for the GLBTQ community this week, let us not celebrate and lose focus.
There are many inequalities that still plague the community. Violence towards the community, discrimination, marriage bans, and so much more are on the list. Many states have passes, by way of legislation or court decision, the rights to marry to gay. New York is the most recent to be added to that list. I think that if we continue to fight on the state level that it will just be a matter of time until the federal government follows suit. That is not to say that we should give up on the federal fight. I just think that we should start from the inside and work our way out. With one exception...DOMA. There is currently a big introduced into congress known as The Respect For Marriage Act. If passed, this bill will repeal DOMA once and for all. For those who are not aware of just what DOMA is, it is a bill passed the defined Marriage federally as a union between one man and one woman. Initially I never really let this bother me beyond the usual principle of it. Then I began to learn more about the law and what it really meant for the gay community. Although the bill does not override a states ability to grant marriage rights to GLBT members, it does bar them from federally instituted rights. I am talking about rights such as but not limited to: Immigration rights, spousal rights (such as joint taxes and insurance), etc. This is blatant discrimination. It also says that a state does not have to recognize our marriages if it does not want to unlike in a heterosexual marriage where if I get married here in Iowa Texas has to recognize it. This makes the GLBTQ community second class citizens and this is not acceptable.
This is why I am stressing so much about the importance of the 2012 elections. We need to fight for our rights and elect those that will stand with us or at least will be willing to remain objective on the subject. With the Republicans taking a drastic turn to the right and being influenced by the Tea Party more and more we must do all we can to make sure Democrats and liberal independents not only remain in office, but beat their GOP opponents in the coming election.
DADT is cause for celebration, but lets not forget there is so much more that needs to be done. I call to you to let the excitement you feel today fuel the drive to fight harder and harder for GLBTQ equality. I have talked a lot of this subject and I promise you it will only get more passionate as time goes on. The road ahead will be rocky but what lies at the end of the road is worth it. Who will take the road with me?
~Drew
Monday, September 19, 2011
Here is something to celebrate
Tomorrow is a truly historic day in American history. For tomorrow, September 20, 2011, will mark the end of the discriminatory “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) policy, which bans lesbian, gay, and bisexual men and women from serving openly in our armed services. Since 1993, gay Americans willing to risk their lives and serve their country in uniform have been forced to serve in silence, out of fear of being discharged. (keep reading)
Tomorrow is a truly historic day in American history. For tomorrow, September 20, 2011, will mark the end of the discriminatory “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) policy, which bans lesbian, gay, and bisexual men and women from serving openly in our armed services. Since 1993, gay Americans willing to risk their lives and serve their country in uniform have been forced to serve in silence, out of fear of being discharged. (keep reading)
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
The Importance of Politics to the Gay Community
Ok, I will admit that I am not the smartest person in the world. I am not the most politically aware individual. The thing I do is try. I watch the news as often as I can. I want to make sure I am aware of what is going on in the world today. One thing I get so tired of hearing from both the gay community and the rest of the country is how they don't care about politics. Now, this is a rant that anyone who knows me knows I make on a regular basis. As a matter of fact I think I have done so in the early part of this very blog...not sure. I want to address (or maybe readdress) the topic of political awareness ESPECIALLY in the gay community.
The importance of gays getting involved in politics is at an all time necessity. Here in Iowa, where I live, there has been recent attempts to get rid of marriage equality in our state. Earlier this summer there was a bill that wanted to be passed that would not only make marriage strictly between One man and One woman, but it would bar same sex couples from being able to get ANY union ( civil union, domestic partnership, etc). This kind of legislation is unacceptable. It doesn't stop there. As most of the country and the community is aware, there is a lawsuit going on from California. Most of us are aware of something called Proposition 8 or Prop 8. This is significant not just because it involves our gay friends in California, but because it could have a major impact on the country as a whole. Right now it has great potential to making itself to the Supreme Court. If it does the decision the justices make will either set a precedent or make history. If Prop 8 is upheld by the high court that will tell the rest of the country ( and states) that such regulation is ok. That even though it impedes the rights of a specific group or class the people know best no matter who it hurts. Now, if the high court strikes down Prop 8 then that means so much for the gay community. It would open the doors for getting the Defense Of Marriage Act (DOMA) taken off the books.
California and Iowa are not the only states that have been affected. The following link shows what the states status' are in terms of Same Sex Marriage (click me). As you can see, in the grand scheme, we have a long way to go. That is what makes the 2012 elections so important. We have made some great strides. The gay community celebrated when New York became the next state to grant Same Sex Marriage to it's citizens. The problem lies in the number of states that are still not talking about it or have already passed legislation banning Same Sex unions.
Looking at the GOP hopefuls for the next Presidential election...the prospects look grim. President Obama's approval rating it tanking and people are looking to some of these lunatics as possible saviors. This is a scary scary thing. They not only would have marriage defined as just between one man and one woman, but they would even ban any union of any sorts. This goes beyond the argument over a time and religious sacred word. This is straight up bigotry. What is worse is they have organizations lie the American Family Association who have leader who want to criminalize homosexuality backing them . There are also organizations like The Family Leader with their so called, "Marriage Vow" who are shifting money into candidates and ads with the sole purpose to demonize same sex unions. This very group was successful is getting 3 judges here in my state ousted because they ruled that to deny same sex marriages in our state without a constitutional amendment that defines marriage as between one man and one woman was unconstitutional. They already have plans to get the other judges removed too. Now keep in mind this was a unanimous decision. It was not a majority ruling by liberal judges. It was decided by every member of the Iowa Supreme Court some of which were appointed by Republican governors. This is the kind of opposition the gay community is up against.
So how do we combat this? It's very simple. We become aware. We get ourselves educated and we speak up. The simplest way to do this is vote...vote...vote. Get out there and support out GLBTQ allies in congress both at the state level and at the national level. Do you have to eat, sleep, and breathe politics. I just want you to make yourself aware enough to make a productive vote. Look at the candidates and see where they stand on gay rights. Another great way to work for the gay community is volunteer for your local GLBTQ rights activism groups. Here in Iowa I have had the pleasure of working with OneIowa a few times. The feeling I got while working with them made me feel great. There are many other organizations that help to improve not only gay rights but the image presented by the media. Such organizations are but not limited to Freedom To Marry,Give A Damn, The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), and GLAAD. There are more resources listed on the right of this blog under the "Cool Links" area. I suggest tho interested in ways to contribute to the community start there.
Helping out and becoming aware does not have to be as cramping as you think. Donating time and money are simple ways, but if you are like me you are limited on both. That is why I cannot stress the importance of political awareness. If you cannot fight the good fight then you need..no...HAVE to elect those who are going to fight it for us. We need to focus less as a community on getting drunk and laid and more of fighting for what we deserve, and what we deserve is to be treated like the regular human beings that we are. I hope I can count on you to stand up and do just that and encourage those you know to do the same.
~Drew Ronny
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Friday, August 19, 2011
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Groups urge candidates to refocus on social issues (audio)
Bah, there is so much more important things to be getting up in arms about. Record unemployment, a massive deficit, and a plunging stock market...just to name a few.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Friday, July 29, 2011
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
60 Amazing Couples
This is a collection of 60 couples in love. Really, I'm at a loss for words at how amazing this is. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Monday, June 13, 2011
Tracy Morgan Threatens To Kill His Son If Gay During Homophobic Tirade Onstage | Gay Blog | Gay News
There is absolutely no words I can express on how unacceptable this is.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Gay Pride here we come!
It is that time of year again...Gay Pride. This is the time when all kinds of homos come out of the woodwork to stand up for their rights, express a feeling of unity towards a common goal, and rally together to show other GLBTQ members they are not alone. Ok, so really they are probably there to get a cocktail and maybe get laid. Whatever the reason you decide to go it's great that you show up. I firmly believe that the more GLBTQ member that show up the better and not just people of the community but those who support them.
I know for myself that Pride is something I look forward to more than Christmas...and not just because I always get at least one crappy gift. To me, Pride is a moment when the average gay man/woman can be truly free. They are united with their GLBTQ brothers and sisters to celebrate who they are and what they are. It's a time when we can be with others like ourselves and feel free in knowing that no one there is going to Judge you. No one there is going to think you are sick and perverted. You don't have to worry about who saw you there and who will find out.
But, let's get real, Pride is also one amazing party. Some of my most drunken moments were at pride. Sometimes I take a look back, and I am totally grateful that I can hold my liquor. Lord knows what I would have done if not lol. During pride some use that as an opportunity to live moments they aren't able to during the rest of the year. They drink until they puke, they might hook-up, and they might dance half naked. Who knows. The point is they use the time to be the person they want to be or truly are when in their element.
This is not to say that Pride is full of bad decisions. Like I touched on earlier, Pride is a time when people come out to show support. Churches come to march in the parade to show that not all Christians are homophobic. It's a time when people are inspired to volunteer for organizations like OneIowa and HRC (The Human Rights Campaign). This is a time when our straight allies come out to show their support. These are things that make me happy for pride. Sure, I love the weekend booze-fest as much as the next guy, but to see an event that inspires people to come together to strengthen the community is amazing.
Whatever the reason you go to pride, I hope you take the time to think about what pride really is about. Yes it is a big party to celebrate, but what it is to celebrate is really important. It is to celebrate not only our individual pride in ourselves, but in the community as well. It is a time to remember those who have fought, are still fighting and will continue to fight for the GLBTQ community. I hope that between shots of tequila and cans of beer that you take the time to think about these things. Things that are important to the advancement of the community and those who are working to make it happen. Remember them, and as you walk amongst the booths and attractions; take the time to visit the booths of both your local and the national gay rights advocates. Learn more about them. Thank them even. If it were not for these people, who knows where the community would still be. We owe so much to these wonderful people.
In closing I would like to wish everyone a safe and fun Pride. I hope everyone makes good decisions and make memories that will last them a lifetime. Drink a shot for me.
Happy Pride!
~Drew Ronny
Celebrate Yourself; You Deserve It
This June was just named "Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month" by President Barack Obama and truthfully I couldn't be happier right now. Normally, I side with Morgan Freeman and his disregard for "<insert minority> month", but right now I think it's a key step towards equality.
The point I'd like to make is one to everyone reading this, if you've ever been discriminated because of your sexuality, appearance, or anything about yourself, I feel bad. I've been at the sour end of it also; my family doesn't really support me. But enough about me and more on you, you awesome person. You are what's making this country (and the world) a better and safer place for everyone. Each time you stand up for yourself you are improving not only your life, but everyone in the LGBTA movement.
I want to share a story that some of you might be familiar with, the story of a young man named Sergio Garcia from the town of Fairfax, LA. He was named the Fairfax 2009 Prom Queen. Not only is he breaking down the arbitrary gender barriers, but he is an openly gay kid in High School (you know how hard that can be, even in a liberal high school near LA). His story is one that everyone in the movement can echo; even though I don't know if you're reading this, you are an amazing person. You are standing up to give fellow human beings the equality they deserve. Thank you.
I'd also like to mention how far we've come. A while ago Ellen had John McCain on her show to talk about same sex marriage. Not only do I think she completely won the debate, but I think she really showed how cowardly and nervous the opposition to equality really is. There isn't (and hasn't) been a respectable argument against the love or equality that same-sex relationships provide.
Now, I want you to go out with pride this month, and every day fourth. You are the movement of equality, you are strong, and you are loved. Please, help spread love around the world. We can do this.
The point I'd like to make is one to everyone reading this, if you've ever been discriminated because of your sexuality, appearance, or anything about yourself, I feel bad. I've been at the sour end of it also; my family doesn't really support me. But enough about me and more on you, you awesome person. You are what's making this country (and the world) a better and safer place for everyone. Each time you stand up for yourself you are improving not only your life, but everyone in the LGBTA movement.
I want to share a story that some of you might be familiar with, the story of a young man named Sergio Garcia from the town of Fairfax, LA. He was named the Fairfax 2009 Prom Queen. Not only is he breaking down the arbitrary gender barriers, but he is an openly gay kid in High School (you know how hard that can be, even in a liberal high school near LA). His story is one that everyone in the movement can echo; even though I don't know if you're reading this, you are an amazing person. You are standing up to give fellow human beings the equality they deserve. Thank you.
I'd also like to mention how far we've come. A while ago Ellen had John McCain on her show to talk about same sex marriage. Not only do I think she completely won the debate, but I think she really showed how cowardly and nervous the opposition to equality really is. There isn't (and hasn't) been a respectable argument against the love or equality that same-sex relationships provide.
Now, I want you to go out with pride this month, and every day fourth. You are the movement of equality, you are strong, and you are loved. Please, help spread love around the world. We can do this.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Why is there so much hate within the Transgender and Transsexual Community. « My Transgender Journey
Let's not forget our Trans-allies. They are as important to the community as anyone else.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
An Idea....
So I was given the idea by a reader to let those who read this have publishing rights. I think to a certain degree this is a very good idea. I of course would have ultimate say in what is posted, but I realize that my interest and what not aren't as broad as the audience who may fall on to this blog. With that in mind I am willing to give it a shot. I just do not know how to let people do that. If you know...let me know.
~Drew Ronny
~Drew Ronny
The Great Rapture
Well, it seems that either the cranky old man was wrong once again or congratulations, if you can read this, it means you are going to hell. It kills me when these Christian authorities try to predict the "end times". It says right in the good book that no man however learned he is will know the end of times. It seems a slap in the face of your own god to try and predict, that is my opinion. What do you think on the subject?
~Drew Ronny
~Drew Ronny
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Monday, April 25, 2011
TN Senate Passes 'Don't Say Gay' Bill | Gay Blog Unicorn Booty
TN Senate Passes 'Don't Say Gay' Bill | Gay Blog Unicorn Booty
This is just shameful. As the article points out, how are young people supposed to handle their sexuality if it isn't even legal to talk about it? Tn, you just proved every stereotype about you.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
7 Ways To Protect Your Memory
7 Ways To Protect Your Memory
I don't know about you all, but my memory really sucks. It's to the point sometimes I think I should be checked out by a doctor. I really hope I can remember these things ;)
~Drew Ronny
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Another Apology...
It has been some time since i posted anything on here. For this I am sorry. I would like to say I had some important things going on and so I just couldn't make the time, but the truth is I was just being lazy.
Some things have been happening to are very few. My life has take a turn for the boring. I am anticpating the arrival of my long time friend and fiancée a week from tomorrow. I am excited and nervous about this. You see, I have not met him in person. Just 7 years of chatting online and through webcam. I'm still not sure if we can actually function together physically. I guess the two weeks he is here will tell. I am thinking of ideas to help increase the functionality of this blog. Maybe a question and answer piece once a week and a spotlight feature. Those who read this, I would really like some feedback. What do you think will get people to read this and find it a valuable or entertaining blog? I am anxious to know your opinions. Even if you just happened to stubble on this thing...let me know
~Drew Ronny
Some things have been happening to are very few. My life has take a turn for the boring. I am anticpating the arrival of my long time friend and fiancée a week from tomorrow. I am excited and nervous about this. You see, I have not met him in person. Just 7 years of chatting online and through webcam. I'm still not sure if we can actually function together physically. I guess the two weeks he is here will tell. I am thinking of ideas to help increase the functionality of this blog. Maybe a question and answer piece once a week and a spotlight feature. Those who read this, I would really like some feedback. What do you think will get people to read this and find it a valuable or entertaining blog? I am anxious to know your opinions. Even if you just happened to stubble on this thing...let me know
~Drew Ronny
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Gay Marriage
If any of you who read this or happen to stumble upon this blog live in Iowa, Please support gay equality by emailing your senator in your perspective county houw you feel. There is a new resolution that passed the Iowa House of Representatives today named Resolution 6. This not only hopes to deny gays the right to marry, but to deny them any legal union such as Civil union or domestic partnership. This is blatant discrimination, and send the message that gays are a lesser class of people than the heterosexual. This is not Iowa. So, once again, please stand with me in the fight against hate and bigotry. Message your senator today. You can find many ways it help the cause by clicking on the links for OneIowa and The Human Rights Campaign or so many other links that can be found under the "Cool Links" menu at right. Here is a link to a list of Iowa Senators and their counties.
http://blogs.desmoinesregister.com/dmr/index.php/2011/02/01/house-oks-marriage-vote-3-dems-vote-with-gop/
If you just want to email all of them like I did, here are all the emails addresses.
dwayne.alons@legis.state.ia.us, richard.anderson@legis.state.ia.us, richard.arnold@legis.state.ia.us, Chip.Baltimore@legis.state.ia.us, clel.baudler@legis.state.ia.us, Mark.Brandenburg@legis.state.ia.us, Josh.Byrnes@legis.state.ia.us, royd.chambers@legis.state.ia.us, peter.cownie@legis.state.ia.us, dave.deyoe@legis.state.ia.us, cecil.dolecheck@legis.state.ia.us, jack.drake@legis.state.ia.us, greg.forristall@legis.state.ia.us, Joel.Fry@legis.state.ia.us, Julian.Garrett@legis.state.ia.us, pat.grassley@legis.state.ia.us, chris.hagenow@legis.state.ia.us, Bob.Hager@legis.state.ia.us, MaryAnn.Hanusa@legis.state.ia.us, dave.heaton@legis.state.ia.us, Lee.Hein@legis.state.ia.us, erik.helland@legis.state.ia.us, lance.horbach@legis.state.ia.us, dan.huseman@legis.state.ia.us, Stewart.Iverson@legis.state.ia.us, Ron.Jorgensen@legis.state.ia.us, jeff.kaufmann@legis.state.ia.us, Jarad.Klein@legis.state.ia.us, kevin.koester@legis.state.ia.us, Mark.Lofgren@legis.state.ia.us, steven.lukan@legis.state.ia.us, Glen.Massie@legis.state.ia.us, linda.miller@legis.state.ia.us, Brian.Moore@legis.state.ia.us, Dan.Muhlbauer@legis.state.ia.us, steven.olson@legis.state.ia.us, kraig.paulsen@legis.state.ia.us, Ross.Paustian@legis.state.ia.us, Kim.Pearson@legis.state.ia.us, dawn.pettengill@legis.state.ia.us, brian.quirk@legis.state.ia.us, scott.raecker@legis.state.ia.us, Dan.Rasmussen@legis.state.ia.us, henry.rayhons@legis.state.ia.us, Walt.Rogers@legis.state.ia.us, tom.sands@legis.state.ia.us, renee.schulte@legis.state.ia.us, jason.schultz@legis.state.ia.us, Tom.Shaw@legis.state.ia.us, Jeff.Smith@legis.state.ia.us, chuck.soderberg@legis.state.ia.us, kurt.swaim@legis.state.ia.us, annette.sweeney@legis.state.ia.us, Jeremy.Taylor@legis.state.ia.us, david.tjepkes@legis.state.ia.us, linda.upmeyer@legis.state.ia.us, jim.van.engelenhoven@legis.state.ia.us, Guy.VanderLinden@legis.state.ia.us, nick.wagner@legis.state.ia.us, ralph.watts@legis.state.ia.us, matt.windschitl@legis.state.ia.us, gary.worthan@legis.state.ia.us
Thanks for any and all support.
http://blogs.desmoinesregister.com/dmr/index.php/2011/02/01/house-oks-marriage-vote-3-dems-vote-with-gop/
If you just want to email all of them like I did, here are all the emails addresses.
dwayne.alons@legis.state.ia.us, richard.anderson@legis.state.ia.us, richard.arnold@legis.state.ia.us, Chip.Baltimore@legis.state.ia.us, clel.baudler@legis.state.ia.us, Mark.Brandenburg@legis.state.ia.us, Josh.Byrnes@legis.state.ia.us, royd.chambers@legis.state.ia.us, peter.cownie@legis.state.ia.us, dave.deyoe@legis.state.ia.us, cecil.dolecheck@legis.state.ia.us, jack.drake@legis.state.ia.us, greg.forristall@legis.state.ia.us, Joel.Fry@legis.state.ia.us, Julian.Garrett@legis.state.ia.us, pat.grassley@legis.state.ia.us, chris.hagenow@legis.state.ia.us, Bob.Hager@legis.state.ia.us, MaryAnn.Hanusa@legis.state.ia.us, dave.heaton@legis.state.ia.us, Lee.Hein@legis.state.ia.us, erik.helland@legis.state.ia.us, lance.horbach@legis.state.ia.us, dan.huseman@legis.state.ia.us, Stewart.Iverson@legis.state.ia.us, Ron.Jorgensen@legis.state.ia.us, jeff.kaufmann@legis.state.ia.us, Jarad.Klein@legis.state.ia.us, kevin.koester@legis.state.ia.us, Mark.Lofgren@legis.state.ia.us, steven.lukan@legis.state.ia.us, Glen.Massie@legis.state.ia.us, linda.miller@legis.state.ia.us, Brian.Moore@legis.state.ia.us, Dan.Muhlbauer@legis.state.ia.us, steven.olson@legis.state.ia.us, kraig.paulsen@legis.state.ia.us, Ross.Paustian@legis.state.ia.us, Kim.Pearson@legis.state.ia.us, dawn.pettengill@legis.state.ia.us, brian.quirk@legis.state.ia.us, scott.raecker@legis.state.ia.us, Dan.Rasmussen@legis.state.ia.us, henry.rayhons@legis.state.ia.us, Walt.Rogers@legis.state.ia.us, tom.sands@legis.state.ia.us, renee.schulte@legis.state.ia.us, jason.schultz@legis.state.ia.us, Tom.Shaw@legis.state.ia.us, Jeff.Smith@legis.state.ia.us, chuck.soderberg@legis.state.ia.us, kurt.swaim@legis.state.ia.us, annette.sweeney@legis.state.ia.us, Jeremy.Taylor@legis.state.ia.us, david.tjepkes@legis.state.ia.us, linda.upmeyer@legis.state.ia.us, jim.van.engelenhoven@legis.state.ia.us, Guy.VanderLinden@legis.state.ia.us, nick.wagner@legis.state.ia.us, ralph.watts@legis.state.ia.us, matt.windschitl@legis.state.ia.us, gary.worthan@legis.state.ia.us
Thanks for any and all support.
~Drew Ronny.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Marriage amendment introduced in Iowa House | Iowa Independent
Ok, tell me how you don't think you are being discriminatory?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)