Friday, May 15, 2009

house bill 176


I spent yesterday with the group Equality Ohio. Myself and close to 400 other LGBT people wherein Columbus to lobby for Equality. It was an amazing experience that has really opened my eyes. I was surprised that only 3 of the representatives/senators refused our calls outright, and only a handful did not call back. I was saddened that one of the no call backs was my own senator Jimmy Stewart. In the 3 meetings that I did attend I met one very receptive republican from Zanesville named Troy Balderson. We met several aides and lots of interesting people. The entire experience was fun exciting and has defiantly made me think I would like to be more involved in lobbying and whatnot. I had a great day. Now to the title….. On Tuesday senator Dan Stewart and 25 co sponsors introduced House bill 176.This is Ohio’s Equal housing and employment act. There are 2 republican co sponsors and the numbers look good and the chances of this bill passing the house are great. I spoke personally with Representative Stewart and his words were we will get this passed this year. I find that kind of passion about an issue refreshing even for a politician. I know this has rambled and if your still with me I apologize it’s been a long exhausting day.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

It's amazing how much energy we have to put forth for equality. You think some bills should be a no-brainer yet it moves along as fast as mud. Keep working on making things right and don't get disheartened with the speed.

kim said...

hey..I'm from Zanesville!! and we know Troy and Angie Balderson personally..I don't dig his personal views on gay marriage and the Republican view on what family is, but they really are nice people in person and fun to be around. Angie just loves us to death and Troy is always really cool....I'll be at Pride, Vic's got a fish fry to attend at her sister's , but I'm marching in the parade with my group from Time Warner :)