Washington State Governor Recognizes November 20th as Transgender Day of Remembrance

Thank you, Governor Chris Gregoire for this declaration:

The State of Washington
Proclamation

WHEREAS, Washington State has a long-standing tradition of upholding the dignity of the individual, supporting legal equality and fair treatment for all citizens, and ensuring that acts of neglect and violence towards any segment of the population will not be tolerated; and

WHEREAS, transgender people, who often are undeservedly maligned and misunderstood, contribute greatly to our state's rich diversity and prosperity; and

WHEREAS, Transgender Day of Remembrance honors those who have died by homicide at the hand of ignorance and prejudice, while attempting to pursue the American dream and equality; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I Christine O. Gregoire, Governor of the State of Washington, do hereby proclaim November 20, 2008, as

Transgender Day of Remembrance

in Washington State, and I urge all citizens to join me in this special observance, and to work towards eliminating discrimination on all levels and to promote tolerance.

Signed this 10th day of November, 2008
Governor Christine O. Gregoire

Michelle Balch, chair of the Gender Alliance of the South Sound (GASS) board, responded to the announcement:

I'm proud that our group has been able to elicit such a comprehensive statement of support for the dignity and equality of this states transgender population.

Annell Russell, GASS board member and secretary, said:

I am pleased and proud that our governor would take the time and effort to make herself aware of this important issue and stand in solidarity with the transgender community of Washington State denouncing the prejudice and violence, while also remembering those who have been victimized. This type of recognition is a true milestone for the Northwest transgender community.

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If you are looking for information regarding a Transgender Day of Remembrance event, please visit http://www.transgenderdor.org.

Keith Olbermann on Marriage Equality and Prop 8

Adam R wrote today on a PFLAG National Blog post Olbermann on Marriage Equality:

Keith Olbermann of MSNBC commented on his show recently about the passing of Proposition 8 in California, and his dismay and disappointment with the results. He wonders why anyone would want to deny another person the right to the same things that they enjoy. Be sure to watch this clip...

Keith Olbermann is thoughtful, powerful, and wonderful. He said:

You are asked now, by your country, and perhaps by your creator, to stand on one side or another. You are asked now to stand, not on a question of politics, not on a question of religion, not on a question of gay or straight. You are asked now to stand, on a question of...love. All you need do is stand, and let the tiny ember of love meet its own fate. You don't have to help it, you don't have it applaud it, you don't have to fight for it. Just don't put it out.

Please watch & listen to the whole commentary.

Thank you, Keith Olbermann.