So the question now is whether or not Judge Walker will issue a stay on his own decision pending the appeal to the 9th Circuit Court that has already been filed.  Given what the good Judge wrote in his decision, “Plaintiffs have demonstrated by overwhelming evidence that Proposition 8 violates their due process and equal protection rights and that they will continue to suffer these constitutional violations until state officials cease enforcement of Proposition 8,” I don’t see how he could issue a stay.

No matter what he decides, I am truly grateful for the heard work and detail he put into writing this decision.  He did a thorough job of evaluating all of the facts presented from both sides.

Chief Pace (seen on the left) was sworn in on June 28, 2010 with his partner of six years.  How great it is that a city and its police department can set the example for others to follow.  This is the kind of role modeling that law enforcement so desperately needs.  Chief Gregory (seen on the right) has also been with his department for twenty years.  He said, he hopes his advancement will encourage others to feel comfortable about their sexuality at the workplace. “Hopefully people are able to be who they are.”

I applaud both of these men for their courage in, first coming out, and then on their hard work to become leaders in their departments.  Their example should serve as evidence to those closeted officers that you can live your life as you were made to be and still be successful in law enforcement.

The Declaration of Independence was really the start of the civil rights movement in this country and we have been grappling with civil rights issues from that day forward.  We’ve grappled with race and gender and now today, we are fighting over gender identity and sexual orientation.  Organized religions have been deeply involved in every step of the civil rights movement, sometimes not being on the same side of one part of the movement as the other.  While struggles over race were specific to single group of people based on race, gender identity and sexual orientation transcends all races, all people, and both traditional genders.  Despite what some world leaders might say, gay people exist throughout the human race, on every continent and in every country.  It is a naturally occurring aspect of the human species.

The Constitution of the United States says clearly that all people are created equally and entitled to equal protection under the law.  It also establishes a clear separation of church and state.  Religious freedom is, and must be, a two way street meaning that people must be allowed to believe what they want while at the same time be governed independently of any one religion’s values or beliefs.  We are not a Christian country; we are not a country defined by any religious affiliation or allegiance.  We cannot be and have a fundamental freedom to practice any religion or none at all.

Last night I watched “8: The Mormon Proposition”.  This documentary told the story of how the Mormon Church constructed and funded the campaign to pass Proposition 8 in California which changed the California State Constitution to define a marriage between a man and a woman the only type of marriage to be legally recognized by the State.  This was the first time a vote of a slim majority of people changed a state’s constitution to actually take away a liberty from a specific group of people that they once enjoyed (albeit for a very short period of time – June 17, 2008 through November 4, 2008).  This documentary describes how the Mormon Church created a coalition with the Catholic Church to create “smoke screen” of sorts to hide their direct involvement.  I found it completely disturbing.  The level of hatred by the Mormom Church of gay people is amazing to me and defies any Christian values and principles I’m familiar with.  This is a faith that guided by leaders who tell their people that “it’s better to be dead than to be gay.” This is an organization that stands by parents to disown their gay children and one that has a track record of having one of the highest suicide rates among gay youth than any other religion in this country.  Hatred is a Mormon value and I see little difference between the kind of evil practiced here and that found in satanism. What took place with the Mormon Church and Catholic Church in the campaign for proposition 8 is criminal, unethical, and immoral.

On this July 4th holiday, I urge you to think about the meaning behind this weekend’s celebration and, like those lead us to freedom and independence from England, to find the courage to stand up for liberty, equality, and justice for all.  Don’t sit back and wait for someone else to do the hard work for you.  Find some way to contribute to this generation’s civil rights movement and do your part to honor those who fought before you.

We invite anyone working in law enforcement or recently retired, sworn or civilian, to participate.  You can send one to four images of yourself on the job in color or black and white.  You may also include one image of you off duty doing what you most enjoy.  Be sure the images are all high resolution, high quality images in JPEG format and that they are no more than 3MB in size.  You can write up to one paragraph with information about who you are, your length of service, or anything you want to say about the pictures.  You can also remain anonymous in the book if you wish.  As you consider images to send, be sure they are suitable for persons under 18 or your own mother to see.

You can send images anytime through October 31.  The book will be ready for sale by December 1 of this year in time for the holiday season.  This is unique opportunity to get involved in a very special one-of-a-kind project that will directly benefit the LGBT law enforcement community.  CLICK HERE to learn more.

In law enforcement, we seem to be lagging behind the rest of society in our acceptance of LGBT co-workers.  In fact, the homophobia in law enforcement resembles the kinds of childish bullying found in many high schools around the country.  This homophobia is keeping a vast majority of LGBT law enforcement officers from being “out” on the job.  But again, let’s not forget how far we have come as evidenced by the 14th LGBT Conference for Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Professionals taking place this weekend in Chicago, hosted by the Chicago Gay Officers’ Action League.  No, there is no typo there… it is the fourteenth! annual conference.  There are LGBT law enforcement associations how on both coasts and sprinkled around the country in places you might least expect them to be including Iowa and Alabama.  More and more, law enforcement professionals, who happen to be LGBT, are coming out and in doing so are changing the hearts and minds of their colleagues.  This too is cause for much celebration.

This coming Wednesday, I have the distinct honor of being the keynote speaker the first multi-agency pride celebration of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, DEA, GSA, and FBI in San Francisco.  This even won’t take place off site in some hidden location, but rather in Courtroom 5 of the Phillip Burton Federal Building.  300 people are expected to attend.  The fact that this many employees will be coming together and openly celebrating pride in who they are is evidence and reason to be proud.

You know, you don’t have to wait until June each year to celebrate Pride.  Celebrate the unique person you are every day.  But this weekend as you are marching and partying, take an extra moment to remember all of those people who helped you get here today including those in your life who you know as well as those pioneers you may not have ever met.

It’s time now to fund raise for our next set of scholarships and we need your help. The Out To Protect Scholarship Program is funded entirely by private donations. No amount is too small to make a difference. Out to Protect Incorporated is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization, which means that every dollar you donate is fully tax deductible.

Donate Now

The Board of Directors is committed to making sure that 90% or more of ever donated dollar goes to one of our scholarships. This means that every dollar you donate will go to help a future law enforcement officer. Our goal this summer is to raise $10,000 by September 1 in order to fund the next 10 scholarship awards.

Please help us build this “first of its kind” scholarshp fund in the United States. It’s so easy to make a donation online using just about any credit card. You do not need to have a PayPal account to make an online donation. We welcome donations for professional organizations and checks are always accepted. Please click here for details about where to mail a donation.

You can follow us on Facebook for regular updates about our program.

Thank You

Greg Miraglia, President
Out To Protect Incorporated

Identify as gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, transgender, or a straight ally and be “out” to your family, friends, and peers at the academy or law enforcement agency.
Be a recognized role model by your peers and supervisors.
Demonstrate use of the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics as a guide for decision making.
Demonstrate being able to graduate from your law enforcement training program.

Ms. Zuniga graduated from the Basic Police Academy at Napa Valley College yesterday. She quickly established herself as a role model for other students in her class and was selected by her peers and the academy staff to be a permanent squad leader. She has a solid track record of making ethical decisions and conducting herself in a consistently professional and disciplined manner. “I have achieved many goals in the police academy. I never thought it would be this tough to go through training, both physically and mentally and I am proud to say that I have made it. I plan to continue being an effective role model as a lesbian by never letting go of my morals and ethics. I will continue to be an effective leader in the agency that I work in and always set my standards high for others to follow. I will stay true to myself and always do what is right. I will never hide who I truly am and I will stand proud” Zuniga said. “I’m so proud to present this ‘first of its kind’ scholarship to such a fine young woman” said Greg Miraglia, founder and President of Out to Protect Incorporated.

Out To Protect Incorporated was founded in March of 2009 by Greg Miraglia, author of “Coming Out From Behind The Badge,” a book for and about LGBT law enforcement professionals who have come out on the job. Miraglia said, “The most effective way to eliminate homophobia in law enforcement is for outstanding role models like Julianne Zuniga to demonstrate that members of the LGBT community can work effectively as law enforcement professionals.



As a tribute to this special group in law enforcement, we produced a one-hour special radio show called, “Outbeat Radio Comes Out From Behind The Badge.” The showed aired on KRCB Radio on Sunday, May 30, 2010. KRCB Radio 91.1 FM is a public radio station located in the North Bay Area of California. Outbeat Radio is a weekly program that features four different programs each month. Author and show producer, Greg Miraglia, is a regular host on “Outbeat Now!,” a public affairs and current events show on Outbeat Radio.

Outbeat Now! – Sunday, May 23, 2010, 8PM to 9PM PST

Featuring stories about Chief Susan Jones of the Healdsburg Police Department who is retiring after 30 years on the job and about the LAPD’s move of their youth program away from the Boy Scouts of America in order to be inclusive of LGBT youth. We will also feature a live interview with cadets from the Napa Police Academy who will talk about their research project on the Transgender Community.

Outbeat Radio Comes Out From Behind The Badge, May 30, 2010 8PM to 9PM PST

This is a special one-hour show all about how LGBT law enforcement officers who are “out” on the job. We will hear from officers of all ages from around the country about their experience on the job. The show will also feature a close look at the homophobia that still exists in law enforcement and how training is changing to prevent it.

Outbeat Radio is a weekly show airing exclusively on KRCB Radio in Santa Rosa, California. Anyone can listen online from anywhere in the world at www.krcb.org. Learn more about these shows at www.comingoutfrombehindthebadge.com and at www.outbeatyouth.com.

Listen online from anywhere in the world at www.krcb.org or if you live in the Santa Rosa, California area, tune in at 91.1 FM.

We will feature more about how LGBT law enforcement officers are becoming more visible on the job next month as we honor LGBT law enforcement professionals during National Law Enforcement Month. Check back for more details about our radio show special.

“Outbeat Radio Comes Out From Behind The Badge” was produced exclusively for KRCB Radio of Santa Rosa and will air on Sunday, May 30, 2010 at 8PM PST. You are invited to attend a special preview and discussion about this show at 4PM on Saturday, May 15, 2010 at the A Different Light Bookstore, located at 489 Castro Street in San Francisco. This even will feature several of the officers interviewed in the show. Mr. Miraglia will also be signing copies of his book, “Coming Out From Behind The Badge.” A meet and greet will follow this event at Toad Hall.

Something new to law enforcement? No way. It’s just becoming more visible and gay and lesbian officers are making themselves more visible on the job. Homophobia is a problem in the vast majority of law enforcement agencies and has been present within the culture for decades. Only now are individuals standing up, coming out, and saying we’ve had enough and it’s time for a change.

Look for more from us about this topic in a special program we are premiering next month on KRCB Radio. More details to follow.


Watch CBS News Videos Online

The answer here is simple. Eliminate DADT and let’s get on with the military’s more important mission.

If you do not have iTunes, you can also listen to our podcasts on this web page.  Simply click on Podcasts under categories.

“WASHINGTON – The military’s top uniformed officer declared Tuesday that gays should be allowed to serve openly in uniform, arguing that it is “the right thing to do.” Adm. Mike Mullen’s statement was the strongest yet from the uniformed military on this volatile issue, although he stressed that he was “speaking for myself and myself only.” He told the Senate Armed Services Committee Tuesday he is deeply troubled by a policy that forces people to ‘lie about who they are in order to defend their fellow citizens.’”

Herein lies the problem exactly and in law enforcement I can tell you that a DADT culture is very much alive and well.  In fact, I talked with an officer this week who works for a rural department in northern California.  He described for me the dilemma he faces every day at work when he is forced by the power of the agency culture to hide who he is in lieu of facing rejection.  It’s so wrong.

It simply doesn’t work to say in the work place, “look, I don’t care if you’re gay, just keep it to yourself.”  In fact, doing so causes a gay officer to lie every Monday morning when asked by their straight peers, “so, what did you do this weekend?”  The real danger for closeted law enforcement personnel who are oppressed with a “don’t ask, don’t tell” culture is that they are forced to make a decision about whether to lie and risk being terminated for dishonesty or to come out and risk being rejected by their peers or even fired for simply being who they are.

I believe the problems created by the military’s official “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy extend beyond the military base.  This policy too is reinforcing a negative and damaging aspect of law enforcement culture that must be ended.  I believe it is much more important for a police officer to be known and trusted to be always truthful in both his or her personal and official life than it is to keep sexual orientation in the closet for whatever unexplainable purpose that might serve.

Now would be another great opportunity to write your representatives and demand they get rid of “don’t ask, don’t tell.”  Want to know more?  Click here to read about some of the successful military personnel who were fired for being who they are.

I am one of the members of the Board of Directors for the Matthew Shepard Foundation.  I got involved with the Foundation in 2001 after meeting Judy Shepard.  Since that time, I’ve watched this organization do some incredible work not only helping to educate legislators about hate and hate crimes, but also to support young people through Matthewsplace.com.  Even though we have federal hate crimes law now in place, the law alone will not stop hate.  The Matthew Shepard Foundation is poised to deliver powerful educational program designed to combat hate.

Please take a moment to review the information about this grant opportunity and to vote for the Matthew Shepard Foundation.  The deadline is January 22, 2010.

Click Here To Learn More

This is a really interesting time for same-sex marriage, not just in the United States, but around the world.  Mexico City and, just this last week, Portugal legalized same-sex marriage.  Did you know that countries including Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Canada, and South Africa without a 14th Amendment like ours have legalized same-sex marriage?  In our own country, Iowa and the District of Columbia legalized same-sex marriage within the same six months that it failed in New York and New Jersey.

Religious institutions, including the Catholic Church, are fighting with all of their might to suppress the same-sex marriage movement.  I call it a movement because this issue is indeed moving and it’s gaining momentum.  I think the religious zealots and hate mongers are running scared.  So scared that they are also fighting to prevent this week’s trial from being broadcast on Youtube.  If their arguments and intentions are so pure, why would they be so afraid for the public to hear their testimony?  What do they have to hide?  The plaintiffs are promoting the broadcast of the trial and even Judge Walker, who approved the broadcast, recognizes the social significance of the trial.  It’s probably not surprising that even the 9th District Court of Appeals stood behind Walker’s order to allow the broadcast.  As a last-ditched effort, the defendants have petitioned the United States Supreme Court to block the broadcast.   ….What exactly is it that they are afraid of?  If I had to guess, I would say that they are afraid of being seen for the haters and extremists that they are.

Unless the haters get a last minute reprieve from Supreme Court, stay tuned to Youtube.com tomorrow as the landmark case begins.  http://www.youtube.com/usdccand

We have inclusive federal hate crimes legislation, but no law is going to stop hate crimes from occurring.  The only way to stop hate is to prevent it from happening in the first place through education and awareness.  The “NOH8″ campaign offers a unique way for you to get involved individually by creating an image to start a conversation around hate and equality.  Celebrities and many every day people like me have jumped in to create a visual commitment to stop hate.  Check it out at www.noh8campaign.com.  It costs you nothing to get involved.  You can take a picture by yourself or with a group.

There are several incredible non-profit organizations that are working to promote equality day and to provide the kind of education and awareness I spoke of above.  Take a look at one of these organizations and consider getting involved as a volunteer.  These organizations work hard every day to make this world a better place for all of us.  If you’d rather let them do the actual work, consider becoming a regular donor.  There are many organizations worthy of your commitment, but theses are the ones I recommend.

Human Rights Campaign
Matthew Shepard Foundation
Stop the Hate

One way you can make your own community a safer place is bring an educational program from one of these organizations to a local school or community center.  For example, Stop the Hate provides a 3-day training for trainers program for colleges and universities that provides training for administrators, faculty members, staff, and students on how to make their campuses a safer place for students to learn and for staff to work.  How about helping a college raise some money to bring this program to the campus in your own community?  These are only a couple of many possibilities out there.  All I am asking is that you do something, take some action, and make one commitment to benefit the greater good.

Share your commitment with us by posting a comment here.  Let the world be witness to your good work.

Today I am a much different person living a life in the truth and getting stronger every day about who I really am. I’m more convinced today than ever that you can be a successful in law enforcement and gay at the same time. It pains me to think about all the law enforcement personnel out there who are hurting as I did; who are “living the lie” by continuing to deceive their friends, family, and colleagues. It’s all so unnecessary and the wonderful reality is that so much has changed for the better.

However, despite how much may have changed, coming out, no matter how old you are, still requires tremendous personal courage. My guess is that it may be the hardest thing you will ever do. But, once you do come out, nothing else in your live will compare to the feeling of freedom and confidence you will have. Once you stop lying about who you are, you will feel so much relief and I suspect you will become closer to your friends, family, and colleagues in ways you could never have imagined.

Every day is an opportunity to come out, but if you are looking for a special one, consider the dawn of a new decade. Make the most important New Years resolution you could ever make: To live an authentic life and to never again lie about who you are. Know that you do not have to start this journey alone and that there are thousands of out law enforcement officers around the country who are ready to support you.

We have on our website links to dozens of local gay and lesbian law enforcement associations. We also offer you our personal commitment to provide you with support. All you have to do is reach out and tell us what you need. Please visit our website at www.comingoutfrombehindthebadge.com.  There is no excuse to tell another lie, so make the commitment here and now.

On behalf of all of us at Coming Out From Behind The Badge, COFBTB Publications, and Out To Protect Incorporated, I wish you a very Happy New Year!

The Boy Scouts of America organization excludes non-heterosexuals from participation in their programs. Many law enforcement agencies, including the one I started at, operate an Explorer Program under the guides of the Boy Scouts of America. I discovered my passion for law enforcement by starting my career at the age of 14 as a Police Explorer. But, if I had come out or was out when I applied, I could have been excluded from participation. I witnessed a fellow member of the Explorers be kicked out of the program after it was discovered he was gay. His dream of becoming a police officer was shattered from the experience.

What’s really important here and now is that the Los Angeles Police Department has set the example for agencies large and small to follow. They are continuing to offer a law enforcement career exploration program for young people, but one that is fully inclusive. LAPD isn’t just paying “lip service” to promoting inclusion within their department, they are demonstrating it and more law enforcement agencies in this country need to follow the lead of LAPD.

2009 has been an incredible year in many ways.  So many people have struggled for a wide variety of reasons.  For me, it’s been a year filled with silver linings.  We’ve also been fortunate to celebrate several successes including the formation of our “Out To Protect” Scholarship Program.

In 2010, we will bring you a one-hour radio show special about how GLBT law enforcement personnel are becoming more visible.  We also hope to have enough stories to publish the next edition of “Coming Out From Behind The Badge.”  No matter what the year brings, we will be here to support you and the many amazing members of law enforcement, fire service, and EMS profession who happen to be gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender.

Thank you for your continued support and interest.

Greg Miraglia

Our scholarships support outstanding future law enforcement officers through a competitive process that considers the following:

• Demonstrates being an outstanding GLBT role model or straight ally while in the police academy.
• Demonstrates ethical decision making.
• Demonstrates the ability to graduate from the police academy.

You can learn more about our scholarship program and the application process by visiting our website at www.outtoprotect.org.

CLICK HERE to look at our 2009 Holiday Store.

Thank you for supporting the future of law enforcement.

In contrast, California saw a slight decrease in reported hate crimes (law enforcement agencies are required to report hate crimes to the California Department of Justice who is responsible for tracking hate crime trends).  However, hate crimes committed against Jews increased 37% and hate crimes committed against homosexuals increased 16%.

Last month, President Obama signed into law an expansive federal hate crime bill that added sexual orientation, gender identity, and disabilities to the list of those identity groups protected by federal hate crime law.  In addition, the law defines a hate crime as any crime of violence (not just those involving Constitutionally protected activities) motivated by the victim’s actual or perceived race, color, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.  But will this bill, that took more than 12 years go get signed into law, really prevent hate crimes from happening? The answer is no.

By the time a hate crime is reported, the is suspect arrested, and the case is brought to trial, the damage has already been done.  The victim has already been victimized and no law will fix that.  Laws are critical and I do truly appreciate the fact that we now have inclusive federal hate crime laws.  But, the prevention of hate crimes is where we need to focus our efforts.  We know that education and awareness is the key to preventing hate crimes from occurring in the first place.  This education must start in the home and be reinforced at school.  Law enforcement must work with educators starting at a very early age to prevent bullying and other forms of hate.  Hate crime laws will always be important to have in place for those who miss these important lessons.

We are now raising money to fund scholarships that will be awarded in 2010.  Our goal is to award two scholarships in May and two in December.  Scholarship applications will be offered to any law enforcement academy student in the nation.  The most qualified will be chosen to receive an Out To Protect Scholarship. 

We need your help to raise $5000 by December 31, 2009.

You can make a fully tax deductible donation now online via the Out To Protect web page at www.outtoprotect.org .   Help us support the future of law enforcement by making your donation now.

With as much tribute as we pay to the those who serve in the military, our country’s current policy is quick to dismiss those non-heterosexuals.  In fact, the policy forces these individuals to be invisible in order to serve our country.  Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell forces the honorable gay and lesbian members of the military to lie, hide, and deny who they are.  In essence, the policy promotes a deniel that these members of the armed services even exist.

This isn’t just about the exception, it’s about a regular practice of dismissing highly successful and decorated members of the Army, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard.  Take a look at one recent story posted on CNN.  CLICK HERE TO READ THE STORY AND WATCH THE VIDEO.

To all of those members of the military, especially to those invisible members, thank you so much for your service, your dedication, and your sacrifice.

www.outtoprotect.org

What I find most disturbing is that the Catholic Church is leading effort for this repeal by financing the campaign (SF Chronicle, October 28, 2009). How can an organization like the Catholic Church be so self-righteous about imposing its own beliefs about marriage by financing the campaign and speaking out against it when it was so silent and so protective of covering up its own sins in the sex abuse scandals. I can’t think of a more obvious and severe case of total hypocrisy.

I have never been more proud to be a FORMER Catholic. I couldn’t live with myself if I were to associate with a more hateful, unethical, and immoral organization.

May the people of Maine have more sense when they vote today than those evil members of the Catholic Church who seek to undue the equality Maine has already created for its people.

Events:

Thursday, October 22, 2009 at the Performing Arts at the Athenian School, 2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd., Danville at 7:00PM

Saturday, October 24, 2009 at A Different Light Bookstore, Castro St. near 18th, San Francisco, at 3:00PM

To the Members of the California State Senate:

I am signing Senate Bill 54. Following the passage of Proposition 8, there has been some uncertainty as to how California should treat same-sex couples that married out-of-state while same-sex marriage was legal in California. Consistent with the California Supreme Court’s
decision that upheld the validity of those in-state marriages entered into prior to the passage of Proposition 8, Senate Bill 54 clarifies that California must also recognize as married couples that legally married in another state during the same period of time in which same-sex marriage was legal in California.

In addition, Senate Bill 54 also requires that California recognize the union of couples that marry in states where same-sex marriage is legal. As required by Proposition 8, California will not recognize such couples as “married.” However, Senate Bill 54 will provide the same legal protections that would otherwise be available to couples that enter
into civil unions or domestic partnerships out-of-state. In short, this measure honors the will of the People in enacting Proposition 8 while providing important protections to those unions legally entered into in other states.

Sincerely,
Arnold Schwarzenegger

There is no better time to start living your life as you were made to be. If you have been looking for the right time to come out, make today your day. There is so much support waiting for you. Here are some links to resources we offer on how to come out. Feel proud and confident about who you are and start living an authentic life.

From the Matthew Shepard Foundation – Coming Out
Share your story with us and or ask for help

There are several pieces of important legislation impacting the GLBT community, one of which is very personal to me. SB54 provides recognition of same-sex marriages performed outside of California prior to the passage of Proposition 8. The spirit of this bill is exactly inline with the California Supreme Court’s ruling that recognizes same-sex marriages performed IN California prior to the passage of Proposition 8.

I voted for you governor, now take care of business.

It Italy, police are preparing for a “mass coming out”. There is no reason if you are a closeted gay or lesbian police that you should have to suffer any longer.

If you are looking for a time and place to come out, I challenge you to come out this weekend and start a new life living as who you were made to be. There is a huge network of GLBT law enforcement officers ready to support you. All you need to do is reach out.

Start by sharing your story and coming out process by clicking here and telling us about it, ask questions, and get the support you need. Everyone will be answered within 24 hours. We are ready for you!

It’s interesting how powerful internalized homophobia can really be. Here is an organization so full of gay men, but so fearful of who they are, that they defy their own religious principals to condemn and judge others. This is the same organization that accepted and covered up decades of sexual abuse and that continues to deny its own sins. Not that’s the pot calling the kettle black if I’ve ever seen it.

Chris loved law enforcement and the police academy program. He rarely missed a graduation. I remember him telling me how much he used to like walking up from the back parking lot to see our cadets standing for an inspection, raising the flags, or marching to a cadence.

I remember him attending a community-wide event at our college that I coordinated featuring Darrell Scott, father of Rachel Scott who was murdered at Columbine High School. Chris was in tears by the end of the program. Last year, he participated on stage in our reading of the Laramie Project. He shared a lot of my values around teaching and student success and I will miss him.

Today, Chris was found deceased in his apartment from what appears to be natural causes. He will be sorely missed at Napa Valley College and my me personally.

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The week began with cocktails by the pool and some catching up with friends I met last year in DC. I spent the first day of the conference teaching my hate crimes class twice and meeting cops, young and old, from throughout the U.S. What really impressed me was the sizable number of straight allies from various agencies who traveled with their gay or lesbian friend to attend the conference. At lunch, we heard from the Under Sheriff of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Not only was he sincerely happy to be with us, he join us for most of the conference…. along with 50 plus members of his department. What really made this incredible was the fact that the rest of the department was on 12-hour shifts for the wildfires burning in LA county. LASD sponsored this conference and still allowed all of the attendees to participate rather than forcing them to 12-hour shifts.

I got to be a participant the rest of the week and attended some classes including one on police suicides and addiction, shame-based trauma, transgender issues, and an executive panel that discussed GLBT employment issues. Again, the LASD Under Sheriff participated on the panel. Here’s a guy with 41 years in law enforcement who truly believes in diversity. His words were very encouraging and supportive.

The week ended with a dinner and words from Congressman Barney Frank. What a guy! His last name characterizes his “frank” approach and attitude. A large group headed out to Hunters (a local gay bar) for drinks and who showed up? Barney Frank.

Everything about this week was impressive. From the quality hotel hosting the event to the top-notch support I received, as a presenter, from the technical guys from the LASD. Sgt. Don Mueller deserves a huge hug and thanks for all the hard work in putting this week together. Sheriff Bacca, thank you for your sincere commitment and overall support for the conference. So great to meet Jimmy, Carroll, Corey, JR, Will, Bryan, John, Chris, and Lee. Ben, thanks for a great week traveling together. You are a wonderful friend.

Judy will be touring the country doing a number of book signing events. Below you will find links to learn more about the book tour and to order your own copy.

Order a copy of “The Meaning Of Matthew” from Amazon.
Order a copy personally addressed and signed by Judy Shepard.
Learn more about Judy Shepard’s book tour.

Officers from around the country and from different countries are planning to attend the three day conference. The topics covered at the conference include peer counseling, substance abuse and officer suicide, transgender isues, agency policies related to LGBT personnel, and, the course I will be teaching, hate crimes update.

The hate crimes update class will be available twice, one in the morning and once in the afternoon on Wednesday. The class will include an update on state and federal laws, a review of hate crime trends, how to identify hate crimes, the forensics of hate, and hate crime victim dynamics.

For more information on this exciting conference, go to http://www.rcpi-ca.org/

First Place – $500.00
Second Place – $250.00
Third Place – $100.00

You don’t have to be a professional writer to participate. Stories from law enforcement, the fire service, and emergency medical professionals are welcome. We will take the best 50 stories submitted for inclusion in the next book. All submissions must be received by June 30, 2010. For more information, CLICK HERE.

I think a natural reaction to reading an article like this is, “good for him! He deserves it.” $415K may even sound like a lot of money, but is it really worth the loss of the career you dreamed about as a young person and worked so hard to get? I don’t know this officer or what his perspective is on the loss of his law enforcement career, but I can’t help but think the money is not worth all the pain he endured and the loss of what I’m sure he worked hard to get.

I’ve seen enough cases of work place harassment and discrimination to say with confidence, there are few winners and those who do prevail with a settlement are rarely able to work in law enforcement again.

I commend the officer for not simply sitting back and taking what he felt was harassment. My point is that a $415K check may not be all that it seems.

Click here to read the article

Every coming out story is unique and special, but as you listen, you will quickly realize there are many common themes. I think one of the best ways of realizing that you are not alone is to listen to the coming out stories of others. You will recognize similar feelings, discomfort, and struggle.

We’ve created a new page on our website with a number of these coming out stories to help our readers with their own coming out process. While most of these videos are from young people, the fears they share are experienced by people of all ages during the coming out process. I encourage everyone to take some time to listen to a few of these stories. I’ve included at the bottom of the page, a related video addressing the question of choice and sexual orientation. You might find this video helpful when talking to your friends and family about coming out.

CLICK HERE to video our new Coming Out Videos page.

Pete, like me, came out in his forties. He described the process as being far more challenging personally than it turned out to be professionally. Pete commented that so often we get so wrapped up in our own egos thinking that when we come out, everyone will be talking about it. In his experience, it was far less of an event than he anticipated. Pete now lives with his partner and continues to work in one of the rougher districts of the city.

One of Pete’s passions is photography and he put together an amazing coffee-table book of black and white photography featuring candid photos from and about the working cops of San Francisco. His comments are wonderful. Anyone working in law enforcement would love this book. For those who don’t, this book provides a rare opportunity to see working cops in action.

I applaud the good Congressman for getting involved and for taking a stand on this issue. This policy has got to go. My heart goes out to the family of Mr. Provost and especially to his partner.

This is truly an excellent example for law enforcement and the community. It’s also a stark contrast to the genesis of pride celebrations – the Stonewall Riots. The SFPD Pride Alliance was one of the first LGBT law enforcement professional organizations ever created. I had a chance to meet several of the members yesterday and found them all to be excellent role models. I had a blast yesterday and felt proud to be part of law enforcement. Here is video from the parade showing the San Francisco Sheriff’s Department’s “Protect and Defend” organization as well as the San Francisco Police Department’s “Pride Alliance.”

Today, Lt. Dan Choi, another distinguished member of the United States Army was dismissed for being gay. He is among 200 plus other members of the military who have been dismissed for the same reason since President Obama took office. “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” is not this president’s policy, but it is his to change and I don’t understand what he is waiting for.

President Obama made history in June by issuing the first Presidential Proclamation declaring June as National LGBT Pride Month. It’s time he and the other leaders of our government put some meaning behind this important gesture by eliminating policies and laws that discriminate.

This weekend we will celebrate Independence Day and all of the values and ideas that make up our Constitution. Remember, this was the document we fought for. The Bill of Rights and subsequent Amendments are all about freedom, equality, and justice for all. If you believe in these same values and ideas, join me in supporting the elimination of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” One way to take action immediately is to see a letter using the link below.

CLICK HERE TO TAKE ACTION NOW

I see this as an important learning opportunity for these students, as future police officers, to gain an understanding of a large community they will serve. As the people who will be on the front line of protecting the rights and freedoms of everyone, they will get a chance to learn about a community that still, to this day, is invisible especially within the ranks of their own profession – law enforcement. However, the good news is that they will see for themselves a large contingent of LGBT law enforcement officers marching in uniform with their Police Chief. This is a sharp contrast to the history law enforcement has had with the LGBT community 4 decades ago.

I would encourage everyone reading this blog to attend a pride event this year and to think about both the history of this event as well as the current day fight for civil rights. Happy Pride!

If you haven’t written your Senator to let them know this law is important to you, please take the time to write and urge your elected representative to speak for your interests. It’s time to pass this bill and to send it on to President Obama who has already said he is ready to sign it.

40 years ago, when I was in first grade, none of this would have been imaginable. There were not “out” elected officials and there was no Pride Flag in existence. The very last place any sort of gay event would have taken place is in a City Hall, let alone the Mayor’s office. Thanks to those pioneers at Stonewall who decided to stand up and become visible, we now have events like this one. From the violence that night, June 28, 1969, has emerged a month long celebration of pride in a special part of our identity.

What about “American Heroes Coming Out From Behind The Badge” you ask? It is still a project under development, but I’m finding it very difficult to get the many outstanding LGBT firefighters, police officers, and EMT Professionals to sit down and write their stories. I have several wonderful contributions already, but need many more to make the book viable. In the meantime, my time will be well served writing for the many people of all ages who are struggling with family, work, and religion.

Look for regular updates about upcoming speaking programs and our Out To Protect Scholarship Program on this blog.

Some people wonder why it’s necessary to have a parade and to celebrate sexual orientation. It took me awhile to figure it out as well. Pride is the opposite of shame. Society has imposed, through bigotry and hate, feelings of shame upon members of the LGBT community. Shame destroys self-esteem, self-worth, self-confidence, and so much more. Even after coming out, shame can be very difficult to overcome. However, once shame is eliminate and self-esteem is restored, expressing pride in one’s self and identity is powerful. From a community standpoint, it’s also an important educational opportunity. Pride events make the LGBT community visible. In San Francisco, when you see 1.5 million people gather (gays and straight allies alike) it’s a demonstration that not everyone in this world is straight and not everyone in this world hates gay people.

Pride events create an important visibility for an otherwise invisible difference. For me, participating in pride is an important personal event and contribution to educating others about our differences.

“LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER PRIDE MONTH, 2009″

What? A Presidential Proclamation formally recognized Pride Month? WOW! I have to say I was really surprised, but very pleased. It’s an important sign that change is truly upon us. I wonder if those angry drag queens at Stonewall 40 years ago ever thought their courage that night would result in formal acknowledgement and appreciation by the President of the United States. …and all because they came out and made their presence known. Bravo!

This week was pride week here in Sonoma County and I’ve been thinking a lot about why expressing our pride is so important. Tonight I’ll be attending comedy night with Alec Mapa at the Wells Fargo Center in Santa Rosa. This is an annual event that brings together a huge crowd of gay and lesbian people who have found their home in the suburbs. Such an event would have never been possible 40 years ago. We owe a lot to that generation of brave men and women to stood up and said, “we’re queer and we’re out right here.”

This month’s podcast will feature more about the meaning and importance of pride. Watch for it here on this page in the coming weeks. If you are looking for some unique pride greeting cards, please visit our web store at www.cafepress.com/cofbtb. All proceeds go to our Out To Protect Scholarship Program.

Now, more than ever, we need to lean on the wisdom of those activists who have gone before us. Harvey Milk is the activist I listened to this morning in the video clip below. As a community, we cannot sit back and do nothing. If you are in the closet, you can’t wait for someone else to create this change for you. Everyone needs to take part and to do their part. It can be as simple as talking or as dramatic as taking part in a public display of unity and demonstration.

Change will not come about by sitting back and passively waiting for it to happen. We need to mount a fight with a sustained commitment to getting what is ours and what is guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution – Equality.

I’m confident my obligation to pay taxes in this state will remain equal to my straight counter-parts despite the Court’s ruling today limiting my civil rights related to marriage. Emotionally, this feels devastating and is an incredible set-back in our civil rights movement.

I am grateful, however, that I was married in Canada and that my marriage is recognized by a country that truly understands marriage equality.

While the emotional sting is fresh this morning, everyone should be very concerned about what we’ve just witnessed. We’ve allowed, by a simply majority vote, civil rights to be taken away. In this case, the motivation was based on religious beliefs and funded largely by organizations without an interest or authority to even vote on the issue. Every citizen in this state should be gravely concerned about the potential precedent this decision has set.

This is truly a sad day in our history.

The overturning of a voter initiative would certainly be a courageous act, but that is the job of the Court. I’m sure the fear of upset was just a fierce when the United States Supreme Court acted to ban segregation in schools. The same was likely true when both the California Supreme Court and U.S. Supreme Court tossed out laws prohibiting inter-racial marriage. It’s not about doing what is popular, but all about what is right.

On a personal note, it feels very much like waiting to hear what kind of citizenship status I will have after May 26. Am I an equal citizen or second class? Does the 14th Amendment truly apply to me, or only under certain circumstances?

Is there reason for optimism? Perhaps. A lot has happened around the country on this issue just since March 5. The most notable advance was the “out of nowhere” unanimous opinion by the Iowa State Supreme Court that a ban on same-sex marriage violated their state’s constitution (yes, it was unanimous, not a simple 4-3 vote like in California). And this Court is not a group of liberals. Come on, Iowa of all places. Vermont also saw their state legislature over-turn a veto by the Governor and now allows same-sex marriage.

California has had such a reputation of being a leader in all aspects of social change for many years, but we are falling off the map in terms of our ability to continue this evolution. I’m hoping that California Supreme Court Justices are taking note that social change is passing them by. What a shame it would be for any state in this country to replace California as a social justice leader. But it’s not about being in first place, this is all about doing the right things, what is just, and what is equal. I hope the California Supreme Court is learning from their colleagues in Iowa. If they can’t find equality themselves, please take a lesson from one of the most likely teachers.

Congratulations Iowa and Vermont!

The music in this podcast includes the amazing voice of rising start, Adam Lambert.

If you are reading this blog, you are more than likely someone who supports the expansion of federal hate crimes law. You should know the facts and be ready to defend the arguments against this important legislation you are likely to hear in the coming weeks. Here are the facts.

1. Hate crime laws do not regulate thought and do not restrict freedom of speech. Criminal threats made against specific individuals have always been illegal. The First Amendment remains in perfect tact.
2. Federal hate crimes law does not duplicate what already exists in state law. In fact, the states of Wyoming, Indiana, Georgia, Arkansas, and South Carolina, have no hate crime law whatsoever.
3. The expansion of Federal Law to include sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, and disability does not add matters of choice to hate crime laws. In fact, religion has always been included in Federal Hate Crimes law and the First Amendment guarantees the right to practice a religion or not as a matter of choice. Sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, and disabilities are not matters of choice.
4. Federal hate crimes law only protects certain identity groups while leaving others, such as white males, behind. The fact of the matter is that by expanding Federal Hate Crimes Law as proposed, it will become more inclusive than ever. While males have always been included as a protected group, but as a group, are not targeted nearly as often as other groups. The fact is that sexual orientation is the third most common hate crime bias motivation in the nation (it’s second in California).

The Federal Hate Crimes Law is important to every local government in the country because, regardless of existing state laws, it provides funding to support the investigation and prosecution of hate crimes cases. In addition, it provides priority access to Federal resources, such as the FBI crime lab for local law enforcement agencies.

So why the opposition? Many conservative religious extremists don’t condone homosexuality and see sexual orientation as a choice. Presumably, they don’t believe people who are victimized by hate for this bias should be considered in the same way as they would be for being a victim because of their religious beliefs. …Religion is a matter of choice. It make no sense at all.

Now is not the time to sit back and wait for something to happen. If you believe in this legislation, contact your representatives in Congress and in the Senate and make your opinion known.

Believe it or not, there are still five states with no hate crime laws whatsoever. Wyoming, where Matthew was murdered, is among this group of states. If another crime like the one during which Matthew was murdered were to occur today, there would be no federal support for local law enforcement and no way to prosecute the crime as a hate crime.

Hate crimes motivated by the victims sexual orientation is the third most common hate crime motivation in the nation. It is the second most common motivation in California. For the last eight years, George Bush ignored this realty and prevented the necessary expansion of this law based on his own bigotry. Now we have a chance and it’s been a long time coming. Listen to my good friend Judy Shepard speak about this in the video below.

Bravo to every one involved. It made be very proud to be a member of Napa Valley College. CLICK HERE for details.

This is also an amazing event in that the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is behind it 100%. My hat is off to Sheriff Lee Baca for demonstrating (not just talking about it) that he values his GLBT law enforcement personnel. Check out the conference website at http://www.gpoasc.org/.

Remaining silent isn’t going to change the law enforcement culture. In fact, remaining silent will only continue the pain, fear, and depression commonly experienced by closeted gay and lesbian law enforcement officers. While you can certainly choose to keep your private life a secret, in a profession that is so closely knit, like law enforcement, it can be very tough. Even the most private and quiet of officers is likely to be the subject of rumor and speculation.

The only way this great profession is going to change its mind about gay and lesbian officers is to finally meet the many gay and lesbian officers already working side by side with their straight counter parts. Whether you are a student in a police academy class or a seasoned veteran officer, it’s time to give your “right to remain silent” and speak the truth about who you are. Allow your fellow officers to learn, to see, that the capable officer they have grown to know and love is the same person they have always know. But after coming out, your fellow officers will get to see the true you.

If you have been looking for a good time to come out, use the “Day of Silence” this Friday as your time to speak up. Share your story with us and if you need support, reach out and ask. There are plenty of fellow gay and lesbian law enforcement officers here ready to help you.

Just three days after this year’s Day of Silence will mark 10 years since the school shootings at Columbine High School in Colorado. At that time, the two high school seniors, who killed 12 fellow students and one teacher, claimed responsibility for the largest school shooting in history to date. Unfortunately, that record has been broken several times since then. What is common in almost every school shooting is a shooter who has been a victim of hate or bullying themselves. It often times starts with one word, a slur, a hateful term. But it often escalates to physical violence.

It’s ironic that this week I will be teaching a 3-day Stop the Hate! training program at my college in Napa. It feels good to be spending my time this week engaged in hate prevention with participants from colleges all over the United States. Join me this week in doing something, anything, to combat hate. Start out by watching the video below and passing along the word about this Friday’s Day of Silence.

We went to the after-party and celebrated until after 1AM. Despite the white-out blizzard in Laramie, it was an incredible weekend. Elton John’s commitment to making this world a better place is commendable. As a Matthew Shepard Foundation Board Member, I’m so grateful for his generosity. In fact, he committed in public to do a benefit concert for the Foundation at least every other year from now on! Thanks Elton and thank you to everyone who traveled and supported the Matthew Shepard Foundation.

What to learn more, go to www.matthewshepard.org

Three trust funds have been set up to help the families of three of the slain officers. Checks can be made out to Dunakin Children’s Family Trust, Romans Children’s Family Trust and Sakai Family Trust. The checks can be mailed to the Oakland Police Officers Association, Attn: Renee Hassna, 555 Fifth St,, Oakland CA 94607.

Wire transfers can be made directly to Merrill Lynch accounts for the three families: Dunakin Children’s Family Trust, a/c #204-04065; Romans Children’s Family Trust, a/c #204-04066; Sakai Family Trust, a/c #204-04064.

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On behalf of everyone at Coming Out From Behind The Badge and Out To Protect, our most sincere condolences. Our hearts and our flags fly at half-mast to honor Sergeant Mark Dunakin, 40, and Officer John Hege, 41, who were killed at the first shooting and ,two members of the SWAT team who were killed at the second location, Sergeant Ervin Romans, 43, and Sergeant Daniel Sakai, 35.

May all of you at the Oakland Police Department find strength in each other and from the entire law enforcement community. Know that we all mourn with you and are here to support you. CLICK HERE to learn more.

What causes me grief with the City of Nape vote was that 4 council members abstained from voting and the vice mayor just didn’t show up to vote. The resolution failed because the majority simply didn’t take a position on the issue. Now that is true cowardice. One council member said that the same-sex marriage issue is not a matter of local concern. The Mayor argued that a resolution passed by the Napa City Council wouldn’t have any impact on the Supreme Court’s decision making. So they just remained silent.

Last November, 56% of the voters in Napa County voted yes on Proposition 8 (they voted against same-sex marriage). Arguably, the vote was fairly close. But, I would have hoped that this group of elected officials would have had the guts to at least vote and to make visible their values around same-sex marriage. This is an important social issue and if I was voter in Napa, I would want to know whether my elected officials valued equality and civil rights as well as whether or not they have the courage to make a decision one way or the other. The fact that they couldn’t do it for a simple resolution that wouldn’t have any legal obligation shows me just how little leadership ability and courage these individuals have. CLICK HERE to learn more.

I could not have been more disappointed, however, with our Attorney General’s office.  While I admire Gerry Brown’s courage for supporting the overturning of Proposition 8, his representative stumbled and presented a very weak and nonsensicle arguement.  From my perspective, he did far more harm than good.

Of course the Court relies heavily on precedent and most of the arguements heard from both sides were supported with examples from prior cases, but as Ms. Stewart pointed out, this is a very new and unique circumstance involving a classic Constitutional question.  Under any circumstances, can the will of the majority group determine the fundamental rights of a minority group.  In 90 days, the California Supreme Court will give us this answer.

Tomorrow, Monday, the California Senate and Assembly are expected to vote on the resolutions to overturn 8.

On Wednesday evening, the Eve of Justice, we will unite at statewide candlelight vigils to send a message to our fellow Californians. More information at EveofJustice.com and eqca.org.

On Thursday morning when our case is argued, witness history together live in San Francisco as the hearing is broadcast on the huge jumbotron in front of the California Supreme Court and City Hall or if you can’t join us in person, watch live at eqca.org. Proceedings start at 9 a.m. More Information and other viewings >>

Show your support online. Join the online rally though Thursday to overturn 8.

There is a lot at stake here.  This issue isn’t just about marriage, it is about whether or not the majority can determine the rights given to the minority based on a simple majority vote.  Regardless of your feelings about marriage, this is an important decision that impacts everyone in California.

If you haven’t had the chance to check out Blue Pride Radio, go to www.blogtalkradio.com/bluepride and check it out.

We are applying for 501(c)(3) tax exempt status so that donations we collect will be tax deductible. Our organization will be comprised entirely of volunteers. Not one dollar of donated money will go to pay a salary. Our intent is to devote 90% or more of every donated dollar to scholarships. The remaining amount will be used to promote this program and our educational efforts. It is my hope that every working GLBT member of law enforcement will contribute to the future of law enforcement by investing in this scholarship program. My dream would be to build an endowment of sufficient size to make this scholarship program self-supporting. All of these efforts will be developed and guided by a very talented Board of Directors. My partner, Tony Pennacchio, who is a professional educator will serve as the Treasurer. Mr. Damien Sandoval, Director of the Police Academy at Napa Valley College, and Officer Ben Smith of the San Francisco Police Department will serve as Directors.

We will invite applications from “out” GLBT law enforcement students from throughout the United States. Our board of directors will review the applications and make awards based on those applicants who best meet our selection criteria. Our goal this year is to provide two $1000 scholarships.

You can start supporting this effort immediately by making a donation – CLICK HERE. You can also support our efforts by purchasing logo items from one of our two online stores. CLICK HERE for the new Out To Protect store.

To stay informed about how this project develops, please join our mailing list by CLICKING HERE.

Attend Lobby Day – Equality California
Lobby your representatives directly to pass two EQCA-sponsored resolutions to overturn Prop 8. SR 7 (Leno) and HR 5 (Ammiano) will make it the state’s official stance that Prop 8 should be invalidated.

The program will begin at 3PM PST/6PM EST. Don’t miss out on being one of the first to hear about our new project!

For information, go to http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Bluepride/2009/02/22/BluePride-Radio-022209

Over 43 government and private organizations have filled letters to the court supporting the plea to toss Proposition 8 out and to restore the fundamental rights of marriage provided by the Court last May. This is the most important civil rights case of our time and it demands our full attention. The hearing on March 5 will be broadcast over the “California Channel.” For more information CLICK HERE.

Now if you are a reading of this blog and still not convinced that the love of two same-sex couples isn’t real, please take the time to watch this video.

Want to learn more about marriage equality and this issue, CLICK HERE.

The new look integrates our blog into the book website and will offer some additional features not available on the old page. To all of our subscribers, THANK YOU!

And if you are out, consider letting those people who support you and love you know how much you appreciate their presence in your life. We don’t often do this enough and in law enforcement, you never know when you might lose the opportunity to do just that.

If you are looking for a unique note card, consider using our coming out note cards. They are designed specifically for law enforcement.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

The coming months will bring the opportunity for our civil rights movement to advance and achieve. The California Supreme Court is expected to hear the Proposition 8 suits in March. We all hope that they will have the courage to apply the principles of the 14th Amendment to our minority and demonstrate that the majority can never take away the rights of any minority. I have great hope that our new President will sign the Matthew Shepard Act expanding the scope of federal hate crimes law.

Dr. King and Harvey Milk shared so much passion for civil rights and social justice and both are role models for me. I too have a dream… that one day, gay and lesbian people will be recognized equally with straight people and that we will enjoy all of the same rights and protections that they do. That we will not be prohibited for serving our country in the military, not subject to being fired at work because of who we are, and that we will be able to marry the person we love enjoying all of the same rights and benefits as a straight couple.

My commitment is to work toward making that dream a reality. Thank you Dr. King, Harvey Milk, and all of those civil rights leaders who dedicated their lives to civil rights and social justice.



Blue Pride – www.bluepride.org
Blue Pride Radio – www.blueprideradio.com

Check it out at www.cafepress.com/COFBTB

Months before his death, Harvey Milk recorded a message to be played only in the event of his assassination. In his final message, Mr. Milk talks about some important issues that related to my work with “Coming Out From Behind the Badge.” He says that if every doctor, judge, and teacher came out of the closet, there would be no more struggle for gay rights. I can’t agree with him more. If every gay and lesbian law enforcement officer came out of the closet, life for all of us would be much easier. Law enforcement would change overnight… just as Harvey Milk suggests.

Take a few minutes to remember this remarkable man and listen to his final thoughts.

“Attorney General Brown Urges California Supreme Court to Invalidate Proposition 8

Sacramento – Attorney General Edmund G. Brown Jr. today called upon the California Supreme Court to invalidate Proposition 8 because it deprives people of the right to marry—an aspect of liberty that the Supreme Court has concluded is guaranteed by the California Constitution.

“Proposition 8 must be invalidated because the amendment process cannot be used to extinguish fundamental constitutional rights without compelling justification,” Attorney General Brown said.

In this case, Attorney General Brown concludes that existing case-law precedents of the Court do not invalidate Proposition 8 either as a revision or as a violation of the separation-of-powers doctrine. But this does not resolve the matter.

In the In re Marriages Cases, the Court held that article I, section 1 of the California Constitution provides a right to marry that cannot be denied to same-sex couples. Attorney General Brown argues that in order to invalidate such a fundamental right, the Court must determine that there is a compelling justification to do so. But in the In re Marriage Cases, the court found that no such compelling justification exists. Accordingly, Proposition 8 must be stricken.

Attorney General Brown believes that same-sex marriages entered into between June 16 and November 4, 2008 are valid and recognized in California regardless of whether Proposition 8 is upheld. ” (From www.ag.ca.gov)

From what I know, Russ backed his truck into his garage, lined up all of his badges across the dash board, and took his own life with a gun. What I don’t know is why…

(Russ is on the right… yes, that’s me on the left)

Russ, Russ, Russ, … what were you thinking? You know the one thing I know about law enforcement is that no matter how bad things get, someone will always be there to help. This is so important for everyone reading this to know. Life can dish out some horrendous challenges and circumstances. …I probably don’t have to tell all of you fellow gay and lesbians that. No matter how alone you might feel, in our profession, there is always someone who will listen, who will hold you, who will help you work it all out.

The holidays don’t always bring out the best in people nor are they the easiest of times to deal with. If you find yourself in a corner and don’t see a way out, please reach out and ask for a hand. I don’t care how bad it gets, at least give a friend, a family member, or a complete stranger a chance to help you work it through. The network of law enforcement officers available on the Internet is vast. Whether you are gay or straight, you will find someone to listen. Our writers are available to you as well. All you need to do is ask for help.

But just in case you are in immediate need, I want to be sure you have a phone number right here and easy to find. Call the National Gay and Lesbian Hotline 1-888-843-4564.

Russ, I’m so sad. I so wished we had the chance to talk. Things must have been really bad for you, but I wish you had leaned on the incredible people you and I both worked with at the PD. I know they will miss you so much. Rest in peace my friend.

I’m facilitating the talk-backs at the end of each presentation and you should hear these kids talk about their experience. You should also see the number of people in the audience who watch and who are brought to tears. I couldn’t be more proud of these kids and of the difference they are making. Matt always dreamed of changing the world and I believe that he is doing just that through his story as told by these young people.

Please take a few minutes to listen to the director and members of the cast during a local radio station interview.

The holiday music in this podcast is performed by Jason and Demarco from their “The Spirit of Christmas” CD.

But then I woke up early this morning to see the final results of Proposition 8 and was deeply saddened to realize that the people of the State of California voted to take away my rights to have my marriage recognized equally with others and relegated me to a second-class status. Of all the states in this country that would have been the last place for it to happen, we actually took rights away from a group of people and wrote into our Constitution discrimination. What’s truly sad is that this movement was fueled and funded largely by religious zealots who don’t even live in California. Yes, I know, our own citizens voted for it. But the power of religious influence is often greater than common sense. All you have to do is look at how many people were sexually molested by priests in the Catholic Church and who kept silent out of fear imposed by these predators. As someone who teaches acceptance and understanding through hate crimes prevention, I’ve never been so embarrassed to have been affiliated with a hateful organization such as the Catholic Church. And now, I too, have been victimized by it’s hypocritical ideology.

At the same time, I’ve always been a strong proponent of the Constitution and our democratic system of government. I will certainly accept the outcome of the vote. It’s always been my practice to think about and find a silver lining in any negative situation and there is certainly a clear one with the Proposition 8 campaign. Since last May, when the Supreme Court ruled that California’s marriage law was unconstitutional, we have been engaged in a conversation. Gay people and gay marriage was made more visible than ever before. Over 16,000 couples took advantage of this window of opportunity and exercised their option to wed. We got more positive exposure as a community than in any other time in history that I can remember or have read about. And you can be assured that the conversation will continue.

As a community, we are becoming more visible and, slowly but surely, we are changing minds and hearts with our stories, our relationships, and our example. Yes, this is a horrible defeat, but I don’t believe it will last long. This amendment will be repealed because anyone with any common sense and who is free from the influence of religious zealots will realize that what we have just done is an act of discrimination and a clear violation of the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution. It will just take time and, as a community, we must continue to talk and engage others. In the long term, I think we’ve gained much more than we lost in Proposition 8 and I intend to do my part to right this wrong.

One of the greatest gifts that Matthew Shepard gave us was the ability to have conversations about difference and hate. His story continues to bring an important level of awareness to a subject that we still need to work on as a country.

According to About.com, “National Coming Out Day was founded by Robert Eichberg and Jean O’Leary on October 11, 1988 in celebration of the first gay march on Washington D.C. a year earlier. The purpose of the march and of National Coming Out Day is to promote government and public awareness of gay, bisexual, lesbian and transgender rights and to celebrate homosexuality. National Coming Out Day is a time to publicly display gay pride. Many choose this day to come out to their parents, friends, co-workers and themselves.”

If you are a member of the public safety profession and come out this month, please share your story with us. Go to www.comingoutfrombehindthebadge.com.

In celebration of this important day, we are offering signed copies of our book, “Coming Out From Behind The Badge” at a special discounted price through October 31st. CLICK HERE to order your copy or send a copy to a friend.

Source: http://gaylife.about.com/od/comingout/a/nationalcoming.htm

For more information about Randi Driscoll, go to www.randidriscoll.com
For more information about Jason and Demarco, go to www.jasonanddemarco.com
To buy tickets, got to www.stophate.org/concert/

Greetings,

Alabama LEGAL (Law Enforcement Gays and Lesbians) in conjuction with members of the Georgia, Louisiana, Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee, and South Carolina law enforcement communities are putting together an social organization for the Southeastern region of the United States.

This organization’s membership will include Law Enforcement (active and retired, federal, state, and local, professional and volunteer, civilian support staff), Corrections (active and retired, federal, state, and local), Communications (active and retired for emergency services), Firefighters (active and retired, professional and volunteer), Emergency Medical Services (active and retired), all branches of the U.S. military.

Membership will be kept confidential as many members are military and most of the states in the region have no laws protecting employment. Alabama LEGAL has operated under this policy for three years with no problems. This organization will do the same.

The purpose of the organization will be strictly social in nature. Yearly events will be hosted throughout the South for the purpose of networking and socializing with likeminded individuals who enjoy the same career that you do. In the past, these organizations were generaly exclusive to law enforcement. Along came Protect and Defend (www.protectanddefend.org ). This organization brought together men and women from all fields of public safety and the armed forces. PAD has hosted numerous events on the West Coast. These gatherings were not conferences but well organized social events. Alabama LEGAL contacted PAD and asked for advice. PAD seemed thrilled at the notion and offered the idea of becoming the Southern Chapter of Protect and Defend.

When Alabama LEGAL held its anual beach party in August we invited Georgia LEGAL (who had already voted to allow military in its ranks) and various members of law enforcement from other states. Those in attendance were in favor of forming the group. The consensus has been to form the southern chapter of PAD. While everyone was in favor of PAD, there were several questions as to what would be required of us as a chapter of a larger organization.

The group decided to host an event in New Orleans, LA to put it to a vote (or maybe it was just an excuse to go to New Orleans). Alabama LEGAL will host the meeting with the assistance of our new friends in Louisiana. Thanks to the help of our gracious friend in New Orleans, here is the schedule;

November 13, 2008 Thursday

Arrival Date;
There will be a hospitality suite set up at the host hotel during the evening. Maps will be provided to many of the city’s attractions including the gay bars and restaurants. Shuttles to the bars won’t be necessary as the host hotel is in the French Quarter. Everything is in walking distance.

We are attempting to set up transportation for those who will be arriving from the airport. If that is the way you plan to travel then let us know when and where you will be arriving.

November 14, 2008 Friday

During the day those attending are encouraged to check out the city. It has a unique history and it is definitely tourist friendly.

Later that night we will meet at one of the bars (location TBA) for a private party. After about 10 p.m. or so the party will open to the rest of the patrons.

November 15, 2008 Saturday

3:00 p.m. Alabama LEGAL will host the meeting to discuss and vote on forming the Southern Chapter of Protect and Defend. This meeting will take place in the conference room of the host hotel. Representatives of PAD will be in attendance and will give a presentation which should answer most of the questions that have been asked so far.

After the meeting there will be a riverboat cruise through New Orleans on the Mississippi River. This will last a little more than two hours and will include a meal. The cost is about $50 a person but we are seeking sponsors to eliminate the cost to our members.

Afterwards we will go to another bar (location TBA)

November 16, 2008 Sunday

10:30 a.m. Goodbye Breakfast.

Host Hotel;

The Iberville Suites (New Orleans, LA)

www.ibervillesuites.com

The nights that have been blocked of for the group are November 13-16. There were a few who planned to stay Sunday night as well. The discounted rate is $99 a night. For reservations contact;
Kerrison Hawkins
504-670-2937
or email at kerrison.hawks@ritzcarlton.com

or

Amy Odinet
504-670-2837
or email at amy.odinet@ritzcarlton.com

The group rate and blocked rooms are under the name Protect and Defend.

If you plan to attend this event and become a part of our growing group then please send me an email. I will need to know our numbers for the establishments to prepare for us. As always, you are allowed to bring a guest with you that does not fit our membership requirements (spouses, partners, close friends, whatever you call them)

Hope to see you there,
Jason W

The links mentioned in this podcast include:

www.campuspride.org
www.campusclimateindex.org
www.nvccjtc.org/text/Annoc – Hate Crimes Investigation Online2009.pdf

“Today, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community lost an iconic leader and a beloved friend. Del Martin, 87, passed away in San Francisco with Phyllis Lyon, her lifelong partner and spouse, by her side. Del was one of the nation’s first and most visible lesbian rights activists who dedicated her life to combating homophobia, sexism, violence and racism. Del’s many contributions to the LGBT movement will resonate for decades to come.” – No On 8 Equality For All Website.

My sadness is really mixed with happiness for her that she was able to realize her dream of being married to her life partner. The images of Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon being married in San Francisco City Hall will be what the history books print about the gay marriage movement in California. I didn’t know either of these remarkable women, but I think I do know some of the joy they felt on their wedding day. Both women are role models for role models. They have the type of determination, patience, and commitment to creating positive change that our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters in law enforcement need.

I’m glad to have known their story.

The vote we in California will be asked to place this coming November has really less to do with gay rights as it does with basic civil rights and the idea that our Constitution is all about protecting basic freedoms. From page 189. “Why Does Our Country Need ‘Gay Marriage’? – We don’t. The term ‘gay marriage’ implies that same-sex couples are asking for something lesser or different. What gay people are seeking is the legal and equal freedom to marry the person they love and care for, just as non-gay Americans do. The Constitution’s guarantee of equal protection and the right to marry belongs to us all.”

You can order a copy of this book on through our book store by clicking here.

Randi is a true role model for straight allies. Her commitment to spreading the message of unconditional love is worthy of much admiration. But if you haven’t yet heard her sing, well you are really missing out on something truly special. Go to www.randidriscoll.com to learn more about my friend. Better yet, check out her schedule and catch one of her performances this year. She is raising $10,000 for the Matthew Shepard Foundation.

Of course, one of the issues Bishop Robinson discusses is same-sex marriage. Not only did this openly gay Episcopal Bishop get nominated and consecrated as a openly gay man, he got married to his partner of 20 years! One of the most clear points that he makes is that the civil process of marriage has nothing at all to do with the spiritual and ritual process of marriage. Bishop Robinson writes about how civil rights are not the same as religious rites. This supports my belief that churches really have not standing in the matter of laws related to same-sex marriage because the law does not change anything for any church.

The Bishop’s vision of the Bible and understanding of God’s love of ALL his children is demonstrated through the book. Being gay does not mean that you have to choose between your faith and being who you are. I’ll have more on this book in the next podcast and will add the book to our recommended reading list in the coming week.

If you see the tragedy in this clip, call your local congressman or senator and tell them that you don’t support “don’t ask, don’t tell.” Tell them of the inequality you see and of the support you have for all of our American heroes.

More importantly, we’ve chosen a theme and title for the second edition of the book. Thanks to a suggestion from Nick in New York and support from my retired firefighter dad, the next book will be called, “American Heroes Coming Out From Behind the Badge,” and will include stories from firefighters and EMS professionals as well as law enforcement officers. Firefighters and EMS professionals face some unique challenges in the work place, because they often live with their co-workers 24 to 48 hours or more at a time. While I believe law enforcement is still way behind the civil rights movement in its recognition and support for LGBT members, the fire service is far worse. Fortunately, times are changing in this area of public service as well and we will feature stories of all types, successes and struggles, to inspire closeted LGBT heroes to come out and to start living their lives as they were made to be.

We are now accepting submissions for this edition. Members of the fire service, EMS professionals, and law enforcement personnel can submit their stories long-hand or via an online interview. We will take the first 25 best stories for inclusion in this edition. What are you waiting for? www.comingoutfrombehindthebadge.com

The First Amendment to the United States Constitution clearly supports the freedom to practice or not practice any religion. There is a distinct separation of church and state with marriage in that no religious ceremony is required to become legally married in California. Of course, state law allows for the incorporation of a religious ceremony as one of the options for solemnising a marriage, but it is not required nor is any church required to participate in solemnizing a marriage that the church does not believe in. There are several examples of how this applies in situations other than same-sex marriage. For example, in the Catholic church, you cannot get married a second time without having your original marriage annulled by the church itself. This nullification has no connection with the legal process of divorce and one does not impact or effect the other. A Catholic can get a legal divorce and not a nullification and still re-marry using a civil process or religious ceremony in another church. Many churches require counseling for couples prior to being married. If a couple does not participate, the church does not marry them. Again, State law has no requirement, but does not demand that a church perform the marriage anyway. Individuals can choose to follow religious edict or not. It is this right to choose that is so important and fundamental in our system of government.

I think the conflict really centers around the word “marriage” and context is which it is used. It is both a sacrament and civil process. What is really critically important for Mormons, Catholics, and other conservative Christian religions to realize is that having an inclusive civil marriage law does not interfere with, take away from, or require anything from an exclusive church policy. Churches and other faith-based organizations can discriminate how they wish and I fully support this right based on the content and principles found in our own Constitution.

I think the Mormon church and Catholic church’s involvement with Proposition 8 is out of line and place. In my mind, no church has any legal standing on this issue and I am committed to fighting their arguments and efforts with vigor. I plan to write regularly about this issue as events unfold between now and November.

One of the important things to remember for any gay or lesbian person coming out to their families and friends is that, although you have known for sometimes many years that you are gay or lesbian, your family and friends may not have known. Your disclosure is new and you should allow time for your family and friends to process their own “coming out.” Realize that it is not just “all about you.” When you share this important part of yourself with others, you need to be patient and sensitive to the process your mom, dad, relative, or friend needs to move through. Be as supportive and understanding as you expect them to be of you. I think this movie could be an important part of your discussion and experience with them. It’s one you can watch together that will really help open the discussion around religion and sexuality. The parents in this documentary are, for the most part, excellent role models. At least they show to work through the coming out process in a way that is positive and affirming.

Yes, I understand that not everyone will be accepting of who you are and I agree that this is their problem and not yours. I would never recommend cowering to how a parent or friend expects or wants you to be. But, I do believe a successful coming out experience with someone requires you to consider the individual circumstances, beliefs, and values of the person you are telling. Just remember that this can be a very new experience for them and take the time to allow them to learn and process what you are sharing. This experience alone can bond a parent and child like few others.

But coming out is a process that is never finished. It is an experience that does get easier over time, but that engages sometimes when you least expect it. Some situations feel easier than others. A few weeks ago, I was asked to speak to a college level administration of justice class about what it’s like being gay and working in law enforcement. I walked into a class of 25 and spoke as openly and comfortably as I would teaching any old class. Strange as it seems, there are still one on one situations that I find very challenging to come out in. The fear of rejection and shame can still haunt me and this is all to say I still have much work to do for a profession that has treated me very well, but that is still struggling with homophobia.

What will the next 30 years bring? Hopefully at least one more edition of the book with stories that are more inspiring than the first. I hope to move on to at least two more professional chapters in my life before enjoying retirement. I see myself working toward acceptance of gay and lesbians in law enforcement until we are all fully accepted and integrated. I also see being able to look back and to be proud of the differences I’ve been able to make and to look at ahead a new challenges perhaps in a different or more broad relm of education.

Five of the six contributing authors joined me in facilitating a coming out at work workshop and for a book signing event. I met some incredible officers from all over the country who are all extremely professional and who are doing some extraordinary work. My hat is off to Officer Scott Gunn who put this conference together. What an opportunity to network and to be reminded that you are not alone as an LGBT member of law enforcement. Congratulations to everyone in making the conference all that it was.

When Tony and I were married in Canada almost two years ago, I remember both the joy and exclusion I felt. I returned to the United States from Canada feeling like a second class citizen. Here I was coming back from a foreign country that did recognize me as an equal to my own country with a Constitutional Amendment that says I’m equal, but that still did not allow me to marry person I love in my own home town. Separate, but equal isn’t equal.

This time, when I got off the plane in Oakland, I felt happy to be home and proud of being a Californian. I felt like an equal and that the Constitution I believed in so much stood behind me and righted an injustice. Yes, I know there is an effort to reverse this decision, but I don’t see it really happening. I think the vast majority of people in California appreciate the same elements of equality and justice for all that I do. The religious zealots will continue to fight, but today’s decision doesn’t take away anything from anyone. It doesn’t really have anything to do with religion. It only extends equal opportunity as both our state and federal constitution require. It recognizes that the commitment any two people make to each other is worth the same thing.

I commend Chief Justice Ronald George for his leadership and courage in writing this historic decision. As a family man with three children, Justice George obviously recognizes the value and dignity of marriage. He also clearly recognizes human dignity and true meaning of equality. My thanks to all of the Justices who saw this issue the same way.

In this podcast, the author discusses the impact of the May 16, 2008 ruling by the California Supreme Court on same-sex marriage.