PROGRESSIVE COMMUNITY RESPONDS TO HATEFUL AD

When Hallie Edwards opened her paper last Tuesday (RG 7/26), she couldn't believe what she saw, a half-page ad against the proposed Civil Unions Bill SB1000.  But this was more than just an ad, it was "a hateful, bigoted lie," Hallie said.

The ad showed a husband, wife and two kids. It claimed their marriage would be harmed if civil unions were ever approved in Oregon.  It also claimed that voters in the last election showed their opposition to civil unions with the passage of Measure 36, even though that constitutional amendment never mentioned civil unions.  The ad went further, making a half-dozen outrageous and hateful statements about gays, equality and tolerance.

Right then, Hallie decided it was time to do something, and something big.  With a couple friends, she came up with the idea of taking out an even larger ad, with a lot more people -- something that would show the broad support for tolerance, compassion and equality within our Lane County community. 

On Thursday morning, she called into the morning show on KOPT (AM 1600) and talked of her plan to gather as many supporters of civil uniones as possible that afternoon in Alton Baker Park. 

Word of the event spread fast.  Emails were sent. Phone calls made.  That afternoon, Hallie and friends waited anxiously in the park.  At 5:30, a few people started to arrive. At first it was just a trickle. Then, it became a flood. 

By photo time at six, more than a hundred had gathered to demonstrate their support for equal rights for all Oregonians.  They were from all walks of life... gay, straight, young, old, male, female and in-between.  Eugene Mayor Kitty Piercy even found a place in her busy schedule to become part of the picture. "I didn't want to miss this," she said. "It's important that we take a stand against prejudice and bigotry whenever we can."

Buckets were passed among the crowd to raise money for the planned advertisement.  Wallets came out, coins clinked and checks were written.  "I'm amazed," Hallie said. "I'm very happy. Thank you all." 

Thank you, Hallie... for stepping up, speaking out and making change happen. You are a great example of how it often takes just one person to inspire a hundred others to become involved in the struggle to build a better world. We look forward to seeing the ad, and hope we'll see you at our next DPLC Membership Meeting.