Aloha,
Hawai`i is the state that started the national debate over same-sex marriage and civil unions 17 years ago with the state Supreme Court's decision in Baehr v. Lewin.
Since then, the Aloha State has shown precious little Aloha to same-sex couples, passing an anti-marriage initiative in 1998 and tossing out of office many pro-LGBT rights officials.
Thankfully, Hawai`i is on the verge of righting some of the past wrongs and returning to its rightful place as a leader of multiculturalism, diversity, tolerance, and progressive politics. Last week, the Legislature sent a strong civil unions bill to Gov. Linda Lingle. Since then, the Governor's office has been bombarded with pro and con messages. We need to make sure that the voices of love and justice are heard.
Please follow me below for links to two recent diaries I've posted on this subject (providing the Governor's contact information) and to a fascinating report on Honolulu local news tonight in which Gov. Lingle speaks on the bill for the first time.
Here's the diary I posted immediately after the Legislature's surprising action last week (listing the Governor's phone and fax numbers):
Action needed to support civil unions in Hawai`i!
And here's a subsequent diary that provided links to news articles and blog posts in reaction to the bill's passage, along with a link to e-mail the Governor:
More action needed to support civil unions in Hawai`i!
KITV News in Honolulu today provided a report on Gov. Lingle's initial discussions with groups in support of and in opposition to civil unions. The story includes the Governor stating her plan to methodically review the legislation:
http://www.kitv.com/...
It's a short video and, I think, worth your time because it accurately shows both sides and reveals the Governor's apparently open mind. She said she'll allow both sides to make their case. I find the story encouraging, and I hope it will help inspire you to share your mana`o (knowledge and beliefs) with the Governor.
Mahalo!