I have three important bits of news concerning the campaign to stop the cynically named "Sanctity of Marriage" constitutional amendment that Minnesota Republicans put on the 2012 ballot. If we can beat this ballot measure, this may be the last defensive measure we all have to fight. The tide is turning and it might just turn in Minnesota.
Two are about fundraising. One is about a petition being circulated by Catholics opposed to the amendment.
MN catholics are not united behind the leadership of their church. Some think that the Catholic Church represents social justice and Jesus teaches us to love everyone. Some dislike the church's backing of gay marriage ban and are circulating a petition:
The Catholic Church is a leader in social justice across the globe. Few organizations are as effective at embodying Jesus' gospel teachings and his relentless call to welcome the outcast, heal the sick, and give assistance to the hungry and the homeless. We recognize and respect the role the bishops are called to play in ensuring the institutional Catholic Church remains a powerful and committed agent for compassionate care and social justice in Minnesota and around the world.
Without a doubt, Minnesota is a better place to live for the less fortunate because of this commitment. The Church's laudable concern for the poor, however, has been compromised by Archbishop Nienstedt's recent expenditures of time, energy and money on ensuring the passage of an unnecessary constitutional ban on marriage for same-sex couples in Minnesota.
Maybe y'all wanna head on over and sign the petition?
At this point, the fundraising battle is tied. Minnesotans United for All Families reports that they've raised $1.2 million and Minnesotans for Marriage reports the same amount. The difference is in the types of donors.
MN United has 5,100 donors with $40,000 as the largest single gift and 75% from within MN.
In contrast, Minnesotans for Marriage money comes from large donors. And there are only 3.
- MN Catholic Conference gave $350,000
- National Organization for Marriage MN Fund gave $250,000
- MN Family Council Marriage Protection Fund gave just under $199,000
Only 7 donors are individuals and the total from individuals is $2,119.
So considering the fundraising firepower we're facing, please donate online:
Please sign up to volunteer! Phone banks are already rolling and the campaign can always Always ALWAYS use more volunteers. Sign up here: