“Pursuit of Happiness”: Not if some legislators have their way….

....all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. Are our state legislators really interested in the values of our Founding Fathers? Or are they more interested in property rights.....including owning the "pursuit of happiness" as property? … Continue reading “Pursuit of Happiness”: Not if some legislators have their way….

A People Divided

Back in November the Deseret News published the Official text of Utah Compact declaration on immigration reform, a declaration of five principles that was endorsed by many community members, including the LDS church, to “guide Utah’s immigration discussion.” Then I was reading yesterday’s Salt Tribune article on the growing Momentum building for Utah immigration reform. … Continue reading A People Divided

Rep. Christine Johnson, open Lesbian lawmaker, announces exodus from state

This is a sad day for Utah politics. Rep. Christine Johnson, D-Salt Lake, has announced her intentions to leave the state of Utah. The announcement appeared in today’s Daily Herald. “To me, Utah doesn’t feel like home,” said Johnson, D-Salt Lake City, on Thursday.Her announcement came as a surprise to many, but Johnson, an open … Continue reading Rep. Christine Johnson, open Lesbian lawmaker, announces exodus from state

Let the Games Begin!

(cross-posted to Utah Legislature Watch)Today’s opening of the Utah Legislature will bring a variety of issues in the spotlight, among them being: The Budget- addressing the “shortfall” and how/if to use the “rainy day” fund and other measures to generate revenue - and within the budget debate are the hot topics of public and higher … Continue reading Let the Games Begin!

“Chris and Chris” Bill: A Marriage in the Making?

Utah’s ABC 4 has posted a breaking news piece about openly Anti-Gay Senator Chris Buttars teaming up with openly Lesbian Representative Chris Johnson to co-sponsor Johnson’s gay rights bill. The 2009 Legislative session brought much controversy to the floor over Buttars’ public remarks on gays. To hear of Buttars even considering such a move is … Continue reading “Chris and Chris” Bill: A Marriage in the Making?

Buttars at it again….

(cross-posted to Utah Legislature Watch) Chris Buttars, R-West Jordan, is quoted in the Desert News as saying that the recently passed ordinance (supported by the LDS church) to protect the rights of gay people with regards to housing and employment could result in “unitended consquences”.“There’s a lot of questions. I’m not jumping to conclusions. I’m … Continue reading Buttars at it again….

Buttars at it again….

Housing and employment protections for gays and lesbians

The Salt Lake City Council has become the first Utah City to pass ordinances that will prevent unfair housing practices based on sexual orientation.In a rare move, the LDS church attended last night's council meeting to support the ordinances.THE LGBT community has been working hard to foster a relationship with church officals. Progress has been made and … Continue reading Housing and employment protections for gays and lesbians

The Mormon Church on “moral” issues

I find it interesting that the Mormon Church went to great lengths to not only openly support the passage of Proposition 8, but financed an advertising campaign urging voters to support it which included messages to voters, believe it or not, such as if gay marriage is permitted, kindergärtners are likely to be educated on gay … Continue reading The Mormon Church on “moral” issues

Media Coverage on Utah Protest of Prop 8

Today's Salt Lake Tribune has posted a slide show of yesterday's protest against the LDS Church regarding it's involvement on influencing voters on California's Proposition 8. People gather before marching on the Mormon Temple in protest Friday, Nov. 7, 2008, in Salt Lake City. Leaders of the successful Proposition 8 campaign say an unusual coalition … Continue reading Media Coverage on Utah Protest of Prop 8