Equality Fairfax State Senate Forum: Why VA GLBT civil rights depend on the next State Senate

I know, I know. You hear the line every year. This year's election is the most important in recent memory!

But you know what? For GLBT persons in Virginia, and particularly right here in Fairfax County, the ol' cliche is absolutely without a doubt, THE TRUTH in 2007.

"Why is that, Doug?" you might ask.

Let me tell you.
You see, for the last 15-20 years, GLBT people in Virginia have had very little to be optimistic about in terms of the state supporting our families, relationships, and civil rights as individuals. Equality under the law is not something we have been able to expect in Virginia, and unfortunately, this has had many negative effects on this state, and on our families. In fact, you might say "Virginia is for (heterosexual) Lovers" to paraphrase a popular state tourism motto.

However, I'm here to tell you that it could have been worse--much worse. There were, at times, some of the most regressive, unnecessary, and frighteningly hateful bills against GLBT people introduced in the entire country in the Virgina House of Delegates in the past 10 years. The House has been under the control of, shall we say, some of the most anti-gay legislators imaginable (e.g. the sponsor of the so-called "marriage amendment" Bob Marshall, and the thankfully now-vanquished legislators Brad Marrs and Dick Black).

So, why didn't they become law? The Virginia State Senate, that's why. That's right, an unintentional coalition of moderate Republican and Democratic senators have been angels of fairness and decency toward our community. Being pragmatic and choosing to spend their time and efforts on issues they considered more important to the state and a variety of voters, many moderate senators from both parties cast aside these embarassing and potentially hurtful anti-GLBT bills. Did they always do so because they are inspired beacons of equality and improving the second-class citizenship status that GLBT people live with every day? Not always.

But thank God that they were there, right? Well, guess what folks. That pragmatic, reasonable cushion we have fallen back upon when threatened, time and time again, is in serious jeopardy.

You see, the "moderate" Republicans who often acted in Virginia's best interests and by default killed the most ridiculous anti-GLBT bills, have retired or been defeated by far-right anti-gay Republican challengers this spring in bitterly contested primaries. The fact of the matter is, our protective coalition is threatened. There are not enough pro-GLBT candidates left in the Democratic or Republican parties to help stop the tide of bad bills that march out of the House every year. So, we want the GLBT community to wake up! It is imperative that you understand HOW IMPORTANT this year's Senate elections are, and that GLBT voters right here in Fairfax County have the opportunity to determine what the next Senate will look like, and how it will treat GLBT citizens of this Commonwealth of Virginia.

Equality Fairfax is a strictly non-partisan organization and we certainly won't be making endorsements in any races, but this election season concerns us greatly. The control of the Senate by party is certainly in play. Given the fact that our pragmatic coalition of moderate Republicans and Democrats may be crumbling, control of the chamber may end up being the key factor in whether anti-GLBT legislation is even considered, or more importantly, whether GLBT families will begin to see progress and security under Virginia law.

And again, Equality Fairfax is non-partisan and will not endorse a candidate or party. We want our members and friends to understand that the coalition who has protected us in the Virginia Senate is at stake. Your participation in educational forums about the candidates, the issues, and most importantly, the election on November 6th is crucial to our shared security and our future as GLBT Virginians.

Please, get out to our Senate Forum on September 27th and listen to what some candidates in marquee races have to say about our issues. Your votes may very well determine our futures.  You can find detailed information about the upcoming Senate forum here.

Look for upcoming posts on the races, issues, and the specific candidates that will be attending the forums. Also, keep your eyes on the Equality Fairfax web site for information from the candidates themselves and additional resources on legislators in this year's state elections.

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