Calmar Forum to Discuss Marriage Equality in Iowa

Submitted by admin on Tue, 2009-12-01 17:12

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 01, 2009
Contact Justin Uebelhor
515-288-4019 ext. 205
515-333-2525 cell
justin@oneiowa.org

On April 3, 2009 the Iowa Supreme Court granted the freedom to marry to gay and lesbian couples in the state of Iowa. In the months since the ruling, hundreds of same-sex couples have married in the state. One Iowa, the statewide advocacy organization tasked with protecting this historic ruling, is hosting a series of public forums across the state designed to build public support for equality and share perspectives on the freedom to marry.

Calmar Marriage Equality Public Forum
Northeast Iowa Community College – Main Auditorium
Calmar, IA
Tuesday, December 8, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Welcome/Moderator
Ryan Crane, One Iowa

Panelists
Amalia Vagts
Executive Director, Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries

Professor John Moeller
Luther College

Bill Musser and Otter Dreaming
Married couple, plaintiffs in the Varnum v. Brien Iowa marriage case.

Reverend Mike Blevins
Pastor, Calmar Community United Methodist Church

With the Iowa legislative session set to begin in January, and a roster of anti-gay gubernatorial candidates pledging to take away these freedoms, the struggle to protect marriage equality has only just begun. At this critical juncture, One Iowa seeks to continue a civil conversation about the positive affect of marriage equality on Iowa communities. Panel participants typically represent various local perspectives: same-sex couples, parents of gays and lesbians, faith and community leaders, the legal community and local business leaders. The program includes introductory remarks from each panelist and a question and answer period.

Founded in 2005, One Iowa is the state’s largest LGBT advocacy organization, working for full equality for LGBT Iowans. More information can be found at www.oneiowa.org

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