Monday, October 26 is a critical day for all those concerned about the legalization of same-sex marriage. If you are a resident of the District of Columbia and you are looking for opportunities to give voice to your concerns, there are a number of ways to lift up your voice.
Same-Sex Marriage legislation
The DC City Council will hear public testimony on Bill B18-482. This legislation would redefine marriage so it no longer is the union of one man and one woman. Please tell the Council “no” on B18-482.
Marriage Initiative Act of 2009
On the same day, the DC Board of Elections & Ethics will hear public testimony on the Marriage Initiative Act of 2009 that would uphold the definition of marriage as the union between a man and a woman. Please tell the Board “yes” on this initiative, which would give residents a vote on this significant issue.
Here’s what you can do:
- Attend the DC Board of Election & Ethics’ hearing, Monday, October 26, 10:30 a.m., 441 4th St. NW, Suite 250N (202-727-2525)
- Attend the hearing of the City Council Committee on the Public Safety and Judiciary, Monday, October 26, starting at 3:30 p.m., John A. Wilson Building (Council Chamber), 1350 Pennsylvania Ave., NW
- Submit written statements on B18-482 for the official record through November 9, 2009 to Ms. Deborah Kelly, Legislative Clerk, John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Room 5, Washington, DC 20004, or by email to [email protected]. Text of the bill is online at www.MarriageMattersDC.org.
Attend a Rally
In addition, on Sunday, October 25, Stand4MarriageDC is sponsoring a “People’s Rally,” 3:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. at Freedom Plaza –14th St. and Pennsylvania Ave., NW.
And always we can call on the power of prayer, whether we are residents or not for we are all residents of the city of God! Please take some time on Monday, to offer a rosary, or pray before the Blessed Sacrament or attend Mass and ask the Holy Spirit’s guidance for all of the citizens and leaders involved in the proceedings.
Please think long and hard before changing the definition of marriage .Legal unions could be treated as a similar legal commitment ,bringing the same benefits as a married couple. There has to be another way!
Joan, the Church will always teach that marriage is the union of one man and one woman.