Kentucky Equality Federation Press Releases & Community Outreach

Kentucky Equality Federation praises the Central Baptist Church of Lexington.

2012-02-15T14:20:00.002-05:00

Richmond, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation today applauded the decision of the Central Baptist Church of Lexington to end its affiliation with the Elkhorn Baptist Association, a member of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) due to the Convention's position on gay and lesbian people.

"We have been quiet for too long," said church member Rachel Childress. "There are hundreds, if not thousands, of people in our community who do not know there is a Baptist church like us."

Today, Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer spoke to Trisha Huffman, Office Administrator, and Rev. Dr. Mark Johnson, Senior Minister with the Central Baptist Church of Lexington and thanked them for the position of the Church and welcoming gay and lesbian people.

"We need more Churches like this across the Commonwealth," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "We are all created in the image of God, and we are all children of God. Everyone’s relationship with God is personal and not for any one person or any association of Churches to condemn or frown on."

After nearly 60-year membership in the Elkhorn Baptist Association, the Central Baptist Church of Lexington voted unanimously to terminate its association per their recent press release. The vote reportedly stemmed from a letter from a sister-church pastor to the association’s membership committee questioning a blog post by Central Pastor Mark Johnson.

The blog featured an Indianapolis church’s marketing campaign that asked “Who Stole Jesus?” which included the sentence: “The real Jesus celebrated diversity in God’s creation, including gay and transgender people.”

The complaining pastor affirmed Central Baptist’s right to follow its conscience but questioned “whether or not they should do so as a cooperating member of the Elkhorn Baptist Association.”

“Just as all politics are local, so are true Baptist relationships,” Johnson said. “We had cooperated with the Elkhorn Baptist Association on common projects of mission involvement in the Lexington community even if we disagreed with them on other matters. But 30 years ago, Southern Baptists started emphasizing doctrinal uniformity more than cooperative mission projects as a point of belonging and working together.”

Johnson said Central Baptist Church wants to identify itself as “an open and inviting fellowship for God’s people.” A motto on the church website says: “All are welcomed here. No exceptions.”

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NOTE: Kentucky Equality Federation is a member of "ILGA," the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, a non-government observer at the United Nations with consultive status. ILGA is the world's largest and oldest Federation with more than 800 affiliates worldwide. ILGA continues to be active in campaigning for LGBTI rights on the international human rights and civil rights scene and regularly petitions the United Nations and governments. ILGA is represented in around 110 countries across the world.

Stop Frankfort Smoke and Mirrors on Job Creation & Protect LGBTI Citizens

2012-01-18T12:12:00.003-05:00

STATEMENT - OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT:
Jordan Palmer, President

RESEARCH BY:
Joshua Koch, Vice President of Policy & Public Relations

Lexington, KY -- “Jobs continue to be my top priority,” Governor Steve Beshear said during his “State of the Commonwealth” address on January 4. Governor Beshear stated that about 387 programs costing almost $4 billion in total over three years, in an effort to “create or retain more than 30,000 Kentucky jobs.”

The sheer cost of this “success” per job is staggering, at over $133,333 per job saved or created. Since the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics mean annual wage estimate for Kentucky was $37,970, it seems that Kentuckians are not getting a square deal with these programs. Considering that the median hourly wage estimate, a more accurate indicator, was only $14.47, it indicates that the median Kentucky worker’s annual income is closer to $29,000, a much lower figure. Judging by this number, the Commonwealth of Kentucky is currently losing over $14,000 per year per job saved or created utilizing these programs, meaning that each job is being purchased at an almost 50% markup.

Is there no other, more cost-effective way to protect jobs in Kentucky?

Currently, Kentucky law does not protect the employment of Kentucky citizens unjustly terminated for their sexual orientation or gender identity. Kentucky Equality Federation requests the Kentucky Senate, who has always opposed such a measure when proposed in the Kentucky House of Representatives, fix this loophole in human rights.

However, the Kentucky Senate has failed to act, not only to protect LGBTI people from employment discrimination, but against federal intrusion into destroying Kentucky's jobs and possibly its economy, and without legislation to sign, Governor Beshear is effectively helpless to do anything more.

Kentucky Equality Federation applauds Governor Beshear’s executive order protecting people in Kentucky Government because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Governor Beshear is an effective leader, but his ability to create and protect jobs is also dependant on the Kentucky Legislature and protecting LGBTI jobs has always been met with resistance in the Senate.

If the Kentucky Senate would join the House of Representative and the Governor about serious and cost-effective job retention, the Senate would address the growing trend by out-of-state corporations to discriminate against and wrongfully terminate LGBTI employees.

By acting, the Kentucky Senate would be much more expedient and simple than executing 387 distinct programs at an enormous cost, and it would further establish our shared Kentucky legacy of respecting human equality and dignity.

The Commonwealth of Kentucky is a sovereign State not directly subordinate to the federal government. Citizens of the Commonwealth should watch the "State of the Commonwealth" address, because for the daily lives of Kentuckians, it is perhaps more important that the "State of the Union."

The Commonwealth is only so sovereign however as its state Representatives and state Senators make it (just as the State of New York and the State of New Jersey are now nullifying federal intrusion and overreaching federal legislation).

The Kentucky Legislature should do the same with it comes to our economy, protecting existing jobs and extending protections for the Commonwealth's LGBTI citizens because at the end of the day we are all Kentuckians.

Action Alerts:

Will Wal-Mart's Discrimination Record Change in 2012?

2012-01-04T13:01:00.003-05:00

JOINT STATEMENT ON WAL-MART DISCRIMINATION REPORTS:
Jordan Palmer, President
Josh Koch, Vice President of Policy & Public Relations

RELATED: 2006 DISCRIMINATION PROBLEMS

Lexington, KY -- Many individuals are now engaged in that time-honored tradition, the annual crafting of the New Year’s Resolution. It is appropriate at this time to suggest such a resolution to a corporation who reputedly employs over 30,000 Kentuckians.

Wal-Marts in Kentucky have had a dismal civil rights record in 2011, with associates of the company submitting eight discrimination and/or harassment reports about Wal-Mart to the Kentucky Equality Federation. Out of all employers in the Commonwealth, Wal-Mart has the highest number of reports, by a wide margin. Kentucky Equality Federation believes that Wal-Mart has shown that its internal systems for resolving issues of discrimination are broken in its Kentucky workplaces, and, judging by the increase in the reports and in their respective severity, the problem in this corporation is getting worse.

We urge Wal-Mart to enter 2012 with a commitment to justice and that it begin treating its LGBTI employees with the overdue respect and dignity they deserve. The time has come for Wal-Mart to take a stand against middle managers and senior associates who use morality as an excuse to harass and ruin the careers of good subordinate solely on the basis of lifestyles which do not affect their work. The workplace is not the place for religion-based punishment and compulsory moral indoctrination.

Kentucky Equality Federation received no discrimination reports from Wal-Mart's primary competitors, K-Mart, and Target. Kentucky Equality Federation also received no discrimination reports from regional competitors such as Meijer, Bigg's, or MagicMart.

If this pattern of abuses is not addressed and resolved, Wal-Mart will see that Kentuckians respond boldly and loudly when a nameless, faceless corporation allows toxic leaders and bullies to mistreat their fellow Kentuckians. Kentucky Equality Federation will not sit idly by in 2012 should Wal-Mart continue to turn reported blind eyes to the abuses of its employees in Kentucky. Should reports in Kentucky continue in 2012, Kentucky Equality Federation will respond.

Kentucky Church ban on Interracial Couples Offends Faith and Decency, Not Just Parliamentary Procedure, just like the ban on Same-Sex Marriages

2011-12-05T13:08:00.000-05:00

Joint Statement:
- Jordan Palmer, President
- Joshua Koch, Vice President of Policy and Public Relations
- Will Taylor, Southeastern Kentucky Regional Director
- Minister Edith Baker, Ph.D.

Harlan, KY – The legend surrounding the supposed repeal of the interracial marriage ban at Gulnare Free Will Baptist Church far exceeds the reality of the situation. Regardless of the position of any church, marriage (for legal purposes) is a contract between two people and the Commonwealth; only the Commonwealth can make it legal or dissolve it.

The supposed recent repeal of the ban is not a repeal at all. Rather, it is a judgment from a denominational church body outside the confines of the offending church. The supposed repentance of the moment is no more than a statement of opinion on Robert’s Rules of Order by the Sandy Valley Conference of Free Will Baptists.

While we would gladly applaud true repentance and reconciliation in this situation, we are candid enough to realize that this statement is not that. This is merely a procedural public relations move to deflect attention from the overt racism exhibited at Gulnare Free Will Baptist Church, which has drawn unpleasant national attention to the church.

The situation in Pike County is an embarrassment to the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky and we can only imagine what Stella Harville’s finance, Ticha Chikuni, originally from the Republic of Zimbabwe in Africa thinks of Kentucky now. From wars, the burning of witches, torture of heretics, the treatment of women, interracial discrimination, and same-sex discrimination, churches been the source of discrimination from the very beginning.

Robert’s Rules of Order can be handy in maintaining parliamentary procedure; however, banning a member of the church from full participation because she is engaged to a man of African ethnicity transcends the bounds of Robert’s Rules, offending, instead, the laws of human decency and faith. Why must a church appeal to a parliamentary procedural standard to justify revoking such a decision, when the tenets of its own faith condemn racism? The Bible, which explicitly condemns racist discrimination, should be a more relevant standard in such a reversal, and it would be if this were a truly repentant congregation.

True repentance includes acknowledging a sin for what it is and turning from it. Acknowledging a sin means admitting that the action was wrong according to a rigid standard, not merely contrary to parliamentary procedure. This has not been done by the church, as of the time of this statement. Driving someone away from those they know and love because of their choice to build a life with someone of another race is just plain wrong, regardless of whether its manner of adoption pleases parliamentarians or not.

This is yet another issue that churches use to remain segregated, just as most also refuse to perform same-sex ceremonies.

We encourage Gulnare Free Will Baptist Church to take responsibility, reach out to the offended couple, and build a true bond of openness and acceptance with all citizens.

The damage to the name of the Gulnare Free Will Baptist Church is now tarnished because the vote to ban marriages on interracial couples should never have occurred to begin with.

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NOTE: Kentucky Equality Federation is a member of "ILGA," the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, a non-government observer at the United Nations with consultive status. ILGA is the world's largest and oldest Federation with more than 800 affiliates worldwide. ILGA continues to be active in campaigning for LGBTI rights on the international human rights and civil rights scene and regularly petitions the United Nations and governments. ILGA is represented in around 110 countries across the world.

Kentucky Equality Federation to meet with Kentucky and U.S. Department of Justice officials about hate crimes

2011-11-09T14:08:00.003-05:00

London, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation confirmed today that a meeting will be taking place on November 10, 2011 with prosecutors from both the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the United States Department of Justice to address the recent hate crimes in the Commonwealth.

Kentucky Equality Federation has maintained contact with the United States Department of Justice throughout the reporting of all hate crimes.

The meeting will address concerns Kentucky Equality Federation has raised in previous press releases.

“This meeting has been planned for months, reaching a date acceptable to everyone was the most difficult part,” stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. “We applaud officials from the Commonwealth and the United States Department of Justice for addressing our concerns. Mr. Walter Atkinson with the United States Department of Justice Community Relations Service has worked very hard to make this meeting possible.”

“This is an important step forward for the investigation and prosecution of hate crimes across the Commonwealth,” stated Kentucky Equality Federation Chairman of the Board Richard T. Jones. “Kentucky Equality Federation will continue its role as public advocate for people across Kentucky victimized by discrimination, school bullying, and hate crimes.”

Attending for Kentucky Equality Federation:

Richard T. Jones, Chairman of the Board
Shannon McKinney, Southern Kentucky Regional Director
Tyler Watts, Transgender Outreach Director
Minister Edith Baker, Ph.D., Religious Communities Outreach Director

MEDIA INQUIRIES:

Kentucky Equality Federation
- Office of the President: (877) KEF-5775 – Ext. 5

United States Department of Justice
- Community Relations Service: (202) 305-2935

Kentucky Equality Federation is a member of "ILGA," the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, a non-government observer at the United Nations with consultive status. ILGA is the world's largest and oldest Federation with more than 600 affiliates worldwide. ILGA continues to be active in campaigning for LGBTI rights on the international human rights and civil rights scene and regularly petitions the United Nations and governments. ILGA is represented in around 110 countries across the world.

Spirit Day 2011 - Kentucky Teen Suicide in Northern Kentucky

2011-10-19T20:02:00.012-04:00

Tomorrow is Spirit Day and Kentucky Equality Federation invites people across the Commonwealth to display one of four graphics to raise awareness of school bullying.

Kentucky Equality Federation invites people across the Commonwealth to display a Kentucky Equality Federation Spirit Day Graphic on your Facebook and other social and media networking sites as your default picture to raise awareness of school-bullying.

All available graphics. (to save a graphic on this news release, simply click on the graphic, right click with your mouse, save the image to your computer, and then upload it to Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, etc. To download additional graphics from Facebook, there is an option to download)

Additional graphics are available on our Official Facebook Site.

Show your support to end school-bullying!

"The suicide of Covington 8th Grade Student Sam Denham on Friday, October 14, 2011 is proof that educators need additional training on how to handle school bullying, and that students who are bullied know they are not alone. It is also proof of failure of the Kentucky Senate, who has in the past killed legislation to expand school bullying laws in Kentucky. However, Kentucky Equality Federation’s Discrimination, Hate Crimes, and School Bullying Committee stand ready to assist anyone who suffers from school bullying. Our children need to be taught tolerance, and the wonderful diversity of people Kentucky has. Across the Commonwealth schools have gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex, Black, Jewish, Asian, and Middle Eastern students just to name a few. Our children need to be taught about these different cultures and the different types of families across Kentucky. We are talking about basic education to live and let live, diversity, tolerance, and finally the acceptance of others."

Kentucky Equality Federation extends its deepest sympathies to the family of Sam Denham.

Kentucky Equality Federation also extends its thanks to Representative Mary Lou Marzian, Representative Ruth Ann Palumbo, Representative Tom Burch, Representative Joni L. Jenkins, Representative Arnold Simpson, and Representative Jim Wayne, and Susan Westrom for continuing to try to make our schools safer and protect the bullied in our struggle for equality.

"Kentucky Equality Federation’s Discrimination, Hate Crimes, and School Bullying Committee have intervened in the bullying of students in four high schools and two middle schools in 2011 alone, added Kentucky Equality Federation Chairman of the Board Richard T. Jones. We typically go directly to the Principal of the school for immediate resolution. If an immediate resolution is not forthcoming we contact the Board of Education as well as the Office of Secretary of Education."

Another Harlan County Hate Crime - Attempted Murder of a Gay Man - U.S. Justice Department notified

2011-09-19T17:33:00.004-04:00

Harlan, KY -- In April, Kevin Pennington was kidnapped, taken to a state park, brutally beaten, and almost killed by four individuals. This was an unprovoked attack on a gay man, which, but for the fact that Pennington woke during a lull in the attack and made his escape while the assailants were pondering how best to kill him and dispose of his body, would have ended in his violent murder.

Friends of the victim reported the crime to Kentucky Equality Federation the following day. However, until now, the victim was been reluctant to come forward, fearing for his safety.

"The whole time I screamed and begged them to stop, I was screaming I'm sorry for whatever I had done to make them want to do this to me," stated Pennington in a report to Kentucky Equality Federation. "I can remember seeing bright flashes of light every time one of them would stomp or punch me in the head with them telling me he was going to rape me asking me if I was going to suck his [edited] how they would hold me down if they had to and how he was going to [edited] me in the [edited] dry until I bled."

"Five months later, justice has still not been served," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Southeastern Kentucky Regional Director Will Taylor. "Pennington is a haunted man, living in fear, dealing with fears of future attacks, and seeking to recompose his life, which was so viciously shattered that spring night."

David Jenkins and Anthony Jenkins stand charged with 'Attempted Murder.' Ashley Jenkins stands charged with 'Any Felony Charge Not Covered by these Codes,' and 'Complicity to Attempted Murderer' according to the Harlan County Circuit Court Clerk's Office, as well as a minor whose name cannot be released under Kentucky law.

"Our initial report to the U.S. Department of Justice as to why we are requesting they intervene under the new federal legislation is clearly outlined in our initial request to them, stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "My community wants exactly what every other citizen wants, equality under law and to love and protect our families. My community does not seek the approval of hate groups or intolerant people, only the acceptance that we have the same right to the pursuit of happiness as they do and, though they may continue to test our resolve, in the end, we shall prevail. The hate crimes, as well as the school bullying in Southeastern Kentucky however, must stop."

Palmer continued: "I separated Bell, Harlan, Knott, Knox, Leslie, Letcher, and Perry counties into the Southeastern Kentucky Region apart from the general Southern Kentucky Region because of recent incidents in Perry, Knott, Harlan, Bell, and Clay counties. We now have two (2) hate crimes in Harlan that we are making public, in addition to school bullying cases, and discrimination cases in the other Southeastern Kentucky counties which our Discrimination, Hate Crimes, and School Bullying Committee continue to investigate. The latest hate crime reports have also been forwarded to the U.S. Department of Justice under the new federal hate crimes law."

Kentucky Equality Federation continues to communicate with officials from the U.S. Department of Justice, including Walter Atkinson, Senior Conciliation Specialist for Region IV with the Community Relations Service, Robin Dull, with the Civil Enforcement Section, and Bobbi Bernstein, Deputy Chief of the Criminal Section, Civil Rights Division.

Palmer continued: "Kentucky Equality Federation will continue to monitor the conduct of everyone involved and will report any indifference to enforce the laws of this Commonwealth both to the U.S. Department of Justice as well as the Kentucky Court of Justice Judicial Conduct Commission. Violent hate crimes do not just devastate the victim, they also send the message that some of our citizens are expendable, a message which will not be tolerated in our Commonwealth. We will not tolerate the slippery slope of allowing certain segments of our population to be victimized."

The Kentucky Equality Federation demands that the Commonwealth of Kentucky defend Pennington, an innocent citizen who was kidnapped, beaten, threatened with rape, and who must now live in fear of his attackers, who are free to do as they please with no sort of restraint or intervention.

"The integrity of Kentucky’s criminal justice system is now under a microscope and jeopardized by abandoning such a man to the whims of four individuals with a demonstrated propensity toward extreme violence," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Vice President of Public Relations and Media, Joshua Koch. "Pennington reports that attorneys for the defendants have badgered Pennington to drop charges or accept a summary judgment from the bench rather than seeking a jury trial, Pennington has been prevented from seeking an emergency protection order."

Kentucky Equality Federation is the Commonwealth's largest advocate for equal treatment of all citizens. As our mission statement explains, "Kentucky Equality Federation believes all people are endowed with inalienable rights to life, liberty, property, and the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment free from oppression, discrimination, school bullying, and hate crimes, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, creed, veteran status, political affiliation, or any other defining characteristic."

Celebrating over 3 years of LGBT people being protected in Kentucky Government

2011-09-14T16:59:00.002-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation expresses its gratitude to the Honorable Steve Beshear, Governor and Commander-in-Chief of the Commonwealth of Kentucky as more than three (3) years have passed since Governor Beshear signed an executive order protecting gay and lesbian people in Kentucky Government.

The executive order was originally signed by Governor Paul Patton (Kentucky was the first whose Governor signed such an order), but the executive order was rescinded by Governor Ernie Fletcher resulting in Kentucky Equality Federation protesting the Governor's Annual Derby Breakfast. (Previous News Articles: I, II, III, and IV)

On June 02, 2008, Governor Beshear signed executive order 2008-473 which you can find on the Kentucky Department of State website under Executive Journal.

Executive Order 2008-473 states:

WHEREAS, the Government of the Commonwealth of Kentucky exists to serve equally all of the people of the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, equal employment opportunity for all persons should be an integral part of our state government employment system, affording fair treatment relating to any employment action, benefit or condition of employment; and

WHEREAS, the fair and equitable treatment of all employees of and applicants for employment with the government of the Commonwealth of Kentucky is essential to the effective operation of state government;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Steven L. Beshear, Governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, by virtue of authority vested in me by Sections 81 and 69 of the Constitution of Kentucky, KRS 12.080 and the laws of Kentucky, do hereby order and direct the following:

1. This Executive Order applies to all applicants for positions within and employees of the program cabinets and the administrative bodies attached to the program cabinets or attached directly to the Governor's Office in the Executive Branch of the government of the Commonwealth of Kentucky as provided in KRS Chapter 12, et. seq.

2. It shall be the policy of the Commonwealth of Kentucky to provide equal employment opportunity to all people in all aspects of employer-employee relations without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation or gender identity, ancestry, age, disability or veteran status. Employer-employee relations shall include but not be limited to hiring, promotion, termination, tenure, recruitment and compensation.

3. The affirmative action plan for Kentucky state government adopted by Executive Order 84-549 and Executive Order 96-612, which committed the state to secure for its employees equal employment opportunities and freedom from discrimination and harassment, shall be in full force and effect except as specifically modified herein. The provisions of Executive Order 2006-402 are hereby rescinded and declared to be null and void.

4. The Secretary of the Personnel Cabinet in conjunction with the Governor's Executive Cabinet shall take all steps necessary to implement this Order.

In media comments, Governor Beshear stated: "A person should be hired or dismissed on the basis of whether they can do the job. Experience, qualifications, talent and performance are what matter."

"Kentucky Equality Federation urges Governor Beshear to include the issue of sexual orientation and gender identity in his next State of the Commonwealth Address," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "We have no doubt that Governor Beshear will be re-elected and urge Governor Beshear to place the Commonwealth at the forefront of civil rights again by passing a statewide equality law."

Palmer continued: "In 1966 Kentucky was the first state to create a Civil Rights Act (the Kentucky Civil Rights Act of 1966); since then we have fallen behind other states, we are no longer a player, much less a leader in the area of civil rights. Governor Beshear carries the support of the bulk of the Commonwealth's LGBTI community, though Kentucky Equality Federation does not give official endorsements."

Kentucky Equality Federation has created an online petition using their long-term partner, change.org, urging the Governor to instruct the Kentucky House and Senate to review the issue and finally pass a statewide law to protect all citizens of the Commonwealth from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in-line with his executive order.

Special Operating Region Created in Southeastern Kentucky to address Hate Crimes, School Bullying and Discrimination

2011-09-02T12:47:00.001-04:00

Richmond, KY -- Due to the increased problems in Southeastern Kentucky, the recent increase in hate crime activity, and the possibility that hate groups are increasing (including KKK Clans which Kentucky Equality Federation last engaged in 2008) their Southeastern Kentucky operations, Southeastern Kentucky is being declared a "Special Operating Region" within the greater Southern Kentucky Region.

Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer appointed the Southeastern Kentucky Special Operating Region with Mr. Will Taylor as the Southeastern Kentucky Regional Director. In addition, Mr. Joseph Vaughn was appointed Southeastern Kentucky Regional Organizer by Regional Director Will Taylor. The Southeastern Kentucky Special Region shall consist of Bell, Harlan, Knott, Knox, Leslie, Letcher, and Perry Counties.

Kentucky Equality Federation continues to communicate with officials from the U.S. Department of Justice, including Walter Atkinson, Senior Conciliation Specialist for Region IV with the Community Relations Service, Robin Dull, with the Civil Enforcement Section, and Bobbi Bernstein, Deputy Chief of the Criminal Section, Civil Rights Division.

The reasons Kentucky Equality Federation involved the U.S. Department of Justice was outlined in a previous press release.

In addition, Kentucky Equality Federation received a complaint that a gay male was beaten, raped, and reportedly left to die in the mountains of Southeastern Kentucky. This particular complaint, as well as the Harlan County assault with the lesbian couple and her children is still being investigated.

The Commonwealth of Kentucky is not unique in having hate groups; they operate around the nation and are tracked by the Anti-Defamation League, an international non-governmental organization based in the United States. Though Kentucky Equality Federation is not aligned with the Anti-Defamation League, the information they provide to the public about hate groups is valuable.

The primary focus of the Southeastern Kentucky Special Operating Region shall be to gain additional volunteers, raise community awareness of Kentucky Equality Federation's mission, intercede on behalf of hate-crime and discrimination victims in the region, and attempt to curb the hatred of LGBTI people and promote equality for all citizens regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, creed, veteran status, political affiliation, or any other defining characteristic.

Though the Southeastern Kentucky Special Operating Region shall remain part of the overall Southern Kentucky Region, both shall report directly to the Office of the President, the Board of Directors, and the Discrimination, Hate Crimes, and School Bullying Committee Chair.

"These difficult circumstances require new operational regions and directives," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "Kentucky Equality Federation shall stand united with all victims; we shall not walk, we shall run to protect any victim of hate crimes, school bullying, discrimination or any other defining characteristic as outlined in our new Mission Statement. The continued hate crimes in Southeastern Kentucky are unacceptable as are the threats against Kentucky Equality Federation volunteers; they will not be tolerated. Bitter, firsthand hate crime and discrimination reports have proved how critical our values of tolerance and acceptance are and the mission they represent."

Palmer continued: "When, in the darkest days of the American Revolutionary War, Thomas Paine wrote, 'These are the times that try men's [and women's] souls.' Nothing seems closer to the truth, centuries later, as the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and intersex community remain under constant attack from Louisville, Covington, Lexington, Ashland, and Bowling Green to Harlan. Nevertheless, we shall remain vigilant. We do not seek the approval of hate groups or intolerant people, only the acceptance that we have the same right to the pursuit of happiness as they do and, though they may continue to test our resolve, in the end, we shall prevail."

Public Relations and Media Director Joshua Koch has also been appointed Vice President, Public Relations and Media to increase media attention on such issues.

"Kentucky Equality Federation will assume a proactive and aggressive posture on any reported crimes, discrimination events, retaliations, or other offenses against any person based on gender identity, sexual orientation, race, creed, veteran status, political affiliation, or any other defining characteristic," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Vice President of Public Relations and Media Joshua Koch. "Volunteers and equality allies are urged to cooperate with local, state, and federal law enforcement to protect our communities from hateful conduct against any citizen. We will not tolerate, nor will we turn a blind eye to, any violence or intimidation, and we will pursue any offenses against persons or property to the fullest extent of civil and criminal law."

Kentucky Equality Federation communicates with the U.S. Department of Justice about Harlan County Hate Crime

2011-08-24T20:04:00.001-04:00

Harlan, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation today has communicated with three (3) officials in the U.S. Department of Justice (the Lexington Herald-Leader has the story) about the hate crime and assault against a lesbian couple and their children in Southeastern Kentucky. (previous story)

The request for the U.S. Department of Justice to take-over the case was requested by the Chairman of the Board Richard T. Jones, President Jordan Palmer, and Assistant Southeastern Kentucky Regional Directors Will Taylor and Shannon McKinney. (view in .pdf) or (view in .xps)

The following was sent to the U.S. Department of Justice today; officials with the U.S. Department of Justice, namely Walter Atkinson, Robin Dull, and Bobbi Bernstein are investigating the case:

As you are aware, Kentucky Equality Federation received a hate crime complaint from the County of Harlan, a subdivision of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

The victims in this complaint believe this to be a hate crime as outlined in our press release dated August 22, 2011 (http://community.kyequality.org/2011/08/kentucky-equality-federation-condemns.html) that you received a copy of and we have corresponded by email.

Though the Commonwealth has a hate crime law, which has been used in Judicial Circuits throughout the Commonwealth, we are not aware of it ever being used in Southern or Southeastern Kentucky.

Southeastern Kentucky communities are primarily rural communities with municipal populations less than 10,000 citizens. Kentucky Equality Federation and its legal representation have witnessed before the manner in which these courts operates because Judges as well as the County and Commonwealth’s Attorney are elected to office and not appointed by the Governor or Chief Justice of the Commonwealth. As such, the Judges, County and Commonwealth’s Attorney must keep the bulk of the population happy with their service to the Commonwealth or they risk not being re-elected to office and taking a stand to protect victims of hate crimes, especially members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or intersex community is politically dangerous to them, thus, justice rarely prevails.

Kentucky Equality Federation was contacted by the victims of this case to act as their public advocate because they do not believe justice will prevail. In addition, the victims have reported they have already been informed of alleged ex parte meetings taking place in reference to this case in which the prosecutor was not involved or invited.

Kentucky Equality Federation, at the request of the victims hereby requests the United States Department of Justice move to this case to federal court where neither prosecutors nor Judges are elected to office. This case clearly falls within the hate crimes legislation signed by U.S. President Obama.

Kentucky Equality Federation Condemns Violence against Lesbian Couple in Southeastern Kentucky

2011-08-22T20:38:00.004-04:00

Harlan, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation today condemned violence against a lesbian couple in Southeastern Kentucky. The incident injured one person as well as one of her children according to the plaintiff who contacted Kentucky Equality Federation for assistance to act as public advocate on their behalf. In addition, Otis Doan the attorney for the accused stated: “Do you promote this kind of life? You are a lesbian and live in Harlan County? You still have custody of your children being a lesbian?” These events statements were made in open court today before Kentucky District Judge Jeffrey J. Brock.

"Kentucky Equality Federation urges and requests that John D. Minton, Jr., Chief Justice of the Commonwealth intervene immediately in the name of justice," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "The personal bias of a defense attorney is not relevant in open court and we have seen before the Drumhead Court-Martial mentality of justice for LGBTI people in Southeastern Kentucky. In addition, Kentucky Equality Federation is referring this case to Walter Atkinson with the U.S. Department of Justice as a hate crime because of the terms "Dike," "Pu__y Licking W_ores," and "If you wanna look like a man, then fight like one," being used among others. The accused appear to have targeted the lesbian couple because of their sexual orientation, and though the Commonwealth has a hate crime law that includes sexual orientation we do not have a single case of the Commonwealth’s Hate Crimes Law against the LGBTI community actually being used in Southeastern Kentucky. As we have seen before the family of the accused was granted special permission to have family present in the court room but the family of the plaintiff’s were not according to reports filed and statements made to Kentucky Equality Federation.”

Richard T. Jones, Chairman of the Board for Kentucky Equality Federation stated: “We stand united with Misty Turner, her family, and the entire LGBTI community in Harlan County and across the Commonwealth. Violence is not acceptable, it will not be tolerated. I also call on the Chief Justice of the Commonwealth and have asked President Jordan Palmer to forward this case to our U.S. Department of Justice contacts because we do not have faith in Southeastern Kentucky Courts to implement the Commonwealth’s hate crime law.”

Two Assistant Southern Kentucky Regional Directors, Will Taylor and Shannon L. McKinney are gathering additional information about the case and providing support the Turner family. Kentucky Equality Federation's Children of LGBTI Parents Outreach Director, Julia Oiler Spiegel will contact the family tomorrow.

Will Taylor, Kentucky Equality Federation's Assistant Regional Director for Southeastern Kentucky covering the counties of Bell, Harlan, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, and Perry stated: "With the exception of Hazard, Southeastern Kentucky is a hostile region for the LGBTI community as well as the Latino community. Kentucky Equality Federation is currently also defending the Latino Community after the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raided a Mexican restaurant in the City of Harlan; since that time Latino children are being bullied in schools. Many have protested, telling them to return to the United Mexican States. One child, in tears, stated: 'Where do I belong?'"

Related to the case in Harlan County, below is the report submitted to Kentucky Equality Federation (released with permission):

Subject: Hate Crime Report

Name: M. (REMAINDER DELETED) Turner

Email: DELETED

Telephone: DELETED

Address: DELETED

County: Harlan

City: Pathfork

Appointment of Advocate: I hereby appoint Kentucky Equality Federation and its affiliates to act as my agent and official representative. All information submitted is truthful, and should it not be, I will personally indemnity Kentucky Equality Federation, its affiliates, Board members, Officers, and Volunteers.

IP Address: DELETED

Crime: I am a lesbian and have been with my partner for 5 1/2 years now. I have two small children, that we raise together as a family =) Accross the street from were we were parked, a party was going on and there was approx. 50+ people drinking and shooting fireworks. The crowd kept shooting fireworks in our direction, until one exploded near us, injuring my 2 children, several other family members, and my 80 yr old grandma. I addressed the crowd and told them to stop firing that they had hurt my children.. they proceeded to yell profanities at me including "We'll set everyone of the little Mother Fuckers on fire!" At this time my father walked toward the crowd, and in effort to stop him I went behind him, once I had got away from my car I was attacked by a woman saying she was gonna kill me.

At this time my partner tried to stop her, and we were attacked by at least 15 men. All yelling "If you wanna look like a man, then fight like one" We were also called lesbians, whores, "pussy licking whores" and dikes. No one else in our group was attacked but us. Then a gun was pulled and pointed at us and we were told "I'll kill your dike asses"... In the end, no shots were fired but my partner has suffered extensive contusions and at least one rib fracture, she is still undergoing treatment. I suffered from a closed head injury and intrasinus hemorrhage which is being treated now and damage is not yet determined. We were only able to identify 3 of the men involved. We pressed charges through the county attorney on July 5th. Today was our first appearance in court. A lawyer named Otis Doan is representing the other parties.. while testifying he questioned me about my lifestyle, he was very discrimating and ask me "do you promote this kind of life?" and made the comment "your a lesbian and live in Harlan county" then ask me if I still had "custody" of my children being a lesbian!!!

I was outraged but told him that it was called equality and I was not against any lifestyle. The judge did not stop his comments. One of the men was convicted to be sent to a grand jury for a felony, the other was dismissed, but we have to try and convict according to the county attorney. This has been a long process with a lot more to go. We need support for the gay community in this area. Otherwise, the court will use our sexuality against our case. PLEASE help us.. this was a hate crime and I believe the evidence should speak for itself. Thank you!! ~~

Kentucky Equality Federation Broadens Its Scope: Veterans, Political Minorities, and Others Will Benefit From Advocacy.

2011-08-09T15:38:00.001-04:00

Frankfort, KY -- Effective immediately Kentucky Equality Federation has updated its mission statement to include additional aspects of equality, as well as further defining its role in the future of equality and justice across the Commonwealth.

The new mission statement is as follows:

Kentucky Equality Federation believes all people are endowed with inalienable human rights to life, liberty, property, and the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment free from oppression, discrimination, school bullying, and hate crimes regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, creed, veteran status, political affiliation, or any other defining characteristic.

The end of discrimination is not simply the elimination of flagrant abuses, rather it is the ability of a person to fully exercise their Kentucky human rights to the same full extent enjoyed by their peers, without fear of retribution, aspersion, or harm, be that harm political or social.

We assist and act as public advocate for people who have been bullied, discriminated against, or victimized in addition to assisting them with legal remedies.

When the laws have not caught up to the moral needs of society, we will seek their modification, pursuant to the creation of a just society.

Bully-Free Schools across Kentucky
Gender-Neutral Marriage (marriage equality, in partnership with Marriage Equality Kentucky)
Equal Ballot-Access and Voting Rights
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Intersex (LGBTI) Equality in Kentucky (the Kentucky lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex civil rights movement). In addition, Kentucky Equality Federation will continue to be a voting member and representative of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association ("ILGA") at the United Nations.
Every other measure necessary to leave future generations with a legacy of justice and freedom.

Kentucky Equality Federation will remain ever vigilant against bureaucratic abuses of power, the evils of discriminatory legislation, and every other tool of oppressors, be they individuals, corporations, organizations, or governments.

We commit to the struggle for equal rights for all classes of people, groups, and organizations which share our values and call on all free and fair-minded people who share these values to join us in our common cause, and welcome all who share our commitment to justice and equality.

"Kentucky Equality Federation has been at the forefront of the continued civil rights struggle against racial, gender, sexual-orientation, and sexual-identity discrimination. Going forward, it will also work to protect veterans, political minorities, and other victims of discrimination," stated Josh Koch, Kentucky Equality Federation's Director of Public Relations and Media Director.

Koch continued: "This is a proud day for the Kentucky Equality Federation. In Hazard, we showed that equality advocacy can involve partnership with local governments to proactively implement plans to ensure the equal-access rights of all citizens of a community. Hazard has shown us that local communities can grow past unpleasant incidents and handle equality issues responsibly.

As a veteran, I have witnessed employment discrimination and other forms of discrimination against service members. In this election cycle, we are watching political independents and non-majority parties being arbitrarily excluded from the ballot and from elections. 'Taxation without representation' is the common, unifying grievance: No one should be excluded from the public forum by a defining characteristic, be that one's veteran status, sexual orientation, or political affiliation. We all deserve equal protection under the law. This is the cornerstone of American Civilization."

Richard T. Jones, Chairman of the Board of Directors stated: "I am so very proud to be a part of this organization, I along with most of our volunteers, officers, interns, and Board members have waited in anticipation of this day. The entire Board has worked with President Jordan Palmer to make this change in our mission statement possible. I am so pleased to see the direction Kentucky Equality Federation is moving and the vision Mr. Palmer has for our great Commonwealth, it is a vision everyone at Kentucky Equality Federation shares."

City of Hazard Signage and Sensitivity/Non-Discrimination Training

2011-07-07T18:05:00.003-04:00

Hazard, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer had a nice conversation with Hazard City Attorney Paul R. Collins today regarding the ongoing issue at The Pavilion in Hazard, KY. City Attorney Paul R. Collins stated today that new signage will be placed at The Pavilion soon.

Kentucky Equality Federation has offered to pay for the signage and recommend areas for its placement. Hazard City Attorney Paul R. Collins also stated that he had to replace his server because of all the public outcry and signatures gathered at change.org. Public pressure for this issue to be closed remains from other organizations and groups as well.

The signage must still be approved by the City Council, and Kentucky Equality Federation has requested that 'gender identity' be added along with sexual orientation in order to avoid future problems as well as legal action. Kentucky Equality Federation does not believe a lawsuit is always the best solution, especially when progress is being made.

Sensitivity/non-discrimination training for The Pavilion remains on-schedule for next week.

"Kentucky Equality Federation extends its thanks to City officials for acting in a responsible manner, and recognizing that the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) community of the Commonwealth are individuals also with human rights," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "The LGBTI community are your neighbors, friends, co-workers, and family members, and the only thing we seek is equality and to be treated with the same dignity and respect as any other citizen."

City Attorney Paul R. Collins did request that executive orders, state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination be forwarded to him during conversations with Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. However, no law in the Commonwealth protects people from discrimination because of sexual orientation or gender identity so Kentucky Equality Federation could not furnish such laws.

Palmer added: "This is no way means the Queen City of the Mountains is backing off its commitment to treat all people equally in my conversation with City Attorney Paul R. Collins today. As Kentuckians we cannot allow the actions of any one person nor any one group to undermine the progress we have made.

We will achieve complete equality across the Commonwealth, but we continue to take our fight directly to the Kentucky House and Senate and not city by city. However, the City of Hazard, especially the Mayor has shown great respect in our struggle for equality. Earlier this year the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution saying that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people have the same equal rights as anyone else and cannot be discriminated on the basis of their sexual orientation. The resolution passed by the United Nations will be added to the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights just as the Organization of American States passed a similar resolution years ago."

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon chastised States prior to the United Nations resolution, stating: "The responsibilities of the United Nations and the obligations of States are clear. No-one, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, should be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. No-one should be prosecuted for their ideas or beliefs. No-one should be punished for exercising their right to freedom of expression."

Palmer continued: "Currently, under Kentucky law is it perfectly legal to terminate someone or deny them housing, credit, or accommodations based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Smokers cannot be discriminated against, but the LGBTI community can be. It is time that Kentucky takes the lead again in the area of human rights just as it did in 1966 by being the first Southern state to pass a Civil Rights Act. The Kentucky Civil Rights Act of 1966 needs to be expanded again to include sexual orientation and gender identity.

We call on Governor Beshear to include the passage of a statewide equality law in his next State of the Commonwealth address in 2012.

Additionally, we call on Governor Beshear to issue an executive order granting hospital visitation rights to same-sex couples for hospitals that receive funding from the Commonwealth. It is time to move our Commonwealth forward and stop discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. There was a time when only people of a certain sex and race could own land; women also could not vote, but in the name of equality we progressed and moved forward."

Anger continues at the United Nations; Kentucky Equality Federation asks Governor Beshear to act

2011-07-05T15:19:00.001-04:00

Lexington, KY -- Fury continues at the United Nations World Health Organization, the United Nations AIDS Program, and the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Organization (ILGA) over comments made in the Republic of India. Kentucky Equality Federation has been a member of ILGA since 2006.

Homosexuality is not a disease and there is no place for discrimination on the basis of a person's sexual orientation, the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations AIDS Program (UNAIDS) emphasized today, a day after Union health minister Ghulam Nabi Azad of the Republic of India said men having sex with men (MSM) is a "disease" and "unnatural".

"India's rich tradition of inclusivity and social justice must include men who have sex with men and transgender people," Michel Sidibe, UNAIDS executive director, said in a statement. "Homosexuality is no disease, India must include gay sex."

"There is no place for stigma and discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. Consistent with WHO's disease classification, UNAIDS does not regard homosexuality as a disease."

Azad's comments had come at the National Convention of Parliamentarians on HIV/AIDS Monday. The two-day convention saw the participation of India's National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) and UNAIDS, among others.

"Earlier this year the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution saying that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people have the same equal rights as anyone else and cannot be discriminated on the basis of their sexual orientation. The resolution passed by the United Nations will be added to the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights just as the Organization of American States passed a similar resolution years ago," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer.

"If neither the Commonwealth of Kentucky nor the United States will prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, they must obey United Nations law and the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights."

Palmer continued: "We call on Governor Beshear to include the passage of a statewide equality law in his next State of the Commonwealth address in 2012. Additionally, we call on Governor Beshear to issue an executive order granting hospital visitation rights to same-sex couples for hospitals that receive funding from the Commonwealth. It is time to move our Commonwealth forward and stop discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. There was a time when only people of a certain sex and race could own land; women also could not vote, but in the name of equality we progressed and moved forward."

The United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights consists of 30 articles which have been elaborated in subsequent international treaties, regional human rights instruments, national constitutions and United Nations law.

Palmer continued: "It is sad that the head of the United Nations, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, responsible for over 6 billion lives intervenes for equality when the Commonwealth of Kentucky has less than 4.5 million citizens and yet no officials, except for senior Kentucky Representatives such as Tom Burch, Mary Lou Marzian, Ruth Ann Palumbo, Susan Westrom, Darryl Owens, Reginald Meeks, Joni Jenkins, Jim Wayne, and others has taken a hard-line (and unwavering) stance for equality."

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon chastised States prior to the United Nations resolution, stating: "The responsibilities of the United Nations and the obligations of States are clear. No-one, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, should be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. No-one should be prosecuted for their ideas or beliefs. No-one should be punished for exercising their right to freedom of expression."

Palmer continued: "Currently, under Kentucky law is it perfectly legal to terminate someone or deny them housing, credit, or accommodations based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Smokers cannot be discriminated against, but the LGBTI community can be. It is time that Kentucky takes the lead again in the area of human rights just as it did in 1966 by being the first Southern state to pass a Civil Rights Act. The Kentucky Civil Rights Act of 1966 needs to be expanded again to include sexual orientation and gender identity."

Kentucky Equality Federation, the City of Hazard, and Mending Hearts close the case on the incident involving two gay men forced to leave The Pavilion

2011-06-23T14:23:00.002-04:00

After consulting Hazard Mayor Nan Gorman, City Manager Carlos Combs, and City Attorney Paul R. Collins, Kentucky Equality Federation is satisfied with the actions of the City of Hazard. No additional information will be released other than this press release.

"Today, after having additional conversations with the City of Hazard, our legal representation, and Hazard officials, we are satisfied with the actions of the City," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "Kentucky Equality Federation was asked to intervene by Mending Hearts, Inc. to protect the interests of their clients. Mayor Nan Gorman, City Manager Carlos Combs, and City Attorney Paul R. Collins have stated that all people are welcome at The Pavilion, stating the facility 'is available for use without regard to race, ethnicity, color, creed, national origin, age, sexual orientation or physical/mental disability, etc.'

Kentucky Equality Federation requested 'gender identity' be added to the list of non-discrimination rules at The Pavilion which the City Attorney was receptive to. As a result, Kentucky Equality Federation plans no legal action and believes Hazard sets a positive example for all cities in both Southern Kentucky and the entire Commonwealth.

We have a very positive relationship with the highest levels of Hazard's government.

The employee who ejected Mending Hearts and their clients from The Pavilion was suspended for five (5) days and ordered to undergo some type of sensitivity training. In addition, the facility manager was reprimanded for 'conduct unbecoming a city employee,' and the City has ordered The Pavilion staff to 'undergo additional training regarding non-discrimination laws and regulations.'

An official apology has also been issued by the Mayor and City Attorney. After speaking to Mending Hearts owner Ollie Adams she is also very satisfied with the City's response as are the two gay men involved in the incident. Mending Hearts and the witnesses present however maintain that one of the men simply sat on the others knee."

Adams stated: "I want to thank everyone at Kentucky Equality Federation for standing up for our clients, both Mending Hearts and the two men involved are happy with this outcome."

Palmer continued, "We extend our thanks to City officials for acting in a responsible manner, and recognizing that the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) community of the Commonwealth are individuals also with human rights.

The LGBTI community are your neighbors, friends, co-workers, and family members, and the only thing we seek is equality and to be treated with the same dignity and respect as any other citizen.

As Kentuckians we cannot allow the actions of any one person nor any one group to undermine to progress we have made, and I pray that we continue to do so in a positive manner. After having additional conversations with City officials, I believe this will be the case.

As a community we must now practice restraint, we had a very successful protest/rally, and our voices did not fall on deaf ears; had this incident occurred in any other City in Southern Kentucky, we doubt we would have come to a final conclusion today, and we would most likely be preparing for a court battle. As a community, we must understand that there will always be someone who will oppose us and how Kentucky Equality Federation deals with them will depend on each unique situation."

Joshua Koch, Director of Public and Media Relations for Kentucky Equality Federation, also commented: "Kentucky Equality Federation urges restraint and grace by all parties. This is a battle won for the larger movement of equality, but we view both the City of Hazard and the victims as winners. The city wins by recognizing this need for development and swiftly adopting a proactive plan of remediation and prevention. The victims win by having their deserved apology and recognition that their experience has brought these issues to light. With this resolution, we recognize that we are not enemies moving forward.

We must recognize that this is a win for all parties, yet it is only a portion of the greater struggle for equality. While this is a moment to recognize the contributions of all parties, this is not a time for casting aside self-discipline in the form of a 'victory dance.' It would be counterproductive to attempt to monopolize The Pavilion for an LGBTI event in the wake of the resolution of this recent situation. Kentucky Equality Federation's role as a public advocate is to build bridges or speak for victims of hate crimes, school or workplace bullying.

Hazard has proven that it is devoted to equality, and the cause would be much better served by welcoming them rather than by opening the door to new incidents. We should celebrate the maturity and swiftness with which Kentucky Equality Federation and the City of Hazard resolved this issue with final negotiations ending today. Hazard's resolution is an example of how local governments should listen to their communities and protect the interests of all persons, resolving these issues correctly and promptly."

Kentucky Equality Federation Mental Health Outreach Director Kelly Gill, Children of LGBTI Parents Outreach Director Julia Oiler Spiegel, Southern Kentucky Regional Director Anderson Ruth, and Assistant Southern Kentucky Regional Directors Will Taylor and Shannon Shannon L. McKinney also called for restraint in order to continue to move forward in a positive manner noting that any 'pool dances' or other such action against the City would be counter-productive.

Statement on the actions of the City of Hazard

2011-06-18T22:57:00.002-04:00

Hazard, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation extends its thanks to Hazard Mayor Nan Gorman. "Hazard Mayor Nan Gorman is a women of integrity and class," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "She has stated that all people are welcome at The Pavilion and has been receptive, positive, and helpful from the very beginning."

The City of Hazard has suspended the employee who threw the two gay men out of The Pavilion for five (5) days without pay and ordered him to undergo ‘sensitivity training’. The city has also ordered a sign be posted stating all official rules and prohibiting excessive public displays of affection, be it same-sex or opposite-sex couples. The city also promises that all rules with be enforced in a uniform fashion and apologized for the conduct of the facility manager to the entire staff of CNN.

Kentucky Equality Federation requests that the city make good on its promises, and continues to demand that Mr. Kim Haynes be reassigned to another part of city government.

Only one woman and her family showed-up in opposition and their arguments were based on religion. In total, over 64 people drove by or showed-up to support the two gay men thrown out of the pool and more than 1000 people have signed an online petition demanding action by the city. (Online Petition by Change.org: http://www.change.org/petitions/hazard-kentucky-city-council-apologize-for-kicking-two-gay-men-out-of-a-public-pool)

"The Great Seal of the Commonwealth of Kentucky says 'United We Stand, Divided We Fall,' Kentucky’s founding fathers knew this to be true," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "The first time we allow anyone or anything, be it a government, group, or individual to deny even one person their inalienable human rights, we deny them their freedoms and strip them of their identity, humanity, and person-hood; when you inject religion into the factor, it is an attack on the very soul of Kentucky’s Constitution.

We thank the City of Hazard for taking these initial steps to show their good will, proof that some Southern Kentucky community’s embrace diversity. We would never ask that Mr. Haynes be terminated because we must show compassion and love even if others do not."

Joshua Koch, a Kentucky Equality Federation political adviser to Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer, and Director of Public Relations/Media, also commented. "While we applaud the positive change in this decision from the City of Hazard, we recognize that this incident proves that we still have much work to do in achieving equality for all citizens. This is a sobering moment because we realize that this incident could have been avoided, but it has taught us all something about being good neighbors to the disabled and those different from ourselves. I encourage thoughtful reflection by all parties on the lessons learned, rather than a celebration of one faction or another winning. It is my opinion that the planned LGBTI pool party at the facility in question is an inappropriate gesture at a moment when reflection and grace would be more appropriate."

Kentucky Equality Federation congratulates the victims of this incident on bringing this to light, not accepting this mistreatment, and, ultimately, winning their appeal for equal treatment in the public forum. They are an example to us all.

The Pavilion Community Protest/Rally

2011-06-18T11:13:00.000-04:00

Hazard, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation would like to clarify community questions and issues related to the community protest in Hazard, KY.

"Hazard Mayor Nan Gorman is a women if integrity and class," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "She has stated that all people are welcome at The Pavilion and has been receptive, positive, and helpful from the very beginning."

Palmer continued: "We have invited Mayor Nan Gorman and City Manager Carlos Combs to speak at Saturday’s event, as well as Hazard's elected delegation to the Commonwealth's Capitol in Frankfort: Representative Fitz Steele, and Senator Brandon Smith."

Kentucky Equality Federation Assistant Southern Kentucky Regional Director Will Taylor added: "Many religious leaders both in and around Hazard, KY has asked to join us for the peaceful rally at The Pavilion at 2:00 PM.

People are encouraged to make their own signs, but we ask that they keep in mind that this is a peaceful assembly, a right granted to us in Section I of the Kentucky Constitution.”

"Kentucky Equality Federation demands that the person who forced the two gay men to leave The Pavilion issue a formal apology and be reassigned to another area of Hazard's government," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Chairman Richard T. Jones. "The Board of Directors supports decisions made by management, including President Jordan Palmer, Children of LGBTI Parents Outreach Director Julia Oiler Spiegel, Mental Health Outreach Director Kelly Gill, Southern Kentucky Regional Director Anderson Ruth, Assistant Southern Kentucky Regional Director Will Taylor, and Assistant Southern Kentucky Regional Director Shannon L. McKinney.

Kentucky Equality Federation Jordan Palmer also has the benefit of having Mr. Josh Koch as a Special Political Consultant who is also our Public Relations and Media Director, and other elected officials who serve as political consultants not listed on our website. Threats against President Palmer are being taking seriously, but this is not the first time he has received death threats in the name of equality.”

Mending Hearts is a wonderful organization, and Kentucky Equality Federation thanks them for reaching out to us to protect the civil liberties of the two men in question. For additional information, please review the original press release. (more)

Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer added that many people will be speaking at the peaceful protest/community rally. "Our intention is to show solidarity against any type of discrimination. Though the City of Hazard prohibits discrimination according to City Attorney Paul R. Collins, this further highlights the fact that the Commonwealth needs a statewide equality law to protect people not only in selected cities but across the entire Commonwealth which is why we continue to focus our efforts at the Kentucky Capitol."

MEDIA UPDATE: Kentucky Equality Federation, the City of Hazard, and Mending Hearts close the case on the incident involving two gay men forced to leave The Pavilion.

Media Update - Hazard Pavilion and Berea City Ordinance Hearing

2011-06-14T17:16:00.006-04:00

Hazard, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation will not back down from its position that the person involved in the incident at The Pavilion should be reassigned to another area of government or terminated since an official apology from the person involved is not forthcoming. Kentucky Equality Federation Chairman Richard T. Jones, and President Jordan Palmer stand behind the decisions made by our regional directors, assistant regional directors and our outreach directors.

Video footage from The Pavilion to show the behavior in question has been requested; the two men involved did not hug and kiss each other in public, but even if they did the same standard must be applied to all citizens, including married couples. Ollie Adams, co-owner of Mending Hearts, said a staff member told her that the Pavilion employee told the group to leave "after one of the men sat on the other's knee and put his arm around him while sitting outside the pool."

If all public displays of affection are prohibited, it must be applied in a uniform manner. We stand behind the two men in question as well as Mending Hearts, Inc.

Will Taylor, Kentucky Equality Federation's Assistant Regional Director for Southern Kentucky continues to plan a protest for this weekend. When an exact date is know, it will be released to the media.

However, Kentucky Equality Federation continues to work with the City Manager and City Attorney to reach a satisfactory solution.

Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer spoke to City Manager Carlos Combs as late as 4:00 PM today with the city hoping to avoid a protest.

--> See Previous Press Release

# # # # # #

Berea, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation is not opposed to the hearing in Berea tonight to pass a non-discrimination ordinance if it a citizen driven movement. Kentucky Equality Federation however believes our fight must continue to be waged in the Kentucky Legislature and not municipality by municipality with local ordinances which each city must find the money to assign investigators and enforce.

We continue on the path of an equality law that will protect everyone in the Commonwealth from discrimination in employment, housing, credit, and accommodations based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Kentucky has 120 subdivisions (counties), in some cases with multiple cities located within each county, especially in Northern Kentucky, Southern Central Kentucky, Western Kentucky, Eastern Kentucky, and Southern Kentucky itself. In addition, legislation has been filed multiple times to rescind the authority of cities to pass these local ordinances.

We remain committed to long-term objectives, and we will not sacrifice them for illusory short-term victories. A statewide equality law would give jurisdiction to the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights, a state agency.

In addition, no city ordinance could have prevented the events in Hazard.

Kentucky Equality Federation continues to fight to add sexual orientation and gender identity to the Kentucky Civil Rights Act of 1966 as a protected class along with religion, smoking, disability, race, sex, ancestry, veteran status, and disability. We need an equality law the compass the entire Commonwealth!

# # # # # #

The Public Relations and Media Director can be reached at (877) KEF-5775 - Ext. 1.

MEDIA UPDATE: Kentucky Equality Federation, the City of Hazard, and Mending Hearts close the case on the incident involving two gay men forced to leave The Pavilion.

Two gay men forced to leave a government recreational facility in Hazard, KY

2011-06-13T14:28:00.004-04:00

Hazard, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation today condemned The Pavilion for ejecting two gay males from their facility. A maintenance technician told the couple and the group present "we own this place and can tell you to leave if we want to."

Kentucky Equality Federation was contacted by Mending Hearts, Inc. an organization that receives Medicaid funding from the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

"This is completely outrageous, The Pavilion is owned by the City of Hazard and paid for by our tax dollars," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "Rest assured Kentucky Equality Federation will not tolerate discrimination in any form and our Southern Kentucky volunteer management, as well as our Discrimination, Hate Crimes and School Bullying Committee have planned a peaceful response."

"The Pavilion staff immediately entered the pool area and asked my clients and their staff to leave the Pavilion," stated Shirlyn Perkins, Executive Director of Mending Hearts, Inc. "My staff asked The Pavilion staff why they were being asked to leave, and they were informed that 'gay people' weren't allowed to swim there. My staff told this man that what he was trying to do was discrimination. The man stated that what he was doing was in the Bible and he could do it. My staff continued to argue with this man, but was ultimately forced to leave. My clients, whom already feel ridiculed and different, left the city owned facility crying and embarrassed for trying to participate in 'normal' activities that everyday 'normal' people do."

Kentucky Equality Federation contacted City Manager Carlos Combs, Mayor Nan Gorman and the Office of the Governor.

"The two gay males with developmental and intellectual disabilities were discriminated against by the staff of The Pavilion based on their sexual orientation,” added Kentucky Equality Federation Children of LGBTI Parents Outreach Director Julia Oiler Spiegel. "Not only was this an irreprehensible act by the staff, it was humiliating to these young men and their direct support staff. Both men are clients of Mending Hearts, Inc. which provides support for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Mending Hearts is diligent in providing ongoing support for their clients regarding appropriate behavior within the community and neither of these young men was exhibiting inappropriate public behavior as witnessed by their direct support staff.

Spiegel continued: As a gay parent of a child with a developmental challenge, I am outraged by this complete act of ignorance directed at these young men and their staff. As a public community service, the The Pavilion has a responsibility to provide equal treatment to all members of their facility and to properly educate their staff accordingly. A Biblical comment is totally inappropriate. All citizens of the Commonwealth of Kentucky should be treated with equality and respect, based not only on their intellectual abilities but their sexual orientation as well. This was a humiliating experience for both of these young men and will not be tolerated. I demand a public apology, not only these young men, but to the clients and staff of Mending Hearts, Inc. as well as the LGBTI community of Perry County."

Kentucky Equality Federation's Assistant Regional Director for Southern Kentucky, Will Taylor is planning a protest of City Hall and The Pavilion. "The only way to stop the upcoming protest is an official apology for the way these people have been treated, and immediate corrective action." stated Taylor.

Palmer added: "This would be no if Mr. Haynes, The Pavilion staff member involved was forced to leave a community facility (and therefore owned by the citizens) because he did not share Jewish, Muslim, or Buddhist beliefs; region has no place in government.

So far the Mayor's Office has stated all people are welcome at The Pavilion, but I defer to the judgment of our Southern Kentucky management and statewide outreach directors who demand an official apology to avoid a protest outside City Hall and The Pavilion.

In addition, should an apology and corrective action not be forthcoming, we call on Governor Beshear to rescind funding to The Pavilion and the City of Hazard in the spirit of his executive order prohibiting discrimination of LGBTI people in Kentucky government."

MEDIA UPDATE: Kentucky Equality Federation, the City of Hazard, and Mending Hearts close the case on the incident involving two gay men forced to leave The Pavilion.

Teaching sexual orientation in Kentucky schools; Kentucky Department of Education Model Curriculum Framework

2011-06-09T13:01:00.005-04:00

Lexington, KY -- The Family Foundation of Kentucky yesterday unleashed an absurd attack on the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) for mentioning "sexual orientation" a single time in the KDE's draft Model Curriculum Framework. In addition, it appears that the Family Foundation of Kentucky is opposed to mentioning critical thinking. The Kentucky Equality Foundation, by contrast, strongly encourages consideration of sexual orientation and critical thinking.

This is a sad attempt by the Family Foundation of Kentucky to gain legitimacy by jumping into the education-policy brawl between think tanks and candidates.

"Teaching children that people have different sexual orientations is a step in the right direction and would lead to less school bullying, suicides, in addition to drug/alcohol abuse," said Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "These are not ‘special interests’ as classified in the press release issued by the Family Foundation of Kentucky, rather Kentucky schools will prepare our children for a Commonwealth and world full of diversity. However, in the past the Kentucky Senate has held hearings on such things without public notice and behind closed doors, allowing only the Family Foundation of Kentucky to speak, lead by Senate President David Williams who classified any attempt to elevate school bullying laws, adoption, or teaching sexual orientation in schools as teaching 'aberrant behavior'." (source WKYT-TV)

Kentucky Equality Federation Public Relations and Media Director Josh Koch also commented. "What makes this truly despicable is that the Family Foundation has chosen to make this bid for legitimacy by injecting nonsense and needless venom into a serious discussion," Koch said. "This is a tragic attempt to buy relevance at the expense of decency and common sense.

I grew up among fundamentalists who reverenced groups like the Family Foundation. These allegedly 'pro-family' groups routinely use demagoguery and subtle fear tactics about social issues to manipulate their donors and supporters into supporting an establishment which routinely sells out those donors and supporters on more important issues. Sadly, these propaganda pushes also have negative public fallout, from discrimination to hate crimes. Tactics like these are why I left the Republican party and the 'social conservative' roots with which I was raised. I believe people should treat each other as neighbors, not as enemies, and I believe in critical thought."

"The Commonwealth is filled with a variety of families, extended families in addition to being born straight or lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, or intersex," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Mental Health Outreach Director Kelly Gill.

Gill continued: "Children learn from their environments, from birth they learn from our actions. We instill values in them often without notice. However, we also instill hate and prejudice. If we start teaching our children at a young age that something as simple as sexuality is not a choice, but how people are born we would be taking a large leap toward a new level of acceptance. People tend to believe that being homosexual is a choice, it is not. No one chooses to be outcast by family, ridiculed in school, and forced to hide who they are. When we ignore the situation is does not go away it turns to bullying and growing negativity. Some of the very children sitting in a classroom hearing a teacher speak about homosexuality in a neutral way may be hearing what they need to hear in order to be more comfortable with who they are, likewise it may be a child who could have turned into a bully had they not been taught about sexuality. We are asking you to support your children and who they are without turning this into a self serving political agenda."

Kentucky Equality Federation Assistant Southern Kentucky Regional Director William Taylor stated: "By teaching sexual orientation we are prepping the children for life outside of school, in the real world and not the small bubble the Family Foundation of Kentucky apparently lives in, this has nothing to do with 'political correctness' as they indicated, it is about teaching our children about the different cultures, including different sexual orientation they will encounter. This is political propaganda which the Family Foundation of Kentucky is famous for, such as their 2009 seminars to 'save marriage,' save it from what? We believe Kentuckians are tired of so-called "family foundations," which serve so other purpose that to spread hate and indifference. The influence of the Family Foundation of Kentucky has diminished considerably in the past couple of years."

Second Kentucky church stops signing marriage licenses

2011-06-06T20:14:00.007-04:00

Lexington, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation applauds Rev. Dawn Cooley and the First Unitarian Church located on South 4th Street in Louisville for being the second Kentucky Church to take a stand for equality.

Douglass Boulevard Christian Church was the first to take the initiative.

Both churches have stated they will continue to perform religious marriage ceremonies for straight and gay couples but would no longer perform the civil function of signing marriage licenses on behalf of the Commonwealth.

In addition, Jim Daly, the president of the massive religious-right organization Focus on the Family, conceded that his group had basically lost the argument on gay marriage in an interview with a Christian magazine.

This is welcomed news for marriage equality, and applauded by Kentucky Equality Federation and Marriage Equality Kentucky.

Marriage Equality Kentucky is a group funded by Kentucky Equality Federation since 2008 for which Halyn Roth had served as Managing Director.

"Both churches deserve medals for taking such a stand for equality and justice and they will be remembered by history in our struggle for inalienable human rights," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. “Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, and intersex people (LGBTI) contribute considerably to the Commonwealth's economy yet we are denied equality in every sense of the word; we are denied protection from bullying, discrimination in housing, employment, credit, and accommodations in addition to more than 100 rights the Commonwealth denies us related to marriage."

Because the Commonwealth does not recognize same-sex marriages, these are some of the human rights LGBTI people are denied that many take for granted:

Accidental death benefit for the surviving spouse of a government employee;
Appointment as guardian of a minor;
Beneficial owner status of corporate securities;
Bill of Rights benefits for victims and witnesses;
Consent to post-mortem examination;
Control, division, acquisition, and disposition of community property;
Criminal injuries compensation;
Death benefit for surviving spouse for government employee;
Disclosure of vital statistics records;
Eligibility for housing opportunity allowance program of the Housing, Finance and Development Corporation;
Exemption from claims of Department of Human Services for social services payments, financial assistance, or burial payments;
Exemption from conveyance tax;
Family violence prevention and services;
Funeral leave for government employees;
Income tax deductions, credits, rates exemption, and estimates;
Insurance licenses, coverage, eligibility, and benefits;
Legal status with partner’s children;
Making partner medical decisions;
Payment of wages to a relative of deceased employee;
Payment of worker's compensation benefits after death;
Permission to make arrangements for burial or cremation;
Public assistance from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services;
Right to change names;
Right to inherit property;
Rights and proceedings for involuntary hospitalization and treatment;
Spousal privilege and confidential marriage communications;
Tax relief for natural disaster losses;

Palmer continued: "Additionally, we call on all churches in the Commonwealth to follow the lead of the First Unitarian Church, and the Douglass Boulevard Christian Church. Kentucky Equality Federation has a volunteer who has attended the First Unitarian Church for over 4 years."

We will repeal the Commonwealth's 2004 Constitutional Amendment banning same-sex marriage, domestic partnerships, and civil unions. It is only a question of when; just as gender-neural marriage is illegal in Kentucky, so was gender-neutral voting. As with voting, marriage equality will be made gender neutral.

You do not realize what it is to be treated as a second class citizen until the government treats you like one; the danger in allowing the inalienable human rights of even one person to be violated is that it opens the door to additional government oppression, when the majority denies rights to minorities simply because they are the majority.

We have only a handful of Representatives in the Kentucky House of Representatives who bravely support marriage equality. This shows that our concept of marriage must mature. Marriage is a contract between the State and two loving people, nothing more, nothing less."

Out of State Anti-Equality National Leader to be Keynote Speaker at Bluegrass Freedom Rally 2011

2011-05-25T17:27:00.001-04:00

In 2007, a UCLA report reflected the attitudes of college freshmen nationwide. The acceptance of same-sex marriage grew even as far back as 2005 and 2006, when the national poll was conducted. The study found that 61% of incoming freshmen in 2006 agreed that same-sex couples should have the right to marriage, up 3.3 percentage points from 2005.

Last week, a Gallup poll showed that a majority of Americans support gay marriage. It was the third such survey this spring, and if you add in the number of Americans who support civil unions, public support for same-sex relationships has become the dominant opinion on the matter in the United States.

"These polls reflect the overall opinion of people actually polled," said Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "The people polled typically change with each random poll, and not all polls agree. However, on a national level Kentucky Equality Federation and Marriage Equality Kentucky see the changing minds of the American people. Americans are showing their receptive nature, and, while the growth is slower than we would like, we are gratified to see that positive attitudes toward equality are trending positively."

"Unfortunately, the state which passed the first Civil Rights Act in 1966, the Commonwealth of Kentucky, does not seem to be leading in this trend; if they did, we would see changes in our elected lawmakers in Frankfort. We have only a handful of Representatives in the Kentucky House of Representatives who bravely support marriage equality. This shows that our concept of marriage must mature. Marriage is a contract between the State and two loving people, nothing more, nothing less."

"Once the contract is signed, couples are arbitrarily entitled to over 100 benefits offered by the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and over 1000 offered by the United States Government. The government is using these benefits to artificially determine what does or does not constitute a marriage. Oddly enough, when considered in this light, many so-called 'social conservatives' are actually arguing for bigger government and fewer rights for citizens."

Yesterday Jim Daly, the president of the massive religious-right organization Focus on the Family, conceded that his group had basically lost the argument on gay marriage in an interview with a Christian magazine. Daly, a significantly less odious character than his predecessor, Focus on the Family founder James Dobson, also says that Christians should perhaps work on their own marriages instead of trying to prevent others from having families to focus on. His new plan: Let the state go to the perverts and polygamists and have the church set much higher standards for marriage and divorce.

Palmer worries that some Republican operatives who are seeking to gain power within the Kentucky Tea Party culture are actively fighting equal rights, using the label of "liberty" as a cover for their anti-freedom and anti-equality rhetoric.

"What alarms us at Kentucky Equality Federation is that Matthew D. Staver, the Founder and Chairman of anti-equality Liberty Counsel will be visiting the Commonwealth on May 26, 2011 for an event titled 'Bluegrass Freedom Rally 2011,'" Palmer said. "Unfortunately for Liberty Counsel, which supported California's Prop 8, hundreds of tickets remain available because citizens in Lexington are not interested in hate speeches; we have all grown tired of it. Liberty Counsel, the Family Foundation of Kentucky, and the American Family Association of Kentucky should join Focus on the Family and focus on building stronger existing families instead of trying to use cheap mob rule tactics to create intrusive laws which destroy the loving families of tomorrow."

"We will repeal the Commonwealth's 2004 Constitutional Amendment banning same-sex marriage, domestic partnerships, and civil unions. It is only a question of when; just as gender-neural marriage is illegal in Kentucky, so was gender-neutral voting. As with voting, marriage equality will be made gender neutral. This has been the sole goal of Marriage Equality Kentucky, a group funded by Kentucky Equality Federation since 2008. This will happen, whether radical reactionaries accept it or not. We, as Kentuckians, have a choice: Will we lead on this issue, as we did with the 1966 Civil Rights Act, or will we cede our tradition of leadership to other states? As citizens of this Commonwealth we must all rise up and challenge carpetbagging 'conservative' or 'traditional value' operatives from stopping our progress as a Commonwealth and as a nation toward equal rights."

Kentucky Equality Federation terminates alliance with the Libertarian Party of Kentucky

2011-05-21T19:54:00.000-04:00

Lexington, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation today officially terminated a strategic alliance with the Libertarian Party of Kentucky today that began on April 10, 2008. (previous press release) This announcement is being released by Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer.

"Until recently we had open dialogue with the Libertarian Party of Kentucky and they rallied with us in favor of amending the Kentucky Civil Rights Act of 1966 to include sexual orientation and gender identity," said Palmer. "Since the leadership changed, we have had extensive communication gaps with the new leaders of the party. This distance has caused us great concern as we have watched the Libertarian Party of Kentucky become increasingly under the influence of the amorphous Tea Party elements whose anti-equality rhetoric is alarming."

Speaking for the Board of Directors, Chairman Richard T. Jones agreed with the decision which came directly from the Office of the President on the advice of several Regional Directors and confidential political advisers. (Board Resolution - Role of the Chairman and the Office of the President)

"Until recently, the Libertarian Party of Kentucky condemned anti-equality and homophobic comments made by politicians who the media associated as being part of the Libertarian Party of Kentucky," Jones said. "We sincerely hope that they will renew their commitment to the cause of equality by being an influence on their allies, rather than distancing themselves from beliefs they once held dear by standing united with us to bring equality to Kentucky."

Palmer continued: “Kentucky Equality Federation Regional Directors, Assistant Regional Directors, Outreach Directors, and stand-by volunteers requested the Office of the President reevaluate our alliance with the Libertarian Party of Kentucky. In doing so we realized there are far too many Tea Parties factions in the Commonwealth who oppose equality and associate themselves as being part of the Libertarian Party of Kentucky; it is the responsibility of the Libertarian Party of Kentucky to confirm or deny their affiliations, which they have failed to do. We however will not have a standing alliance with any organization which opposes social and political equality or have not made their positions clear."

Today equality-minded people will remain silent; National Day of Silence

2011-04-15T03:55:00.007-04:00

Lexington, KY -- Today, schools and universities across the Commonwealth will participate in the National Day of Silence. This is the first year Kentucky Equality Federation is openly encouraging students around the Commonwealth to participate in the national event.

"Things are spiraling out of control," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "This year we have received a record number of school bullying complaints, and it's only April. From Spirit Day, the day we wore purple in loving memory of all the teenage suicides being called a 'meaningless gesture,' to Kentucky Representative Mike Harmon's comments on school bullying, the Bible, proposed legislation to teach the Bible in Kentucky Schools to wasting Kentucky taxpayer dollars to enforce federal immigration laws, we have reached our boiling point."

The Day of Silence is the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network's (GLSEN) annual day of action to protest the bullying and harassment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) students and their supporters. Students take a day-long vow of silence to symbolically represent the silencing of LGBT students and their supporters.

Palmer continued: "Citizens are not equal in Kentucky, equality is not the law of this land; LGBTI people are treated as second-class citizens. We are not protected under Kentucky law in employment, housing, accommodations, or credit and I submit to you that is the laws of this Commonwealth do not recognize and protect us as they do smokers, veteran status, age, sex, race, etc. then the laws of this Commonwealth should not apply to the LGBTI community either."

Palmer continued: "We love our Commonwealth; we love its beauty, and believe in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the Commonwealth."

"I pledge allegiance to the Kentucky flag, and to the Sovereign State for which it stands, one Commonwealth, blessed with diversity, natural wealth, beauty, and grace from on High."

The National Bully Police gives the Commonwealth’s anti-bullying laws an A+ Rating. House Bill 91 was proposed in 2008 and passed by the Kentucky House of Representatives, the Kentucky Senate and signed into law by The Honorable Steve Beshear, Governor of the Commonwealth on April 15, 2008. The law is commonly referred to as "The Golden Rule Act."

Palmer continued: "Being verbally or physically assaulted is one of the primary reasons students turn to drugs, alcohol, and/or dropout of school altogether; they cannot cope with the constant verbal and physical assaults. The bottom line is that all students deserve the right to be able to be who they are, without having to face verbal or physical violence, having to lie about being lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex, or having to lie about having LGBTI friends or family members."

Under currently Kentucky law, any act by a student to intimidate, harass, annoy, or alarm another person with intent is a criminal offense. Harassing communications with intent to intimidate, harass, annoy, or alarm another person is also a criminal offense.

Kentucky Equality Federation also warns students not to take the Day of Silence to extreme measures. If you are asked to speak by a teacher, do not be insubordinate. Kentucky Equality Federation calls on all equality-minded students around the Commonwealth to participate and stand united with us in the National Day of Silence.

Kentucky Equality Federation's Discrimination, Hate Crimes, and School Bullying Committee will remain on high alert today and we ask that any student who needs our help to call us toll-free at (877) KEF-5775 - Ext. 6 to reach the Discrimination, Hate Crimes, and School Bullying Committee.

If you are in immediate danger, please dial 911 and report the incident to us after notifying the police.

The Alphabet Center at Eastern Kentucky University asks that people participating in the National Day of Silence wear a black or white tee shirt. ALLYance at Morehead State University are also gearing up for an active day. Other major universities include the University of Louisville, the University of Kentucky, and nearly 42 high schools around the Commonwealth.

NOTE: Kentucky Equality Federation is a member of "ILGA," the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, a non-government observer at the United Nations with consultive status. ILGA is the world's largest and oldest Federation with more than 600 affiliates worldwide. ILGA continues to be active in campaigning for LGBTI rights on the international human rights and civil rights scene and regularly petitions the United Nations and governments. ILGA is represented in around 110 countries across the world.

Kentucky's Christopher Crowe, President of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Congressional Staff Association Dies at 29 years old.

2011-03-31T18:57:00.002-04:00

Lexington, KY - Kentucky Equality Federation mourns the loss of Christopher Crowe, President of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Congressional Staff Association (LGBT CSA) and a longtime legislative aide to U.S. Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas).

Crowe, originally from Kentucky, died yesterday at the age of 29 from a staph infection related to open-heart surgery last summer after being stricken with meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord.

"His contribution will never be forgotten," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "He was a dynamic activist that believed in equality for all people. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and associates."

Crowe grew up in Gamaliel, KY and studied government and global securities at Johns Hopkins University before going to Capitol Hill to work as a staff assistant for Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.). In 2006 he started as a staff assistant in U.S. Representative Johnson's office, and last year he was promoted to legislative assistant.

U.S. Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson a Ranking Member of the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space and Technology is also the highest-ranking Texan on the U.S. House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure. She represents Texas in their 30th Congressional District.

U.S. Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson also make a statement on her official website:

"Christopher was a dedicated legislative assistant who was committed to strengthening the 30th Congressional District of Texas. He was respected by his colleagues for his professionalism; he was beloved by many for his generous spirit and good humor,” said Congresswoman Johnson. "He was a person who enjoyed life and always had a smile to share. He never met a stranger."

Congresswoman Johnson added, "I extend my deepest sympathy to the Crowe family and his loved ones. He will be deeply missed."

Funeral arrangements are forthcoming and will be announced at later time. Condolences may be signed in a memorial book starting tomorrow, March 31st in 2468 Rayburn House Office Building.

Public Statement about the Kentucky Statewide Fairness Coalition

2011-03-29T14:33:00.000-04:00

PUBLIC STATEMENT FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD, THE PRESIDENT, AND THE PUBLIC RELATIONS AND MEDIA DIRECTOR

Richmond, KY -- In light of recent occurrences, we at the Kentucky Equality Federation are issuing a statement to clarify our stance on the Statewide Fairness Coalition.

There are certain items that need to be addressed explicitly, as they set us apart from other organizations within the equality movement. Kentucky Equality Federation does not hold traditional fundraisers or host "social hours." In addition, we will not do anything to endanger long-term equality to accomplish short-term victories.

Kentucky Equality Federation is a founding member of the Statewide Fairness Coalition. Federation Board members and Regional Directors attended the first two meetings of its conception, but our Board voted to withdraw.

While we support the efforts of other equality organizations in the Commonwealth and do not seek to offend other groups in the Coalition, we have enjoyed better success and more flexibility as an organization independent of any official coalitions with Steering Committees.

After conversations with the Statewide Fairness Coalition, namely Mr. Chris Hartman of the Louisville Fairness Campaign, Kentucky Equality Federation will begin to support the Statewide Fairness Coalition as an independent, non-member organization as our Chairman, President, and/or Public Relations and Media Director deem appropriate. This decision was reached after posing the question to our Board members, officers, regional directors, outreach directors, contributors of Kentucky Equality Federation's Official Blog, and standby volunteers.

As always, we remain committed to working with other equality organizations, and we are glad to have good working relations with them. We will support them when appropriate, and we continue to serve as the largest all-volunteer equality organization in the Commonwealth.

Our main goals at this point are to continue serving as public advocates for victims of abuse and discrimination, as well as preparing for the next legislative session in Frankfort.

To that end, we plan to build our legislative advocacy network and public affairs infrastructure further in addition to working with StoryCorps to tell the stories of those who grew up LGBTI in Whitesburg and Lexington, as well as raising money to support HIV/AIDS organizations around the Commonwealth.

Kentucky Equality Federation is also working to launch our "Faces of Equality" video series; to participate, contact us at: www.kyequality.org, and select "Faces of Equality Project."

MEDIA INQUIRIES: Please contact the Public Relations and Media Director at (877) KEF - 5775 - Ext. 1.

85 nations wage another culture war at the United Nation; this time in favor of gay rights

2011-03-28T13:47:00.004-04:00

United Nation in Geneva -- In what gay advocates described as "a stunning development for the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights," 85 nations signed a pro-gay statement that was read out by Colombia's representative at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva on March 22.

A culture war recently broke-out at the United Nations concerning gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgenderd, and intersex people.

In addition, United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon chastised States in September 2010 by stating:

"The responsibilities of the United Nations and the obligations of States are clear. No-one, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, should be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. No-one should be prosecuted for their ideas or beliefs. No-one should be punished for exercising their right to freedom of expression."

United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon is the first leader of the United Nations to speak out of behalf of sexual orientation and gender identity.

The statement read on March 22, 2011 "express(es) concern at continued evidence in every region of acts of violence and related human rights violations based on sexual orientation and gender identity" and "call(s) on states to take steps to end acts of violence, criminal sanctions and related human rights violations committed against individuals because of their sexual orientation or gender identity."

ILGA, the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, called the statement "a very significant step forward towards international consensus on LGBTI people's rights.

Kentucky Equality Federation is a member of ILGA.

"We recognize that the fight at the United Nations underscores the historic split over gay rights at the United Nations and their diverse religious and cultural sensibilities, stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "However, no State at the United Nations has the right to deprive someone of life because of the way they are born; we all have the right to live and to protect ourselves and our families."

The nations that signed the statement are Albania, Andorra, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Central African Republic, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Micronesia, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Rwanda, Samoa, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela, and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.

Nigeria's representative spoke against the statement, purportedly on behalf of the council's Africa Group. The representative said the terms "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" are undefined, talked about God, and said it takes a man and a woman to make a baby. At the end, however, he said that laws that criminalize sexual orientation should be expunged.

Pakistan also spoke against the statement on behalf of an official bloc of 57 majority-Muslim nations. Russia opposed the statement, as well, saying it rejects discrimination and violence against LGBT people but should be allowed to limit rights for reasons of public morality. The representative reportedly said that "these people" should not be granted special rights.

ILGA, the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, called the statement "a very significant step forward towards international consensus on LGBTI people's rights."

"The strength of this statement makes the defense of discrimination against lesbians, gays, bisexual, trans and intersex people on the basis of a mistaken sense of 'tradition' or 'natural order' more untenable than ever," said the group's co-secretary general, Renato Sabbadini. "Homophobia and transphobia are more and more acknowledged for what they truly are: the last crumbling pillars of a patriarchal order which belong with other dark pages of our past, like slavery and the Inquisition."

ILGA noted that more nations of the Southern Hemisphere signed this year's statement, and it highlighted the signatures of Dominica, Honduras, Central African Republic, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Seychelles.

A statement from the White House said, in part: "Over the past months our diplomats have been engaged in frank, and at times difficult, conversations about the human rights of LGBT persons with governments from around the world. This morning, at the United Nations Human Rights Council, some 85 countries joined the United States in reaffirming our joint commitment to end acts of violence and human rights abuses on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. The president is proud of the work we have done to build international consensus on this critical issue and is committed to continuing our determined efforts to advance the human rights of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity."

The U.S. State Department said, "This statement adds new references not seen in previous LGBT statements at the U.N., including: welcoming attention to LGBT issues as a part of the Universal Periodic Review process, noting the increased attention to LGBT issues in regional human rights fora, encouraging the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to continue addressing LGBT issues, and calls for states to end criminal sanctions based on LGBT status."

The Human Rights Council is an intergovernmental body within the United Nations system made up of 47 states that aims to strengthen and protect human rights worldwide.

ILGA, the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association is a non-government observer at the United Nations with Consultative status. ILGA is the world's largest and oldest Federation with more than 600 affiliates, including Kentucky Equality Federation, worldwide.

Kentucky Equality Federation extends StoryCorps partnership to include Lexington

2011-03-28T09:16:00.006-04:00

Lexington, KY - Kentucky Equality Federation extends its partnership with StoryCorps to highlight the lack of equality in both Central and Southern Kentucky.

Since 2003, StoryCorps has collected and archived more than 30,000 interviews from more than 60,000 participants. Each conversation is recorded on a free CD to share, and is preserved at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress.

StoryCorps is one of the largest oral history projects of its kind, and millions listen to our weekly broadcasts on National Public Radio's Morning Edition.

Kentucky Equality Federation and StoryCorps will visit Whitesburg, KY from April 21st - May 14th. (previous story)

Kentucky Equality Federation and StoryCorps will also visit Lexington, KY on June 04, June 05, June 10, and June 19th.

Arrangements were made between StoryCorps and Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer.

For additional information, call (877) KEF-5775 - Ext. 1 or use our online contact form.

To participate, contact us at: www.kyequality.org, and select "Participate with Kentucky Equality Federation and StoryCorps."

MEDIA INQUIRIES: Please contact Chairman Richard T. Jones, President Jordan Palmer, or the Public Relations and Media Director Josh Koch at (877) KEF - 5775 - Ext. 1.

StoryCorps Restrictions: Members of the press are not allowed inside the booth once tape begins rolling. with the participant's permission, you can observe, photograph, and/or film the participants getting ready in the booth and doing sound check beforehand. You will also be able to observe and shoot from outside the window during the interview (when available). Print reporters may listen to the interview on headphones from the waiting area (when available) and ask questions before or after the interview, as arranged.

Kentucky Equality Federation names Political Consultant, Public Relations and Media Director

2011-03-17T10:28:00.001-04:00

Richmond, KY - Kentucky Equality Federation today announced the appointment of Josh Koch as Special Political Consultant to the President, Public Relations and Media Director.

The appointment of Mr. Koch was made by Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. Any officer or managing director may appoint special advisers, consultants, assistant, interns, and other volunteers to be attached directly to their office without Board confirmation.

In the separate position of Public Relations and Media Director however, Mr. Koch will enjoy the same significant latitude in making decisions regarding public relations and media as Regional Directors and Outreach Directors in their respective regions. Mr. Koch's position as Public Relations and Media Director however covers the entire Commonwealth.

Josh Koch most recently served as the co-Chair of the Libertarian Party of Kentucky but did not seek re-election to that office. Currently Mr. Koch currently holds no titles with the Libertarian Party of Kentucky.

"We formed an official alliance with the Libertarian Party of Kentucky in 2008," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "They are always there to support us in the name of equality to have a statewide law passed to protect LGBTI people in Kentucky from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity along with Senior and Junior Democrats in the Kentucky House of Representatives."

Palmer continued: "I have never met a person who is more objective with clarity of thought than Mr. Koch. Over the past year he has become a friend to me and everyone here at Kentucky Equality Federation; he believes in all forms of equality, both politically and socially."

Kentucky Equality Federation Chairman Richard T. Jones and Kentucky Equality Federation Transgender Outreach Director Tyler Watts also praised the decision. Kentucky Equality Federation has also received positive feedback from members, former and current Board members.

"At Kentucky Equality Federation we stand united as an organization, and embrace anyone or any organization that fights for equality," stated Chairman Richard T. Jones.

Kentucky Equality Federation places as much decision-making power as possible in the hands of Regional Directors, Outreach Directors, and now the Public Relations and Media Director (except as prohibited in the Federation Leadership Manual, Bylaws, or Board Resolutions).

As a grassroots organization, Kentucky Equality Federation shifts decision-making authority (as practical) to the organization's lowest geographic level of organization.

All Federation volunteers are required to follow a code of ethical conduct based on fundamental values such as honesty, integrity, fairness, inclusion, respect, trust, responsibility, common sense and accountability.

"I am humbled and honored to accept the invitation extended by Kentucky Equality Federation, stated Josh Koch." Kentucky Equality Federation started as an LGBTI-focused anti-discrimination group, and it has branched out to defend various other victims of discrimination, as well. KEF provides a vital service of advocacy and proactive cooperation between many diverse groups in today’s society."

Koch continued:

"This may seem like an odd choice of involvement to some who know me, given my previous history of political activities, but it is a cause near and dear to my heart. Many people and groups are victims of discrimination. Some are discriminated against because of their sexual orientation, sexual identity, race, gender, veteran status, or political identification (or lack thereof). Discrimination takes many forms, and it is necessary that the victims of such treatment strive for a better world where all groups, orientations, identities, creeds, and political groups can achieve equality.

My theory of equality is a proactive one. Let's use a political example. For instance, in theory, every person has a supposedly equal right to vote in our republic. However, institutional discrimination has systematically removed rights from vast swaths of our society. Independents and third-party members cannot vote in primaries and are prevented from appearing on the ballot in some states by draconian petition requirements, which effectively leaves these voters the option of just getting to choose between those two candidates “allowed” on the general election ballots, those two candidates selected by only the Democrats and the Republicans. This is false fairness, as the votes cast are not all absolutely equal in status.

This is not “equality.” Rather, it is discrimination dressed in the trappings of fairness. Whenever groups like independents, LGBTI individuals, minorities, third parties, and others are prevented from participating in all levels of societal discussions and functions, there you will find discrimination. Ironically, it is an experience shared by many members of different groups which have been pitted against each other for no good reason.

In the same way, "allowing" LGBTI couples to be together while preventing them from being allowed to work, have a home, participate in the political process, participate in society, or legally form a recognized, binding home unit (marriage contract) is not equality. A society which allows the selective denial of fundamental rights to some citizens while recognizing those rights for others is not truly equal or free.

This is our struggle for proactive equality, whether we are straight or LGBTI. These are our brothers and sisters, our neighbors, our friends, our coworkers, and our fellow citizens. No color, gender, orientation, gender identity, veteran status, political identification, or any other facet of a person’s existence can be allowed to abridge their rights to participate in a free society with equal protections and truly equal status at all levels.

We need no special "new" rights for this to be accomplished. This is a struggle for equal protection under law, not the creation of a special status, as some argue erroneously. These rights exist inherently for us all, as they derive from a source more infinite than any society or government, or even a document. These rights must be codified, recognized, and accepted for our society to be truly equal, but the rights of an individual to be sovereign and secure in his or her person and property are not new. These concepts are at the very foundation of our nation:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that 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. — U.S. Declaration of Independence, 1776

As someone who cherishes rights, freedom, and equality, I accept the honor of serving with the Kentucky Equality Federation. They are proactive and tenacious in their struggle for “Peace, Liberty, Equality” for all. I hope I can live up to their expectations, and I look forward to working with my fellow volunteers in the cause."

Kentucky Equality Federation's Board of Directors Urges Positive Community Action if the Westboro Baptist Church protest in Louisville or Owensboro

2011-03-04T16:27:00.006-05:00

Lexington, KY -- Should the Westboro Baptist Church visit Louisville or Owensboro, the dogma preached by the Westboro Baptist Church should be transformed into a positive event instead of a negative one by engaging the community to get involved and support local and statewide organizations for people suffering with HIV/AIDS.

View the complete resolution: (view in .pdf) or (view in .xps)

Kentucky Equality Federation gives special thanks to Gretchen Bell and David Taffet, staff writer with the Dallas Voice.

From the Courier-Journal: Members of Westboro Baptist Church in Kansas have announced plans for protests Sunday at a Louisville parish and three Owensboro churches. The independent Baptist group said in faxes to The Courier-Journal that it would target two Catholic and two Protestant churches, claiming that "God hates Catholics" and "God hates lying false prophets" and using slurs against gay people, the pope and others.

The group plans three protests on Sunday morning in Owensboro — at Blessed Mother Catholic Church, Owensboro Christian Church and Bellevue Baptist Church. It then plans to picket St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Louisville just before its afternoon Mass.

Of the four churches, the Westboro faxes only gave a specific reason for protests at Blessed Mother, capitalizing on the suicide outside the church last month of a young man who left a final note describing the trauma of being sexually abused.

03/04/2011: A RESOLUTION urging the citizens of the Commonwealth and organizations planning a counter protest against the Westboro Baptist Church in Louisville or Owensboro to request donations from counter protestors to be split evenly between the House of Ruth which cares for families and individuals with or affected by HIV/AIDS, AIDS Volunteers, Inc. (AVOL) which serves 72 counties in Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Kentucky, The Wings Clinic, which services Jefferson County and 7 surrounding counties, Moveable Feast which prepares and delivers hot, freshly cooked meals, five days a week, to people living with AIDS/HIV-related illnesses as well as individuals who are patients of Hospice of the Bluegrass, and Louisville AIDS Walk which raises awareness and funds for local HIV/AIDS Service Organizations through education, marketing and promotional activities and through participation of walkers and volunteers in a safe, fun, educational event.

The dogma preached by the Westboro Baptist Church should be transformed into a positive event instead of a negative one by engaging the community to get involved and support local and statewide organizations for people suffering with HIV/AIDS. (view in .pdf) or (view in .xps)

YouTube Instructions and Outreach:

NOTICE: From over 11 emails, we will answer, neither Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer nor Chairman Richard T. Jones are HIV+ they do NOT have HIV/AIDS. However, the Westboro Baptist Church believes HIV/AIDS is a blessing so that is why our Board of Directors want donations for HIV/AIDS Organizations in Kentucky.

Kentucky Equality Federation partners with StoryCorps to bring the voices of gay and lesbian people to Southern Kentucky

2011-02-23T11:40:00.001-05:00

Somerset, KY - Kentucky Equality Federation has partnered with StoryCorps to highlight the lack of equality in Southern Kentucky.

Since 2003, StoryCorps has collected and archived more than 30,000 interviews from more than 60,000 participants. Each conversation is recorded on a free CD to share, and is preserved at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress.

StoryCorps is one of the largest oral history projects of its kind, and millions listen to our weekly broadcasts on National Public Radio's Morning Edition.

Kentucky Equality Federation and StoryCorps will visit Whitesburg, KY from April 21st - May 14th. Stories will also be heard that day on WMMT Radio, a local radio partner station.

Arrangements were made between StoryCorps and Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer.

"Homosexuality in Southern Kentucky isn't tolerated as well as in other parts of the Commonwealth," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Chairman Richard T. Jones.

In 2009, a supporter of Kentucky Equality Federation and Marriage Equality Kentucky handmade signs and hung them around Harlan County. Shortly thereafter, the signs were tore down torn down on multiple occasions.

In addition, The Mountain Shopper, "The Leader for Buying, Selling and Trading; Community News, and Special Events" published an article: "The Fall of the University of Kentucky because of homosexuals."

"We are very pleased StoryCorps is visiting Whitesburg and we are pleased to partner with them. The stories of discrimination and oppression of LGBTI people need to heard and it is wonderful to know they will be archived in the Library of Congress," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Southern Kentucky Regional Director Anderson Ruth.

Kentucky Equality Federation will also be making a donation to StoryCorps to cover expenses. The exact amount of the donation has not been established. All Kentucky Equality Federation donations over $250.00 must be approved by the Board of Directors and signed by Treasurer Dean Byrd. Kentucky Equality Federation's Board of Directors will deliberate the total of the donation next month.

For additional information, call (877) KEF-5775 - Ext. 1, or Ext. 5, or use our online contact form.

"I have seen firsthand the need to shine a light on the homophobia in Southeastern Kentucky. My hope is that this effort will help in some way to alleviate this problem for the entire Commonwealth," stated Halyn Roth, Managing Director of Marriage Equality Kentucky, a group sponsored by Kentucky Equality Federation.

StoryCorps Restrictions: Members of the press are not allowed inside the booth once tape begins rolling. with the participant's permission, you can observe, photograph, and/or film the participants getting ready in the booth and doing sound check beforehand. You will also be able to observe and shoot from outside the window during the interview (when available). Print reporters may listen to the interview on headphones from the waiting area (when available) and ask questions before or after the interview, as arranged.

Pro-gay Legislation in Kentucky doubtful with Senate President Williams – Equality Awards to be given to lawmakers

2011-02-09T13:37:00.003-05:00

PRO-GAY LEGISLATION DOUBTFUL GIVEN SENATE PRESIDENT DAVID L. WILLIAMS' VOTING RECORD AND PUBLIC COMMENTS – EQUALITY AWARDS TO BE GIVEN TO SENIOR KENTUCKY LAWMAKERS WHO FIGHT FOR EQUALITY

Kentucky Equality Federation supports and continues to push Kentucky House Bill 106, and Senate Bill 138 to add sexual orientation and gender identity to the Kentucky Civil Rights Act of 1966 as a protected class along with religion, smoking, disability, race, sex, ancestry, veteran status, and disability.

In 1966, Kentucky became the 1st state in the South to pass a civil rights law. The Commonwealth also became the first in the south to establish enforcement powers over civil rights violations on a state level. The Kentucky Commission on Human Rights becomes the state enforcement authority of the Act.

Kentucky Equality Federation plans to give "Equality Awards" to senior lawmakers who "make a difference" including Representative Ruth Ann Palumbo, Representative Tom Burch, Representative Susan Westrom, Representative Mary Lou Marzian, and other selected lawmakers next week at the Kentucky Capitol. No freshman or junior Representatives are included.

"Though we applaud and support the efforts of Louisville Fairness Campaign, Lexington Fairness, Kentucky Fairness Alliance, and the ACLU of Kentucky, I do not believe you can properly gauge the attitude of over 4.5 million citizens by polling 600 people," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Chairman of the Board Richard T. Jones. "Though we continue to push for equality, we do not believe any pro-gay legislation will ever be passed in Kentucky so long as David L. Williams is President of the Kentucky Senate. Williams has made his position clear through his public comments and disagreements with Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer from equality to school bullying; all have been reported by WKYT-TV, WYMT-TV, and the Lexington Herald-Leader. In addition, Palmer issued a personal appeal to Senate President Williams last year and the entire Kentucky Senate."

Kentucky Equality Federation and the Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy Action Group (KHAAG), and many other groups were successful, thanks to Senior Representative Tom Burch and Senior Representative Jimmie Lee in restoring the Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program (KADAP).

This year, Kentucky Equality Federation has also partnered with Marriage Equality Kentucky to push House Bill 178, and the Kentucky Domestic Violence Association to push House Bill 35.

Jones continued: "If Kentuckians truly want protections extended to the gay and lesbian community in Kentucky, they must get involved and hold their elected representation accountable and sign our Legislative Alerts online at http://community.kyequality.org/p/action-alerts.html."

The LGBTI community makes a significant contribution to the economic welfare of the Commonwealth and our entire Union. This year, Kentucky Equality Federation has invested significant resources representing people across the Commonwealth who filed complaints with our Discrimination, Hate Crimes, and School Bullying Committee for being terminated because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

More than 8 cases remain open and on-going with Kentucky Equality Federation's legal representation, Jill Hall Rose.

Kentucky Equality Federation partners with the Kentucky Domestic Violence Association in support of House Bill 35

2011-01-12T10:00:00.003-05:00

Lexington, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation and the Kentucky Domestic Violence Association have formed a coalition to push House Bill 35 sponsored by Kentucky Senior Representative Jody Richards using a petition in partnership with change.org.

Kentucky House Bill 35 would expand the protective order statute to allow persons who are dating, or have dated, but who have never lived together, and do not have a child in common, to petition for protective orders. The bill would also expand the warrantless arrest statute to cover all persons in a dating relationship.

"We are excited to work with Kentucky Equality Federation on this bill," stated Beth Workman, the Kentucky Domestic Violence Association IDA Program Coordinator. "One in four adults are direct victims of domestic violence and one in five teenagers are victims of intimate partner violence. Currently in Kentucky, only certain groups are afforded legal protection to escape domestic abuse. House Bill 35 would expand the protective order statute to allow persons who are dating, or have dated, but who have never lived together, and do not have a child in common, to petition for protective orders."

Physical and sexual abuse is the most often talked about piece of dating abuse, but dating abuse doesn’t have to be physical. It can include verbal and emotional abuse and controlling behaviors. In addition, as technologies like cell phones and social networking become the norm for communication, they can also be used to further abuse and control.

"Passing House Bill 35 is a very important step forward in protecting all people from violence and securing equality for all citizens of the Commonwealth. Neither domestic nor dating violence are bound by a specific sexual orientation, both heterosexual and homosexual couples endure dating violence," stated Anderson Ruth, a Kentucky Equality Federation Internal Coordinator and Political Blogger. "Same-sex couples should be granted the same constitutional protections as any other family or dating couple."

"I welcome this union between Kentucky Equality Federation and the Kentucky Domestic Violence Association," stated Julia Oiler Spiegel, the Kentucky Equality Federation Children of LGBTI Parents Outreach Director. Ms. Spiegel is also the Director of the Kentucky Chapter of COLAGE (Children Of Lesbians And Gays Everywhere), an international organization with 52 chapters in the United States. The Kentucky Chapter of COLAGE is a coalition partner and member of Kentucky Equality Federation. "Physical and mental abuse is a major problem with all communities in Kentucky."

Click here to sign the petition.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Kentucky Equality Federation: (877) KEF-5775 - Ext. 5
Kentucky Domestic Violence Association: (502) 226-5382

Funeral services concluded today for another Kentucky Equality Federation volunteer

2011-01-10T20:20:00.008-05:00

Funeral services concluded today for Dustin Sizemore, a former volunteer for Kentucky Equality Federation. Mr. Sizemore died at the age of 23 years old.

When volunteering for Kentucky Equality Federation, Mr. Sizemore was the Leslie/Perry County Coordinator from 2007-2008.

Kentucky Equality Federation acknowledges that Mr. Sizemore had problems with school bullying and harassment growing up in such a rural area. Kentucky Equality Federation defended and tried to counsel Mr. Sizemore on several occasions. Many teenagers and young adults turn to drugs or alcohol to escape the bullying and/or harassment.

Kentucky Equality Federation wishes to express its deepest sympathy to his family. Kentucky Equality Federation reminds the public that regardless of the circumstances of this death, Mr. Sizemore was a public advocate, and more importantly, a son and brother to a loving family.

"I send my condolences to his family and am deeply saddened," stated Marriage Equality Kentucky™ Managing Director Halyn Roth.

"This is very sad to hear and the very reason that organizations like the Kentucky Equality Federation are so great to have. It really saddens me to hear this and my deepest condolences go out to his family," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Political and Community Blogger Anderson Ruth.

"Although I was not personally acquainted with Mr. Sizemore, he was a member of our family, a member of Kentucky Equality Federation's family and a close personal friend to many of our members, affiliates and coalition members. During this time of mourning and sadness I cannot help but feel the need to remind people who bully, harass, discriminate, intimidate, or shun the LGBTI community, it often leads them to suicide, or a life of drug or alcohol abuse to escape the pain. Mr. Sizemore himself made posts about this (such as the one about the Kentucky State Police, as well as the ARH Regional Medical Center in Hazard). If you know someone who needs help, please contact us online, or toll-free at (877) KEF-5775. If we cannot help you personally, we will put you in direct contact with an organization that can." - Richard T. Jones, Chairman of the Board

Kentucky Equality Federation also lost a co-founder of Kentucky Equality Coalition, Inc. in late 2010. Kimball Roy passed away on August 17, 2010 from a heart attack at the age of 45.

Mr. Roy also served as Assistant Treasurer and Assistant Secretary of the Corporation for both Federation for Kentucky Equality, Inc. and Kentucky Equality Coalition, Inc. (collectively called Kentucky Equality Federation).

Marriage Equality Kentucky names Halyn Roth Managing Director

2011-01-06T10:11:00.005-05:00

Marriage Equality Kentucky™ today announced that long-term Kentucky Equality Federation™ volunteer Halyn Roth was named managing director of Marriage Equality Kentucky™.

"Being nominated and appointed Managing Director of Marriage Equality Kentucky™ is very important to me," stated Roth who was recently the Campaign Manager for Democrat Jim Holbert, who opposed Republican U.S. Representative Hal Rogers in Kentucky's Fifth Congressional District during the 2010 election.

Roth continued: "I am a believer in the Constitution and our rights as citizens to live our lives the way we see fit. That being said, I believe we have a Constitutional right to marry any consenting adult we choose, regardless of sexual orientation. I would utilize my experience as a Campaign Manager and as a political activist to bring marriage equality to the Commonwealth of Kentucky. I also intend to reach out to the religious community and attempt to form alliances with those who understand that our movement does not seek to destroy any religious institution, but rather equality under the laws of our Commonwealth and the United States. I will also lobby Kentucky lawmakers who may be "on the fence," by educating and persuading them to vote in favor of marriage equality."

Marriage Equality Kentucky™ has a Facebook group with over 7,500 members who support marriage equality in Kentucky, over 400 people who have signed public petitions, with an additional 4,230 people who have signed private petitions.

Marriage Equality Kentucky™ is a member of the national organization, Marriage Equality USA™.

Marriage Equality Kentucky is an independent group funded by Kentucky Equality Federation. Marriage Equality Kentucky is also a member of Kentucky Equality Federation and recognizes the sitting president of Kentucky Equality Federation as their Ex-Officio President.

Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer yesterday gave the appointment a "rubber stamp," approval as required by the Bylaws of Kentucky Equality Federation, and the Constitution of Marriage Equality Kentucky.

Kentucky Equality Federation Treasurer Dean Byrd called the appointment of Halyn Roth as Managing Director of Marriage Equality Kentucky "an excellent decision."

Julia Oiler Spiegel, the director of the Northern Kentucky Chapter COLAGE™ (Children Of Lesbians And Gays Everywhere, an international organization with 52 chapters in the United States) stated: "As an engaged lesbian in a committed relationship, I personally thank Halyn Roth and Jordan Palmer for their continued efforts and passion in helping to make a much needed change within the Commonwealth and throughout the country. I will help Mr. Roth anyway possible, and have a high degree of confidence in Jordan Palmer's decisions."

The COLAGE – Northern Kentucky Chapter is also a coalition ally and member of Kentucky Equality Federation.

Louisville based Jeffrey Johnson; the Central Kentucky Regional Director for Kentucky Equality Federation also offered his support to Roth.

"Just because the largely anti-gay Tea Party now controls the U.S. House of Representatives, in addition to losses of gay-friendly lawmakers in the Kentucky House of Representatives, we shall not hide in the dark, nor shall we retreat because a new political force originally founded to bring financial change is now pushing social change," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "Though many national organizations are retreating, we shall not let the issue of marriage equality fall aside in Kentucky. We cannot allow social injustice to survive another generation; our time is now and we will continue to fight for peace, liberty, and equality regardless of opposition."

Richard T. Jones, Kentucky Equality Federation's Chairman of the Board announced that legislative priorities will be announced tomorrow after continued consultation with coalition partners, members, and allied organizations.

Kentucky Equality Federation owns the trademark "Marriage Equality Kentucky," but the Federation's Board of Directors permit Marriage Equality Kentucky to operate as a separate group and movement.

Culture war at the United Nations ends with victory for gay rights organizations.

2010-12-21T23:51:00.007-05:00

Lexington, KY -- Nearly a month after the United Nations General Assembly's Human Rights Committee approved an Arab and African proposal to cut the reference to slayings due to sexual orientation from a resolution on extrajudicial, summary and arbitrary executions, international pressure lead by the United States Ambassador to the United Nations, Susan Rice, as well as the United States Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, the original text has been reinstated.

The United States Department of State 'incensed' sexual orientation be added back to the list of protected minorities and a culture war broke out at the United Nations over whether gay people should be offered the same protections as other minorities whose lives are threatened under the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights.

The International Lesbian and Gay Association (ILGA), a non-government United Nations observer and its 600 member organizations, including Kentucky Equality Federation, condemned the action by the United Nations General Assembly last month.

The 192-nation General Assembly approved a U.S. amendment to the resolution that restored the reference to sexual orientation with 93 votes in favor, 55 against and 27 abstentions. The amended resolution was then adopted with 122 yes votes, none against and 59 abstentions.

The main opposition to the United States amendment came from Muslim and African nations, which had led the push to delete the reference to sexual preference from the resolution last month.

"We recognize that the fight at the United Nations underscores the historic split over gay rights at the United Nations and their diverse religious and cultural sensibilities, stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "However, no State at the United Nations has the right to deprive someone of life because of the way they are born; we all have the right to live and to protect ourselves and our families."

Richard T. Jones, Kentucky Equality Federation's Chairman of the Board of Directors reiterated that the decision the United Nations General Assembly's Human Rights Committee made in removing protections for sexual orientation was contrary to the directives of the head of the United Nations, Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, who in September 2010 stated: "The responsibilities of the United Nations and the obligations of States are clear. No-one, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, should be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. No-one should be prosecuted for their ideas or beliefs. No-one should be punished for exercising their right to freedom of expression."

"We are very happy for the outcome of this vote," said Gloria Careaga and Renato Sabbadini, ILGA co-Secretaries General. "It restores the original inclusive language of the resolution on extra-judicial executions and acknowledges that indeed many people around the world are killed every year because of their sexual orientation. We also know that many people are killed because of their gender identity or expression and we believe that the language of the resolution should refer to this as well – a proposal to be taken in consideration in the future by all United Nations States which voted in favor of today's amendment."

In the United States, Fox News mocked the fighting at the United Nations over gay rights.

Kentucky Equality Federation's Chair and Treasurer Promise legal action for Noah's Ark tax incentives; teacher's express alarm

2010-12-07T23:52:00.005-05:00

Lexington, KY -- Ark Encounter LLC, a for-profit entity, and Answers in Genesis, Inc. the nonprofit ministry that built the Creation Museum in Petersburg, will partner to build the $150 million Ark Encounter on a 160-acre site, including Noah's Ark and Tower of Babel with Kentucky taxpayer money!

Previous pictures taken inside the "Creation Museum" attribute homosexuality as being an abomination. Kentucky Equality Federation has created an online petition to stop government sponsored religion by denying tax incentives to the "Ark Project."

The freedom of religion is clearly outlined in the Section V of the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. In addition, the Kentucky Supreme Court has repeatedly struck down funding to religious institutions.

However, by personally announcing the Ark project, Kentucky's chief of state, government, and commander-in-chief, has done exactly that. Governor Steve Beshear said the group has applied for tax incentives via the Kentucky Tourism Development Act, and the fact that the project has a religious theme should not be a factor in the approval process.

By giving tax incentives to Ark Encounter LLC, or Answers in Genesis, the Commonwealth is in fact giving "preference to a religious sect, society or denomination."

"We have a responsibility to our Constitution and our youth. By ignoring science, in addition to the Kentucky House of Representatives passing a resolution adopting the Manhattan Declaration's anti-gay "Christian values," they are creating a religious Commonwealth, stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. How many additional teen suicides will occur because our government is adopting these so-called "Christian values? They are certainly not any Christian values I have ever read."

Palmer continued: "People across the United States are making fun of Kentucky because of the "Ark Project," in addition to the Kentucky House of Representatives adopting the Manhattan Declaration. We will not allow Kentucky to become a religious state.

"Not only is it a question of freedom of religion, but a question of the usage of our tax dollars. There are more important things that they could be utilizing the money for," stated Matt Berry, Kentucky Equality Federation's Eastern Kentucky Regional Director.

Several Kentucky teachers have also protested the tax incentives. Due to the volatile nature of this project, their names shall remain confidential: "I teach science in Kentucky, and am confronted everyday with the difficulties of dispelling myths about what science is and what scientists do. This is not entertainment, it is misinformation that is harmful to our future. We are trailing behind other developed countries in science education - if the governor truly cared about jobs, then science, math, and technology education should be a priority rather than something to undermine." Another stated: "In the midst of a huge recession and Republicans suddenly demanding we balance the budget, we're going to give away free money to these folks? I don't think so."

"If the Commonwealth provides tax incentives to the Ark project, we will attempt to form a coalition to challenge it as government sponsored religion," stated Richard T. Jones, Kentucky Equality Federation's Chairman of the Board. "By adopting the Manhattan Declaration, and lawmakers filing 'friend of the court briefs' to uphold the law to 'Publicize the findings of the General Assembly stressing the dependence on Almighty God as being vital to the security of the Commonwealth by including the provisions of KRS 39A.285(3) in its agency training and educational materials' the Commonwealth is creating a religious state and forcing a specific religion on the Commonwealth's citizens."

Dean Byrd, Kentucky Equality Federation's Treasurer also denounced the project, and stated the Federation would sue the Commonwealth, or form a coalition to sue the Commonwealth if tax incentives are granted.

Victory: Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program Funded!

2010-12-06T14:48:00.003-05:00

Today, we celebrate victory as more than 300 people are removed from the Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program (KADAP). Kentucky Equality Federation and 11 other organizations urged lawmakers during the 2010 Kentucky Legislative Session to keep the program alive since this program was a last resort to people who could not afford the life saving medications,” stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer.

The cost for HIV/AIDS medication averages around $1,200/month—more than the entire monthly income of most families enrolled in KADAP.

"Not funding the Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program was inhumane, shortsighted, and threatened individual and public health," stated Palmer, who met with lawmakers six times during the 2010 Legislative Session about KADAP.

Led by Kentucky Equality Federation, the Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy Group, and AVOL (AIDS Volunteers Inc.), organizations across the Commonwealth expressed alarm and dismay that the 2010 budget was passed without funding for the Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program (KADAP).

Courtesy of the Commonwealth News Service:

The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) announced today that improved program efficiencies, pharmaceutical rebates and supplemental funding from the federal government have led to the elimination of the list of individuals who were awaiting assistance from the Kentucky AIDS Drugs Assistance Program (KADAP).

In September, all 306 individuals who were on a waiting list to receive medications for HIV/AIDS were enrolled in the program, giving them consistent access to life-sustaining drugs. KADAP is a payor of last resort for Kentuckians with HIV/AIDS who lack the resources to obtain needed medications. Without prescription medicines, the health of these individuals could deteriorate and drug resistance could develop, making treatment even more costly.

"This is another step forward in our work to assist Kentuckians living with HIV/AIDS," said DPH Commissioner William Hacker, M.D. "Many Kentuckians rely on this program for assistance in obtaining medications that are absolutely vital for their health. Through the work of our staff – along with the advocacy community – individuals in need do not have to wait to access services."

With the addition of those on the waiting list, the program now serves almost 1,500 Kentuckians. KADAP is expected to be able to accommodate the current rate of new enrollees, approximately 20 per month, through June 2012.

"KADAP is a vital link in the triad of care, treatment and prevention. When individuals have access to medication and treatment, it improves their health and quality of life," said Bobby Edelen, president of the Kentucky HIV Advocacy and Action Group and at-large member of the Kentucky HIV/AIDS Planning and Advisory Council. "Moreover, when people realize this service is available – and they will have access to care – they are more likely to get tested."

Kentucky Equality Federation condemns deleting sexual orientation as a protected class in the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights

2010-11-23T09:34:00.000-05:00

Lexington, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation, the Commonwealth's largest all-volunteer lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex organization today condemned the United Nations General Assembly Human Rights Committee for voting to remove "sexual orientation" from a resolution that protects people from arbitrary executions. The action has been condemned by Human Rights Watch (not to be confused with U.S. Human Rights Campaign) and the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered and Intersex Association (ILGA).

Kentucky Equality Federation has been a member if ILGA since 2006. ILGA holds consultative status as a non-government organization at the United Nations.

The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered and Intersex Association (ILGA) is an international organization bringing together more than 600 lesbian and gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, and intersex groups from around the world. It continues to be active in campaigning for LGBTI rights on the international human rights and civil rights scene and regularly petitions the United Nations and governments. ILGA is represented in around 110 countries across the world.

Representatives from the African nations of Morocco and Mali had introduced an amendment on behalf of other African and Islamic nations calling for deletion of the phrase "sexual orientation" and instead substituting the phrase "discriminatory reasons on any basis" in its place. The amendment narrowly passed 79-70, and then was approved by the committee, which includes all 192 U.N. member states, with 165 in favor, 10 abstentions and no votes against.

A spokesman for U.S. Secretary of State Hilary Clinton expressed disappointment at the panel's actions, noting that the U.S. delegation had opposed the change to the resolution and abstained from the final vote.

Richard T. Jones, Kentucky Equality Federation’s new Chairman of the Board of Directors noted that the panel’s decision was contrary to the directives of the head of the United Nations, Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, who in September stated: "The responsibilities of the United Nations and the obligations of States are clear. No-one, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, should be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. No-one should be prosecuted for their ideas or beliefs. No-one should be punished for exercising their right to freedom of expression."

"It's a step backwards and it's extremely disappointing that some countries felt the need to remove the reference to sexual orientation, when sexual orientation is the very reason why so many people around the world have been subjected to violence," said Philippe Bolopion of Human Rights Watch, in a statement.

"Kentucky Equality Federation calls on the Executive Office of the Secretary-General, which includes the Deputy Secretary General, to intervene before the General Assembly votes on the issue in December," stated Kentucky Equality Federation founder Jordan Palmer. "The 79 developing states who voted for the change currently torture, execute, or incarcerate LGBTI people, and they have effectively high-jacked the United Nations; the 70 states that voted against changing the law are developed, freedom loving states. I'm not sure the General Assembly has the authority to modify the Universal Declaration of Human Rights without consideration from the Security Council or at a minimum, the Secretary-General."

Palmer continued: Changing this resolution comes in part to the United Nations pulling its HIV/AIDS relief efforts out of Uganda for executing homosexuals, which has been tracked back to U.S. Representatives in Congress, some who deny involvement. Uganda’s actions also received strong reactions from the Commonwealth of Nations and Queen Elizabeth II.

Veteran United Kingdom LGBTI activist Peter Tatchell in an interview with the United Kingdom's pinknews.uk, Jessica Geen, said, "The move was a 'shameful day in United Nations history' and would give a "de facto green light to the on-going murder of LGBT people by homophobic regimes, death squads and vigilantes." Tatchell said homophobic countries would "take comfort from the fact that the United Nations does not endorse the protection of LGBT people against hate-motivated murder," and added, "The United Nations vote is in direct defiance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which guarantees equal treatment, non-discrimination and the right to life. What is the point of the United Nations if it refuses to uphold its own humanitarian values and declarations?"

Following is the list of countries that voted to remove "sexual orientation" from the anti-execution resolution:

Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belize, Benin, Botswana, Brunei Dar-Sala, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, China, Comoros, Congo, Cote d'Ivoire, Cuba, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Russian Federation, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and Grenadines, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sudan, Suriname, Swaziland, Syrian Arab Republic, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, United Republic of Tanzania, Uzbekistan, Viet Nam, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Kentucky Equality Federation elects Chairman of the Board

2010-11-13T14:18:00.000-05:00

Lexington, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation confirmed today that it is beefing up its board of directors with the appointment of veteran activist Richard T. Jones as non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors. The members initially appointed Jones to the Board, immediately thereafter, the Board elected Jones Chair.

Jones has been with the organization since October 2009, assisting the the president with administration and communications. Jones also chaired the non-Board Discrimination, Hate Crimes, and School Bullying Committee who has handled more than 40 cases in 2010 alone.

Previously, President Jordan Palmer served as ex officio executive Chairman of the Board in the absence of an elected Chair. Palmer had previously resigned from the organization, but returned as interim president at the request of the Board of Directors.

"I will be very involved with our volunteers and officers," stated Jones. "I will continue to work for equality for all people and expand Kentucky Equality Federation's reach as the Commonwealth's largest all-volunteer grassroots gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender organization and mold our future endeavors and alliances."

Jones continued: "Since my involvement with Kentucky Equality Federation, I have been honored to be able to work with Jordan Palmer and be part of an organization who has worked so hard for equality, but most important, a dream of equality for those who truly have yet to experience it. When I wake up in the morning and begin my work for the day, I feel as though I am helping to fulfill a dream that one day will make a difference for a people who eat, sleep and dream of freedom from persecution."

Tomorrow we wear purple

2010-10-19T16:43:00.004-04:00

Lexington, KY (Official Statement from the Founder, Jordan Palmer) -- Tomorrow on Wednesday, October 20, 2010 we wear purple across the Commonwealth in loving memory of the teen suicides and those who have suffered school bullying. We wear purple to announce to the world that we are proud of who we are, and perhaps a child or teenager will see someone wearing purple and realize they are not alone, and that we love them. Our community will be strong for those who cannot be.

As we move forward, we must teach our children about diversity and tolerance.

Every time someone speaks out against the LGBTI community such as Kentucky Whitley County Judge Executive Pat White, Jr., State of New York Governor's candidate Carl Paladino, the Republican Party of Texas, or Montana Tea Party Leader Tim Ravndal, a child is listening.

Children watch TV, listen to the radio, read the news, and have access to social networking.

Tomorrow we wear purple to show our LGBTI children and teenagers they are not mistakes, they are not alone, and that we stand ready to assist them.

Over 1.5 Million people have pledged to wear purple tomorrow through the following Facebook initiatives:

1. http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=148505385191248&index=1
2. http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=159017510783875&index=1
3. http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=122462384475928&index=1

To me, Bette Midler said it best on her website:

It is a sad, sad day for America when young people would rather die than endure one more day of hatred and relentless persecution. As a mother, I am ashamed of all the parents who have failed to teach even the most basic human lessons to their children, "Live and let Live" and "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." The normal, everyday kindness that we took for granted just a few years ago is a thing of the past, and I for one, mourn it deeply. Technology, the Internet, with its anonymity, have allowed people to behave like beasts, pouncing on the weak and howling with laughter when they inflict a wound, that only the strongest could survive. What are we doing to ourselves? How are we to survive as a nation, when hate seems to be the only thing that motivates us??

Four children are dead by their own hand because they just couldn't take any more. How many more are we going to sacrifice to the hyenas? Isn't it time to stop?? -- Bette Midler

Louisville gay couples will remain to make their neighborhood safer after robberies

2010-10-19T15:31:00.006-04:00

Louisville, KY -- Two Louisville couples, including Keith McGill and Jim Reeves had personal belongings destroyed and stolen during a robbery. An affectionate letter he and his partner shared with one another was placed on the sofa and urinated on.

These gentlemen live in the Germantown neighborhood known for its diversity and charming homes.

The Louisville Police Department is currently investigating the crimes; this was the second time a gay couple's home has been robbed. Police have stated however that they are not investigating it as hate crimes.

Mr. Reeves told Kentucky Equality Federation that at first glance he was scared, but that fear quickly turned to anger, and disbelieve. The couple stated: "We think that someone thought it was OK because we are gay or that you can enter our home and take whatever you want and it doesn't matter or no one will care." The Germantown couple will stay in their home and work to make the neighborhood and city a safer place for everyone and state that they are not scared.

Jeff Johnson, a Kentucky Equality Federation Louisville volunteer and Community Blogger stated: "We stand united with the families against those who would try to intimidate us or bring fear to our community."

Richard Jones, Chair of Kentucky Equality Federation stated: "We must rid ourselves of actions through ignorance, we must do more to inform the people of Kentucky, and the world that diversity is a good thing and that fear and prejudice can be overcome through education and understanding."

Kentucky Equality Federation founder Jordan Palmer had no comment and differed to the statements of Johnson and Jones.

SUBSCRIBE TO PRESS RELEASES: http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=KylgbtorgReleases

Statement on God's role in Kentucky's Homeland Security

2010-10-03T05:58:00.002-04:00

"Kentucky Equality Federation urges Kentucky lawmakers to focus on improving the quality of life for all Kentuckians instead of trying to force religion on the citizens of the Commonwealth." - Richard T. Jones, Chairman "This is a clear violation of Kentucky's Constitution."

Kentucky Equality Federation applauds United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon for working for LGBTI equality

2010-09-21T14:38:00.002-04:00

Lexington, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation today praised the "leader of the world," United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon for being the first head of the United Nations to openly support equality for gay and lesbian people.

Kentucky Equality Federation, a member of the International Lesbian and Gay Association (ILGA), a United Nations non-government consultant, has been trying for years to have sexual orientation and gender identity added to the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights.

"This is truly extraordinary," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Founder and Public Advocate Jordan Palmer. "For LGBTI equality to reach the Office of the United Nations Secretary-General is remarkable and shows our worldwide struggle for equality. The International Lesbian and Gay Association and Kentucky Equality Federation will not stop until sexual orientation and gender identity are added as a protected class under United Nations law; after that, we will address the issue of gender-neutral marriage equality."

Palmer continued: "This United Nations Secretary-General, as well as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights seems willing."

This is the statement of the United Nation Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, as delivered by Ms. Navanethem Pillay, High Commissioner for Human Rights, during the fifteenth regular session of the Human Rights Council:

It is a pleasure to greet all the participants in this event taking place during the fifteenth regular session of the Human Rights Council.

Human rights make up one of the three pillars of the United Nations, alongside development and peace and security. Protecting human rights means protecting the rights of everyone, without distinction or discrimination, and paying particular attention to the most vulnerable and marginalized, who may face special obstacles to the full enjoyment of their rights.

In this context, I recognize the particular vulnerability of individuals who face criminal sanctions, including imprisonment and in some cases the death penalty, on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Laws criminalizing people on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity violate the principle of non-discrimination. They also fuel violence, help to legitimize homophobia and contribute to a climate of hate. That is why, in May of this year, during a visit to Malawi, I called for such laws to be reformed worldwide.

No doubt deeply-rooted cultural sensitivities can be aroused when we talk about sexual orientation. Social attitudes run deep and take time to change. But cultural considerations should not stand in the way of basic human rights.

The responsibilities of the United Nations and the obligations of States are clear. No-one, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, should be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. No-one should be prosecuted for their ideas or beliefs. No-one should be punished for exercising their right to freedom of expression.

I hope that your discussions will further the inter-governmental dialogue on this issue and raise awareness of the need for reform. Please accept my best wishes for a successful event.

Palmer continued: "I never thought I would witness the head of the United Nations making such a statement. It shows that LGBTI equality has finally reached a worldwide audience, and these people have the ability to make the changes necessary."

Kentucky Equality Federation demands action from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services for discriminating against a gay person

2010-08-26T03:34:00.002-04:00

Lexington, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation expressed outrage today toward the Cabinet for Health and Family Services for discriminating against a gay male attempting to remove his sister's children from foster care.

Jeffrey Thompson of Louisville, KY was visited by a social worker who assumed he was gay. According to Thompson, the social worker never actually asked him.

The most disturbing item on the report is the social worker stating: "The relationship and roles of the adults [Mr. Thompson and his partner] are fraught with the possibility of long-term illness/disability and domestic violence."

"This is absolutely outrageous," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Founder and Public Advocate Jordan Palmer. "The Cabinet is apparently assuming the couple will contract HIV/AIDS. This is a clear bias against the LGBTI community. The Cabinet also pointed out that one of the adults not being a relative was also a cause for concern [Mr. Thompson's partner].... well, in foster placement, they are surrounded by strangers. I think the gay and lesbian community here in Kentucky is getting pretty sick of being discriminated against because of homophobia."

Palmer also added that the Kentucky Supreme Court has ruled on same-sex second parent adoption, so Mr. Thompson's partner should not be a factor. (press release)

"Mr. Thompson and his partner have been together since April 29, 2008," added Chairman Richard Jones." Also, Mr. Thompson reports that neither he nor his partner have any health problems, and have never fought. The actions of the Cabinet are a direct result of bias against our community. I cannot believe the Commonwealth would rather have these children in foster care instead of their Uncle Jeffrey. The 'Overall Assessment' stated in the report is completely unacceptable, and assumes they will contract a deadly disease because of their sexual orientation."

Jeffrey Thompson stated: "I think that the cabinet didn't recommend placement because of the fact that Michael and I are homosexuals. I think the cabinet believes that homosexuals will contract a disease or have domestic violence in their lives, which has led them to say there is "concern" and deny placement." Thompson continued: "I would describe the demeanor of the social worker to be very assuming; he will draw his own conclusions without seeing or hearing the facts. He is very unhelpful and rude at times."

Several Kentucky Equality Federation Committee members specialize in child placement and adoption, and have been working with Mr. Thompson along with Chairman Richard Jones.

Kentucky Equality Federation calls on Inspector General Mary R. Begley, the Office of the Ombudsman, and Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Janie Miller to investigate the matter immediately.

Federation Founder and Public Advocate Jordan Palmer also sent a copy of the report to Kerri Richardson in the Governor's Communications Office about this issue.

"Mr. Thompson is ready and willing to cooperate with the Cabinet and make any reasonable changes, in addition to attending child caring classes," added Jones. "However, the basis for the denial of placement is itself discriminatory."

Louisville based Jeff Johnson, Kentucky Equality Federation's Regional Director for the Bluegrass Region has also been briefed about the case and will also maintain contact with Jeffrey Thompson and his partner.

NOTICE: Reports are attached. However the names of the children cannot be released, and anything that contains their name(s) has been blacked out.

Kentucky Equality Federation Calls on Kentuckians to Join the National Boycott Against Target and Best Buy THIS Weekend!

2010-08-10T03:26:00.000-04:00

A nationwide boycott is being called for THIS weekend against a Political Action Committee (PAC) made up of several businesses, including Target and Best Buy, called MN Forward.

The boycott is being called nationwide because Target and Best Buy contributed a lot of money to Minnesota Republican Governor Candidate Tom Emmer. Emmer has aligned himself with radical anti-gay groups, including "You Can Run But You Cannot Hide International, Inc.," a Christian group whose head, Bradlee Dean, has said it is acceptable to execute homosexuals in a manner similar to that in Muslim nations.

Target Corporation made a significant donation of $150,000 to Minnesota political action committee MN Forward, which funds television ads for anti-gay Republican gubernatorial candidate Tom Emmer. Best Buy also donated $100,000 to Emmer's campaign.

A national "no shopping" day of protest is set for this weekend, August 14th and August 15th against Target and Best Buy.

Other statewide gay rights organizations are joining the boycott, and the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) has condemned the donations.

A Facebook group has also been created, which had nearly 55,000 members at press-time.

"This is about corporate responsibility, and if these companies, which once claimed to be 'gay friendly' wish to continue having LGBTI consumers, they need to be careful about whom they support," stated Kentucky Equality Federation founder, public advocate, and Board member, Jordan Palmer. "The actions of Target and Best Buy impact every LGBTI person in the United States, and we urge all citizens of the Commonwealth to boycott these stores this weekend."

Dean Byrd, Kentucky Equality Federation's co-President and Treasurer stated: "It is a slap in the face to the LGBTI community; I also believe that AT&T, Verizon Wireless, Kroger, and Thornton's should have been included alongside Target and Best Buy. Kentucky is the ONLY state Verizon Wireless donated money to a statewide political party (Republican), which currently, is completely anti-gay and homophobic especially the Kentucky Senate under the leadership of President David L. Williams."

Kentucky Equality Federation issued an alert about AT&T, Verizon Wireless, Kroger, and Thornton's on their Facebook page earlier today: http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=142393382459414

NOTE: Kentucky Equality Federation is Kentucky's largest all-volunteer grassroots lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex ("LGBTI") civil rights and advocacy organization. Kentucky Equality Federation is a diverse organization consisting of several corporations and groups with a common cause for Peace, Liberty, and Equality for All.

Kentucky Equality Federation condemns special legislative session for not including KADAP funding

2010-05-25T03:18:00.001-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation today condemned the special legislative session called by Governor Steve Beshear for not including funding to the Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program (KADAP).

Budget cuts have forced the program to create a wait list for people newly diagnosed with HIV. The Commonwealth of Kentucky is currently # 2 in the nation on a waiting list. Activists in the State of South Carolina protested at the state Capitol today.

"We urge the Honorable Steve Beshear as head of state and government of the Commonwealth to immediately take steps to restore this life saving program," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "The legislature, with the exception of Senior Representative Tom Burch, chairman of the House Health and Welfare Committee have effectively told new HIV patients to 'drop dead.'"

In Resolution 1333, Kentucky Equality Federation's Board of Directors declared an AIDS crisis in the Commonwealth, and condemned the Kentucky House of Representatives for failure to fund the program.

"We've heard stories from people seeking out second mortgages to pay for their medications," say Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer and Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy Action Group (KHAAG) President Bobby Edelen. "One person who approached us said, 'with the uncertainty of receiving assistance I am thinking about selling off my life insurance policy' to afford life-sustaining medications. We're back to the 80s."

The nearly 1300 patients enrolled in the Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program (KADAP), which is currently unfunded, receive medications through a hodge-podge of resources that are temporary and unsustainable.

In the meantime, Kentucky has a waiting list for drug assistance - numbering over 200 men and women - with more being added every day according to the Kaiser Foundation's State Health Facts. "When do we come off the waiting list? asked one HIV/AIDS patient, when we die?"

To compound the issue, Kentucky lawmakers allowed the Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program to expire. "The fact that the Commonwealth also stopped funding the low-income Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program in 2007 is inhumane, shortsighted, and threatens individual and public health," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer.

People with HIV/AIDS who do not have access to medications are at increased risk for opportunistic infections, more frequent hospitalization (often under indigent status), and early death.

In contrast, a person who is taking HIV medications as prescribed and taking care of their health can reasonably expect to live as long as someone without HIV. "Not funding the Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program is inhumane, shortsighted, and threatens individual and public health," states Palmer, who met with lawmakers six times during the legislative session trying to get KADAP restored.

HIV/AIDS has the most devastating impact on Kentucky's most at-risk communities, who already face significant barriers in accessing health care. KADAP is literally a lifeline for these men and women.

Minority populations are disproportionately at risk for HIV/AIDS. According to statistics from the HIV/AIDS Branch of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, African-Americans in Kentucky make 7.6% of the commonwealth's total population but account for 36% of all new HIV infections. Similarly, Latino Kentuckians make up 2.4% of the population but account for 7% of new HIV infections.

In March, organizations across the Commonwealth joined Kentucky Equality Federation in stating that "KADAP is a crucial and necessary program for Kentuckians living with HIV/AIDS." These organizations included the Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy Action Group, AVOL (AIDS Volunteers, Inc.), the Kentucky HIV/AIDS Planning and Advisory Council, COLAGE (Children Of Lesbians And Gays Everywhere), Kentucky Chapter, United We Stand - Kentucky's LGBTI News, The Wings Clinic, House of Ruth, Moveable Feast, GLSO (Lexington Gay Lesbian Service Organization), University of Kentucky OUTsource, and the University of Kentucky Gay-Straight Alliance.

Kentucky Equality Federation will work with activists around the Commonwealth to prepare a protest at the Kentucky Governor's Mansion. "Lawmakers failed to act, now it is in the hands of our Governor," added Palmer. "We also recognize that U.S. President Obama is also to blame for cutting funding to these programs."

Crosby Middle School student called a contradiction for having lesbian parents. Kentucky Equality Federation seeks action

2010-05-11T00:20:00.002-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation today called for the termination or route change for Jefferson County School Bus Driver Ronell Mattingly and an official apology from Crosby Middle School Assistant Principal Angela Allen.

"The issue centers on the suspension of the child from the bus simply because she was offended when others on the bus were making fun of gay and lesbian people. When she brought this to the attention of bus driver, the driver thought it was humorous and told the child she was a 'contradiction' according to the report filed with our organization," stated Rick Wolfe, spokesman for Kentucky Equality Federation's Discrimination, Hate Crimes, and School Bullying Committee, and special adviser to the president for youth and discrimination. "As a result of the child bringing it to the attention of the bus driver, she was suspended for a three (3) day period. The fact that the bus driver called her a 'contradiction' because she was the child of a lesbian couple, in addition to the way the school handled the situation is a serious problem."

According to the parents of the child, on March 31, 2010 the school bus driver told the child she was a "contradiction," because she has same-sex lesbian parents and has been subsequently and continuously punished for calling the bus driver a 'jerk' because of her remark.

"The fact that anyone still feels they have the right to make judgment calls regarding other peoples life choices is the reason that organizations like Kentucky Equality Federation and COLAGE (Children of Lesbians and Gays Everywhere) exist," stated Julia Oiler Spiegel, Coordinator of the COLAGE Kentucky Chapter, and Kentucky Equality Federation's Children of LGBTI Parents Outreach Director. The Kentucky Chapter of COLAGE is also a member of the Commonwealth Coalition. "As a parent, lesbian or straight, I would question the safety of my child while being chaperoned by this bus driver. I cannot help but wonder the drivers response if a child reported being bullied, harassed or assaulted while riding this bus. I commend this child for her willingness to defend her family unit, however that may be defined."

According to the parents, children on the school bus were joking about gay and lesbian people. This offended the twelve year old child and brought it to the attention of the school bus driver. The school bus driver asked the child to have her parents call her, the parents did and the school bus driver allegedly repeated the statement to one of the parents, Evon Reeves.

Evon Reeves statement: "My daughter who rides the school bus to and from school, recently there were some comments made on the bus regarding gays, my daughter said that word offended her because her mom was gay; the bus driver laughed and replied 'that's a contradiction.' Being 12 years old at the time, she did not know what that meant; my daughter did ask her what that meant and the bus driver ignored her. My daughter did get smart with her which I am not condoning at all and her punishment was suspension off the bus for 3 days and she was suppose to write a letter. The day this happened, my daughter called me at work told me what happened and I really could not believe an adult would say something so absurd.

I called the Blankenbaker Bus Depot like the bus driver had told my daughter to ask me to do; the bus driver returned my call later that night and said the same exact thing to me, which showed me what mentality she actually had. The next day the driver made her sit in back of the bus with High School Students, and would not let any of her friends turn around and talk to her.

I did not receive a call the from school until 3 days later, when I and spoke to Assistant Principal Angela Allen, she stated my daughter had been suspended off bus due to being 'smart.'

Mattingly wanted a written apology which my partner and I didn't agree with; Assistant Principal Angela Allen stated my daughter should simply ignore such comments and grow some thicker skin. I reiterated that the comments were made to my 12 year old child, from an adult. My daughter has enough to deal with such as peer pressure, growing up, homework, etc. and should not be subject to bigotry from a school bus driver who is suppose to be driving the bus and protecting children, not arguing with a child.

When my daughter returned to school, the driver made her sit in back of the bus with High School Students, and would not allow any of her friends to turn around and talk to her. After that I did not let my daughter ride the bus until April 22, 2010.

When my daughter started to get off the bus the driver stood up in front of her and asked for her apology letter. My daughter told her that her family made the decision that she didn't have to write it, then; the driver then aggressively held the referral in her face and stated 'this says you do.' My daughter explained again she was told not to apologize. The driver then stated she was going to give another referral and hoped she got suspend from the bus for the rest of the year. She has not ridden the bus sense.

The parents turned to Kentucky Equality Federation for assistance after being stonewalled by the school, as well as the Jefferson County Board of Education's Transportation Office, who has refused to listen to the parents. The child still isn't riding the school bus because she is now also afraid of the driver.

"The audacity of a school bus driver to say such a thing to a child is appalling and shows the bigotry gay and lesbian parents face," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "The school bus driver has authority over the bus, and should have asked the students making derogatory comments about gay and lesbian people to stop, or they should have been the ones punished; had comments been made about any other minority group, I believe this situation would have been handled in a completely different manner." Palmer continued, "The school certainly is not giving 'an environment that fosters self-discipline and self direction' as stated on their website."

Reeves continued: "We have moved beyond 'some type of disciplinary action,' or a simple don't let it happen again. My daughter cannot ride the bus because she feels threatened by the bus driver who made her sit in the very back of the bus with high school students after this happened. I want them know they can't make such statements. I want them to know they cannot do that to my child, or any other child."

Kentucky Equality Federation will be filing official complaints with Louisville's representation in the Kentucky House of Representatives, in addition to the Commonwealth's Acting Secretary of Education, Joseph U. Meyer, the Kentucky Department of Education, and the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board.

Counsel for the Kentucky Equality Federation, Jill Hall Rose, media statement. Hate voicemail included stating gays are not welcome in the Commonwealth!

2010-05-03T00:08:00.012-04:00

Counsel for the Kentucky Equality Federation, Jill Hall Rose, has reviewed the court proceedings in the Jackson District Court involving Cheyenne Williams on behalf of the Federation. It has been determined that while the Federation respects the ruling of the Court, there may have been certain irregularities within the proceedings that should be reviewed to ensure that the victim was not treated differently due to her sexual orientation.

These irregularities include the following:

1. SUPPORTERS OF THE DEFENDANTS
During the preliminary hearing on April 29, 2010, 8-10 individuals supporting the Defendants, none of whom were witnesses, parties, court personnel or attorneys, were allowed to sit in the jury box in courtroom during the hearing to visually show support of the Defendants. These seats were directly in front of the Judge and separate from the public area of the courtroom. Further, these individuals were completely dressed in white as a sign of support for the Defendants. This dress was coordinated by the Defendants, and all of the Defendants’ supporters in the public area of the courtroom were similarly dressed in white. These 8-10 individuals were allowed to remain in the nonpublic area of the Court room instead of the area designated for the public. This is highly unusual and creates a perception of favoritism for the Defendants.

2. INVESTIGATION
It appears that the charges were not promptly and fully investigated by law enforcement. While the incident took place on 4/16/10, the officer who testified at the hearing stated that he had still not completed his investigation.

3. PRIVATE COMPLAINT
No officer would support the charges and therefore, Ms. Williams was required to bring the Complaint herself through a private complaint.

4. VICTIMS ADVOCATE
Jackson County does not have a victims advocate that serves the court system. While this is likely a funding issue, the Kentucky Equality Federation has had to fill that role for Miss Williams.

5. STATE HATE CRIME
At no point, has the prosecutor or court recognized that one of the charges upon which the Judge found probable cause, namely fourth degree assault, can be subject to the “hate crime” statute under KRS 532.031. Pursuant to this statute, the Judge may consider whether the offense the victim’s sexual orientation was primary factor in the commission of the crime in sentencing, including the denial of probation.

# # # # #

Kentucky Equality Federation also received a voice-mail stating gay and lesbian people are not welcome in Kentucky at 1:08 PM on Fri, Apr 30 2010. The message was directed to our President and the Discrimination, Hate Crimes, and School Bullying Committee.

Click here to listen.

Cheyenne Williams Media Update. Jackson County Alleged Attempted Murder and Kidnapping Case of a Lesbian Student

2010-04-26T23:59:00.004-04:00

As spokesperson for the Dee Johnson and her daughter, Cheyenne Williams, Kentucky Equality Federation has consulted our attorney Jill Hall Rose (http://www.jillhallrose.com). In addition, Ms. Johnson has been in contact with the County Attorney and neither are worried about the outcome of the case.

Per the request of the victim’s mother, Kentucky Equality Federation is the sole spokesman for all media outlets regarding this event. Inquiries may be directed to: (877) KEF-5775 – Ext. 5.

THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS HAVE BEEN APPROVED BY JILL HALL ROSE, KENTUCKY EQUALITY FEDERATION'S LEGAL REPRESENTATION

KENTUCKY EQUALITY FEDERATION PRESIDENT JORDAN PALMER'S STATEMENT:
From my perspective as president of Kentucky Equality Federation, the alleged victim filed a criminal complaint and made statements to the media, as well as her mother, Ms. Johnson. Kentucky Equality Federation also rushed to her defense because of statements made by Kentucky State Police.

It is completely normal in these types of proceeding for the accused to have counterattacks.

Kentucky Equality Federation remains united with the plaintiff. Miss Williams stands by her statements and the hate crimes report filed with Kentucky Equality Federation.

Kentucky Equality Federation has offered to help pay legal expenses if Williams' family wants to push for a hate-crime designation or pursue a civil lawsuit. We have also offered to help in elevating this to a federal level under the new hate crimes law U.S. President Obama signed into law.

KENTUCKY EQUALITY FEDERATION COMMITTEE STATEMENT FROM RICHARD JONES:
Richard Jones, a senior member of Kentucky Equality Federation’s Discrimination, Hate Crimes, and School Bullying Committee had a detailed conversation with Ms. Johnson and Miss Williams yesterday.

Committee members continue to work with Miss Williams and her mother. As Mr. Jones told the family yesterday, "We are committed to working with you and your family to the very best of our ability and the law."

In a Committee email, Mr. Jones reported:
After investigating the Hate Crime report submitted by the mother of Miss Cheyenne Williams, it has been determined that everything contained in the statement [the initial hate crime report to Kentucky Equality Federation] within the report is accurate to the best of the authors and my knowledge.

Kentucky Equality Federation also received the following email:
If you don’t help Cheyenne Williams and literally protest the streets of McKee, her attackers will walk free like Audrey Marcum’s.

THE FOLLOWING FOOTAGE IS COURTESY OF WKYT-TV:

Kentucky Equality Federation condemns: Help 4 Families Presents, "Hope Gathering 2010"

2010-04-14T23:43:00.000-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation today condemned an anti-gay and so called "ex-gay" group coming to Nicholasville, KY on May 22, 2010. The gathering is called "Hope Gathering 2010" which is being promoted as an event to help people "gain a deeper understanding of Gender Identity Disorder in a Christ centered gathering."

"After visiting the site of Help 4 Families, everything I have read is complete dogma," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "As a Christian, the message from Jesus is to love your neighbor, yet we continue to have groups such as these who twist religion to suit their own selfish needs."

Nikki McIntosh, Kentucky Equality Federation's Transgender Outreach Director stated, "They are disguising this as if they are a support group or want to help people, however, their real agenda is brainwashing people. I am the way God made me and I'm no mistake."

Homosexuality and gender identity is not unique in its status as an issue some people use to justify their hatred and/or repression of others. Throughout the history of this Commonwealth, our nation, the world, and the church, there have been other issues that were divisive in nature: anti-Semitism, slavery, and female clergy to name a few.

Palmer continued: "Unfortunately, for LGBTI people, some of the people who treat them the worst are their closest friends, family members, and churches upon learning of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This double jeopardy situation leads many LGBTI people to the brink of despair, and sometimes to suicide," stated Palmer. "Their blood is on the hands of groups such as Help 4 Families and gatherings such as Hope Gathering 2010."

"Kentucky Equality Federation will not allow the minds of adults, and more importantly, our youth to be poisoned," added Kentucky Equality Federation Board Secretary and Treasurer Dean Byrd.

"The development of a person's gender identity is not preventable or curable, this has been misunderstood by mainstream society for years, stated Rick Wolfe, Special Advisor for Youth and Discrimination, and a member of Kentucky Equality Federation's Discrimination, Hate Crimes, and School Bulling Committee. "Reparative therapy has proved to be a fraud, society has proven there is no "normal" gender identity or "normal" gender role. The program that is offered, is for narrow-minded and fearful individuals that are in need of the acceptance of others."

Principle 3 of The Yogyakarta Principles states that "Person of diverse sexual orientation and gender identities shall enjoy legal capacity in all aspects of life. Each person's self-defined sexual orientation and gender identity is integral to their personality and is one of the most basic aspects of self-determination, dignity and freedom" and Principle 18 of this states that "Notwithstanding any classifications to the contrary, a person's sexual orientation and gender identity are not, in and of themselves, medical condition and are not to be treated, cured or suppressed."

According to these Principles, any gender identity of a transsexual or transgendered person is neither "disorder" nor mental illness, thus the diagnosis "gender identity disorder" can be contradictory and irreverent.

Professor Michael O’Flaherty, with the International Lesbian and Gay Association (ILGA) and a member of the United Nations Human Rights Committee stated, "All human rights belong to all of us. We have human rights because we exist – not because we are gay or straight and irrespective of our gender identities, but that in many situations these human rights are not respected or realized. This is evident as a matter of principle and also as a matter of international human rights law."

The Yogyakarta Principles on the Application of United Nations International Human Rights Law in relation to Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity is a set of international principles relating to sexual orientation and gender identity, intended to address documented evidence of abuse of rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people, and further of inter-sexuality requested by Louise Arbour according to the International Human Rights Law. Louise Arbour, CC, GOQ is the former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and a former justice of the Supreme Court of Canada.

67 of the United Nations' 192 member countries have sponsored the Yogyakarta Principles, including every member of the European Union.

In addition, the United Nations General Assembly welcomed the adoption of Resolution AG/RES. 2435 (XXXVIII-O/08) on "Human Rights, Sexual Orientation, and Gender Identity" by the General Assembly of the Organization of American States during its 38th session in June 03, 2008.

Richard Jones, Special Assistant to Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer for Communications and Administration as well as Ben Brannock, Kentucky Equality Federation's Outreach Director for High Schools and Universities dismissed "Hope Gathering 2010" as anti-gay propaganda.

House Bill 350 is dead despite an attempt by a lawmaker to pass the bill by hiding it in other legislation

2010-04-09T23:20:00.002-04:00

We are pleased to announce that Kentucky House Bill 350 is officially dead! At the last moment however, David Watkins, a Junior Representative, attached House Bill 350 to Senate Bill 127, a bill he knew the Governor would sign because it was an education bill.

However, by attaching the bill, it went back to the House of Representatives for concurrence, which they withheld.

"The Kentucky House Health and Welfare Committee knew House Bill 350 was dangerous, refused to post it, and no one voted on it. The Committee was wise enough to realize the requirements for licensed care providers must remain in place," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "Representative David Watkins used an underhanded technique used at the end of sessions to move pieces of legislation that haven't moved before by hiding them in other places."

House Bill 350 would have dismantled the education and prevention efforts performed by the Kentucky HIV/AIDS Branch, a unit of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. In addition, House Bill 350 would have removed the requirement that podiatrists, physicians, acupuncturists, physician's assistants, athletic trainers, chiropractors, dentists, dental hygienists, registered nurses, advanced registered nurse practitioners, licensed practical nurses, pharmacists, optometrists, physical therapists, laboratory personnel, and social workers complete HIV/AIDS education and training as a condition of being licensed to practice in the Commonwealth.

Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer and other volunteers had several meetings with Senior Representative Tom Burch, Chairman of the House Health and Welfare Committee about the bill.

"Citizens of the Commonwealth will continue to have educated licensed care providers, and the Kentucky HIV/AIDS Branch can continue to perform the wonderful job they struggle to do [not enough funding] in educating the public about HIV/AIDS," Palmer stated. As of March 15, 2010 exactly 3,115 Kentucky citizens signed our action alert condemning House Bill 350; once Representative David Watkins realized House Bill 350 was dead, and attached it to Senate Bill 127 we issued another action alerts with our coalition allies, adding another 2,348 signatures for a total of 5,463 signatures. This was citizen advocacy in action, the people spoke and the House of Representatives listened."

Kentucky Equality Federation would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Kentucky Senior Representative Tom Burch (Chair of the House Health & Welfare Committee), Kerri Richardson with the Governor's Communications Office, the Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy Action Group, and more importantly, all of the citizens around the Commonwealth that signed our action alert.

Click here to view a copy of Senate Bill 127, signed into law by Governor Beshear, which contacts no provisions of House Bill 350 (link is courtesy of the Executive Journal of the Kentucky Secretary of State's Office).

Kentucky lawmakers use underhanded technique to pass a dangerous public health law by hiding it in other legislation

2010-03-26T16:13:00.000-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation today condemned Senate Bill 127 after Representative's attached House Bill 350 to the bill because the House Health and Welfare Committee refused to post it.

"The Kentucky House Health and Welfare Committee knew House Bill 350 was dangerous, refused to post it, and no one voted on it. The Committee was wise enough to realize the requirements for licensed care providers must remain in place," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "This is an underhanded technique used at the end of sessions to move pieces of legislation that haven't moved before by hiding them in other places."

House Bill 350 seeks to remove HIV/AIDS training and education requirements for licensed service providers such as physicians, registered nurses, social workers, etc. Treatment options change rapidly, making it imperative that all health care professionals know the physical manifestations of HIV/AIDS.

"Treatment options change rapidly, therefore physicians or other clinicians that do not treat HIV/AIDS as a specialty would be hard pressed to know the best treatment options for their patients infected with this disease," stated Bobby Edelen, president of the Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy Action Group.

Gary L. Fowler, a special adviser to the Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy Action Group, and Co-Chair of the Kentucky HIV Prevention Advisory Council (KHPAC), a Kentucky Government Organization, stated: "I would like to point out that surveillance training is necessary for us to have the best information available to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS. Kentucky has a high number of people infected with the disease that report unknown risk factors. If we do not have accurate numbers for who is being infected and what their behavioral risk factors are, we do not have a clear picture of where we need to target our prevention dollars."

Edelen continued: "House Bill 350 does a disservice to the citizens of the Commonwealth of Kentucky by lowering healthcare standards for service providers and should be defeated. The citizens of this great Commonwealth deserve the best representation from their lawmakers to ensure the quality of healthcare is held to a higher standard than 'minimum' and enforced with every protection under the law."

Kentucky Equality Federation Condemns the Kentucky House Appropriations and Revenue Committee; declares an AIDS Crisis in Kentucky

2010-03-18T16:27:00.000-04:00

KENTUCKY EQUALITY COALITION, INC. AND FEDERATION FOR KENTUCKY EQUALITY, INC. BOARD OF DIRECTORS (AKA AND COLLECTIVELY: KENTUCKY EQUALITY FEDERATION) JOINT RESOLUTION DECLARING A HIV/AIDS CRISIS IN KENTUCKY AND CONDEMNING INACTION BY THE APPROPRIATIONS AND REVENUE COMMITTEE OF THE KENTUCKY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

RESOLUTION 1333

Whereas, the Appropriations and Revenue Committee of the Kentucky House of Representatives has failed to act to restore funding to the Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program ("KADAP"), leaving hundreds living with HIV/AIDS without life saving medications.

Whereas, the 1,300 patients enrolled in KADAP, which is currently unfunded, receive medications through a hodge-podge of resources that are temporary and unsustainable.

Whereas, Kentucky has the longest waiting list in the nation for drug assistance, numbering over 170 men and women with more added daily.

Whereas, Federation President Jordan Palmer and other volunteers have visited the Capitol six (6) times during the 2010 legislation session to urge restoration of funding for KADAP without success due to Kentucky’s current financial crisis, as well as partisan politics.1 The President and other volunteers and/or allied organizations reported that key lawmakers with control over the Commonwealth’s budget are unable or unwilling to fund KADAP.

Whereas, the Kentucky Legislature is currently on the fiftieth day (50th) of a sixty day (60) legislative session, the probability of funding KADAP becomes infinitesimal with each passing day.

Whereas, 11 other Kentucky organizations, groups, or agencies joined the Federation in affirming that KADAP is a crucial and necessary program for Kentuckians living with HIV/AIDS.

Whereas, Kentucky citizens with HIV/AIDS will likely die without KADAP: At a meeting with the editorial on March 16, 2010, Dr. Francis Collins, the director of the National Institutes of Health, stated that in the 1980s, a 21-year-old diagnosed with HIV could expect to live just one year. Today, a 21-year-old who becomes HIV-positive has a life expectancy of 70. Dr. Collins noted the impact of anti-retroviral treatments that lower the level of HIV in the blood
and boost immune systems.

Resolved, the Federation is committed to securing peace, liberty, and equality for all Kentuckians, which by defacto must include their health and well-being.

Resolved further, the Federation will continue to work with all organizations, both state and national, to bring money to Kentucky to assist people with HIV/AIDS in paying for their life saving medications.

Resolved further, the Federation hereby condemns the inaction of the Appropriations and Revenue Committee of the House of Representatives for failure to secure the safety, and thereby the health of its citizens as provided under Section I of the Constitution of Kentucky by failing to fund KADAP.

Resolved further, the Federation hereby condemns the inaction of the Appropriations and Revenue Committee of the House of Representatives for ignoring the signatures of over 5,000 Kentuckians who individually requested KADAP be restored (over 400 within the past week alone) thereby violating Section IV of the Constitution of Kentucky.

Resolved further, the Federation believes and hereby declares an AIDS Crisis in the Commonwealth to its subscribers, members, followers, supporters, and allied organizations. The Federation urges all subscribers, members, followers, and supporters to practice safe sex and education themselves about the
virus and methods of transmission; AIDS Volunteers, Inc. (AVOL) provides free testing and educational material to 72 Kentucky counties.

Resolved further, the Federation urges the Appropriations and Revenue Committee of the Kentucky House of Representatives to allocate funds to KADAP posthaste.

Resolved further, the Secretary of the Board of Directors shall email a copy of this resolution to every member of the Appropriations and Revenue Committee of the Kentucky House of Representatives.

Click here for an unofficial copy of the resolution.

This is a true record of a joint resolution adopted by the Board of Directors of both Kentucky Equality Coalition, Inc. and Federation for Kentucky Equality, Inc. collectively, Kentucky Equality Federation, on March 18, 2010 in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Failure to Act by the Kentucky House of Representatives Leaves Hundreds of Kentucky HIV/AIDS Patients with an Uncertain Future

2010-03-14T16:29:00.000-04:00

LEXINGTON, KY -- In a proposed commonwealth budget that allocates over $3.4 billion for road projects, a small request of $3.5 million to fund the Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program (KADAP) has been ignored, leaving hundreds living with HIV/AIDS facing difficult choices.

The cost for HIV/AIDS medication averages around $1,200/month—more than the entire monthly income of most families enrolled in KADAP.

"We've heard stories from people seeking out second mortgages to pay for their meds," say Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer and Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy Action Group (KHAAG) President Bobby Edelen. "One person who approached us said, 'with the uncertainty of receiving assistance I am thinking about selling off my life insurance policy' to afford life-sustaining medications. We’re back to the 80s."

The nearly 1300 patients enrolled in KADAP, which is currently unfunded, receive medications through a hodge-podge of resources that are temporary and unsustainable. In the meantime, Kentucky has the longest waiting list in the nation for drug assistance—numbering over 160 men and women—with more being added every day.

"When do we come off the waiting list?" asked one HIV/AIDS patient, "When we die?"

People with HIV/AIDS who do not have access to medications are at increased risk for opportunistic infections, more frequent hospitalization (often under indigent status), and early death. In contrast, a person who is taking HIV medications as prescribed and taking care of their health can reasonably expect to live as long as someone without HIV. "Not funding the Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program is inhumane, shortsighted, and threatens individual and public health," states Palmer, who met with lawmakers six times during the legislative session trying to get KADAP restored.

Palmer held several meetings with Representative Tom Burch, Chairman of the House Health and Welfare Committee, DeeAnn Mansfield, Staff Administrator, House Health and Welfare Committee for the Legislative Research Commission, and Representative Jimmie Lee, Chairman of the House Budget Subcommittee on Human Resources.

On February 17, Edelen met with House Representatives to discuss the state of KADAP and other factors causing health care disparities in those living with HIV/AIDS.

"Chairman Tom Burch, a champion for the cause of health equity, asked some very astute questions," noted Edelen. "In those questions, he demonstrated his support for re-funding KADAP and willingness to work on some measures to eradicate the waiting list. However, the House Appropriation and Revenue Committee did not seem willing."

As the commonwealth's budget makes its way through the Senate, time is running out for those who depend on KADAP for their medication.

The following is excerpted from a statement of opinion issued by the Board of Directors of AIDS Volunteers of Lexington (AVOL):

"Given the larger financial crisis facing the Commonwealth, this may seem a specific and 'special interest' concern. The impact, however, is far reaching. Individuals with HIV/AIDS are mothers and fathers, family providers, valued employees, consumers, and citizens. Lack of access to medication will result in more work missed, a greater strain on social service organizations as families are forced into poverty and homelessness, a burden on medical facilities who must write off astronomically expensive HIV/AIDS hospital care to indigent and low income people, plus further disenfranchisement of those Kentuckians already at highest risk. Inasmuch as the commonwealth is feeling the challenges of the current economic climate, low-income individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS are losing jobs, struggling to make ends meet, and deciding whether to use their meager incomes to buy life-sustaining drugs or to pay rent and buy food for their families.

AVOL sees an urgent need for action to restore KADAP. This effective program of preventative care is in the best long-term interest of the Commonwealth as well as those living with HIV/AIDS. Given the potential adverse effects and medical impact, time is of the essence."

HIV/AIDS has the most devastating impact on Kentucky's most at-risk communities, who already face significant barriers in accessing health care. KADAP is literally a lifeline for these men and women.

Minority populations are disproportionately at risk for HIV/AIDS. According to statistics from the HIV/AIDS Branch of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, African-Americans in Kentucky make 7.6% of the commonwealth’s total population but account for 36% of all new HIV infections. Similarly, Latino Kentuckians make up 2.4% of the population but account for 7% of new HIV infections.

AIDS organizations across the Commonwealth are expressing alarm and dismay that the budget will be passed that does not include funding for the Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program. Small non-profits do not have the resources to provide a safety net for the commonwealth’s shortfall in funding.

The following agencies, organizations, and individuals affirm that KADAP is a crucial and necessary program for Kentuckians living with HIV/AIDS:

Kentucky Equality Federation, Lexington, KY—Jordan Palmer, President
Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy Action Group, Frankfort, KY—Robert Edelen, President
AVOL (AIDS Volunteers, Inc.), Lexington, KY—Mark Royse, Executive Director
Kentucky HIV/AIDS Planning and Advisory Council, Frankfort, KY—Gary L. Fowler, Community Co-Chair
COLAGE (Children Of Lesbians And Gays Everywhere), Northern Kentucky Chapter—Julia Spiegel, Director
Amanda Beck-Myers, MSW, LSW, Edgewood, KY—HIV/AIDS Care Coordinator
United We Stand – Kentucky’s LGBTI News®, Richmond, KY—Casey Kurtis, Co-Owner and Publisher
The Wings Clinic, Louisville, KY—Deborah N. Wade, MSW, Program Director
House of Ruth, Louisville, KY—Linda Underwood, Executive Director
Moveable Feast, Lexington, KY—Terry Mullins, Executive Director
GLSO (Lexington Gay Lesbian Service Organization), Dennis Wheatley, President
University of Kentucky OUTsource, Lexington, KY— Eli Gross, Director

Other OUTsource concerned members: Sara Ailshire, Erik Bentley, Watson Harding, Matthew Hufford, Matthew Layson, Vincent Purcell, Ashley Scott, Brandon (Chase) Stamper, and Breanne Weaver.

University of Kentucky Gay-Straight Alliance, Lexington, KY—Watson Harding, Co-President

Other UK Gay-Straight Alliance concerned members: Matthew Layson, Matthew Hufford, Breanne Weaver, and Erik Bentley.

About Kentucky Equality Federation:Kentucky Equality Federation is Kentucky's largest all-volunteer grassroots lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex ("LGBTI") civil rights and advocacy organization. With more than 18 volunteers, Kentucky Equality leads efforts for LGBTI civil rights at the state level through an array of strategies to bring equality and fairness to Kentucky.

Kentucky Equality Federation also resolves discrimination, school bullying and hate crimes cases across the Commonwealth. (more)

About Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy Action Group (KHAAG):
The Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy & Action Group is a coalition of groups concerned about the growing epidemic of HIV/AIDS in our Commonwealth and the often unrecognized impact that HIV/AIDS has on all Kentucky citizens.

About AVOL:
AIDS Volunteers, Inc. ("AVOL") is a non-profit organization that provides services to those living with and affected by HIV/AIDS, as well as HIV prevention education & outreach to 72 counties in central, eastern, and southeastern Kentucky.

About Kentucky HIV/AIDS Planning and Advisory Council (KHPAC):
The Kentucky HIV/AIDS Planning and Advisory Council (KHPAC) is a 30-member body appointed by the Governor to carry out the provisions of KRS 214.640, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention HIV Prevention Community Planning Guidance and the Health Resources and Services Administration Planning Bodies Manual.

KHPAC works in collaboration with the HIV/AIDS Branch of the Kentucky Department for Public Health to ensure HIV/AIDS prevention activities, services and policies meet the needs of the people of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

About COLAGE:
Children Of Lesbians And Gays Everywhere (COLAGE) is an organization, created in 1989 by the children of several lesbians and gay men who felt a need for support. There are 52 COLAGE chapters in the United States of America, 2 chapters in Canada, and one European chapter.

COLAGE – Northern Kentucky Chapter is also a member of Kentucky Equality Federation.

About United We Stand – Kentucky’s LGBTI News:
Owned by United We Stand Media, LLC., United We Stand is Kentucky's Online Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, and Intersex News Magazine. United We Stand currently reached more than 800 readers around the Commonwealth.

United We Stand™ covers news related to Kentucky's LGBTI community. Our name was chosen carefully; not only is it part of the motto of the Commonwealth, but it truly defines our community as a whole, as does the entire motto of the Commonwealth: "United We Stand, Divided We Fall."

About WINGS:
WINGS is a federally funded outpatient medical clinic for HIV+ persons. The goal of WINGS is 100% access to comprehensive medical care and 0% disparity in the quality of care provided. Wings provides services including primary care, infectious diseases, nutrition services, support groups, mental health assessments and referral, as well as a liaison to community services for those with HIV/AIDS.

About House of Ruth:
House of Ruth is a nonprofit community-based organization caring for families and individuals with or affected by HIV/AIDS. We provide a holistic client-centered approach for housing and advocacy programs. This includes: life skills, children’s programs and other support services to help strengthen lives.

About Moveable Feast:
Since opening on October 3, 1998 Moveable Feast Lexington (MFL) has delivered hot nutritious meals daily to people living with HIV disease in Lexington/Fayette County Kentucky.

About GLSO:
The mission of the Gay and Lesbian Services Organization (GLSO) is to improve the quality of life for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) individuals and their families and allies in Central and Eastern Kentucky, by providing a community focal point through outreach, information access, and support.

About OUTSource:
The goal of OUTsource is to provide an affirming, safe, and confidential space for GLBTQQA students to learn more about gender identity, human sexuality, and related issues by providing access to academic, cultural and interpersonal resources; and to change the campus climate and culture to become more inclusive of GLBTQQA students by embracing diversity.

About University of Kentucky Gay-Straight Alliance:
We promote awareness and fairness concerning GLBTQQA issues at UK and work for a unified gay and straight community in the Lexington area.

Kentucky Equality Federation and the Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy Action Group today condemned House Bill 350 as ethically irresponsible and a crime against anyone living with HIV/AIDS

2010-02-20T23:09:00.000-05:00

Lexington, KY – Two statewide advocacy groups, Kentucky Equality Federation and the Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy Action Group today condemned House Bill 350 as ethically irresponsible and a crime against anyone living with HIV/AIDS.

House Bill 350 seeks to remove HIV/AIDS training and education requirements for licensed service providers such as physicians, registered nurses, social workers, etc. Both organizations are opposed to the legislation because treatment options change rapidly, making it imperative that all health care professionals know the physical manifestations of HIV/AIDS. It is a matter of getting people in the proper care as soon as possible. This could be the difference in a healthy outcome or multiple misdiagnoses that would end up costing more financially either for the patient themselves or for the taxpayers of Kentucky.

"Treatment options change rapidly, therefore physicians or other clinicians that do not treat HIV/AIDS as a specialty would be hard pressed to know the best treatment options for their patients infected with this disease," stated Bobby Edelen, president of the Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy Action Group.

To compound the issue, Kentucky lawmakers allowed the Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program to expire. "The fact that the Commonwealth also stopped funding the low-income Kentucky AIDS Drug Assistance Program in 2007 is inhumane, shortsighted, and threatens individual and public health," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer.

Gary L. Fowler, a special adviser to the Kentucky HIV/AIDS Advocacy Action Group, and Co-Chair of the Kentucky HIV Prevention Advisory Council (KHPAC) stated: "I would like to point out that surveillance training is necessary for us to have the best information available to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS. Kentucky has a high number of people infected with the disease that report unknown risk factors. If we do not have accurate numbers for who is being infected and what their behavioral risk factors are, we do not have a clear picture of where we need to target our prevention dollars."

Edelen continued: "House Bill 350 does a disservice to the citizens of the Commonwealth of Kentucky by lowering healthcare standards for service providers and should be defeated. The citizens of this great Commonwealth deserve the best representation from their lawmakers to ensure the quality of healthcare is held to a higher standard than ‘minimum’ and enforced with every protection under the law."

Click here to download the press release.

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Kentucky Equality Federation appeals to Senate President David L. Williams to pass House Bill 118

2010-02-04T15:36:00.000-05:00

SOMERSET, KY - Kentucky Equality Federation's Office of the President, which consists of the president, an Adviser for Discrimination and Youth Outreach, and an Assistant for Administration and Communications has issued a direct appeal to Kentucky Senate President David L. Williams to pass House Bill 118. (view)

House Bill 118 passed the Kentucky House of Representatives and was sent to the Kentucky Senate on January 28, 2009.

"We need a sign from the Republican Party of Kentucky that they will at a minimum listen to our concerns," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "Year after year we have a rally in the Kentucky Capitol Rotunda and though it receives some media attention, it doesn't bring us any closer to any of our goals."

House Bill 118 seeks to: Create a new section of KRS Chapter 216B to allow a patient of a health facility who is 18 years of age or older to designate, in writing, an individual not legally related by marriage or blood, who the patient wishes to have visitation rights; require the health facility to note this designation in the patient's permanent medical records; provide that the patient may rescind the designation at any time, in writing.

Palmer continued: "I have exchanged emails with Representative Kelly Flood, a sponsor of the bill, and we personally thank Representative Tom Burch, Chairman of the House Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, the entire Committee, and especially the sponsors such as Representative Mary Lou Marzian, Representative Kelly Flood, Representative Joni L. Jenkins, Representative Reginald Meeks, Representative Darryl T. Owens, Representative Ruth Ann Palumbo, Representative Arnold Simpson, and Representative Susan Westrom for sponsoring the bill."

Palmer continued: "I think Senate President David L. Williams has a very unique opportunity with this bill to show the LGBTI community that Kentucky’s Republican Party does not consider us second-class citizens as it has appeared in the past. This bill isn't part of any "gay agenda," and I cannot imagine why conservative citizens would consider it a threat. This bill would benefit heterosexual couples as much as it would homosexual couples."

Rick Wolfe, Special Adviser to the President for Discrimination and Youth Outreach stated: "Not only is it a chance for the LBGTI community to be recognized in the Commonwealth, but an opportunity for the Republican Party of Kentucky to recognize that there are diverse families in Kentucky. This is the first step in many to let our entire country know that we Kentuckians show compassion with each other. The passing of House Bill 118 would also send a much needed, positive message to youthful constituents (both LGBTI and our allies)."

Richard Jones, part of the Office of the President and a member of the Discrimination, Hate Crimes, and School Bullying Committee stated, "Kentucky's gay and lesbian (LGBTI) community is so dissatisfied with Republican Leadership in both chambers that there is no longer a Log Cabin Republican Chapter in Kentucky to represent LGBTI Republican's which is truly sad because you can in fact be LGBTI and Republican, I know many of them. Like the Stonewall Democrats do with the Democratic Party, the Log Cabin Republicans are the voice of LGBTI people within the Republican Party."

Palmer continued, "I hope that if this passes the Senate, it will establish a positive dialogue with the Republican Party of Kentucky. I know many Republican LGBTI citizens in Kentucky, but the majority are either Democrats, Stonewall Democrats, or members of the Libertarian Party of Kentucky. Ken Moellman, Chairman of the Libertarian Party of Kentucky has been a wonderful ally to Kentucky Equality Federation, and LGBTI citizens only vote to place people in office that will at a minimum hear our concerns."

Dean Byrd, Kentucky Equality Federation's Board Secretary and Treasurer added, "Debates and disagreements are one of the things that makes our Commonwealth and our Union great; unfortunately, the Republican Party of Kentucky has completely alienated the LGBTI community and will continue to do so until they signal that they will at least hear our voice."

# # # # #
As the Commonwealth's largest all-volunteer grassroots organization, the President of the organization is a member of the Board of Directors but may only vote to break ties. In addition, the President is encouraged not to act without first consulting his Special Assistant, Richard Jones, and his veteran Special Adviser, Rick Wolfe. Both Jones and Wolfe are also members of the Federation's Discrimination, Hate Crimes, and School Bullying Committee.

Statement on the Kentucky Supreme Court Second Parent Adoption Ruling

2010-01-23T12:51:00.000-05:00

The Kentucky Supreme Court upheld a joint custody arrangement for a one-time lesbian couple who were rearing a child together before splitting up. On Friday, the Commonwealth's highest court ruled that the couple reached a valid custody agreement and that one of the women, Arminta Jane Mullins, acted as a "de facto parent" in compliance with Kentucky Revised Statues with her partner, Phyllis Dianne Picklesimer.

The decision reversed a Kentucky Court of Appeals ruling saying Mullins lacked standing to pursue joint custody of the child, now 5, because she isn't a biological parent.

Halyn Roth, Southern Kentucky Director for Kentucky Equality Federation stated: "I am glad that the Kentucky Supreme Court ruled in favor of just one aspect of what our organization believes in. But this is just a first step. Kentucky Equality Federation, along with other civil rights organizations throughout the Commonwealth, must work together to ensure that every Kentuckian is treated fairly and has the same rights as every other Kentuckian. Equality must prevail."

The two women conceived a child through artificial insemination and Picklesimer gave birth to a boy in May 2005. The couple filed a joint custody agreement in 2006.

Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer stated: "Today we are proud to be Kentuckians; we are proud that our highest court recognized the rights of the second parent in this second parent adoption."

Palmer continued: "Though we realized things go wrong in relationships, the best interest of the child must be paramount. Same-sex couples give as much love, encouragement, and protection as opposite-sex couples. This ruling in favor of the second parent in second parent adoptions secures the rights of the second parent throughout the Commonwealth."

Dean Byrd, Kentucky Equality Federation's Board Secretary and Treasurer stated: "I am thrilled with the Kentucky Supreme Court ruling. This is definitely a step in the right direction, and brings us closer to equality for gay and lesbian people in the Commonwealth."

Kentucky Equality Federation applauds pre-filed legislation to overturn Kentucky's same-sex barriage ban

2009-11-17T15:28:00.000-05:00

Kentucky Equality Federation applauds legislation pre-filed by Representative Mary Lou Marzian (BR 93) to place the issue of same-sex marriage or civil unions back in the hands of Kentucky citizens.

Earlier this year, Kentucky Equality Federation and Marriage Equality Kentucky began collecting signatures to present to lawmakers to repeal the law by giving voters another opportunity to vote on the issue. The "Marriage Declaration," started in July 2009.

Currently, the Commonwealth will not recognize any type of same-sex union. Marriage, domestic partnerships, and civil unions are all illegal in Kentucky (even if performed in other countries or states).

"We are very pleased with Representative Marzain's pre-filed bill," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "Currently, same-sex couples are basically 'second-class' citizens even though we pay the same taxes as everyone else; same-sex couples currently have absolutely no rights whatsoever and the Kentucky Constitution doesn't mention having a lower class of people. If this passes both the Kentucky House and Senate and voters ratify it, lawmakers would then be able to legislate domestic-partnerships, or civil unions, such as the new domestic partnership law in the state of Washington."

Legislation was also filed this year to repeal Michigan’s Constitutional Amendment banning same-sex marriage.

Palmer continued, "We could certainly reach a compromise with domestic partnerships or civil unions. Being able to file joint income-tax returns, having hospital visitation rights, making medical decisions for your partner, spousal privilege, the right to inherit property, and many other benefits are the very foundation of any union. Same-sex couples are not asking for special treatment, we simple want to be treated equal; we love, honor, and cherish our partners the same as heterosexual couples."

"I realize some will turn this into a religious debate, but we have separate of church and state; the Kentucky Constitution clearly states 'absolute and arbitrary power over the lives, liberty and property of freemen exists nowhere in a republic, not even in the largest majority,' and that is exactly what Section 223A of the Constitution has done. The Constitution also states 'the civil rights, privileges or capacities of no person shall be taken away, or in anywise diminished or enlarged, on account of his belief or disbelief of any religious tenet, dogma or teaching.'"

Southern Kentucky article blasts homosexual benefits at the University of Kentucky; Kentucky Equality Federation and Louisville Fairness Campaign Respond

2009-10-12T15:24:00.001-04:00

An article recently appeared in a Southern Kentucky newspaper chastising the University of Kentucky for offering 'homosexual' benefits, and attributing this to UK's 'fall in national rankings.'

The Article appears below, followed by our response:

Click here to view the article.

# # # # #

10/18/2009 Update: Since the owner will not respond to our telephone calls or emails, we are identifying the paper as "The Mountain Shopper." They claim to be "The Leader for Buying, Selling, Trading, Community News, and Special Sections in and around Perry County, Kentucky.

The following was mailed and emailed to the editor:

The University of Kentucky is not 'reaping what is sewed' as stated in a recent article in your paper written by Don Pinson (attached). Failure to offer equal benefits to everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, implies those professors are not going to be among the highest quality. With healthcare costs continuing to rise, how could any Kentuckian not see the benefits of allowing more people access to healthcare? The University of Kentucky offers this to both homosexual and heterosexual couples.

Is UK's drop in ranking a direct result of offering domestic partner benefits?

Looking at the schools currently in the top spots among the 1400 ranked by US News and World Report, of the top 125 (UK is currently 128), 60 offer domestic partner benefits.
Of the top 10 schools, the University of Wisconsin is the only one not to offer equal benefits.
Without exception, all of the Ivy League schools offer benefits on an equal basis.
Michigan State has adapted pretty well to the problem by creating a pilot program for a new class called O.E.I. or Other Eligible Individual. This program which began in 2007 and is scheduled to end at the end of this plan year was designed to allow policy holders to include one extra person on their coverage that was not family or married to them. Thus far this program has effectively worked within the parameters of the existing law in Michigan which is very similar to that in Kentucky.

Speaking for Kentucky Equality Federation, a statewide grassroots LGBTI civil rights organization, President Jordan Palmer stated, "Don Pinson used quotes from former U.S. Senator and U.S. Secretary of State Daniel Webster, calling him the 'great American statesman.' Let us not forget that Webster supported the Fugitive Slave Law of 1850 that required federal officials to recapture and return runaway slaves. Thankfully, our republic has made significant progress since then, and we continue to strive for tolerance, acceptance, and diversity, the very thing that makes both our Commonwealth and our entire Union great."

Palmer continued: "The Kentucky Constitution guarantees the separate of church and state, and for good reason; more wars have been fought over differences in religious beliefs that any other wars in recorded history. Former Kentucky Attorney General Greg Stumbo (whose legal opinions are binding on all subdivisions of the Commonwealth) ruled that a domestic partner benefit was not a violation of the Commonwealth's Constitution so long as changes were made (and the universities complied)."

Speaking for Louisville's Fairness Campaign, a champion for LGBTI civil rights in Jefferson County, Rev. Ryan Kemp-Pappan, Associate Minister for Spiritual Formation of the Douglas Boulevard Christian Church stated, "I grow weary of folks using 'God' as a weapon against the challenge to their own bigotry and hate. In his article titled 'UK Is Reaping What It Has Sown,' Don Pinson evokes a dividing God that demands utter allegiance to 'The Law.' In doing so he dominates the civil voices of other citizens to judge and convict their behavior as immoral. Don uses Old Testament scripture to support his claim. I never trust a person that proof text scripture to form a God that sounds and acts a lot like they do. Don may I remind you of the call of Jesus the Christ in the Gospel of John [13:34-35] "Let me give you a new command: Love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another. This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples—when they see the love you have for each other." Where is the love in withholding health insurance to all of the employees and their partners? It is not a matter of who is right or wrong as much as it is a matter of what is right and wrong. That is an issue you have no right in proclaiming."

The American Psychological Association, American Psychiatric Association, and National Association of Social Workers have stated that homosexuality is a normal variant of human sexuality, and that different people realize at different points in their lives that they are heterosexual, gay, lesbian, or bisexual. People are born heterosexual or homosexual, it isn't a choice.

"Mr. Pinson ends his article with 'think about it; because if you don’t someone else will do your thinking for you---and for your children.' This is a great line and very true. The only part that is a bit hypocritical is that to do your own thinking, you need to be informed from all aspects and not blindly accept what you are being told. Mr. Pinson here is obviously trying to do the thinking for his readers. Hopefully by pointing out some other facts that will put his opinions into context, the readers really will be able to think about it," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Latino Outreach Director John Bentley.

"Reaping what you have sown? Double check your seeds before you plant the next time Mr. Pinson and perhaps you won't be left with a garden where nothing has sprouted. Articles should not be based on hatred, lies, and fear of what you don't understand and refuse to tolerate. Thankfully our ancestors from Great Britain, Spain, France, Italy, Germany, and other countries learned the value of acceptance and tolerance [even though their home countries hated each other] otherwise, our nation would never have been born," added Palmer. "No moral is qualified or justified in judging me or the gay community; this right is reserved solely by God."

# # # # #

Special thanks to the students at Eastern Kentucky University and the University of Kentucky for contributing to this article. Special thanks to the students at Eastern Kentucky University, the University of Kentucky, Berea College, Hazard Community College, Alice Lloyd College, the University of the Cumberlands, and Pikeville College for distributing this article.

Kentucky Equality Federation Comments on Massachusetts Lawsuit Against DOMA

2009-07-08T12:49:00.000-04:00

"Kentucky Equality Federation applauds the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for suing the U.S. government for intruding on states' rights with the 1996 federal Defense of Marriage Act," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "This is a step in the right direction, a state [instead of its citizens] has said enough is enough; we demand full liberty and equality for our citizens now."

The Commonwealth sued the U.S. government in federal court today.

Kentucky Equality Federation today condemned the allocation of $1.2 million dollars in federal funding to the University of the Cumberlands

2009-07-06T12:38:00.000-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation today condemned the allocation of $1.2 million dollars in federal funding to the University of the Cumberlands.

The funds will be used to help construct a health and wellness center for students, faculty and community members and a new science and technology building for the university. U.S. Representative Hal Rogers (R) requested a total of 4 million dollars for projects at the University of the Cumberlands.

"Kentucky Equality Federation remains opposed to the allocation of public funds to an institution that discriminates against a minority group," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "If all the citizens of the Commonwealth cannot enjoy the new facilities this money will bring, it must be challenged. Separation of Church and State must be maintained; funding a facility which will reject gay and lesbian people is unacceptable."

Palmer concluded, "Kentucky Equality Federation will investigate all available options with its legal counsel and urge the American Civil Liberties Union of Kentucky to do the same."

Halyn Roth, Kentucky Equality Federation's Regional Director for Southern Kentucky added, "The University of the Cumberlands is an institution of learning and is meant to inspire young minds to become the leaders of tomorrow, but with the backwards policies of the University leaders, they are indeed causing the downfall of progress as we know it."

In 2007 Kentucky Equality Federation co-sponsored the 2007 Soulforce/Equality Ride at the University of the Cumberlands. Dozens of gay and lesbian activists were arrested and community members held signs reading "You Will Be Judged," and "Repent Now," among others. Nick Herweck, now Kentucky Equality Federation's Treasurer spent most of the day directing representatives from Soulforce to the Whitley County Jail to post bond for those arrested.

Kentucky Equality Federation responds to the University of the Cumberlands

2009-07-02T11:42:00.000-04:00

As requested by reporters, Kentucky Equality Federation today released the following statement regarding the University of Cumberlands rejecting assistance from the Broadway Baptist Church.

The Broadway Baptist Church Chapel Choir, a high school group that has toured the nation and England on concert and mission trips, has been told that it is not welcome to perform and work in a Kentucky Baptist mission program.

The news came just before the group was to depart for its annual summer mission trip — and a week after the Southern Baptist Convention severed its ties with the Fort Worth church because of what leaders called a lenient stance on homosexuality.

The choir was informed by letter Monday that it was "uninvited" to participate in the Mountain Outreach program at the University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg, Ky. Officials of the school, which is affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention, declined to comment Wednesday.

STATEMENT FROM KENTUCKY EQUALITY FEDERATION PRESIDENT JORDAN PALMER:

The United States and our Commonwealth was built on the concept of freedom of religion. I believe that people are free to choose and practice their own religious and spiritual beliefs in whatever way they choose so long as they do not receive government funding or benefits of any kind. Our founding fathers knew the consequences of mixing Church and State. I applaud the Broadway Baptist Church for realizing that you cannot discriminate against your fellow man or woman and disguise the hatred as ‘indifference of religious views.’

The only people who will lose are those at the University of the Cumberlands and the citizens of the Commonwealth since a group of people cannot participate in the school’s Mountain Outreach program, which builds houses for disadvantaged people in the region.

PERSONAL STATEMENT:
As a practicing Christian, I must leave you with the following passages as an individual, and not as president of Kentucky Equality Federation. I get so tired of various churches turning religion against the LGBTI community.

I accept all forms of religion that are based on love, and it is not my intention (or place) to force a religious belief on anyone, but many in the LGBTI community continue to believe that they cannot be religious because of their sexual orientation or gender identity, and that must be challenged because it simply isn't true. I'm sure the Broadway Baptist Church also hold the following passages close to their hearts :

John 4:20: If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? The scripture is not just talking about our natural brother, it is speaking about our brothers and sisters in Christ. That is a powerful statement, but the Word says it. We cannot just agree with some of God's Word. If we do not agree we are commanded to do it anyway, because we are God's Children.
Matthew 22:36-40: "Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?" Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the greatest commandment, and the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hangeth the whole law, and the prophets.

Kentucky Equality Federation supports gay and lesbian students' protest at Franklin County High School

2009-05-01T11:37:00.000-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation received reports that a Franklin County High official allegedly sent an email to teachers instructing them not to allow homosexuals to leave class to use the restroom.

The email was allegedly sent after two female classmates were caught kissing in the public restroom.

In response, 15 students protested outside the school today.

"My daughter was involved in a protest at Franklin County High School today for their right to use the restroom," stated Michelle Sexton.

"I have been in contact with one of the parents of the children involved in the protest and we support their constitutional right to assemble peacefully," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "We call on the media to investigate this issue further and shed light on the discrimination gays and lesbians face throughout the Commonwealth. Kentucky Equality Federation will also be contacting the other parents of the children involved in today's protest."

Though Superintendent Harrie Buecker stated steps are being taken to address the students' concerns, Kentucky Equality Federation is concerned they will not be addressed properly. Though not directly connected, Kentucky Equality Federation has received similar complaints in Casey, Pulaski, and Powell counties about unfair treatment of gay and lesbian students and teachers.

"I'd like to know what level this mentality, that gay and lesbian students should not be treated equally is coming from. An incident in one county could be called an isolated incident, but we now have similar reports in three other Kentucky Counties," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Managing Director Laura Reed.

Kentucky Equality Federation will continue its own investigation and assist parents or students in filing any necessary complaints with Kentucky officials.

Palmer added that assembling together in a peaceful manner is the most basic right granted by the Kentucky Constitution, and that Kentucky Equality Federation had contacted the Office of Helen W. Mountjoy, Kentucky's Secretary of Education for assistance in resolving the issues.

Kentucky Equality Federation offers an online complaint system for people around the Commonwealth to report discrimination or harassment. The online complaint system can be located at www.kyequality.org.

KENTUCKY EQUALITY FEDERATION GIVES BACK TO KENTUCKY'S YOUTH

2009-04-11T11:35:00.000-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation is proud to announce its collaboration with We Care Child and Family Services.

We Care is a child-placing agency offering services to children in need of substitute care. An all inclusive agency, We Care proudly serves a variety of cultures to include LGBTI teenagers and at risk youth.

On Easter Sunday, April 12, 2009, Kentucky Equality Federation is giving back to an organization that gives so much to youth and the community. Kentucky Equality Federation is donating thirty (30) 'survival kits' to the children of We Care, containing everyday necessities such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, body spray, toothbrushes and toothpaste, mouthwash, etc.

"After a failed attack on the LGBTI community's ability to adopt children and serve as foster parents with Senate Bill 68, we thought this was a wonderful thing to do for our youth," stated Laura Reed, Kentucky Equality Federation's Managing Director.

For additional information about We Care Child and Family Services, visit http://www.wecarefamilies.com

KENTUCKY EQUALITY FEDERATION CONDEMNS SENATE BILL 68 WHICH PASSED COMMITTEE TODAY

2009-03-05T11:34:00.000-05:00

"Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Robert Stivers (R) decision to hear this discriminatory legislation to harm Kentucky’s children follows opposition across Kentucky," said Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "Groups opposing Senator Tapp’s bill include the Kentucky Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers, Kentucky Commission on Human Rights, Progressive Democrats of America, the Libertarian Party of Kentucky, and others that rallied with us in Frankfort, KY on February 25th."

Kentucky Equality Federation believes the legislation will die in the House of Representatives should it pass the full Senate.

"It is a disgrace that members of Kentucky's Senate are using children as political pawns against the gay and lesbian population of Kentucky," stated Kentucky Equality Federation's Managing Director, Laura Reed.

KENTUCKY EQUALITY FEDERATION CONDEMNS SENATE BILL 68 AND URGES ALL FAIRMINDED KENTUCKIANS TO RALLY AT THE CAPITOL ON FEBRUARY 25TH

2009-02-20T11:32:00.000-05:00

Kentucky Equality Federation condemns Senate Bill 68 filed by Senator Gary Tapp (R). Senate Bill 68 would make it illegal for any 'unmarried couple' to adopt a child or serve as foster parents in Kentucky.

"Senate Bill 68 isn't about protecting children, it is about harming a specific group of people, the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and intersex community of the Commonwealth. Thousands of adoptable children are currently languishing in foster care, many bouncing from home to home or from institution to institution. This bill would also prevent all single people (including our straight allies) from serving as foster parents or adopting a child," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer.

On Wednesday, February 25th, Kentucky Equality Federation, Kentucky Fairness Alliance, Fairness Campaign, Lexington Fairness, Young Democrats (from counties across the Commonwealth), ACLU of Kentucky, Libertarian Party of Kentucky, Kentucky Commission on Human Rights, and many other allied organizations will gather in Frankfort for a day of lobbying, followed by a rally in the Capitol Rotunda beginning at 12:30 PM.

"Our children are not political pawns," stated Palmer. "This proposed legislation is a disgrace; the needs of the child should always be placed first."

Kentucky Equality Federation responded by posting an action alert on its Equality Center the day after the legislation was filed, but did not send a blast email to its members.

"We try to keep emails to a minimum, and truth is that this bill will have no problem passing the Kentucky Senate if Senate President David L. Williams decides to push it," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Northern Kentucky Regional Director, Nick Herweck. "As of this morning, over 575 people have signed our action alert which is emailed to Senate leadership."

Senate Bill 68 remains in the Senate Judiciary Committee (since February 9th) without action. Should Senate Bill 68 make it to the House of Representatives, Kentucky Equality Federation will take a more aggressive approach.

SAME-SEX COUPLES SCHEDULED TO ENGAGE IN MARRIAGE COUNTER ACTIONS ACROSS KENTUCKY ON THE NATIONAL FREEDOM TO MARRY DAY OF EVENTS

2009-02-09T11:30:00.000-05:00

On National Freedom to Marry Day, February 12, 2009, same-sex couples across the Commonwealth will request marriage licenses for same-sex couples at local County Clerk's Offices to raise awareness of the harms and impact the inability to marry causes on their families.

Kentucky Organizers:

* Kentucky Equality Federation
* Marriage Equality Kentucky
* GLASS at Bellarmine University
* commonGround at University of Louisville

Co- Organizers (national):

* Marriage Equality USA
* Join the Impact

Quoting Abraham Lincoln, Kentucky Equality President Jordan Palmer stated, "The best way to get a bad law repealed is to enforce it strictly."

"Whether we are married, domestic partnered, civil unioned or legal strangers under Kentucky law, all same-sex couples are denied the 1,138 federal rights of marriage," said Bellarmine University GLASS (Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Society) President Kristina Thomas. "With the support of President Obama and with the growing sea change towards supporting protections for same-sex couples, we are hopeful that we can finally turn our attention to overturning the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), passed in 1996, and work together to uphold the American tradition of fairness and equality by ending marriage discrimination once and for all."

"Same-sex couples being denied marriage licenses will render visible the discrimination that is enforced every day. It is an affront to our basic dignity as fellow human beings when same-sex couples are turned away from the marriage counter, but it gives us the opportunity to tell our stories and show that we live in every community and want to honor and protect our families like everyone else," stated Marriage Equality Kentucky™ Treasurer Michael Hollingsworth. "Marriage discrimination is wrong and harms real-life families. All Americans deserve equal treatment under the law. The time has come."

"Kentucky Equality Federation and Marriage Equality Kentucky have partnered with the National Celebrant Foundation to perform 'commitment ceremonies' as well as marriage ceremonies in Kentucky," added Palmer. "Even if the Commonwealth will not currently recognize the relationship, they will be recognized in our community, by our life-partner, and in our hearts."

Kentucky Equality Federation began sponsoring a new grassroots group dedicated to overturning Kentucky's 2004 Constitutional Amendment banning same-sex marriage and 'similar unions' last year, Marriage Equality Kentucky.

KENTUCKY EQUALITY FEDERATION TARGETS KENTUCKY MIDDLE SCHOOLS, HIGH SCHOOLS, COLLEGES, AND UNIVERSITIES FOR OUTREACH

2009-01-28T11:26:00.000-05:00

Kentucky Equality Federation today announced additional outreach programs to target 'tomorrow's leaders.'

"In order to bring equality to our Commonwealth we must continue to recognize that people in middle school, high school, colleges, and universities will be instrumental to our success. In 2005, a young man names Nick Herweck became involved in Kentucky Equality Federation; he was 16 years old. Kentucky Equality Federation assisted him in setting up a gay-straight alliance at Boone County High School by threatening to sue school administration who had been successfully blocking its creation," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer."Today, Mr. Herweck is our Northern Kentucky Regional Coordinator, and sits on our Board of Directors."

Kentucky Equality Federation's Outreach Directors will focus on educating the public about lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) issues within specific communities – providing information and sharing our message in specific ways, as well as contributing information regarding each community to our statewide organization. Outreach Directors will also reach out to members of the LGBTI community that too often have not been included, either in positions of leadership or in public education.

* William Anderson, University Outreach Director: Mr. Anderson is currently a student at the University of Kentucky pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Vocal Performance. He is very active in the music and theatre world, and played several leading roles in operas and musicals.

* Tara Morrison, Youth Outreach Director: A teenager herself, Ms. Morrison is passionate about giving Kentucky's LGBTI teenagers a voice in their community. Though she graduated high school in 2008, she is determined to see current and future students have a voice in their own communities, as well as support from their local school officials. While in high school, Ms. Morrison attempted to start a gay-straight alliance, but no teacher would sponsor the group.

Anderson and Morrison will be in contact with school administrations across the Commonwealth in addition to reaching out to any gay-straight alliances currently in place at each middle school, high school, college, and university.

Students and people across the Commonwealth already have the ability to report discrimination and school bullying to Kentucky Equality Federation from its online website, www.kyequality.org.

To launch its new outreach programs, Kentucky Equality Federation has taken the initial steps of ordering business cards, brochures, and pamphlets; in addition to setting up special groups for each outreach director to facilitate communication, cooperation, and support between the Commonwealth's students and educational institutions.

Palmer also noted that reaching out to specific communities was necessary and critical in order to overturn Kentucky's same-sex marriage ban. In a recent interview with change.org for Marriage Equality USA, Palmer stated, "No amount of money can replace volunteering, grassroots organizing, and the perseverance of an all - volunteer organization."

KENTUCKY EQUALITY FEDERATION URGES THE KENTUCKY SENATE TO HEED THE ADVICE OF THE KENTUCKY COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS AND PROTECT LGBTI PEOPLE FROM DISCRIMINATION ACROSS THE COMMONWEALTH

2008-12-27T11:25:00.000-05:00

With Governor Beshear having reestablished protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) people in Kentucky Government, Kentucky Equality Federation will be pressing the General Assembly to make such protections public law.

"Though we appreciate Governor Beshear protecting Kentucky's LGBTI population from discrimination in government, hundreds of people in the private sector are discriminated against yearly," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer.

City ordinates are also in place in Covington, Lexington, and Louisville that prohibit discrimination against LGBTI people.

"Discrimination often takes place in rural areas of the Commonwealth," stated Palmer. "Discriminating against someone because of their sexual orientation or gender identity is no different than discriminating against someone for being Catholic, Mexican, or because of their age; discrimination is discrimination."

Since beginning an online complaint system in 2006, Kentucky Equality Federation has received hundreds of discrimination reports from LGBTI people in areas of the Commonwealth where it is not illegal.

"The recent nationwide rallies [including Lexington and Louisville] indicate a new level of support for equality and fairness from constituents; the LGBTI community and our heterosexual allies are more alert and engaged," added Palmer. "Smokers are protected from discrimination, yet people are not protected for being themselves, the way they are born. We urge the Kentucky Senate to heed the recommendation of the Kentucky Commission of Human Rights and add sexual orientation and gender identity as a protected class."

The Kentucky Senate is specifically targeted because non-discrimination bills routinely pass the House of Representatives, but not the Senate.

Kentucky Equality Federation supports United Nations Statement

2008-12-18T11:21:00.000-05:00

People gathered in the state capitol rotunda on December 10, 2008 to hear Governor Steven Beshear's proclamation of Kentucky Human Rights Day on the 60th anniversary of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

Today, December 18, 2008 the United Nations General Assembly will hear a critical statement on gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender rights. The statement, endorsed by more than 50 countries across the globe calling for an end to rights abuses based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

"In 1948 the world's nations set forth the promise of human rights, but six decades later, the promise remains unfulfilled for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered community," stated Jordan Palmer, president of Kentucky Equality Federation, a member of the International Lesbian and Gay Association since 2006.

Kentucky Equality Federation issued an action alert (click here to view it) earlier this month urging Kentucky citizens to contact the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, as well as the U.S. Department of State to support the statement.

As a member organization, Kentucky Equality Federation represents the International Lesbian and Gay Association ("ILGA") in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Composed of over 600 member organizations around the world, ILGA is to this day the only international non-profit and non-governmental community-based federation dedicated to achieving equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people at the United Nations.

The draft statement condemns violence, harassment, discrimination, exclusion, stigmatization, and prejudice based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It also condemns killings and executions, torture, arbitrary arrest, and deprivation of economic, social, and cultural rights on those grounds.

So far, 55 countries have signed onto the General Assembly statement, including: Andorra, Armenia, Australia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Canada, Cape Verde, the Central African Republic, Chile, Ecuador, Georgia, Iceland, Israel, Japan, Liechtenstein, Mexico, Montenegro, New Zealand, San Marino, Serbia, Switzerland, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Uruguay, and Venezuela. All 27 member states of the European Union are also signatories. The United States however, has yet to commit itself to the statement.

United Nations treaty bodies have called on states to end discrimination in law and policy. "It is appalling that the United States of America, the only superpower in the world, currently has no laws prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, nor does the Commonwealth of Kentucky," stated Palmer. "We are very proud however, and grateful that Governor Beshear issued an executive order prohibiting discrimination in Kentucky government, and that the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights finally has a gay member."

NOTE:
If you want to watch it live on December 18, 2008: http://www.un.org/webcast (Select the General Assembly picture below the screen)

- Print the agenda http://www.un.org/ga/third/63/ac363infdoc.pdf

You can also come back to the site the following days and look for agenda item 64(b) in the archived video for December 18, 2008: http://www.un.org/webcast/2008.html

Kentucky Equality Federation wishes to express its sincere gratitude and appreciation to students of the Basic Public Speaking class at the University of Louisville

2008-12-10T11:19:00.000-05:00

Kentucky Equality Federation wishes to express its sincere gratitude and appreciation to students of the Basic Public Speaking class at the University of Louisville, and its instructor.

"One student persuading their classmates to donate $1.00 to the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender cause shows the impact one person can have," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "The act means far more than the monetary value of the check; one student persuading 18 classmates to donate $1.00 to our cause is a remarkable feat."

Despite the November election, which resulted in three additional state constitutional amendments restricting marriage to be between a man and a woman and another amendment that restricted adoption to married couples, Kentucky Equality Federation believes the equality movement remains strong here in the Commonwealth, and around the nation.

Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer issued a statement this morning about about anti-LGBT amendments in Arkansas, Arizona, California, and Florida

2008-11-04T11:17:00.000-05:00

As an officer, director, volunteer, and community member (of Kentucky Equality Federation and Marriage Equality USA), I wanted to thank everyone for their hard work and relentless dedication regardless of the outcome in Arkansas, Arizona, California, and Florida.

For the past couple of days, a quote from Ronald Regan continues to run through my mind: "Government is not the solution to our problems; government is the problem." Though I am no fan of Regan because of the way he handled the AIDS crisis, the quote is true nonetheless. Since the Stonewall Riots, we continue to openly fight against the unnecessary burdens and inequality placed on our community by our governments.

Remember, regardless of what happens in each individual state, we have been successful because we stood united as a community and raised our hands in protest.

We will continue to have dedication and perseverance until equality for all is established. - Jordan Palmer

Gay Rights Groups Condemn Gov. Palin's Church; Palin's Position on the Issue Sought

2008-09-29T11:15:00.000-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation, Kentucky Equality PAC, Marriage Equality USA, and Marriage Equality Kentucky today condemned the Wasilla Bible Church, where Republican Presidential Nominee John McCain's running mate, Governor Sarah Palin has prayed for about six years.

Governor Sarah Palin's church is promoting a conference that promises to convert gays into heterosexuals through the power of prayer. "You'll be encouraged by the power of God's love and His desire to transform the lives of those impacted by homosexuality," according to the insert in the bulletin of the Wasilla Bible Church.

Early in Palin's tenure as Governor of Alaska, she supported a bill to overrule a court decision to block state benefits for gay partners of public employees. Palin reversed her position and vetoed the bill after the state attorney general said it was unconstitutional.

The American Psychological Association in its Resolution on Appropriate Therapeutic Responses to Sexual Orientation, which is also endorsed by the National Association of School Psychologists, states: The American Psychological Association opposes portrayals of lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth and adults as mentally ill due to their sexual orientation and supports the dissemination of accurate information about sexual orientation, and mental health, and appropriate interventions in order to counteract bias that is based in ignorance or unfounded beliefs about sexual orientation.

Jordan Palmer, representative for the joint condemnation stated, "Homosexuality is not unique in its status as an issue some people use to justify their hatred and/or repression of others. Unfortunately, for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender ("LGBT") people, some of the people who treat them the worst are their closest friends, family members, and churches upon learning of their sexuality. This double jeopardy situation leads many LGBT to the brink of despair."

Palmer also stated, "You cannot change someone's born sexual identity; we call on Governor Palin to clearly identity her position on her churches activities."

Marriage Stories Protect; Coalition Begins to Share Relationship Stories

2008-06-24T11:13:00.000-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation today announced the formation of a coalition with Marriage Equality USA, Bond Magazine, Equality Mississippi, Freedom to Marry, and other partners to encourage Kentucky's gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender ("LGBT") citizens share their personal stories related Kentucky's anti-gay marriage law and how it affects their lives.

"Six gay couples here in Kentucky have made us aware of their plans to travel to California to get married," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "We have a place on our website they can visit to share their marriage plans with us; these couples realize once they get back to Kentucky, the Commonwealth will not recognize their marriage."

Palmer also stated this was the beginning of a long-term strategy to repeal Kentucky's 2004 constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage, and that marriage should be gender neutral.

Since the California Supreme Court ruling, Kentucky Equality Federation has received 147 emails either from its primary website, or on social networking sites asking one question: "When will it be legal for me to marry my partner in Kentucky?"

"Kentucky's LGBT population is tired of constantly being on the defense; though we recognize formidable defense measures are critical, we also realize an equally impressive offense must be coordinated," stated Palmer.

Kentucky Gay Civil Rights Leader Elected to National Organization

2008-05-13T11:12:00.000-04:00

Jordan Palmer, co-founder and president of Kentucky Equality Federation has been unanimously elected to the Board of Directors of Marriage Equality USA. Marriage Equality USA was founded in 1998 and has chapters operating across the nation.

Marriage Equality USA seeks to "secure legally recognized civil marriage for all, at the federal and state level, without regard to gender identity or sexual orientation."

Marriage Equality USA has made headlines in recent years for their fight to legalize equal marriage rights for the LGBT citizens of California, whose case is currently before the California Supreme Court arguing for the equal right for LGBT people to marry in California. Marriage Equality USA is using a 1948 court ruling (Perez v. Sharp) that overturned a law prohibiting interracial marriage, concluding the right to marry the person of your choice is a "fundamental right of citizenship."

Palmer will be working alongside an army of national activists, including celebrities who are members of the Advisory Board to the Board of Directors of Marriage Equality USA, including Jason & Demarco, Ari Gold, and Brian Kent.

Some of Marriage Equality USA's other activities to date include:

The first organization (joint effort with Lambda Legal) to institute a comprehensive grass roots marriage and media training program for activists.
Began the Valentine's Day/Freedom to Marry Day Marriage License Counter demonstrations across the country; same-sex couples ask for marriage licenses from their city hall and county recorder's offices.
Obtained support of our Marriage Declaration from council members, clergy, community boards, mayors, and other key people throughout the United States.
Sponsored the first-ever Same-Sex Wedding Expo in New York, garnering solid support from gay and non-gay businesses.

"I think Kentucky Equality Federation's strategic alliance with Marriage Equality USA, as well as my appointment to their national Board of Directors is the first step toward repealing Kentucky's 2004 anti-gay amendment, as well as garnering additional support for non-discrimination laws, hospital visitation rights for same-sex couples, and other laws to bring complete equality to Kentucky," stated Palmer.

Palmer's appointment to Marriage Equality USA's Board of Directors is for two years.

Kentucky Equality Federation and the Libertarian Party of Kentucky form Strategic Coalition Partnership

2008-04-10T19:02:00.006-04:00

Lexington, KY -- Kentucky Equality Federation is pleased to announce the formation of a strategic coalition alliance with the Libertarian Party of Kentucky to bring equality and fairness to the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

The Libertarian Party is the largest of the Third Political Parties in the United States, claiming more than 200,000 registered voters and more than 600 people in public office, including mayors, county executives, county-council members, school-board members and other local officials. It has more people in office than all other third parties combined.

"We can work together to promote equality in Kentucky, we definitely have a long road [ahead]," stated Libertarian Party of Kentucky Chairman Ken Moellman.

"We're very proud and honored to be working with the Libertarian Party of Kentucky," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer.

KENTUCKY EQUALITY FEDERATION AND THE LIBERTARIAN PARTY OF KENTUCKY FORM STRATEGIC COALITION PARTNERSHIP

2008-04-10T11:10:00.000-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation is pleased to announce the formation of a strategic coalition alliance with the Libertarian Party of Kentucky to bring equality and fairness to the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

The Libertarian Party is the largest of the Third Political Parties in the United States, claiming more than 200,000 registered voters and more than 600 people in public office, including mayors, county executives, county-council members, school-board members and other local officials. It has more people in office than all other third parties combined.

"We can work together to promote equality in Kentucky, we definitely have a long road [ahead]," stated Libertarian Party of Kentucky Chairman Ken Moellman.

"We're very proud and honored to be working with the Libertarian Party of Kentucky," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer.

KENTUCKY EQUALITY FEDERATION QUESTIONS MIDDLESBORO DAILY NEWS ARTICLE AND CONDEMNS CO-CALLED ARYAN BASH 2008

2008-03-27T11:05:00.000-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation today called a newspaper article in the Middlesboro Daily News on Wednesday inflammatory and irresponsible because the veracity of the article could only be confirmed online from an ambiguous group. The article, written by Andrea Schneider, a staff writer for the Middlesboro Daily News stated the Appalachian Knights of the Ku Klux Klan and several associated groups planned to rally outside the opening of Middlesboro Little Theatre's spring production "The Diary of Anne Frank" between April 11 and April 13, 2008.

The article contained no information as to whether the reporter attempted to speak to anyone from the organizations listed, how long they have operated, or if they actually still exist in Kentucky. "The website in question could simply be operated by one person with a computer attempting to ignite the community," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer.

"The Diary of Anne Frank" is the powerful story of a group of Jewish people attempting to survive the bigotry and persecution of the Nazis in Holland during World War II. Anne Frank, who was a teenager at the time, kept a diary detailing the hopes and dreams, fears and strengths, of eight people who hid from the Nazis for over two years with the help of Christian friends.

"Kentucky Equality Federation stands united with the Jewish and Black population of the Commonwealth in fighting racism and hatred," stated Kentucky Equality Federation Political Advisor James-Clifton Spires. "This type of rally and the attention it draws serve no other purpose than to re-segregate our communities; I challenge citizens in the surrounding areas to deny them an audience."

Kentucky Equality Federation condemns the so-called "Aryan Bash 2008" and believes it was irresponsible of the paper and the writer to publish an article listed by the Anti-Defamation League(R) as "the first annual event of this kind." Palmer stated that first annual events of this nature have a way of falling apart, especially since the newspaper itself stated the planned event could only be confirmed through the website of one of the groups.

Kentucky Equality Federation leads the first rally of the 2008 Legislative Session at the Kentucky Capitol

2008-02-20T11:05:00.000-05:00

Two gay rights groups lobbied lawmakers yesterday and held a rally in the Capitol Rotunda in opposition to the proposed ban on domestic-partner benefits.

The state Senate passed the bill (SB-112) in January. The bills fate now lies in the House of Representatives.

The groups also supported House Bill 33 filed by state Representative Mary Lou Marzian (D) Louisville, which is currently in the House Health and Welfare Committee for consideration.

"It's great that our legislatures are seeing that there is a huge LGBT presence in the commonwealth demanding equality and fairness under Kentucky law," stated Jordan Palmer, President of the Kentucky Equality Federation, a statewide gay rights organization. Palmer added, "Every Kentuckian should feel embarrassed that we have a Senate who wants to micromanage public universities, and kills every bill filed to protect LGBT Kentuckians from discrimination in employment, credit, and accommodations."

After lobbying lawmakers, a rally was held in the Capitol Rotunda where spectators drew inspiration from Kentucky Senator Ernesto Scorsone, Representative Kathy W. Stein, and a local Pastor.

The University of Kentucky, whose domestic-partner benefits program was attacked by the state Senate was represented by UK Gay-Straight Alliance Chairwoman Corinne Keel.

"For the first time in the history of the Gay Rights Movement in Kentucky, we are able to show that gay Kentuckians exist in every region of the commonwealth, and they deserve the same rights and protections as their heterosexual counterparts," stated Paul Brown, Chairman of Bluegrass Fairness of Central Kentucky, a Lexington gay rights group.

Kentucky Families are Safe after the House of Representatives Immediately Adjourns the Special Session Called by Governor Fletcher

2007-07-06T11:02:00.000-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation praises the wisdom of House Speaker Richards and the entire House of Representatives for immediately adjourning the special session called by Governor Fletcher. The House of Representatives voted to end a special legislative session called by Republican Governor Ernie Fletcher an hour after it started.

"The House of Representatives did what was right for Kentucky families and taxpayers," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "Governor Fletcher apparently has no core beliefs of his own, his decisions seem to be nothing more than a calculation of how he can stay in office."

Governor Fletcher added a ban on domestic-partner benefits at universities and public agencies to the agenda of the special session that could have cost taxpayers $60,000.00 per day to hold.

"Watching Speaker Richards and other members of the House on KET made me proud to be a Kentuckian," stated Palmer.

Kentucky Equality Federation supports the previous statement by Governor Fletcher that universities should determine their own policies. But the Governor changed his mind in the middle of an election year and added it to a 'laundry list' as a reason to call the General Assembly into session.

Several Kentucky universities and public agencies offer affordable health insurance to both heterosexual and homosexual couples.

Kentucky Equality Federation Urges the U.S. Senate to Deny the Confirmation of Dr. James Holsinger as U.S. Surgeon General

2007-06-11T11:01:00.000-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation today condemned the nomination of Dr. James W. Holsinger Jr. as U.S. Surgeon General.

Federation management had previously decided to remain largely quiet on the issue since the Office of U.S. Surgeon General is not a particularly powerful one, and has little direct impact on policy-making.

Earlier this week however Truth Wins Out, a group that debunks the religious right, reported that Dr. James Holsinger helped found a church in Lexington, Kentucky that operates an "ex-gay" ministry, a practice strongly opposed by Kentucky Equality Federation.

In 2006 the American Psychiatric Association, backed by numerous other mainstream medical organizations, issued a warning which stated: "There is simply no sufficiently scientifically sound evidence that sexual orientation can be changed." The statement went on to say that positions supported by ex-gay organizations "are not supported by the science" and that they "create an environment in which prejudice and discrimination can flourish." The medical and scientific consensus is that reparative therapy is not effective and is potentially harmful.

"After reading some of the information and reports currently being circulated in the gay community it is clear that Dr. Holsinger has homophobic issues and isn't worthy to be a physician, much less U.S. Surgeon General," stated Jordan Palmer, Kentucky Equality Federation President. "If Holsinger is confirmed it will alienate the gay community from the U.S. Public Health Service."

Kentucky Equality Federation will be sending its certified condemnation of Dr. James Holsinger as U.S. Surgeon General to U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy, the chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

"I think the committee needs to hear from Holsinger's home state," stated Palmer. "It is alarming that someone with a record such a Holsinger's, a record of allowing his personal religious opinion to influence his medical judgment, could be confirmed as our leading spokesperson on matters of public health in the U.S. government."

Kentucky Equality Federation will be asking its 6,841 registered members, as well as its 3,891 friends on the social networking website MySpace.com to sign a petition urging the Senate to reject Holsinger's nomination.

Kentucky Equality Federation Comments on Protests Held at Wal-Mart in Richmond, KY, and Possible Black Friday Protests of Wal-Mart

2006-11-24T10:57:00.000-05:00

A group of protesters converged last week on the Wal-Mart in Richmond, KY to protest the company's fair and equal treatment of homosexuals. Wal-Mart has been under increasing pressure from conservative Christians, especially after they expanded their diversity program in a deal with the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.

Kentucky Equality Federation's Membership Manager and Acting Bluegrass Chapter President, Clarence Wallace, began receiving reports about the protest within hours of its development. The Federation also received approximately 24 emails and telephone calls from concerned members and citizens, including people who work at the Richmond Wal-Mart.

In electronic communication with Wal-Mart's corporate offices, Kentucky Equality Federation General Counsel Paige D. Marks asked Wal-Mart for guidance about the prospect of counter demonstrations or support rallies to support the company's diversity program.

Kentucky Equality Federation members have called for a counter demonstration celebrating diversity as well as fair and equal treatment in the work place to coincide with the one being held by the Richmond Chapter of the Kentucky Fairness Alliance on Black Friday.

Wallace called the protest of a Kentucky Wal-Mart "a complete misunderstanding of Wal-Mart's policy."

During a conference call late Wednesday evening, Federation management and Board members decided not to become involved in any counter protests or a support rally in Richmond.

Though we support the decision of the Kentucky Fairness Alliance's Richmond Chapter, and share solidarity with them, we will spend Black Friday with our loved ones, having just commemorated the feast held at Plymouth in 1621 by Pilgrim colonists and members of the Wampanoag people and marked by the giving of thanks to God for harvest and health," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "It is unreasonable however for anyone to think that companies don't want to do business with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community; our money is as green as anyone's."

Protest / Rally at NKU against government sponsored discrimination

2006-10-25T10:54:00.000-04:00

Members of Kentucky Equality Federation and other fair-minded Kentuckians will be assembling and exercising their First Amendment right under the U.S. Constitution and Section I of the Kentucky Constitution on Wednesday evening prior to the debate.

Kentucky Equality Federation condemns comments by Representative Joseph Fischer (R-Fort Thomas) related to people being able to 'change their sexuality' in an on-going debate with his opponent Linda Klembara (D-Fort Thomas).

Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer stated "Representative Fischer stating 'It's OK to fire someone if they're gay,' reminds me of something you'd read that someone said in a previous century; forced segregation, unequal pay for women, elitism, and sexism was also said to be OK." Palmer also stated "We live in a republic founded on tolerance and the embracement of diversity; the comments made by Representative Fischer are a slap in the face to the people who lay their lives on the line everyday to protect the ideals the founders of our nation had."

Representative Fischer also stated "Historically, homosexuals haven't been discriminated against like women and blacks. They haven't suffered." During World War II the deaths of 15,000 gay men in concentration camps are officially documented, though unofficial numbers reach as high as 600,000. German soldiers were known to use gay men for target practice, aiming their weapons at the pink triangles their human targets were forced to wear.

"Representative Fischer obviously has no clue what he's talking about," stated Palmer. "Does Representative Fischer know who Timothy Blair, Charles Poynter, Blaine Thackery, Jesse James Valencia, Guinn Phillips, or Barry Winchell are? They are native Kentuckians or people who where in Kentucky and murdered for their born sexual orientation. I'd really like to know Representative Fisher's definition of "suffer," stated Palmer. "By Representative Fisher stating the gay community hasn't suffered he is in fact stating the gay community hasn't suffered enough; I'd like Representative Fisher to provide us with a number of exactly how many people need to suffer before he will acknowledge it."

Representative Fischer also stated "Obviously, people can change their sexual orientation, some psychologists have said so." In response, Kentucky Equality Federation challenges Representative Fischer to change his sexual orientation to homosexual for the next 48 hours.

The American Psychological Association in its Resolution on Appropriate Therapeutic Responses to Sexual Orientation, which is also endorsed by the National Association of School Psychologists, states: That the American Psychological Association opposes portrayals of lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth and adults as mentally ill due to their sexual orientation and supports the dissemination of accurate information about sexual orientation, and mental health, and appropriate interventions in order to counteract bias that is based in ignorance or unfounded beliefs about sexual orientation.

Members of Kentucky Equality Federation and other fair-minded Kentuckians will be assembling and exercising their First Amendment right under the U.S. Constitution and Section I of the Kentucky Constitution on Wednesday evening prior to the debate.

Kentucky Equality Federation and Northern Kentucky University Reach Agreement

2006-09-22T10:53:00.000-04:00

Kentucky Equality Association/Federation President Jordan Palmer stated today that he is now satisfied with Northern Kentucky University's response to an incident involving a gay student.

On August 28th, Jeremy Phillippi said he found "(this word omitted by Kentucky Equality) you fag, I hope you get AIDS" on his dorm room door and that the decorations on a bulletin board had been torn down. Phillippi is a resident adviser at the university and a member of Common Ground, Northern Kentucky University's Gay-Straight Alliance.

Phillippi filed a complaint with the Federation to push NKU administrators to take a more aggressive stance against acts of discrimination, intimidation and hatred.

The Kentucky Equality Federation requested university management assume a more "hands on" role in the investigation and issue a public statement condemning this action with consequences of targeting students because of their sexual orientation or gender identity clearly identified.

"After speaking to Vice President of Student Affairs Mark G. Shanley, I have a much better understanding of the situation," stated Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer. "We had a very friendly, candid conversation about the incident and will keep an open dialog. I thought Mr. Shanley was both receptive and supportive, having made himself personally available to Phillippi if he encountered any additional problems."

Vice President Shanley and Dean of Students Kelso stopped by a Common Ground meeting this week and spoke with them about discrimination, tolerance, and a variety of other topics.

Palmer's comments where echoed by Common Ground's Co-President Mike Volmer yesterday during a telephone conversation with Palmer.

"Because the reported misconduct also represents behavior inconsistent with our University's values, it is important that we also respond in a manner that sends a clear message reaffirming the importance of civilized behavior toward all individuals and discouraging behavior which threatens the freedom and respect that every individual deserves. When the investigation into this complaint is completed, I will personally communicate this message to the entire Northern Kentucky University community," stated Northern Kentucky University President James C. Votruba.

Phillippi partnered with another resident adviser to facilitate a two-day program focused on diversity, tolerance, and AIDS with the University Housing Department providing funding, marketing support and serving as co-sponsor.

Palmer stated Kentucky Equality Federation would continue to support its members and Gay-Straight Alliances across Kentucky.

Palmer and other management from Kentucky Equality Federation still plan to meet with members of Common Ground's Board to discuss monetary and material ways the federation can support the Gay-Straight Alliance.

Kentucky Equality Federation Provides New Service to Report Hate Crimes, Discrimination, and School Bullying

2006-09-07T10:51:00.000-04:00

Kentucky Equality Federation (formerly Kentucky Equality Association) is now officially offering to serve as a "buffer" between victims of hate crimes, discrimination, and school bullying.

Kentucky Equality has successfully settled nine complaints submitted by members across Kentucky so far in 2006 with two others still pending. Until today however, Kentucky Equality offered no official online form or specific manager to handle the complaints. So far, none of the cases have required lawsuits.

Given the fact that Kentucky Equality Federation has received so many official complaints and general inquiries this year alone, the Board of Directors believes this is the next logical step. "If the people need us to serve in this capacity, then we will step up to the plate," stated Nancy Couch, Secretary of the Federation.

Kentucky Equality believes a lot of incidents go unreported each year throughout Kentucky because of bad experiences in reporting them, others fear being "outed" or reprisals from their perpetrators. However, unless people do report it, there will be no true record of the extent of the problem and nothing will be done to address it.

"Some children and teenager's, especially in small Kentucky communities are afraid to go to the police, or take legal action when they suffer from or witness discrimination, school bullying, and even hate crimes," stated Jordan Palmer, president of Kentucky Equality. "Schools throughout the commonwealth are particularly quick to dismiss school bullying related to a child or teenager's gender identity and sexual orientation; we want to make sure their complaints are taking seriously, and make sure local officials stop it with more than just a slap on the wrist."

Kentucky Equality will keep all specific information submitted by victims confidential unless violence or a life is at risk. "If the person wants our help, we will do everything possible and necessary to keep their names confidential, and bring every resource to bear on the issue," stated Palmer. "Kentucky Equality Association/Federation isn't just about fighting for civil rights, we stand united together when one of us is attacked, in whatever form."

Kentucky Equality believes teaching tolerance and acceptance is critical at high schools, colleges, and universities; last week the Federation matched operating budgets for Eastern Kentucky University's "EKU Pride Alliance," and Boone County High School's "Gay-Straight Alliance."

Boone County High School in Northern Kentucky Approves Gay-Straight Alliance

2006-07-20T10:49:00.000-04:00

Students at Boone County High School in Northern Kentucky celebrated victory after members of the Boone County High School Site-Based Council unanimously approved the formation of an in-school Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) last night.

The Boone County High School was under direct threat of being sued by the Kentucky Equality Association for delaying the formation of the club for over 3 months.

The victory however belongs to Nick Herweck, a student at Boone County High School, and a senior member of the Kentucky Equality Association.

Herweck had an unprecedented amount of support from organizations and groups across two states, including the AIDS Volunteers of Cincinnati, Eastern Kentucky University's Pride Alliance, Northern Kentucky University's Common Ground, Cincinnati's Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, a representative from Social Services, various community members, and the Kentucky Fairness Alliance filled the commons area of the school to support the formation of the Boone County High School Gay-Straight Alliance.

"It was both remarkable and wonderful to see various groups and organizations from two states in the same room to support such a wonderful cause; to make sure our gay, lesbian, transgender, bisexual, and questioning teenagers have a school club were they are accepted, and can talk freely in a non-threatening environment," stated Jordan Palmer, President of the Kentucky Equality Association/Federation. "Nick Herweck sets a positive example for all teenagers in being responsible and active environmentally, socially, academically, and politically; Nick is remarkable in every measurable sense of the word."

Kentucky Equality Federation's Founder Injured in a Car Accident

2006-07-18T10:47:00.000-04:00

Gay civil rights leader Jordan Palmer, founder and president of the Kentucky Equality Association (now Kentucky Equality Federation) was injured with multiple lacerations around 11:45 p.m. late Saturday night on Turfway Road in Florence, KY after the car he was a passenger in was hit by a driver arrested on the scene for driving while intoxicated.

Neither Palmer nor Robert Chapman from West Virginia, the driver of the car Palmer was in were drinking alcohol or under the influence. Florence police arrested the driver of the automobile who collided with them after he allegedly failed sobriety tests.

Palmer is still expected to attend a meeting at Boone County High School on Friday evening, a high school the Kentucky Equality Association is threatening to sue for dragging their feet on the formation of a student organized Gay-Straight Alliance.