The fault is ours

Click on the image to make it larger. Jordan Palmer with Kentucky Equality Federation comments on COVID-19 deaths due to Trump's inaction.

CityPlace Expo Center will not permit gay weddings

After receiving multiple complaints related to the CityPlace Expo Center at 112 S 1st Street, La Grange, KY for not permitting same-sex weddings, many venues booking websites have also exercised their right to remove them because of their discriminatory policy.

“The issue for the Kentucky Equality Federation is that the Oldham County Chamber & Economic Development offices (www.oldhamcountychamber.com) are also located at the CityPlace Expo Center (Oldham County Chamber of Commerce), and we will not tolerate tax dollars funding discrimination,” stated Kentucky Equality Federation and Earth Equality Alliance Secretary-General Jordan Palmer.

#MachesterKY #KY #Gay Manchester is no place for justice for gay married couple assaulted and illegally evicted

Twice a trial or hearing has been scheduled and in both cases (one scheduled for today), none of the witnesses the special prosecutor requested be subpoenaed ever got served. Without witnesses and those required to attend not served for the second time by the sheriff, you can have no trial. Kentucky Equality Federation reports Judge Allen Roberts to the U.S. Department of Justice, the Kentucky Office of Attorney General, the Kentucky Judicial Conduct Commission, the Kentucky Bar Association and the American Bar Association. (original press release)

This is a follow-up press release for an ongoing story of new actions taken. This story was originally covered by WYMT-TV, a CBS affiliate.

PRESS RELEASE:
Secretary-General Jordan Palmer
Managing Director Joshua Koch
Eastern Regional Director Matt Berry
Southern Director William Taylor

CONTACT:
Dillan Marsh, Executive Director
Secretary General’s Office of Special Affairs
PH: (502) 219-2533

# # #

Joshua Melton and James Raymond Feltner, a married couple, were unlawfully evicted, assaulted, and sued in Manchester, KY. During the illegal eviction, the landlord stated she "should not have rented to faggots."

Judicial Misconduct Complaint: https://www.slideshare.net/palmerjor/kentucky-equality-federations-jordan-palmer-releases-files-from-the-federation-regarding-gay-assault-and-illegal-eviction

At Kentucky Equality Federation, we assist and act as a 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. However, laws cease to have meaning when the courts are not capable of or refuse to enforce equal justice before those laws. (original press release, also covered by WYMT-TV, a CBS affiliate).

"It is my belief that homophobia in a close-knit political community has resulted in Judge Allen B. Roberts ruling contrary to Kentucky law and advancing his own personal beliefs, presiding over a self-serving court of deceit, hypocrisy, and belligerence," stated Secretary-General Jordan Palmer.

"In 16 years of activism, I have never heard a judge be so demeaning, unprofessional, and completely hostile. As with everything in life, eventually, we must take sides, and I do so diligently. Remaining uninvolved encourages the bully. Failure to raise your hand in protest and remain silent not only makes you part of the problem, but it encourages the discriminating person, agency, or government. When basic fundamental civil rights are denied, suppressed, or persecuted, we all have an obligation and a duty to create a hindrance or an obstacle.

When you are given a ticket for something or arrested, the standard police response is “ignorance of the law if no excuse, nor is it a defense."

Conversely, anyone ignorant of the law is also doomed to have their civil rights trodden on, so it behooves the Commonwealth’s citizens to be fluent in the law and we encourage all citizens to read the Kentucky Constitution and to know their rights for no law made can supersede the Kentucky Constitution, not even a constitutional amendment if said amendment violates the Kentucky Constitution, regardless of the ballot outcome, as with an amendment (Kentucky Equality Federation v. Commonwealth of Kentucky)."

"Officials in Clay County have tried to silence Secretary-General Palmer several times without success for being the personal advocate of the victims, after the initial court hearing for the counterclaim of the victims," stated Eastern Kentucky Regional Director Matt Berry. "It is indeed a sad day in our commonwealth with the Office of County Attorney, attempts to keep any victim from filing charges or seeking justice when they have been wronged. Equal housing rights are human rights." Ms. Thompson reportedly told the Victims "she should have never rented to faggots."

"History has shown that neither Jordan Palmer nor this Federation will be silenced by self-serving, egotistical want to be tyrants with delusions of adequacy or power. On multiple occasions, the FBI has directed other victims to contact the Federation so that we could initially review the complaint (Milam v. Warren County Regional Jail – Kentucky Equality Federation’s legal representation at the time filed the case and won)," stated Southern Kentucky Regional Director William Taylor.

Palmer continued: "Any licensed attorney or an ordinary citizen knowing the law could argue that the presence of police, at the request of a city commissioner, was intimidating and any statement made by a uniformed law enforcement officer and communicated to the Victims to be the actual law in fact. (i.e. A uniformed police officer tells a citizen they could not walk on a public road, the citizen will comply and not walk on it, even though they would have every legal right to). How Judge Roberts could not make this connection is beyond our sphere of comprehension in an unbiased court of law.

One police officer reportedly told them, “they must leave by the time given to them by Esther Thompson,” their landlord and community manager (who at the time was also a City Commissioner). The notice to vacate immediately was verbally ordered by Thompson and reinforced by Manchester Police Department Officer Couch. This was all the notice the Victims needed as the order to vacate as well as the time frame was reinforced by uniformed law enforcement.

Prior to this, Thompson illegally entered their apartment by forcing her way inside. Had the Victims chosen to defend their home, the Victims could have wounded the intruder under the U.S. Castle Doctrine, in Kentucky law known as KRS 503.055, something Judge Roberts completely dismissed."

When the victims notified her they would call the police if she did not leave, she reportedly stated, 'I own the police.'

The husband of Esther Thompson is the person that was responsible for installing carpet and other repairs inside the apartment they vacated. Judge Roberts did ask to see multiple bids or quotes. This is a major conflict because Esther Thompson stood to further profit by inflating damage and repairs and Judge Roberts did not bother hearing testimony from all the witnesses that showed up to testify in support of the Victims including witnesses present when Esther Thompson illegally forced herself into their home.

Kentucky Equality Federation Managing Director Joshua Koch stated: "The presence of police, at the personal request of a city commissioner, was a use of public office for intimidation. There are numerous other possible issues involved here, as well. They include fiscal conflict of interest, residence invasion by force, assault, and use of public office for personal for personal gain. To have these concerns dismissed is the antithesis of justice. Additional witnesses are prepared to testify on behalf of the victims.

We feel the gravity of this case and its egregious handling by local court warrant review by the U.S. Department of Justice, the Kentucky Office of Attorney General, the Kentucky Bar Association, and the Kentucky Judicial Conduct Commission.  The initial offense is a violation of individual rights, but having a further denial of justice or a fair hearing demands a level of professional accountability from Judge Roberts that warrants further review, as it is an offense against all Kentuckians who must rely on these courts to provide impartial justice."

2:00 PM EST UPDATE:  Today the Sheriff's Office still had not served all witnesses resulting in another delay. The Special Prosecutor demanded by the Kentucky Equality Federation continues to subpoena them but they are never served.

Judicial Misconduct Complaint against Clay County Judge Roberts from Kentucky Equality Federation's - Jordan Palmer

Kentucky Equality Federation's Jordan Palmer releases files from the Federation regarding Gay Assault and Illegal Eviction. from Kentucky Equality Federation's - Jordan Palmer

#SB17 #KYGA17 Kentucky Equality Federation to sue over Senate Bill 17

SPECIAL STATEMENT:
From: Secretary-General Jordan Palmer

CONTACT:
Dillan Marsh, Executive Director
Secretary General’s Office of Special Affairs
PH:  (502) 219-2533

# # #

Governor Bevin signing Senate Bill 17 into law is hardly shocking and is nothing new. Discrimination under the guise of religion is also nothing new. Senate Bill 17 jeopardizes non-discrimination policies at high schools, colleges, and universities.  Though the struggle for LGBTI equality continues to this day, the right wing has been pushing religious freedom to discriminate against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex people in addition to pregnant and unmarried women under the inhumane calling of religious freedom.

With the push for "local ordinances," which provide no legal protection to LGBTI citizens since the passage of the Kentucky Religious Freedom Act of 2013, along with legalizing same-sex marriage in Kentucky Equality Federation v Commonwealth of Kentucky (based on Jordan Palmer's legal theory) and the U.S. Supreme Court ruling, religious groups continue to push back with great avidity, filled with rage, intolerance, judgement, and fear.

At no time in the history of our Union has religious freedom been in danger. Indeed, Section IV of the Kentucky Constitution specifically addresses this issue.

Today, Kentuckians and Americans seem more bent on tearing each other apart and separating ourselves into groups or classes of people instead of uniting as we did in the Revolutionary War. For the past 14 years, another war has been brewing,  the separation of states from our Union because of the complete inability of political parties to compromise and elected officials being loyal to political parties over constituents. This problem is further fueled by "commentary" from media networks who are not reporting news, instead, they recycle it by picking apart every statement, word, eye movement, down to the manner someone stands to separate and divide us.

Dividing us into groups and classes is a direct violation of the Federation's Mission Statement, which I have sworn to uphold and fight for.  As we had so many times in the past, we will continue to overcome obstacles placed in our path and engage them as they present themselves. Kentucky Equality Federation, in all of our lawsuits, cease and dissect orders, and other legal filings has never been defeated in court.  We will not be silenced, and we will not accept whatever legislative agendas our elected officials attempt to force upon us should they violate anyone’s civil liberties.

LEGAL ACTION:  Discrimination and hate sanctioned by the state, be it one of the several states or the federal state will not be tolerated. As the unifying figure for all member organizations, I have warned and advised the managing directors, regional directors, and other management of member organizations and our legal department of the Federation and the United Kentucky Alliance to sue the Commonwealth posthaste. Both case law and the Kentucky Constitution are on our side. First, however, we will likely need a victim who has been discriminated against.

• In 1997, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the U.S. Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1993 President Bill Clinton. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Congress acted above their authority and could not force the legislation on the states. Though it remains federal law, it does not apply to the several states of our Union.

OUR future. OUR commonwealth! #WeAreKY

#UN #Rape #Refugees UN chief's strategy to protect from sexual exploitation and abuse

After a long and humiliating period for member states, the new head of the United Nations, defender of peace and the Declaration of Human Rights is acting to prevent rape and abuse from member states around the World.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, underscoring that the United Nations should not be, in any way, associated with the crimes of rape, sexual violence, exploitation, and abuse, has outlined a new victim-centred approach to prevent and respond to such abuses committed by those serving under the United Nations flag.

"Such acts of cruelty should never take place. Certainly, no person serving with the United Nations in any capacity should be associated with such vile and vicious crimes," said Guterres in a message announcing his report released Thursday on the issue. Let us declare in one voice: We will not tolerate anyone committing or condoning sexual exploitation and abuse. We will not let anyone cover up these crimes with the UN flag."

The secretary-general’s report outlines special measures for protection from sexual exploitation and abuse, and the new approach aims to be victim-centred strategy and is rooted in transparency, accountability and ensuring justice.

Noting that exploitation was also deeply rooted in gender inequality and discrimination, Guterres said that promoting gender equality throughout the UN system, including its missions and peacekeeping forces, would help advance parity and at the same time decrease incidents of abuse.

Based on four tracks, the approach documented in the report focuses on the rights and dignity of victims; ending impunity for those guilty of crimes and abuses; drawing on the wisdom and guidance of all those who have been affected, civil society, local communities and others to strengthen and improve UN's efforts; and to raise awareness and share best practices to end the scourge.

"Privatized U.S. companies who provide security and peacekeeping operations have immunity from prosecution as has been reported many times in addition to multiple reports, books, and movies being made on the subject. No privatized security company or active soldier from the United States, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, or any other UN state should have immunity from prosecution for such barbaric acts," stated Kentucky Equality Federation and United Kentucky Alliance Secretary-General Jordan Palmer for ILGA. "All peacekeeping operations ultimately report to the Office of the Secretary-General, and the Secretary-General along with the United Nations General Assembly should deny immunity to privatized soldiers committing such acts, they should be prosecuted by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the primary judicial branch of the United Nations, or their home, member state."

Palmer continued, we hope UN Secretary-General Guterres will continue to protect and defend the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which as former Secretary-General Ban-Ki Moon stated: “To those who are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, let me say — you are not alone. Your struggle for an end to violence and discrimination is a shared struggle. Any attack on you is an attack on the universal values the United Nations and I have sworn to uphold."

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres included a detailed list of actions, along with the relevant UN entity, that would be responsible for consultation with relevant stakeholders, as well as provides data on allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse across the UN system and by non-UN international forces authorized by a Security Council mandate.

Kentucky Equality Federation Ambassador of Goodwill Melanie Nathan, the executive director of the African Human Rights Coalition added: "LGBTI people aren't protected adequately or in some instances at all by the UN and the states who continue to criminalize people based on sexual orientation and gender identity. We have LGBTI asylum seekers and refugees languishing and suffering violence where host countries continue to allow persecution and United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees is unable to provide adequate security. Hopefully, change will come for all and this is not mere lip service."

#resist, #UN, #rage, #LGBTI, #gay, #refugees

#KY #KYGA17 - Trans Rights in Kentucky - Protecting Kentucky Students

SPECIAL STATEMENT:
From: Secretary-General Jordan Palmer

CONTACT:
Dillan Marsh, Executive Director
Secretary General’s Office of Special Affairs

###

"There’s a new, raw reality in the District of Columbia, the seat of government for the federal state.

From executive orders already issued, to rumors of executive orders yet to come, to the appointment of dangerous and unqualified people in powerful positions in our government, the new administration is already wreaking havoc on our communities and our political system. In that respect are new developments every day, and things are proceeding so rapidly that it can be difficult to keep up.

As we move forward together in this new reality, we will do our best to keep you apprised of our continuous efforts to defend and advance equality for our community.

Last month, the Trump administration announced it was reversing federal guidance that protected transgender students. After claiming he would be a friend to the LGBT community, it took Trump just over a month to break his word, which is nothing new.

The guidance protecting transgender students, issued in May 2016, served as a beacon for public school administrators and educators across the country. Without it, schools will face confusion, and transgender young person, who already face exponentially more bullying from their peers, will be seen in the center.

This activity commits a frightening message to some of the most vulnerable young people in the country that this administration will not protect them from discrimination.

Withdrawing the guidance does not change the law, however. Most U.S. district courts have agreed that Title IX under federal law protects transgender students, and schools have a legal and a moral duty to support all students. Additionally, Kentucky courts have issued similar rulings based on Kentucky law.

Thankfully, each state in our Union holds jurisdiction over its borders and delegates limited sovereignty to the federal government, itself, a state. As sovereign entities, each of the 50 states, including the Commonwealth of Kentucky, reserves the right to organize its individual government in any way deemed appropriate by its people. This is why we must continue, on a united front, to change Kentucky law.

Be assured that Kentucky Equality Federation, the United Kentucky Alliance, and its member organizations will continue to monitor developments and challenge illegal or immoral laws as they present themselves as we have throughout our history."

📬 Report Discrimination, Hate Crime, and School Bullying:  http://kentuckyequality.org/file-discrimination-schoolbullying-hatecrime/

#KY #KYGA17 #kygov #weareky Kentucky Election/Political Statement

click to make larger

So many protests continue around the country related to the latest election. Several have contacted the Kentucky Equality Federation regarding protests. To reiterate our position, this press release is being issued again:

"With so many Kentuckians worried about an uncertain future as well as their physical safety given the hateful attacks against the LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex) community, women, and many others from political candidates who have now been elected, we do not blame them.  But we must remember that our work has never ended.

The political ideology in Frankfort, Kentucky will change drastically when the Kentucky House and Senate convene in January.  The LGBTI community, Women, and other minority groups will continue to fight for equality and inclusiveness.

Kentucky Equality Federation​ invites the new members of the Kentucky Senate​ and the Kentucky House of Representatives​ to join us.  Our community has endured; it will continue to endure long after the terms of those who will assume office have ended.

As we had so many times in the past, we will continue to overcome obstacles placed in our path.  We will not be silenced, and we will not accept whatever legislative agendas our elected officials attempt to force upon us should they violate anyone’s civil liberties.

This is OUR future. Our commonwealth! #WeAreKY

Oh, and would someone PLEASE tell Governor Matt Bevin​ that he stole my saying "We ARE Kentucky!? I've been using that on and off since 2010, especially during the so-called Kentucky Religious Freedom Act, effectively nullifying city local ordinances."

--> This was a prepared statement from the communications director for the Office of the Secretary-General, Jordan Palmer​ of United Kentuckians for Equality, Kentucky Equality Federation, and Marriage Equality Kentucky​, Kentucky Equal Ballot Access​, and Kentucky HIV / AIDS Advocacy Campaign​ (collectively referred to as the "Federation Alliance") as well as the managing director of EACH organization.

Related: http://www.kentucky.com/news/politics-government/election/article111778822.html

www.KentuckyEquality.org

#KY #KYGA17 #kygov #weareky Kentucky Election/Political Statement

"With so many Kentuckians worried about an uncertain future as well as their physical safety given the hateful attacks against the LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex) community, women, and many others from political candidates who have now been elected, we do not blame them.  But we must remember that our work has never ended.

The political ideology in Frankfort, Kentucky will change drastically when the Kentucky House and Senate convene in January.  The LGBTI community, Women, and other minority groups will continue to fight for equality and inclusiveness.

Kentucky Equality Federation​ invites the new members of the Kentucky Senate​ and the Kentucky House of Representatives​ to join us.  Our community has endured; it will continue to endure long after the terms of those who will assume office have ended.

As we had so many times in the past, we will continue to overcome obstacles placed in our path.  We will not be silenced, and we will not accept whatever legislative agendas our elected officials attempt to force upon us should they violate anyone’s civil liberties.

This is OUR future. Our commonwealth! #WeAreKY

Oh, and would someone PLEASE tell Governor Matt Bevin​ that he stole my saying "We ARE Kentucky!? I've been using that on and off since 2010, especially during the so-called Kentucky Religious Freedom Act, effectively nullifying city local ordinances."

--> This was a prepared statement from the communications director for the Office of the Secretary-General, Col. Jordan Palmer​ of United Kentuckians for Equality, Kentucky Equality Federation, and Marriage Equality Kentucky​, Kentucky Equal Ballot Access​, and Kentucky HIV / AIDS Advocacy Campaign​ (collectively referred to as the "Federation Alliance") as well as the managing director of EACH organization.

Related: http://www.kentucky.com/news/politics-government/election/article111778822.html

www.KentuckyEquality.org

First legal filings in the illegal eviction of Manchester gay married couple

Secretary-General Jordan Palmer, representing the Kentucky Equality Federation, an NGO, and the Federation Alliance prepared the following court documents in the Manchester, Kentucky illegal eviction of a married gay couple, which included abuse of power, public corruption, and illegal actions of a law enforcement officer (previous press release). Everything was filed, pro se

1. ORDER to Esther Thompson to cease and desist
2. COUNTERCLAIM and CLAIM of ILLEGAL EVICTION
3. Proof of the County Attorney being Esther Thompson's legal representation

Secretary-General Jordan Palmer also requested additional money for legal assistance from the Kentucky Equality Federation's Managing Director, Josh Koch and Marriage Equality Kentucky Managing Director Alex Roberts.

Secretary-General Palmer will also request legal assistance from ILGA at the United Nations early next week.

"The Kentucky Equality Federation is drafting a case on behalf of the victims, Joshua Melton and James Raymond Feltner, and on behalf of the entire LGBTI community against the city of Manchester for the illegal actions of City Council Member Esther Thomas and Manchester Police Officer Jeff Couch," stated Secretary-General Jordan Palmer. "The arrest and indictment of the Judge/Executive of Clay County (for which Manchester is located) for abuse of public trust, bribery of a public servant and criminal possession of a forged instrument should send an alarm to the citizens of how corrupt their city and county are."

Palmer continued:  "I can also confirm that the U.S. Department of Justice has received our request to intervene and I have communicated with the deputy chief of the criminal division.

Ms. Thompson drew the city into the lawsuit even without the aid of the police officer with her statement 'she owns the police,' and instructing officer Jeff Couch once he arrived on scene. Mr. Couch ignored his training and participated in, as well as ordering, an illegal action."

Discrimination, Assault, and Illegal Actions by Police and a City Council Member in Manchester, Kentucky

(Manchester, Kentucky) - Tomorrow, Kentucky Equality Federation will once again call on the Office of United States Attorney, Kerry Harvey, to review a case in Manchester, Kentucky for prosecution. Having exhausted our options to have this handled locally, and by the Commonwealth, the only recourse is to pursue resolution at the federal level.

Joshua Melton and James Raymond Feltner, a married couple, were recently unlawfully evicted, assaulted, and sued in Manchester, KY. During the illegal eviction, the landlord stated she "would not rent to faggots." A representative in the Office of the County Attorney accused them of lying before even taking their assault complaint. After Kentucky Equality Federation investigated, it was discovered with the county attorney, there is a conflict of interest, as he is also the private attorney of the landlord, Esther Thompson, who is a city council member. (request documentation)

The lease signed by the victims was a made-up epithet corporation, unauthorized to operate in the Commonwealth. With two (2) corporations under the name of City Council Member Esther Thompson, the one on the lease does not exist. The one on file in Frankfort was dissolved by the Kentucky Department of State – Corporations Division.

City Council Member Esther Thompson also apparently wrote their names on a separate lease to bind them to forfeit their security deposit. Their security deposit was also never placed in a separate account as required by Kentucky law.

During the illegal eviction [with the assistance of the Manchester Police Department], an emergency room visit was necessary for Joshua L. Melton due to a head injury sustained after being struck by City Council Member Esther Thompson, who also stated to witnesses that “she owned the police.”

The Kentucky Department of Law, headed by the Attorney General, declined to get involved in the case “if local officials declined.”

“As the chief law enforcement officer of the Commonwealth, this is absolutely worthy of the Kentucky Office of Attorney General for investigation,” stated Southern Kentucky Regional Director William Taylor.

“History has unfortunately shown us that we cannot rely on the Kentucky Office of Attorney General, especially when it comes to ethical conduct and public subversion,” stated Russell Allen Hord, Special Adviser to the Secretary-General.

Federation Alliance Secretary-General Jordan Palmer is assisting the couple, and requests all media requests  be addressed to his office. Palmer drove the first gay hate crime convictions in U.S. history and his legal theory was successful in having Kentucky’s 2004 Constitutional Amendment banning same-sex marriage in the Commonwealth struck down by a Franklin County Judge.

“For the citizens of Clay County, public corruption is nothing new, though it is unfair that they must endure this apparent never ending cycle,” stated Secretary-General Jordan Palmer. “We will demand the termination or severe remedial action of the accused Manchester Police Officers involved, who knowingly violated Kentucky law, the resignation or removal of the accused City Council Member from office, and an investigation into the ethical practices of the Clay County Attorney.

Another complaint (see witness statements) will likewise be filed with the Kentucky Bar Association and the American Bar Association regarding the natural processes and moral philosophical system of the Office of the Clay County Attorney.”

Palmer continued: "No peace/police officer in the Commonwealth may evict or assist in the eviction of any party without a court order, regardless of who 'owns them' and the couple being married and gay does not grant a landlord special rights."

#‎Target‬ ‪#‎KY‬ Support Target, shop online or at your local Target store

"We have more serious things to worry about than restrooms, such as school bullying, suicide, unemployment, the homeless, finding cures for cancer, HIV, multiple sclerosis, stopping genocide in parts of the World, and a million other things. You have to ignore these so-called family foundations, their only agenda is to spread hate and fear.” stated Kentucky Equality Federation's Jordan Palmer.

“These so-called ‘family foundations’ were content with having a minority group of ‘second-class citizens’ for decades; a complete class of people unable to marry, unable to visit their partner if hospitalized, unable to share insurance and file joint taxes just to name a few.”

Palmer continued: “It's impossible to boycott every organization or company in favor of LGBTI civil rights. Eventually, you're going to be sitting at home with nothing to do and no place to go. If that is what they want rather than embracing equality and loving each other, let it be so."

-->> In addition to Target, historically these organizations have boycotted NBC, FX, ABC, Barnes & Noble, Winn-Dixie, Sprint, Verizon, K-Mart, General Motors, Ford, DirecTV, Radio Shack, Time Warner, MGM, Paramount, Netflix, and a hundred other companies.

Religious Freedom Bill Consideration - Senate Bill 180 Wasting Taxpayer Dollars says Secretary-General Jordan Palmer

Representatives and senators in Frankfort and the District of Columbia continue to act in the name of so-called "religious freedom" and wasting tax dollars. When is the last time you heard of members of a religious belief they could not assemble? How about a church being closed by the state? Our representatives and senators are twisting religion to further their own political agenda with yet another “religious freedom bill”. The constitution of this Commonwealth guarantees religious freedom, but not a license to discriminate.

But if we are to bring religion into this argument, ask yourself who did Jesus run to? The minority the state or majority persecuted or left behind.

One of the amendments to Kentucky Senate Bill 180 is the right to refuse service if you being democrat or republican violate their religious beliefs. Maybe this is for the best? Without large political parties, no one would tell our elected officials how to vote or what legislation to file. I have democratic, republican, and third political party views so what does that make me? It makes me an independent person with the ability to make up my own mind.

I will never understand those who oppose equality for all people. No one is taking any civil rights away from the majority; we are simply asking they be extended to the minority. Even so, our entire Union is littered with the chronicle of oppression of minority people.

You cannot be terminated in the Commonwealth for being a smoker, your age, gender, religious beliefs, etc. but you can for being LGBTI. Even after 14 years of activism, I cannot wrap my mind round this. The greatest thing that troubles me still is the amount of time is it takes the several states and the federal state to actually do anything about it. Normally, the courts that have to step in; this however is also the beauty of the "separation of powers" and our three branches of government.

Kentucky Equality Federation vows to sue if Senate Bill 180 becomes law

The Interim Membership Committee of the Kentucky Equality Federation voted to permit the president or secretary-general of the alliance to sue the Commonwealth of Kentucky if Senate Bill 180 is passed by the House of Representatives and signed into law by Governor Matt Bevin.

Senate Bill 180 would legally protect businesses that, refuse to service gay and lesbian couples because of the 'religious beliefs' of management/owner.

“This law is unconstitutional, just as it would have been more than fifty years ago when governments passed similar laws related to interracial couples, and 'white schools not permitting 'black students', the very notion of offensive. ” stated Secretary-General Jordan Palmer. “Having sued the Commonwealth for marriage equality in addition to forcing single religious views out of public schools, our legal department is more than ready.”

Palmer added: "This is absolutely ridiculous. What's next? Separate restrooms?"

The Kentucky Equality Federation alliance includes Marriage Equality Kentucky, Southeastern Kentucky Stop Hate Group, Western KY Community Education Project, Kentucky HIV Advocacy Campaign, and Kentucky Equal Ballot Access. The Federation funds alliance members and each receive a single vote for a unifying secretary-general.

Contempt of Rowan County Clerk Kim Davis

Min. Jordan Palmer

Following is a special statement from Minister Jordan Palmer, secretary-general of the Kentucky Equality Federation alliance, its member and dependant organizations:

Kentucky Equality Federation firmly supports Rowan County Clerk Kim Davis' rights to freedom of conscience, faith, and speech. We believe these rights belong to all people regardless of any defining characteristic imposed on them by society or governments.

However, irrespective of how the Family Foundation of Kentucky chooses to spin the news report, the fact is, Davis is not in prison because of her beliefs. She is being held in contempt of court because she refuses to resolve the job taxpayers elected her to perform and has broken her oath of office. She could easily resign and end the entire situation, but I suspect the national spotlight is truly the motivation. The office of an elected official is a public trust, not a personal platform for refusing service to the "wrong" sort of people; this reeks of the oppression of far-off lands where officials can make discriminatory rules and enforce summary judgement against certain classes, genders, orientations, races, and castes.

Kentucky Equality Federation
v. Commonwealth ruling by Judge Wingate

We are all equal before the law, and we encourage Davis to do the right thing, embrace the standard of public service (as she swore an oath to do), and comply with Franklin County Circuit Court Judge Thomas D. Wingate's ruling in Kentucky Equality Federation v. Commonwealth of Kentucky and the ruling of the U.S. Supreme Court.

This situation is analogous to Governor Steve Beshear refusing to aid a region of the Commonwealth during a disaster because they are Methodist, Catholic, or they voted for a different political party. It is similar to a clerk refusing to issue driver's licenses to taxpayers of a certain gender because they don't believe they are religiously permitted to drive. Would we tolerate a governor or president who refused to repel an invasion or defend the lives they have sworn to safeguard?

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. The religious beliefs of Davis remain intact however, and unharmed, but incompatible with the elected office she holds.

#KY #KYGA16 Jordan Palmer and Kentucky Equality Federation call for Rowan County Clerk impeachment

"Today, we call on Governor Steve Beshear to call a Special Session of the Kentucky General Assembly to impeach the Rowan County Clerk. The action of the Clerk defies Kentucky and U.S. Court rulings. This violates the oath of office taken by Kim Davis and if she cannot complete her job because of "religious beliefs" then she should resign. Government is free of religion and religious beliefs. Perhaps Ms. Davis would be happier in a religious state such as Afghanistan, Iran, or Iraq." - Minister Jordan Palmer, Secretary-General of Kentucky Equality Federation and its member organization, Marriage Equality Kentucky.

"Kentucky Equality Federation attorneys are working now to file a lawsuit in Kentucky Courts." On April 16, 2015 Franklin County Circuit Court Judge Thomas D. Wingate struck-down Kentucky's 2004 Ban on Same-Sex Marriage in the Commonwealth of Kentucky stating, "Kentucky's statutory and constitutional bans on same-sex marriage void and unenforceable for violating Plaintiff and Plaintiff's Members Constitutional Rights."

COURT RULING: https://www.facebook.com/KYEquality/photos/p.10153373501693563/10153373501693563/?type=1

See history of media coverages in: KEF IN PROP 8, KY-SUPREME COURT, and PALMER MARRIAGE LICENSE.

The county clerk issues marriage licenses (KRS 402.080) and files and records all marriage certificates (KRS 402.220 and 402.230). Military discharges may also be recorded in the county clerk’s office (KRS 422.090).

On or before the 10th day of each month, the county clerk reports to the state registrar of vital statistics all marriage licenses issued and all marriage certificates returned (KRS 213.116).

Each county clerk must furnish each applicant for a marriage license with a copy of a marriage manual to be prepared and printed by the Human Resources Coordinating Commission of Kentucky (KRS 402.270).

#MarriageEquality: Special Statement on U.S. Supreme Court and marriage equality in Kentucky

SPECIAL STATEMENT: JORDAN PALMER FOR KENTUCKY EQUALITY FEDERATION AND MILES MEEHAN FOR MARRIAGE EQUALITY KENTUCKY

"Today, we celebrate with LGBTIQ communities across the country; particularly across our Commonwealth, as the U.S. Supreme Court has reached the historic ruling to declare marriage equality for all masses.

Historically, courts have always had to act in favor of the minority against the majority; the history of our Commonwealth and indeed our entire Union forge this undeniable fact. Labeling any person by a characteristic such as gay, Asian, Indian, etc. is dehumanizing and commonly used by oppressors as justification.

Kentucky Equality Federation, along with other groups of hard working activists, have worked tirelessly over the years to fight for the fundamental rights of members of our community. The destination was clear, but the journey came with blood, sweat, and a lot of tears.

• See history of media coverages in: KEF IN PROP 8, KY-SUPREME COURT, and PALMER MARRIAGE LICENSE.

As I said over six (6) years ago when fighting California's Prop 8: 'It is our generation's obligation and opportunity to see this injustice righted in our lifetime. We stand on the shoulders of those who have come before us – the time is here, the time is now, history is calling us.' I am proud to say, the call has finally been answered across the United States.

As we celebrate this decision, we are reminded that a couple can be married on Sunday and then be fired from their job or denied a loan.

Even as we celebrate, we know this journey is far from being over. The Kentucky Equality Federation will continue to listen and advocate for those whose voices have been silenced. As we journey on in our quest for equality for all, we encourage everyone to get involved and help in your communities." - Kentucky Equality Federation founder and alliance Secretary-General Jordan Palmer.

"We are encouraged by today's ruling. It is long overdue that all families be recognized in the United States, and this ruling solidifies protections for families and children in Kentucky.  Love is a universal value, and marriage is an agreement between consenting adults and the state. Now, the citizens of our Commonwealth can take pride in the fact that we have joined our neighboring states in supporting equality.

As we go along our journey in our pursuit for equality for all, we encourage everyone to get involved and help in your communities. Whether you participate in a march or just take time to sit down with someone and listen to their story, we believe everyone can play a role in making our communities more loving and equal." - Kentucky Equality Federation Vice Chairman Miles Meehan for Marriage Equality Kentucky.