"It's Time" : A Second Try for Civil Unions in Colorado

Thinking historically, as we have been doing here at the history project, can have the effect of distracting us from important contemporary issues facing the LGBTQ community. It is easy to relegate injustice to memory and take comfort in the belief that things are surely better than than were. No doubt things have changed and yes, the progress we have seen in this country has largely been away from injustice and towards more just and equal treatment of non heterosexual Americans. After all, we can watch boys kissing on prime time television and gay men and women can serve openly in the military. Something is changing...

Despite this progress - and I certainly do not mean to belittle the important victories achieved - there is much to be done, much to fight for still. I was reminded of one of these persistent impediments to equality this evening at  a rally for civil unions hosted by One Colorado and the Strong Families Coalition right here at CC's Cornerstone Arts Center. The event brought together supporters and activists from around the state to recognize the official start of One Colorado's 2012 Campaign for civil unions. The rally just happened to coincide with the opening of 2012 legislative session. Hours earlier Sen. Pat Steadman (D- Denver) introduced the Colorado Civil Union Act to the General Assembly.

Brad Clark, Executive Director of One Colorado, addresses the crowd at the civil union kick off rally. January 11, 2012.

We heard from community members, activists, mothers, lovers, and allies dedicated to fighting for legislative action that would provide same sex couples those most basic rights currently denied them. As it was iterated and reiterated this evening, it's time for change.

And the political climate in the state does seem to indicate that passage might finally be possible. A recent policy poll showed that 76 percent of Coloradans now support civil unions, including 60 percent of republicans. Though a bill to create civil unions failed in the 2011 session - it passed the senate with bi-partisan support only to be killed by one republican vote in the house - the 2012 legislature now has another opportunity to support same sex couples.

We will be following the bill closely knowing civil unions will provide same sex couples with long overdue rights and protections. It's not marriage, but alas, that's another post. Passage of the Colorado Civil Unions Act would move us closer to formal equality in this colorful state and beyond.


Visit One Colorado for more information and to learn about ways to become involved.