Statement from One Iowa Interim Executive Director Calla Rongerude
Yesterday, May 8th, North Carolina voters approved Amendment One that wrote a ban on marriage equality into the state’s constitution and denied all relationship recognition to same-sex couples. Late last night, Colorado House leadership blocked the Colorado Civil Unions Act in spite of clear House majority and public support. One Iowa issued this statement in response to the news.
Statement from One Iowa Interim Executive Director Calla Rongerude:
"One Iowa is disheartened by the passage of the Amendment One in North Carolina that will harm thousands of North Carolina families, and by the legislators that played politics with Colorado families and denied passage of a civil unions bill in Colorado. It is clear that our fight for full equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) Americans is far from over. Our opposition has a well-funded tactical strategy that includes undermining equality efforts across the country--including here in Iowa.
"National polls show that the tide is turning in favor of the freedom to marry, but there is still much work to be done. We must continue to have conversations about the importance of marriage for loving and committed couples. While we celebrate the progress made in Iowa, we must also acknowledge and learn from our heartbreaking setbacks and work towards the day when everyone is treated equally.
"It is important to recognize the tremendous work of the Protect All NC Families campaign which fought against Amendment One. This campaign brought together a diverse coalition to stand for equality, and while Amendment One passed, we are heartened by the successful efforts of the campaign and statewide advocates to bring people together.
"We also applaud the efforts of One Colorado who have been working tirelessly to pass the Colorado Civil Unions Act. While some legislators pandered to fringe anti-equality activists, there was enough bipartisan support to pass this important bill. It is only a matter of time before the Colorado Civil Union Act becomes law.
"One Iowa is committed to standing with other states as we all work for full equality and we look forward to the day when all people are treated with dignity and respect."
