I am rejoicing today. A mandate for change has come to the United States of America. But at my core I am sorrowful for the hate and prejudice shown across America when we institutionalized discrimination against many of my brothers and sisters. Prop 8 in California and Amendment 2 in Florida show how far we still have to go.
I think we have 6 years to come up with a good argument to convince those who voted for Prop 8 (CA) and 2 (FL) we are all equal. But the work on a new constitutional amendment to prove it once and for all begins today. So let's mobilize the netroots that have been so successful and take the reins of this opportunity to right that wrong.
I can't believe we actually need this; my reading of the Constitution doesn't include justification for discrimination against anyone. But never-the-less America is a country divided into those who can and those who can't.
In the spirit of coming together for what's right, I hope the women and men who have been working for so many years (since 1923) to pass the Equal Rights Amendment to end discrimination based on sex would be willing to add just two words that will make a world of difference.
Section 1. Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex or gender.
Section 2. The Congress shall have the power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article.
Section 3. This amendment shall take effect two years after the date of ratification.
Just two words that will make a world of difference in a world where hate is legislated.
As President-elect Barack Obama reminded us last night. "America is a place where all things are possible." A new ERA will make sure that is true for everyone.
I'll admit this is just the bare kernel of an idea. But help me scrape the chaff away and plant this seed to bring happiness, liberty, and equality for all our brothers and sisters no matter their race, creed, gender, or status.