While many great states are fully implementing marriage equality, Texas is sadly behind the curve. Recently a Dallas couple went to the justice of the peaceto demand a marriage license, and, eventually, were arrected (for disruption of a public venue). One if the men, Beau, was sentenced to 40 hours community service. I received the following post today:
On Nov. 27th, I was sentenced to 40 hours of community service for my disruption of a public venue when I and my husband were denied a marriage license at the counter in the records building here in Dallas, TX. For my 40 hours, I have set up and planned a benefit for YouthFirst Texas. A $1.00 donation per ticket will get you a chance to win a Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 with Bluetooth rechargeable keyboard and carrying case which I am donating to be given away in a raffle drawing the night of the event (Dec.
27th). To help me "learn my lesson," each $1.00 donation entitles you to 2 whacks using an assortment of floggers from which you can select. This public flogging will benefit the youth who need the excellent programs and services provided by YouthFirst Texas, and the next generation should always be a priority. The tablet drawing will be held promptly at 11pm- winner must be present to win, and will leave with the tablet in hand. Come Out and help me learn my lesson and have a great time supporting a good program for our community.
To be clear, noone in Dallas seems to want to go after these two men (except the judge setting bail). While I didn't attend the protests, I am friends with both of them on facebook, and see them out weekly in Dallas (one is a bartender at the Dallas Eagle, my home bar). From what I have heard, the clerk apoligized for not being able to issue a license, and the police gave them every chance to simply leave the venue -- this was Civil Disobedience, and they went into the knowing (and planning) on arrest and prosecution. Several supporters where there with them,
However, I have to really tip my had to Beau here. This fundraiser, for a really good cause, is just brilliant. I had to share.
Hat tip to Beau and Major, and good luck.