Colorado’s Fiscal Crisis
How does a state that ranks 12th in the nation for median household income and 15th for per capita personal income also rank 41st in per pupil spending, 44th in highway spending, 48th in higher education, and 49th in insuring low-income children? Colorado is the only state in the nation that cannot raise taxes without a vote of the people. Watch this video to learn more about the impacts in Colorado of unique Constitutional constraints like TABOR – the Taxpayer Bill of Rights.… »
LGBT Elders – A Federal Priority
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) seniors face particular challenges. They’re four times less likely than heterosexuals to have children, twice as likely to be single and living alone, and much more likely to be disconnected from families of origin. The launch by SAGE in 2011 of the National Resource Center on LGBT Aging was a turning point for this vulnerable group of elders. With catalytic support from the federal government, this new initiative already is providing training… »
Countering Defamation
It is part of the job of every social movement countering opponents who will mischaracterize and mislead to undermine support. The movement for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) equality has faced more than our fair share of detractors who will seemingly say anything. Countering those untruths, unfortunately, is important work that may never end. Who would have thought that in 2011 gay people would be described as a public health threat similar to second-hand smoke? Watch this… »
Transgender Equality
When Massachusetts became the sixteenth state to ban discrimination based on gender identity or expression in 2011, it took an important step forward for transgender Americans. Even in Massachusetts, a state that has been a pioneer in the movement for equality, this was a long and difficult struggle. Does this victory represent momentum for transgender equality? What can we learn from the incredible collaboration in Massachusetts among donors, organizations and citizens who worked hand-in-hand… »
Marriage in New York
In 2011, New York became the sixth and largest state to recognize the freedom to marry for loving, committed gay and lesbian couples. More than doubling the number of Americans living in a state with marriage equality, and passing with bi-partisan support, the victory in New York was a pivotal moment for our country. Watch this video to learn more about the keys to victory in New York, including years of public education and collaboration by donors, and what it means for the country. … »
