Greetings,
The Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes
Prevention Act, which adds sexual orientation, gender identity,
gender and disability to existing law, has been signed by
President Obama. This is a historical day within the LGBT
movement as well as marks a turning point for federal
government. It was made possible with your commitment and
activism within the LGBT movement.
This act will assist with educating law enforcement about the
frequent hate violence against LGBT individuals along with the
need to prevent and appropriately address any hate crime. It
will help provide federal expertise and resources when needed to
overcome a lack of resources or the willful inaction on the part
of local and/or state law enforcement. It assists with educating
the public that violence against anyone is unacceptable and
illegal.
I would like to invite you to Working Classrooms opening
reception of Armados con Odio ~ Altars to the Victims of Hate
Crimes this Friday October 30th from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at
Visiones Gallery, 119 Gold SW, Albuquerque. This is an annual
commemoration of Día de los Muertos that features artwork by
Working Classroom Students and Monica Martínez, artist in
residence. I had the honor of speaking with these students about
hate crimes towards LGBT people in New Mexico as one part of
their larger installation. The exhibit continues through
November 20, 2009.
TAKE ACTION TODAY!!!
Sign-up to Volunteer and Bring a
Friend.
Join Us at Our Upcoming Phonebanks ~ bring your cell phone!
Monday, November 2 ~ 7:00 to 9:00 pm
Tuesday, November 3 ~ 7:00 to 9:00 pm
Saturday, November 7 ~ 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Monday, November 9 ~ 7:00 to 9:00 pm
We will meet at the Equality New Mexico Office ~ 1410 Coal Ave
SW, Albuquerque
We will start promptly at the times above and will have a short
training to get you started. Be a part of making history in New
Mexico.
There will be light snacks and beverages provided at all
volunteer opportunities.
Sincerely,
Jordon Johnson
Interim Executive Director
Your financial contribution is critical to our work. Please
consider making a donation today. We appreciate your support to
moving LGBT civil rights forward in New Mexico.
