OPEN COLUMN
Equal protection under law means equal for everyone

Editor, the Tribune: On June 7, 49 U.S. senators attempted to instill discrimination into the Constitution.

This failed attempt would have been the first time the U.S. Constitution was ever amended to take away rights, without the individual in question committing a voluntary act to prompt the suspension of full civil equality. Ratification of the amendment would have denied committed same-sex couples and their families 1,138 federal rights, benefits and privileges, according to the U.S. General Accounting Office. Though a victory was achieved on the side of equality for all Americans, The House of Representatives has said it will be making a similar attempt to instill discrimination in our most revered national document, the U.S. Constitution, this month. June is traditionally when gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people show the world they are proud of who they are. Despite this pending intentional discriminatory legislation, this year will be no different.

The Mid-Missouri LGBT Coalition is proud to have hosted this year’s Columbia event, "Pride Not Prejudice." About 950 people attended at some point this daylong event held June 10 at Stephens Lake Park. Individuals and families enjoyed a wide variety of activities: ongoing entertainment, educational forums, booths of GLBT supportive business and groups. We encourage all Mid-Missourians to continue their support for the American value of equality by contacting their public officials and reminding them our families have value and all deserve the same equal protection under the law.

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Daniel Hays, president

Mid-Missouri LGBT Coalition

120 Booneville Road

Jefferson City

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