Odds 'N Ends

1. End the Lies

The Human Rights Campaign has launched a web-based project called End the Lies, the purpose of which is "to expose the lies and fear-tactics of anti-LGBT voices and counteract them with respectful dialogue and grassroots action."

Some of those included within the wall of those who "use deception and fear to defeat LGBT equality" are the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty (for its "No Mob Veto" ad), Sally Kern (of "homosexuality is the biggest threat our nation has" notoriety), and Maggie Gallagher (for claiming that marriage equality will lead to the "repression" of those who disagree with same-sex marriage).

Want to call someone out for vilifying LGBT people? Nominate your "favorite" anti-gay, too.


2. Another One Bites the Dust

Reversing another unfortunate policy from the Bush era, the Obama Administration has announced that it will sign on the the UN declaration calling for the decriminalization of homosexuality. Previously, the US was the only western nation that had not signed on to the declaration. Bush's cop-out claim was that it would lead to a "conflict" with US laws regarding marriage. I addressed that argument, previously, here. Others still opposing the declaration include the Vatican and 60 mostly-Muslim nations.

I love that we, at least, have some semblance of separation of church and state.


3. Harry the Homemaker?

Did you know that 82% of the jobs lost in the US since November were held by men? This has several implications for gender role dynamics. This USA Today article explores what this means for heterosexual couples. With some women, out of necessity, becoming the sole breadwinner (while "also retaining household responsibilities"), will men contribute more to in-home work?

On the bright side, I think that this situation will change many people's conceptions of what it means to be a husband and wife and that these roles are much more fluid than most people think.