API Equality-LA Supports NAACP Leaders Under Pressure for Opposing Prop 8

NAACP Chairman Julian Bond is taking some heat for his stand on behalf of LGBT people. Bond was recently re-elected to serve another term as the NAACP Chairman. He is being challenged on the letter he signed with NAACP President Ben Jealous in support of the California legislatures call for the California Supreme Court to overturn Proposition 8. While this is not a new position for the NAACP some who are opposed to LGBT rights are challenging Chairman Bond’s authority to sign the letter.

API Equality-LA is a coalition of organizations and individuals who are committed to working in the Asian and Pacific Islander (API) communities in Greater Los Angeles for equal marriage rights and fair treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ) families through community education and advocacy.

We thank NAACP Chairman Julian Bond and NAACP President Ben Jealous for their support of the same-sex couples and the California legislature's call for the California Supreme Court to overturn Proposition 8, which strips the fundamental right of same-sex couples to marry. We also thank the NAACP for joining other key civil rights groups in filing an amicus brief supporting the effort to invalidate Proposition 8, on the grounds that a simple majority cannot undo the state Constitution's guarantee of equal protection for minority groups.

As one of the most important civil rights organizations in the nation, it is crucial that the NAACP stands up for the rights of every person of color, including those who are LGBTQ. We applaud the NAACP for its brave and visionary leadership on the issue of marriage equality.

API Equality-LA urges its supporters to show their support and appreciation for these NAACP leaders. Send a note to your NAACP State Conference president, local NAACP Branch president, and anyone else within the NAACP. You can also post a note on the NAACP Facebook page.