Palin Declines to Acknowledge "National Coming Out Day" in Alaska
Gay Alaskans Dismayed by Governor's Rebuff
Published on Oct 11, 2008 - 7:41:11 AM

By: Alaskans Together for Equality

JUNEAU, AK, Oct 9, 2008 - Gov. Palin has declined to issue a formal proclamation recognizing "National Coming Out Day," in Alaska. Heartened by the Gov. Palin's positive comments about gays and lesbians in the Vice Presidential Debate, Alaskans Together submitted a formal request to acknowledge the day, which is observed on Oct. 11 internationally by members of LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgendered) communities and supporters.

"But I also want to clarify, if there's any kind of suggestion at all from my answer that I would be anything but tolerant of adults in America choosing their partners, choosing relationships that they deem best for themselves, you know...," said Gov. Palin during the debate.

"Governor Palin called for 'tolerance', and we hoped she'd show that type of leadership as Governor with this proclamation," said Alaskans Together President Marsha Buck. "Coming out is a difficult and deserves recognition."

So far in October 2008 Governor Palin has issued proclamations for: "Careers in Construction Week," "10th Annual Christian Heritage Week," "Biomedical Technician Week," "Alaska Taiwan Friendship Week," "World Farm Animals Day," "Breastfeeding Awareness Month," and "Grand Opening of Rilke Schule Day."

"We were asking for the Governor to acknowledge and recognize the dignity of openly-gay Alaskans. We weren't asking for a policy position, beyond simple acknowledgement." Buck said.

Alaskans Together for Equality, Inc. is a 501 (c)(4) organization. Its mission is to advance civil equality for all Alaskans through grass roots organizing and advocacy: www.alaskanstogether.com

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