Open Forum: Is The Tide Turning Our Way?

The tide appears to be turning, the last few weeks has brought us more states legalizing and considering same-sex marriage. We now have four states (Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, and Iowa) with legal marriage equality. Many other states are considering marriage, civil unions, and domestic partnerships legislation.

Some states have added gender identity/expression to their hate crimes legislation, and many more states are considering these proposals which have passed in house and senate committees.

Celebrities like Britney Spears, Miley Cyrus, and Heidi Montag among others have come out in support of gay rights, and while they hold no power, they do hold fame and media influence.

Republicans like Steve Schmidt, Christine Whitman, and Meghan McCain have been outspoken in support of marriage equality. Other republicans and conservatives are urging the party to focus on issues that matter, and not stand in the way of gay rights which they see as inevitable reality.

What do you make of the sudden slew of victories? Is this a result of the democratic majority? Is society really ready for LGBT people? Do economic troubles make it easier for queer legislation to pass? Whatever the reason, the tide appears to be turning, and this is good.