Ordinance Hearing #5: Equality Rally and Town Hall, Today at the Library

The Anchorage ordinance is alive and kicking, and today, Tuesday July 7, is Round 5 of the public hearings. Outside, the rockin' Equality Rally on the Library lawn will have music, food, sign-making supplies and a special town hall meeting. Inside, the testimony on the non-discrimination ordinance continues in the Assembly Chamber on the first floor.

"We encouraged more of our supporters to sign up to testify," writes Tiffany McClain of Equality Works, "so that opponents of equality do not get the last word in front of the Municipal Assembly. Many of those who signed up still haven't had an opportunity to speak. It would be great if, once they finally get to the microphone, the Assembly Chamber is filled with friends and allies who are there to support them."

To make sure you have a seat, arrive early - the doors open at 3 p.m. When you have a seat, you can take breaks and come back inside by giving your ID to the security guards at the entrance.

Don't get off work until 5 p.m., when the seats will all be taken? Can't stand to ruin another beautiful summer evening listening to hours of anti-gay bigotry? Not sure why we're doing this?

Then rock with the rally on the lawn and come to the town hall. "Join the steering committee of Equality Works for a town hall meeting on the front lawn of Loussac Library before the testimony begins" writes Tiffany. "This is your opportunity to learn more about our strategy and future options, and to share your own ideas and concerns." The Town Hall will be held on the lawn near 36th and Denali Street, at 5:30 p.m.