NBJC Condemns Traditional Values Coalition

17 May 04 12:00 AM EDT

The National Black Justice Coalition condemns a press conference called today by the Traditional Values Coalition and African American pastors in Washington D.C. The press conference, aimed at attacking gays and lesbians, will urge the Congressional Black Caucus to oppose same-sex marriage and civil unions and to support legislation designed to outlaw marriage equality.

We cannot go back to the days of separate and unequal," said Jasmyne Cannick, NBJC board member. "It's ironic that on the day Americans are celebrating the landmark decision of Brown v. the Board of Education, gays and lesbians are still fighting for equal protection under the law. Civil marriage between gay and lesbian couples is very much a matter of concern to African Americans. The Traditional Values Coalition will not be successful at using African Americans to spread discrimination across the country."

National Black Justice Coalition Vice President Donna Payne and newly appointed Strategic Director Alexander Robinson plan to attend the press conference and voice support for same-sex marriages. Also attending the press conference will be Unity Fellowship Church pastor Reverend McCray.

"As African Americans," explains Donna Payne "it's important that we be vocal and present to let the Nation know that African Americans do support equal rights for gay and lesbian couples."

The press conference is scheduled for 10 a.m., Cannon Press Terrace, Cannon House Office Building at the corner of Independence and New Jersey.

Posted by Keith Boykin on May 17, 2004 at 09:26 AM