Equality Press

By Beth McGuinn

It’s political season election time in New Hampshire. But then again, when is it not political season here? I remember coming to this state over 20 years ago and thinking that the political season never ended. At some point, I decided if that was the way it was going to be, I’d better join in.

Frankly, it is amazing how big an impact your input and questions can have on the political process in New Hampshire!

In 1992, friends of mine decided it might be fun to make it a point to see each of the candidates Republican, Democrat or another party for all the offices they would vote for: president, governor, US senate, US house, state senate and state house. They did it, and we joined in. It really wasn’t difficult! (more…)

By Anonymous

In August, I am beginning a new school year as staff in a New Hampshire public high school. I am hopeful because my district has a non-discrimination policy and offers domestic partnership benefits. These are two positive signs, unlike the district that I had been employed in, which had neither.

I feel that I am an excellent professional and sought a welcoming school district where I could feel more employment security. That being said I did not take my rainbow sticker off my car last year and never lied to anyone about who I am. I was never confronted with discrimination, but all last year I felt uneasy about being in that situation, and did not wish to be dependent on an employer that did not state sexual orientation in their non-discrimination policy, so I was happy to move on.

I wonder how many school districts lose good employees like myself because they do not have partnership benefits or a written non-discrimination policy that includes sexual orientation.

I hope that in my position I will have the opportunity to serve as a role model for LGBTQ youth and to advocate for their needs and I welcome the chance to do so. –>

By Rich Trombly

Most people roll their eyes and change the subject, quickly, when the issue of politics comes up. There is a complete disconnect between voting and how we live our lives. We can’t afford to let that happen this year. If you don’t help then who do you think will? If your priority is dancing, shopping or some other activity that doesn’t involve working for candidates who support us then all is lost.

You’re lucky to be living in New Hampshire. It doesn’t have all that much to do with the natural beauty of our lakes, mountains and seashore. It doesn’t have that much to do with the fact that we are just outside of Boston, or a stone’s throw from New York City or Montreal. And in the end it isn’t because the jobs here pay huge salaries. You’re lucky to be living here because until Vermont passed its civil unions law New Hampshire was the most gay and lesbian friendly state in the country. (more…)