Last week in the Queer Space, I included a drawing and political message for your viewing pleasure, but left many people asking, "what is HF341 and why should I oppose it?" House File 341 is an appalling piece of legislature that was presented in the Minnesota State House of Representatives by Rep. Arlon Linder about a month ago. The primary means of the bill would be to remove the 'sexual orientation' term from the Minnesota Human Rights Act. At one point, I thought this state was a really great place for all queer folk to be protected from discrimination and hate crimes by Minnesota's progressive pursuit of human rights. Now, however, it seems the state may just be willing to scratch out a significant group of people from the books and show that human rights are some frivolous thing to be doled out and taken back again. I will not stand for this!

On Thursday March 6, a group of Macalester queers and allies participated in a huge rally at the Capitol in response to this dreadful legislation. More than 1500 people, organized by GLBT activist group Outfront Minnesota, stormed the seat of state government to show their support for GLBT rights and oppose bills and legislators who are fighting to demolish them. As three floors of the Capitol's rotunda filled with people, I was amazed at the enormous power of voice and body this group of people hold. It was extremely empowering in light of a possibly dismal future.

What you can do on a daily basis in response to these attacks on human rights is to raise awareness by talking about the attacks. Don't allow these crucial issues to be silenced as most queer activity in the past has been. Talk about this with friends and write to your legislators. Don't accept silence or invisibility on issues that are pertinent to you.