Across the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge, one quaint home on Park Point invited the community in for an early afternoon party. This was just one of many houses that recently held parties throughout Minnesota to spark conversation about the constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage.
“Our government is by the people, for the people,” said Laura Wedge, host of the party on Park Point. “The only way to fight this is with people talking to other people, standing up for what they believe and getting informed.”
Minnesota United for All Families, a coalition of organizations as well as community and business leaders working to defeat the marriage amendment, held its third and final One Day United campaign and fundraiser.
Minnesota United set a goal of opening 300 houses to the public to talk about voting “no” on the marriage amendment. Together, the One Day United parties hoped to attract thousands of Minnesotans, and Wedge’s gathering was just one among many.
On One Day United, families gathered alongside other families, spreading Minnesota United’s mission that marriage belongs to all people.
“We want this equality,” said Taylor Moore, a junior at the University of Minnesota Duluth. “This is truly important and best for everyone.”
Moore attended another One Day United party in Duluth, sharing with community members her story of being an ally. Even though she was the only student attending the party, she was happy to make the connection with others voting “no.”
“It was really nerve-racking being the youngest one there,” Moore said. “But it was nice to close the generation gap.”
To see where other parties were held throughout Minnesota on One Day United, or to find out more information about the Minnesota United campaign, go to: MnUnited.org.
BY Kim Hyatt hyatt045@d.umn.edu