You know, I love my old hometown. I grew up in Detroit and had a really great gay experience there. That is one pro-gay town. I remember probably five or six years ago, then Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick—a disgrace himself, but son of one of my favorite lawmakers, Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick—when asked about Marriage Equality for same-sex couples on Bill Maher, didn't even blink when he voiced his support. This made NO news at the time—in fact, a lot of gay news sources missed it, but picked this unsubstantiated gaywired.com blurb about him being anti-gay and ran with it (apparently they don't watch Bill Maher)—but for me it was spectacular. The sitting mayor of Detroit basically aligned himself with San Francisco's Gavin Newsome in stating that Marriage needs to be open to all committed, loving adult couples. I know Carolyn feels this way too!
According to the Detroit Free Press, openly gay Charles Pugh—the former Fox2 anchor—handily took first place in the crowded City Council primary, beating out even Council President (and former emergency Mayor) Ken Cockrell. Unfortunately, Motown star and very pro-gay lady, Martha Reeves, was forced out in the primaries.
However, this is still a fantastic day for gays and lesbians in the Motor City. Pugh—who is endorsed by the Victory Fund--beat out 160 candidates for 9% of the vote at 60,000 thumbs up! He will be the first openly gay City Councilman in this largely African American city. Tolerance seems to be extending beyond the traditionally gay Palmer Park neighborhood.
Turnout in the primaries was dismal—only about 17%—but the message is strong, none-the-less. Apparently voters are loving this guy, according to the Detroit News article on him. The actual election will take place on Election Day, November 3, 2009.
[h/t Rod 2.0:Beta]
TOAST TO CHARLES PUGH, DETROIT'S FIRST OPENLY GAY CANDIDATE, KICKING ALL THOSE STRAIGHT ASSES IN THE PRIMARIES! WOOHOO! Donate to his campaign!
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