Count 'em. 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25. 26 and 27 are up in the air. 29-35 are on their way. Now, typically I'm not a numbers person (there's a reason I majored in the humanities), but these numbers are represent the states in the United States where marriage equality has become law. It's pretty amazing isn't it?

You know what else is amazing? Only 20 states have non-discrimination laws based on sexual orientation, and that number drops to 17 when it comes to gender identity. This means queer folk can get married in more places than we can afforded the same rights to encourage a happy, healthy marriage.

Increase the chance of discriminatory practices based on race, ability, economic, or incarceration status and the picture becomes drear. It's almost time for mid-term elections - a time when many folks face the fire of these discriminatory practices. Growing up in Appalachia, we were always told to "vote early and vote often." Now, this doesn't mean we're to stuff the ballot box unfairly. It means that we need to always be present to how the political system is stacked against us (I think Jesus knew a few things about that), and that we should vote as often as the opportunity presents itself (kind of like holy communion).

No matter if we're in the United States or in locations around the globe, if we have the ability to vote the simple act of voting is a sign of hope for those who are hopeless and potentially voteless.

And while we're celebrating marriage equality, let's work so the all of God's children can one day sing of justice.

Peace and passion,

Chett Pritchett

Executive Director
chett@mfsaweb.org

Sunday, October 26: Journey of Faith UMC, Round Rock, TX