Of Boycotts and Book Burnings

by Senator Scott McCoy
District Two

In the wake of the passage of Prop 8 in California, emotions and tempers have flared in the LGBT community.  I understand the anger, disappointment, and sadness that many in the gay and transgendered community are feeling as a result of having the right to marry stripped away.  I have felt those same emotions and had those same reactions myself.  I understand the desire and the need to express those feelings.  In fact, you have a First Amendment right to do so.

Having said that, I implore my fellow citizens to engage in civil and peaceful expressions and conduct.  There is no room for violence, vandalism, or intimidation in this continuing debate for marriage equality.  Resort to such methods is simply unacceptable.  We are better than that.

Furthermore, I urge people not to boycott Utah.  There are many good and sympathetic people, Mormons and non-Mormons alike, who call Utah home.  Boycotting Utah ultimately hurts those of us who are working for a more fair and just Utah.  Rather than staying away from Utah, come and visit and show our detractors that we are fine and decent people deserving of equal treatment and protection under the law.

New Leadership for Senate Democrats

The Senate Democrats elected new leaders today.  Results of the leadership elections are as follows:

Senate Minority Leader - Senator Patricia Jones

Senate Minority Whip - Senator Ross Romero

Assistant Senate Minority Whip - Senator Karen Mayne

Senate Minority Caucus Manager - Senator Luz Robles

Senator Jones is 2008 Athena Award Recipient

Senator Patricia Jones has been named the 2008 Athena and will receive her award November 18, 2008, at the Salt Lake Chamber’s American Express Women & Business Conference. 

The Athena Award, sponsored by Wells Fargo Women’s Financial Services, is a national award presented annually to an active member of the Salt Lake Chamber who demonstrates excellence, creativity and initiative in business, provides valuable service by devoting time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community, and assists women in reaching their full leadership potential.

Since its inception in 1982, the Athena Award has been presented to women in 500 communities in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Russia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Senator Jones is the president and co-owner of Dan Jones & Associates, Inc., Utah’s well-known and respected market research and public opinion firm.  Senator Jones served three terms in the Utah House of Representatives and now serves in the Utah State Senate.  She is currently the Assistant Senate Minority Whip.

Congratulations to Senator Jones…and thank you to Wells Fargo Women’s Financial Services and the Salt Lake Chamber for recognizing her noteworthy professional accomplishments.