As former Chairmen of Barbara Gittings Delaware Stonewall Democrats, Delaware’s LGBT Democratic Club, we go on record endorsing Pete Schwartzkopf for re-election as State Representative in the 14th District (Rehoboth Beach, Lewes) in the September 13, 2016 Primary.
For those who do not remember the history of how difficult it was for us to even get non-discrimination legislation through the State General Assembly, we want to remind you that without Pete’s efforts we would not have been able to pass many of the initiatives which brought us to marriage equality.
Before Pete was elected we could not get both houses of the legislature to even consider the bill. Pete promised, when he first ran, that this would be a priority. Delaware Stonewall was formed primarily to elect Democrats who would support the LGBT community, so we readily saw in Pete a committed individual. And he delivered.
In 2008, Pete became House Majority leader and that year we realized the enactment of the Hospital and Nursing Home Visitation Rights law and then the first Non-Discrimination Law. His leadership saw the enactment of Civil Unions in 2011. In Dec. 2012 Pete became Speaker of the House and in the next legislative session Pete was the Prime Sponsor of Delaware’s Marriage Equality Law, enacted through his leadership. Just three weeks later Pete brought to the floor and helped pass Gender Identity protections. Marriage was enacted before the US Supreme Court decision and Delaware is one of the few states that protects discrimination based on gender identity.
We are proud to endorse Pete Schwartzkopf. He has been unwavering in his support for equal rights for all, even in the face of the vicious attacks he endured. He fought for us and deserves our support in the September 13 Democratic Primary and again in November. We urge you to cast your ballot for Pete Schwartzkopf.
Mitch Crane and Peter Schott
The Sixth Annual Wings of Hope…A Butterfly Release to benefit the Cancer Support Community Delaware will be held on Saturday, September 10 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Medical Arts Building Grounds, 18947 John Williams Highway, Rehoboth Beach, DE. The event is highlighted by the release of 250 Monarch butterflies in recognition of family, friends, and neighbors throughout Sussex County whose lives have been impacted by cancer. This free, community-wide event for all ages also includes an amazing display of thousands of paper butterflies, live music from local musicians, Sarah Ann Garrison and Doug James, activities for kids, and vendors and refreshment offerings.
Please join us for this wonderful opportunity to not only celebrate cancer survivors, but to remember those lost to this devastating disease. Rain date is September 11. Seeded Butterflies, and a limited number of Live Butterflies, are available for purchase at cancersupportdelaware.org or call 302-645-9150.
The Cancer Support Community is part of a national nonprofit organization that provides support, education and hope to people with cancer and their loved ones.
Linda Bowers
I was overwhelmed with emotion and pride reading the CAMP Profile of Jim Welch and Ivo Dominguez (in the August 12 issue of Letters from CAMP Rehoboth). I consider my time working with them at DLGHA (Delaware Lesbian and Gay Health Advocates) the most important and satisfying time of my life. They guided all of us through the many, many, many ups and downs of AIDS care.
Jim and Ivo are dedicated and resilient in the fight against AIDS and also in the education and support of those dealing with HIV.
My life—and the lives of all in our community—are better because of them. I remain grateful for all they have done and continue to do.
Kim Hoffman Ezell