This is the equality battle of a lifetime – yours and mine. Last week the Knights of Columbus donated $1 million in support of Proposition 8, the anti-same-sex marriage amendment.

In addition, The American Family Association gave $500,000, Focus on the Family gave $420,000 and Howard Ahmanson Jr. gave $400,000. We know more funding such as this is on the way.

We think, fundamentally, Californians believe in equality and fairness. Poll numbers tell us that millions of Californians oppose this measure that would eliminate freedom and equal treatment under the law for same-sex couples. But the outcome is incredibly close and the gap is narrowing. In the end, this battle will be won by the side that raises the most money and gets the most voters to the polls on Nov. 4.

We have gained so much during the last year. We cannot let ourselves lose it because those who would make our families second class citizens worked harder than we did.

How can you help?

It’s important that we all talk to our families, friends, coworkers and neighbors about voting no on Proposition 8. Your willingness to communicate with everyone you know about how this constitutional amendment would hurt you, your loved ones and your community is a powerful tool. You can help educate people in your area about how this initiative does nothing more than hurt loving, committed relationships just like theirs. You can increase awareness and even change public opinion. Don’t be silent. Speech is power – and we need everyone to speak out. If you would like to use the tool kit for communicating with family and friends, please visit www.noonprop8.com/assets/pdfs/friendsandfamily.

We need everyone you know to give as much as they can afford. This is the fight of our lives and it will take all of us doing all we can in order for us to win. The race could not be closer and having enough money to drive the right message will determine the winner. You can direct people to www.noonprop8.com to donate easily and securely.

And make sure everyone you know votes. Make sure you vote on Nov. 4, 2008! Take the day off and help us turn out the vote – drive your family and friends to the polls. This is a numbers game, plain and simple. It’s about who can turn out more votes in November. The only way we win is by getting more pro-GLBT equality voters out at the polls. Help us do this by talking to family, friends, neighbors, co-workers or anyone who supports basic civil and human rights for all. If you are not a registered voter, visit The Center Advocacy Project’s Issues PAC Web site at www.centeradvocacy.org and click on the “Register to Vote” link.

Please contact Ted Jackson at 619-379-8585 or ted@noonprop8.com for more information on how to get involved.

This battle matters. It matters, not because every GLBT couple wants to get married; not because every GLBT couple should get married; but because every GLBT couple should have the option to get married – just like everyone else. It matters because marriage is a fundamental right, regardless whether we as individuals choose to participate.

In 25 years, when you look back and remember the weeks leading up to this momentous vote, make sure you will remember how you helped win the battle of a lifetime.