I hope 2011 begins with equality being upheld. Beyond hope, I am determined to work for our equality.

In the past two weeks, our community has both celebrated and suffered. This is not uncommon in our history and will certainly be the case repeatedly in our future. Justice Vaughn Walker’s poignant decision overturning the ban on same-sex marriage two weeks ago was a needed victory. The stay issued by Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals this week was a tremendous disappointment. Both of these provide needed motivation to continue our work toward full equality.

Our nation’s courts have played a critical role in confirming civil rights and equality since this country was founded. They are again playing a vital role.

After opening, opposing and reply briefs are filed from September through November, oral argument in the case will take place the week of December 6, 2010 with the Ninth Circuit’s decision expected approximately one month later.

I know I will have the freedom to marry a man I love in my lifetime.

I also know it will likely take a Supreme Court decision to secure that freedom, a freedom so many take for granted or accept irresponsibly.

Our country is based on certain freedoms. When any of our freedoms are limited, people can tend to more highly value the freedoms we have. The ability to vote is a key tool we must use wisely now.

If anyone ever doubted the importance of registering to vote or the importance of visiting the polls on election day, we must not forget the impetus for our current fight for equality. Voters passed Prop 8. Our neighbors, our co-workers, perhaps even our family members made the decision that we should not be allowed to marry a person we love.

The fact that Proposition 8 was approved by the voters on the day I was elected to the City Council will never change. What we can change is the likelihood of voters taking away our civil rights – or anyone else’s – ever again.

I am thankful that elected leaders in our region, state and nation have made their support of marriage equality known. With many key races being fought, it is imperative that we consider candidates’ stands on equality when voting. The progress we have made in employment rights and family rights, in expanded community acceptance and community pride…this didn’t happen just because the courts said so. People have to be vocal, vigilant and active in raising awareness about these very personal issues.

And no one can be excused from this activity. Whether it is through organized campaign work or chatting casually with family members and friends, we must talk about the importance of valuing fairness. Please never discount the incredible impact of our own personal stories. Being open about who you are to the people closest to you has great ramifications. For so long, our fight for civil rights was seen as “our fight.” Our recent successes, including Justice Walker’s decision, are at least partially due to the progress of this becoming “the fight for civil rights.” As people are exposed to more information and get to know more about the LGBT community, fear and ignorance are decreased dramatically, and our determination to secure full equality becomes less of a threat and more of a common goal.

There will be more disappointment on our way to eventual celebration, but the work will give us purpose and the hope will sustain us.