Will there be an impact regarding the Anti-Gay California Supreme Court Ruling on the State Economy?

As soon as I heard of the California Supreme Court ruling, so many of my favorite California songs, singers, and song writers flashed in my mind, and then they sunk deep into my gut or certainly put a cold dagger in my heart. This final court ruling regarding the issue of Same Sex Marriage is just as my grandmother would say: “Re-gusting”. My partner and I had our first “non-legal ceremony” in her backyard, in Connecticut.

I noticed in one of the many news articles in the comment area, that a reader “certainly would not spend his Gay Dollar in that State”. Also recently in other posted articles within various news outlets along with http://www.365gay.com/ with the headline “Study: Gay marriage cash cow for Mass”: the link to the story http://www.365gay.com/news/study-gay-marriage-cash-cow-for-mass/

As a Travel Agent, and a person that has traveled for most of my life, the idea of denying myself to travel to a destination because of the areas politics, or concerns of my sexual orientation has never stopped me. In several countries, which are not tolerant, certainly in my experience, I have returned with found memories and wonderful experiences. I guess I am one of those travelers that follow the code “When in Rome do as the Romans do”

Yet, in this California situation, I would have to side with the gentleman that mentioned he would not spend his “Gay Dollar” in that State. For the moment, the Northeast Coast of this country, along with Iowa, have placed into their State Laws the Right of Same Sex Marriage.  There is so much to do and explore is this region of the country.  I would only for the time being “delay that trip to California” and explore those States that are welcoming to the community.

Earlier, I posted a series of articles about traveling the New England States. The area is full of wonderful sites, culture, natural beauty, history I would weigh my choices.

A full boycott from our community from vacationing or doing business in the State of California, I believe would be foolish. I believe we would only be hurting our friends and supporters who live in the state. But a noticeable decrease in Tourism or Convention dollars might change the minds of the voters in the State.  If you happen to be in a position of control or influence for an upcoming social or corporate event that COULD be held on California, try to change the location to a state that has recognized Same Sex as an Equal Right. Now would be a good time to start exploring other locations and re-arranging your plans. After the event you might consider sending copy of the invoice and a letter expressing your displeasure on the results of the vote and Court decision on Prop 8.
DEBRA BOWEN
California’s 30th Secretary of State
California Secretary of State
1500 11th Street
Sacramento, California 95814

If we are in a period of history when history is repeating itself, then instead of “Going to the Golden West” return to the Eastern Sunrise areas.

“The history of any public character involves not only the facts about him but what the public has taken to be facts.”

– J. Frank Dobie

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