|
|
|
Lawyer Denied State Position Because He's Gay by 365Gay.com from the Web, April 8, 2004 Des Moines, -- Iowa Republicans are blocking the appointment of a Des Moines lawyer to the State Board of Education because he is gay. Jonathan Wilson was hand picked by Democratic Gov. Tom Vilsack. Wilson who is openly gay, served for 12 years on the Des Moines School Board as well as a number of national education panels. "This is not about his qualifications. This is about his sexual orientation," an angry Vilsack told reporters Thursday. "It's wrong, it's divisive and it's not inclusive. "Of course it's discrimination. It has nothing to do with a lack of expertise. This man is qualified," he said. Vuksack's remarks followed the announcement earlier in the week by Senate Majority Leader Stewart Iverson (R-Dows) that Wilson lacks enough support for confirmation in the GOP-controlled Senate. Wilson's "activism" and promotion of a gay "agenda," not his personal sexual orientation, has cost him Senate support, Iverson said. "My mail has been overwhelmingly opposed to him," said Sen. Nancy Boettger (R-Harlan) chair of the Education Committee,. "They are very outspoken about the concern of pushing an agenda like this." Wilson has attempted to keep to the high ground in the battle. "I hope they will ultimately focus on credentials," Wilson said. "You'd be hard-pressed to find someone more dedicated to Iowa and its future." Wilson said he would not withdraw his name and Vilsack vowed to continue pushing for the nomination. "I think it's important for Iowans to understand how decisions are made, at times, in this building," Vilsack said. A vote on the nomination is expected sometime next week.
|
Send mail to
email@gaypasg.org with questions or comments about this web site.
|