Prop 8 Debate Underway in Porterville

Fresno, CA Porterville was the only city in California to officially endorse Prop 8. The city council approved a resolution in September of last year, in a vote that attracted little attention. But now, with the effort to overturn Prop 8 underway local activists want the council to know they do not represent everyone in Porterville.

The Porterville City Council got an earful from residents who said the council's public support of Prop 8, hurt them.

Jamie Garza and her wife say the council's action was like declaring open season on gays in Porterville. They suffered verbal assaults, and tire slashing. John Coffee and his husband said harassment and intimidation have increased because of the council's vote.

Pediatrician, Dr. Katherine Hall said the council's action was psychologically damaging to young gay people who already feel alienated.

But, Porterville's Mayor stands by the council's vote.

This was the first city council meeting since the state Supreme Court upheld Prop 8, those who attended Tuesdays council meeting say they will be back, often, as the campaign to repeal Prop 8 gets underway, with another vote expected next year.

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