TINA KoTeK
Continues from Pg. 10
happen by referendum, not legislation, her strong
voice in Salem will shield the gains already made
in the face of stiff Republican opposition, if she is
backed by a Democratic majority.
She may be very well positioned to do so. Tina
plans to seek re-election as Democratic Caucus
Leader in the House, which could lead to her
serving as Speaker of the House in the coming
session if Oregon’s Democrats regain a majority
in Salem this November. She would be the first
openly lesbian woman to serve as House Speaker
in any state legislature. But the critical pre-requi-
site - regaining control in Salem - will take active
political effort across the state by many, includ-
ing the LGBT community.
On the topic of political activism, when asked
about widespread political cynicism, Tina sighed
and admitted “There’s a lot to be cynical about.
But, if the queens in the Stonewall Bar had done
nothing, where would we be? My mother always
said, ‘If you don’t like it, fix it. you don’t get to
complain, and then just sit there.’” Asked how,
she was clear: make sure you and your friends
are registered to vote, volunteer for your local
candidates, and talk openly about who you’re
voting for and why. votes are won person to per-
son. While electoral politics are just one part of
solving all the problems ahead, they are a very
important part and Tina knows from her own
experience that, in the end, changes are made by
those who do more than just complain.
Even with all this on her plate, key questions re-
main for Ms. Kotek. Like…werewolves or vam-
pires? “vampires. They live forever, and who
wouldn’t want to live forever?” Does this Freddie
Mercury reference and her thing for superheroes
mean she agrees Flash Gordon is the greatest
movie ever? “Oh absolutely, Ev-arrrr.” g
If helping Oregon elect America’s first openly lesbian Speaker
of the House is something you support, then Oregon needs a
Democratic majority in Salem. you can register to vote, volun-
teer for local candidates, and contribute by visiting the Demo-
cratic Party of Oregon website at dpo.org. Big decisions will be
made on November 4th. For more information on Tina Kotek:
voteTina.com
leo Schuman is Just out's political writer. leo is a former
lawyer and a self admitted political junkie. Reach him at
leo@Justout.com
September
2012
Justout.com
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