"Go Orange" for justice in Seattle

The students and community members supporting Mark Zmuda, a Catholic school employee fired for marrying his husband, have organized a Twitter and Facebook campaign that you can join from anywhere in the country. On Friday, use #KeepMrZ2013 to tweet your support for stopping these discriminatory firings. The campaign also encourages us to wear orange, or change the color of your Facebook picture to show your support.

In the spirit of other successful campaigns, like wearing purple against bullying each October, the action is simple but can emphasize the fact that the majority of Catholics believe that beloved, talented teachers like Mr. Z deserve to be treated with respect and work in a just workplace. The organizers say they help the campaign will "encourage students, at Catholic schools or otherwise, as well as any other impassioned individuals, to proudly wear the color orange on that day. In so doing, we will be showing solidarity with Mark Zmuda, as well as expressing our hopes for an enlightened perspective on issues of sexuality in the Catholic Church."

Our CTA of Western Washington chapter has been supporting the campaign and working with community members to demand justice for Mr. Z.  "I think the young people have inspired change and I hope the Pope listens," chapter leader Betty Hill said. The student-led campaign has gained momentum and both the school president and board president have resigned. "Take a stand for Mark Zmuda. Take a stand for a new era of compassionate respect for the LGBT community," asks the campaign's Facebook page. Keep following us here or give us a call to find out how you can take a stand for love in your community!