The debate over whether to put the repeal of Proposition 8 on the ballot in  2010 or 2012 continues to divide the marriage equality community. Over the past several weeks, I have attended a couple of forums and spoken to dozens of friends who are heavily involved in the movement and have heard compelling arguments from both sides. I blogged about this a month ago and the only thing that has changed is that most activists seem to have made their “choice” in the 2010 vs. 2012 debate clear.

Certainly, the average community member just wants their right to marry back and does not care if it happens tomorrow, 2010, 2011, or 2012. When I speak to those who are not heavily involved in the movement but hold some vested interest in regaining marriage rights in California (and the nation), most tell me they are just confused. They do not understand what this debate  over ‘10 and ‘12 is all about, and wonder why some activists and organizations who were united in the No on Prop 8 campaign are divided now.

I do not have any easy answers but can tell you that great work is going forward to restore marriage equality in the state. A statewide campaign structure has been created to repeal Prop 8 in 2010, with representatives from 10 regions leading it. It was announced today that ballot language for a proposed repeal mesaure was submitted to the Secretary of State. If approved, the campaign will be able to begin collecting signatures to get this initiative on the ballot, and should have a full 150 days to so, because of the early submission of the language. If you want to get involved with the effort to repeal Prop 8 in 2010, contact Sara Beth Brooks at sarabrooks@gmail.com.

On the 2012 front, Equality California has taken a lead with their “Win Marriage Back” campaign. While it is very early in the game for a 2012 initiative, EQCA is already out on the ground statewide working to change the hearts and minds of California’s voters. Volunteers are engaging voters through phone calls, door-to-door canvassing, and at community events. The work will continue until marriage equality is brought back to California. Most 2012 leaning activists tell me that if the 2010 camp is successful in getting the initiative on the ballot next year, they will certainly jump in and assist with those efforts.

Still confused? I don’t blame you. Just be assured that a lot of great people are doing a lot of great work to make sure that your right to love who you want to love is brought back. If you want to help out and don’t know if you should be involved with a 2010 or 2012 leaning organization, I just encourage you to get involved with a group that you feel you connect with and where your talents will be used best. Do not hesitate to contact me at bcartwright@cox.net if you have any questions.

A wonderful organization in town that has been working on marriage equality “forever” (well, a little over 10 years) is Marriage Equality USA. Whether it be 2010 or 2012, they will continue to go door-to-door talking to people until this is won. Currently, canvases are every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the meeting point being the fabulous Lips Restaurant in North Park.