Date: 06 Mar 95 19:01:37 MST
From: CTR9899@whitewater.wcslc.edu (Chris Ryan)

Frequently Asked Questions About Gay Republicans

1.  Gay Republican!  Isn't that an oxymoron.

Not really.  The Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual community is so diverse that we
do have gay republicans.  These people believe in the basic tenents
of the Republican Party.  Many of these people have political
viewpoints from moderate to conservative.

2.  How can you belong to a party that doesn't like you?

The leadership of the Republican party has stated the Gays are
welcome in the GOP.  Haley Barbor stated on Meet The Press in January
of 1995 that "Gays are welcome in the GOP."

Many gays who subscribe to Republican party see their mission is to
educate Republicans about issues of concern to the GLB community.
As gays and lesbians, we shouldn't allow the radical right to speak
for us; we need to break the stereotypes by speaking up for ourselves
inside the party.

3.  What can Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual people do to change the Republican
party so it is more friendlier to us?

First, don't become a "pocket vote" for the Democratic party.
One of the worst things we can do is to put all our eggs in one
basket.  When you vote, seriously consider the Republican candidate.
Talk with Republican candidates about our issues.

Second, become an insider in Republican politics.  This means become
active in the Republican party as an openly gay person.  One of the
best ways to do this is to become a delegate in your local, county,
or state Republican party.  This way you have a vote in what happens
in the inner workings of the party.

Third, volunteer for pro-gay Republican candidates.  This is a great
way to educate the candidate. Also, by volunteering, you show the
party that you really want to help Republicans as long as they
support your issues.

4.  Are their any openly Gay Republicans in Congress?

Yes, Steve Gunderson, a representative from Wisconsin was re-elected
to Congress in 1994.