Anaheim, CA — A group of Orange County residents are planning an unorthodox welcome to a group which opposes equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) citizens. The Pacific Justice Institute (PJI) has opposed protection for LGBT people under hate crimes legislation and worked against equal marriage rights for same-sex couples. They will be holding a gala fundraiser dinner at Disneyland’s Grand Californian Hotel on April 2nd and local residents plan to be there with signs welcoming them to “the gayest place on Earth.”
“Disney is well-known for being inclusive and accepting of LGBT people, so it is ironic that the PJI would choose Disneyland for their fundraiser,” remarked Alex Gorman from Laguna Hills. Gorman is among a group of local residents and activists planning to protest the event. They will be protesting from 4 to 7 PM on April 2nd at the entrance of the Grand Californian Hotel. “We’re planning to show our support for equality and have a little fun at the same time. We want to show them that Orange County – and Disneyland in particular – doesn’t share their values.”
Billy Bradford, a father from Castro Valley, feels strongly that the Pacific Justice Institute should stay away from the Magic Kingdom. “Pacific Justice Institute sued our school because the school allowed a gay minister to come speak to some classes about her struggles with coming out and her fight to be accepted. Our school had to spend thousands of dollars to defend itself against this appalling hate group.” With regards to their event at Disney, he added, “They cast a dark shadow across Tinkerbell’s light.”
Michelle Evans, who is a Disney annual passholder along with her wife, echoed the sentiment that Disneyland is an inappropriate venue for the PJI event. “Disney has always stood for the principles of justice and fairness. The PJI has actively worked to deny the rights of people such as myself and my wife. This is not the American way, nor that of Disney.”
The demonstration will include waving signs and chanting as gala attendees enter the hotel. Anyone who supports LGBT equality is welcome to attend; signs will be provided. The event lasts from 4 to 7 PM on April 2nd and will take place at the entrance to Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel at 1600 South Disneyland Drive in Anaheim. For more details, please visit the event’s page at http://tinyurl.com/NoH8atDisney.