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I know its been a long and winding road since we first filed to seal the names of those who signed the R-71 petitions. The reason we have been persistent in the matter is because we don't want the long and winding road to lead to the doors of those who signed the petitions.
Many of you have told me through email, etc., that you really don't care if they have your name or not. I understand that, otherwise I would have stayed in the shadows as some did.
However, there are those who have a specific and legitimate concern. One example is a case where a mother who helped gather signatures was called and a death threat was made against her. Her young son took the call. You can imagine how that traumatized a young boy. He is still dealing with it. There is more to the story. I'll share it at a later time.
There are college students who, along with their families, are concerned that one of their gay activist professors who are outspoken in the classroom will see their name on the list and they will face some kind of recrimination.
US District Court Judge Benjamin Settle, who originally blocked the release of the R-71 names last fall, will revisit the case.
He has set a conference to see how he will proceed for next Wednesday, August 11th.
Although his ruling was overturned by both the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court, the Court left open the possibility of a narrower challenge to the release of names on a specific petition, such as R-71.
This will be our "as-applied" challenge. We are now asking for the names of only R-71 to remain sealed, as opposed to our earlier, broader challenge.
The R-71 names have remained sealed for nearly a year, however, there are still a number of homosexual activist groups with requests for the names pending.
Some in the faith community have criticized our continued efforts on this issue, we feel, however, it is a worthy effort and will exhaust all opportunities to protect those who should have the right to participate in the democratic process without fear of harassment or bullying.
I spoke with our lead attorney, James Bopp, Jr., yesterday afternoon. He feels confident that by asking the Court to seal only the R-71 names, we have a good chance of prevailing.
We will keep you undated. Have a great weekend.
Thank you for your support of this ministry. We are able to continue because you stand with us.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Prayerful. Be Active. Be Blessed.
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Gary Randall
President
Faith and Freedom
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