I Didn't Say It ...

George Takei, actor, activist, on Indiana Governor Mike pence signing an anti-gay "religious freedom" bill into law:

"I am outraged that Gov. Pence would sign such a divisive measure into law. He has made it clear that LGBT couples, like Brad and me, are now unwelcome in his state. The notion that this bill was not driven by animus against our community is belied by the record and frankly insulting. I will join many in demanding that socially responsible companies withdraw their business, conferences and support from his state and that LGBTs and our friends and supporters refuse to visit or do business with Indiana. It is a sad day for the Hoosier state, and indeed for the many good people of Indiana, for whom this law now stands as a terrible blight upon that state's reputation."

Let me make this queer: if a governor wishes to sign a law stating that business can deny me service simply because I’m gay, then I, and I hope most of the LGBT community and our allies, will decide not to visit those states.
[photo source]

Tim Cook, Apple CEO, on those Religious Freedom Restoration Acts:

"Men and women have fought and died fighting to protect our country’s founding principles of freedom and equality. We owe it to them, to each other and to our future to continue to fight with our words and our actions to make sure we protect those ideals. The days of segregation and discrimination marked by 'Whites Only' signs on shop doors, water fountains and restrooms must remain deep in our past. We must never return to any semblance of that time. America must be a land of opportunity for everyone. This isn’t a political issue. It isn’t a religious issue. This is about how we treat each other as human beings. Opposing discrimination takes courage. With the lives and dignity of so many people at stake, it’s time for all of us to be courageous."

I’d like to see Tim Cook stage an Apple boycott of Indiana. His words have power, his deed could be mighty.
[photo source]

Rand Paul, speaking to a group of religious leaders at a private prayer breakfast about marriage equality:

"Don’t always look to Washington to solve anything. In fact, the moral crisis we have in our country, there is a role for us trying to figure out things like marriage, there’s also a moral crisis that allows people to think that there would be some sort of other marriage." 

Here’s the moral crisis, Rand: it’s that most people in this country are finally becoming aware that marriage equality is right and fair and doesn’t affect them at all. And you bigots and rightwingnuts and Teabaggers and Republicans are now realizing that your special brand of divisive politics needs a new scapegoat.

[photo source]

Josh Earnest, White House press secretary, talking to reporters about Indiana's Religious Freedom Restoration Act:

“I have seen that there are a number of private businesses and nonprofit organizations that have said that the signing of this law prompts them to reconsider doing business in the state of Indiana. All those business and some of those who are considering having conventions in Indiana have raised concerns about whether all of their employees can count on being treated fairly in Indiana. I think that is a testament to the kind of reaction I think a lot of people all across the country had, which is that the signing of the bill doesn’t seem like it’s a step in the direction of equality and justice and liberty for all Americans. Again, that’s not just the view of the administration, I know that’s the view of the Republican mayor of Indianapolis and a whole host of nonprofit and private sector companies who have legitimate concerns about the impact of this legislation.”

From the top: discrimination, for any reason, is wrong.

And, in  the interests of being transparent: I have a wee crush on Josh.

[photo source]

Martha Stewart, ex-con and lifestyle expert, taking on Ludacris, while pimping out her linens, at the Justin Bieber roast:

“I know you’re all wondering why I’m here tonight, It’s because Martha Stewart Changes peoples’ lives for the better. I believe the bedroom is the most important room in the house but I don’t have to tell you that, Ludacris. You have three kids with three different women. May I suggest pulling out some time and finishing on some fine, highly-absorbent Martha Stewart bed linens?”

Martha plays blue! And I love it!

[photo source]