Oscar winner Charlize Theron’s important message to straight people about gay marriage

The California Supreme Court is set to issue its ruling soon on the validity of Proposition 8. Whenever the ruling comes – and whatever it is – Charlize Theron plans to headline a rally in Fresno on the first Saturday after the decision which could come next week.

Why Fresno? Because it’s the raisin capitol of the world sillies. But seriously, it’s in the middle of this crazy state of California. It’s the Courage Campaign ( and more than 70 other organizations)  Meet in the Middle for Equality rally.

“We know the people whose lives are on the line – those who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender – will be there. But we need everyone there. Especially straight people,” Charlize wrote in an open letter inviting supporters to rally. “While we don’t know when the Supreme Court will rule exactly, we know it will be within the next four weeks. Californians need to be prepared to commit right now to go to Fresno on the Saturday after the decision is announced, no matter what that decision may be.”

“The battle for equality has to be fought in Middle America – in places like Fresno, California – not just in gay-friendly cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles,” she added. “California’s Central Valley population is far more reflective of national attitudes towards LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) equality – and until we engage the communities of Middle America, we will not achieve full equality in California.”

BTW: I just want to say that I really love this dress Charlize Theron wore to the Oscars a few years back. It was panned by some but it was a real thrill for me when – just moments before the show was to begin – I was walking behind her and her mother on the red carpet as they rushed into the Kodak Theater. I was heading to the interview room, of course. But I stood and watched watched for a minute as Charlize nevigated the steps leading up to the Kodak in that dress and it is one of my favorite Oscar memories.