As I watched the funeral of Senator Kennedy my sadness rapidly turned to anger.

As I watched the parade of Senators with tears in their eyes my question is:
Senators, will you do your job and manifest Senator Kennedy’s dream of quality, affordable healthcare for all, equality under the law for all, and an American government that represents all of its citizens not just its wealthy ones?

The priest told us that the mass brings together sadness and hope but I confess that my hope is very weak right now, as weak as our elected representatives who have been bought and paid for by the forces of profit over common good.

This moment in our country must be a time for renewal of activism, renewal of the fiery spirit of Senator Kennedy – a spirit who fought for all of America, rich and poor America, gay and straight America, black and white and brown America.

Senator Kennedy believed in true family values – every member of our family has value. All mattered to Senator Kennedy. But do they matter to our living elected officials?

I think not.

As a gay man I don’t think my rights matter to them. And I won’t be appeased by promises. I will not wait to be a full citizen with all the rights guaranteed by my Constitution. I want those rights now. Senator Kennedy told me that I would have them in my lifetime.

Now he’s gone.
Now it’s time for us to act.
Now we must Act On Principles.

Now is the time to hold all accountable – both the elected and the electorate.
We must reward only those who take a stand and take action.
Promises are meaningless without action.

And when it comes to political contributions I implore you -
ACTION FIRST then rewards.
No money for promises. NONE.

Send a message. Demand action.
ACT ON PRINCIPLES.

Never compromise on your principles.
Sen. Edward M. Kennedy