Courage Campaign Press Releases

Courage Campaign to host Camp Courage on eve of National Equality March in Washington, D.C.

October 10, 2009 — WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Courage Campaign, a California-based organization with more than 700,000 members, announced today that it will host a special Camp Courage training event on Saturday, October 10, in Washington, D.C., before the National Equality March. The March is expected to draw thousands of people from around the country in support of equal protection for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people in all matters governed by civil law in all 50 states.

Courage Campaign and EQCA join forces to support Manchester Hotels Boycott

September 22, 2009, SAN DIEGO — The Courage Campaign and Equality California today launched a new web site and email campaign to ask their members and supporters across the state to join the boycott against San Diego hotel magnate Doug Manchester, a major Prop. 8 donor who has struck back to undermine a successful boycott against his properties.

The web site is SayNoToManchester.org, where supporters can join the boycott by signing a pledge not to patronize Doug Manchester’s hotels.

Courage Campaign calls on Attorney General to investigate Asm. Michael Duvall

September 9, 2009 — LOS ANGELES – After California Assemblyman Michael Duvall (R-Orange County) was caught making obscene boasts about sex with married lobbyists on a live microphone in committee meeting, the 700,000-member Courage Campaign called on Attorney General Jerry Brown to investigate.

“This isn’t just a sex scandal, it’s a corruption scandal,” said Rick Jacobs, Courage Campaign founder and chair.

Courage Campaign and United Farm Workers call on gubernatorial candidates to pledge support for pro-worker bill; new video shows the human cost of Schwarzenegger's veto

September 4, 2009 — LOS ANGELES – The 700,000-member Courage Campaign and United Farm Workers are calling on the five declared or likely candidates for Governor of California — Jerry Brown, Tom Campbell, Gavin Newsom, Steve Poizner, and Meg Whitman — to support a bill that would give farmworkers the power to improve deadly working conditions in the fields of the Central Valley.

After Governor Schwarzenegger vetoed the California Farmworkers Free Choice Act just days before Labor Day, the Courage Campaign released a video and message to supporters telling the heartwrenching story of one of the fifteen farmworkers who lost their lives to the heat in recent years.

2010: It's time to make a decision

August 5, 2009, LOS ANGELES — I write to you today with urgency and seriousness. After months of discussion and debate, the time has come to make the tough decision.

In May, 83% of Courage Campaign members said that our organization should work with our partners to place a marriage equality initiative on the ballot in 2010. If the Courage Campaign and our allies in the movement want to initiate the repeal of Prop 8 in 2010, we must make that decision very soon.

Frankly, too much attention has been placed on the political consequences of running an election in 2010 or 2012. The bottom line is that we must begin now to convince the people of California that civil marriage rights should be made available to all people, period. None of us should have to wait one more day to achieve equality at any level.

Modeled on "Camp Obama," fifth "Camp Courage" will teach Spanish- and English-speaking activists to change hearts, minds and votes

July 30, 2009, LOS ANGELES — The East Los Angeles training will feature Lt. Dan Choi, the U.S. Army translator who made headlines this month by challenging the military’s “Don’t ask, don’t tell” policy barring gays from serving openly.

This will also be the first Camp Courage offered in both Spanish and English, a major step towards engaging Latino communities about marriage equality. Exit polling by Edison Media Research showed that 53 percent of Latino voters supported Proposition 8, the constitutional amendment that ended marriage equality when it passed last November. A diverse group of local activists, including dozens of monolingual Spanish speakers, are ready to start turning those numbers around in East Los Angeles.

Courage Campaign statement on Gov. Schwarzenegger's call for a special session to overhaul California's tax structure

July 30, 2009, LOS ANGELES — Courage Campaign chair and founder Rick Jacobs issued the following statement today regarding Gov. Schwarzenegger’s call for a special session to overhaul California’s tax structure:

“Not satisfied with gutting education, health care and other vital services for millions of working Californians, Schwarzenegger now wants to go into sudden death overtime to take money directly out of our pockets to pay off his wealthy friends. The report the Governor commissioned aims to raise taxes for four out of five Californians, taking billions more from ordinary people and giving most of the revenue away to corporate CEOs and those making more than $200,000 a year. This is not what the people of California meant when they asked for reform.”

Courage Campaign Calls on Speaker Bass and Senate President Pro Tem Steinberg to Override Gov. Schwarzenegger's Line-Item Veto Budget Cuts

July 29, 2009, LOS ANGELES — The Courage Campaign mobilized its membership today to urge Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg and Assembly Speaker Karen Bass to call a veto override session to stop $489 million in additional budget cuts to vital state services by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

“The Legislature has the power to override these vetoes and save the vital services that Arnold Schwarzenegger is out to destroy,” said Rick Jacobs, founder and chair of the 700,000-member Courage Campaign. “If lawmakers don’t reverse these cuts, California will pay the price in lost lives and higher public health costs for years to come.”

The Courage Campaign proposes the following "Four Principles for a United Movement" -- the foundation of a campaign to restore marriage equality to California:

July 278, 2009, SAN BERNARDINO — This past Saturday in San Bernardino, activists gathered for the third in a series of leadership summits to determine the best course of action to win back marriage equality in California.

Winning a campaign to repeal Proposition 8 will take hard work and sacrifice from thousands of activists, community leaders, contributors and volunteers. The marriage equality movement is powerful and determined. The next step for the movement is to add structure that empowers the grassroots and netroots to win as soon as possible..

Courage Campaign Co-Hosts Southern California Constitutional Convention Town Hall

LOS ANGELES, July 17, 2009 — A coalition of community and public interest organizations will co-host the first in a series of town hall discussions this Saturday that seek to educate Californians on the historic call for a California Constitutional Convention.

New Online Video from Courage Campaign: "Gov. Schwarzenegger: Don't Let California Go Up In Smoke"

LOS ANGELES, July 16, 2009 — Saying Governor Schwarzenegger is out of touch with everyday Californians who are suffering through the worst fiscal crisis in a generation, the Courage Campaign today released an online video blasting Arnold for his lack of leadership on the budget.

Courage Campaign Statement on "Prepare to Prevail" Letter

LOS ANGELES, July 14, 2009 — Courage Campaign chair and founder Rick Jacobs issued the following statement today regarding an open letter released by API Equality, HONOR PAC and the Jordan Rustin Coalition on Monday, July 13:

“We welcome the ‘Prepare to Prevail’ letter from API Equality, HONOR PAC, the Jordan Rustin Coalition and so many others as an honest, open contribution to the deliberations through which the community is participating.

"Arnoldbucks" Are Back Thanks To Gov. Schwarzenegger's Obstruction Of Responsible Budget Solutions

LOS ANGELES, July 1, 2009 — The Courage Campaign today blasted Governor Schwarzenegger’s budget failures that will cause the state to issue IOUs for the first time in 17 years, re-releasing an online video to illustrate how Californians will struggle with the absurdity of “Arnoldbucks” — the IOUs the state will be forced to issue due to Arnold’s lack of leadership.

COURAGE CAMPAIGN CALLS ON SENATOR FEINSTEIN TO LEAD ON HEALTH CARE REFORM

LOS ANGELES, June 25, 2009 — As President Obama works with Congress to revamp our health care system, Rick Jacobs, founder and chair of the Courage Campaign is calling on Senator Diane Feinstein (D-CA) to lead on health care reform, like House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, instead of simply voicing “concern.”

“Health care reform is at a critical stage in the nation’s capitol. We expect and need a Senator who leads,” said Jacobs. “Instead, Senator Feinstein watches the political winds and counts votes. We can use an abacus to count votes; we need a senator who will change votes.”

Sarah Callahan Joins Courage Campaign As Chief Operating Officer

LOS ANGELES, June 6, 2009 — Today, the Courage Campaign announced that Sarah Callahan will serve as Chief Operating Officer of the 700,000-member online and community organizing network based in California. Callahan, a veteran of numerous campaigns in California and across the country, will immediately begin leading the daily operations of the Courage Campaign, a multi-issue progressive advocacy organization focused on achieving full equality for all Californians by solving California’s structural governance problems and restoring marriage equality to the state.

“Right now, the Courage Campaign is using the same online tools and strategies so successfully employed by Barack Obama’s presidential campaign to channel the online enthusiasm of California progressives into specific, targeted activities to produce real results,” said Mary Jane Stevenson, state director of Organizing for America. “With Sarah Callahan spearheading the team, the Courage Campaign should be able to mobilize and empower Californians across the state to support its ambitious agenda.”

Courage Campaign Statement On Governor's Address To Legislature: Demands Legislature Offer Progressive Solutions Voters Want - Fair Taxation, Accountable Spending

LOS ANGELES, June 2, 2009 — In a rallying cry for progressive solutions to the state’s budget crisis, Rick Jacobs, founder and chair of the 700,000 member Courage Campaign, made the following statement regarding Governor Schwarzenegger’s address to the joint session of the Legislature:

“When California voters rejected five of the six ballot propositions at the May 19 special election, they did so because they wanted lasting solutions to our budget crisis not temporary fixes crafted without public input.

More than 100 organizations join all-inclusive statewide demonstration in the wake of Prop 8 ruling

FRESNO, May 28, 2009 — In the first statewide demonstration following the California Supreme Court rulings which upheld the ban on same-sex marriage, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) advocates and allies will gather in Fresno on Saturday, May 30th in solidarity to support full federal equality.

This all-inclusive event will attract supporters of social justice and equality from across California and ask them to renew their dedication to fight for the rights of LGBT individuals. Moreover, progressive leaders and activists will be setting goals for a new movement which will call upon organizers and attendees to continue the fight and call upon the federal government to provide full equality to LGBT individuals.

Repealing Proposition 8 in 2010: Courage Campaign Statement and Fact Sheet

LOS ANGELES, May 26, 2009 — Following the California Supreme Court’s decision today to uphold Proposition 8, Rick Jacobs, founder and chair of the 700,000-member Courage Campaign issued the following statement about the Courage Campaign’s support for a ballot initiative in 2010 to restore marriage equality to California.

“While the tide is turning nationally, restoring marriage equality to California will not be easy. But we know in our hearts that time is on our side, that justice will prevail, and that equality will be ours,” said Jacobs.

Courage Campaign Disappointed by Supreme Court Ruling to Uphold Prop 8

LOS ANGELES, May 26, 2009 — Today, the California Supreme Court ruled to uphold Proposition 8, denying marriage equality rights in California. While optimistic the Court would rule in favor of equality, Rick Jacobs of the Courage Campaign said they have been taking steps to win marriage equality rights at the ballot box.

Courage Campaign statement on Supreme Court's Proposition 8 decision now scheduled to be announced on Tuesday, May 26

LOS ANGELES, May 22, 2009 —Today, the California Supreme Court announced it will issue its ruling on the three legal challenges to Proposition 8 on Tuesday, May 26. Rick Jacobs, founder and chair of the 700,000-member Courage Campaign issued the following statement:

“While we are optimistic the California Supreme Court will rule in favor of marriage equality, the Courage Campaign and other organizations have been building the infrastructure necessary to win or defend marriage equality rights at the ballot box.

More than 136,000 people ask President Obama to End Discrimination in Armed Forces

LOS ANGELES, May 21, 2009 — Working to secure equality in our armed forces and improve our national security, the Courage Campaign and CREDO Mobile have circulated a petition to President Obama urging him to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” As of Wednesday night, 136,192 people have signed on to the action, spurred by the dismissal of gay troops such as Lt. Dan Choi, the first Arabic language specialist to be dismissed under President Barack Obama.

Courage Campaign and CREDO Mobile call for Majority Vote Budget and restoration of democracy to state legislature

LOS ANGELES, May 20, 2009 — In the aftermath of the May 19 special election, the Courage Campaign and CREDO Mobile are launching a “Declaration of Democracy” campaign to restore democracy and accountability to the state legislature. The two progressive organizations are calling for the legislature to approve a majority-vote budget to deal with the current budget deficit, and are building a long-term campaign to eliminate the 2/3rds rule requiring legislators to approve a budget and raise revenues.

How To Fix California -- No Matter What Voters Decide On May 19

SACRAMENTO, May 18, 2009 — California faces the worst budget crisis in decades. That crisis will still be with us on Wednesday, regardless of the outcome of Tuesday’s election.

The Courage Campaign was founded to build a progressive, independent voice to help the people of this state resurrect the California that was once the envy of the world.

Beginning May 20, the Courage Campaign will offer a three-part plan that restores the power of the people, restores accountability to the budget process and puts this state back on track.

Today's Fresno Bee reported on "Meet in the Middle for Equality"

FRESNO, May 8, 2009 — Today’s Fresno Bee reported on “Meet in the Middle for Equality” a major rally that will take place in Fresno the first Saturday after the California Supreme Court rules on the legal challenges to Proposition 8. The next skirmish in the battle over same-sex marriage will be in Fresno, where supporters plan a large rally to kick off a campaign they hope will change minds — and votes. Their goal: to undo Proposition 8.

In choosing Fresno, supporters of same-sex marriage are moving far from the supportive urban environs of San Francisco and West Hollywood, and coming to hostile territory.

How the marriage equality movement will win -- no matter how the Supreme Court rules

LOS ANGELES, May 5, 2009 — The tide is turning. Marriage equality is spreading from state to state. It is coming back to California. It’s a matter of how and when.

Regardless of how the Supreme Court rules on the challenges to Proposition 8, we will win equal rights here in California and nationwide — if we, in the grassroots, take ownership of the process and engage the broader progressive movement.

Gavin Newsom On Camp Courage

OAKLAND, April 29, 2009 — For many Californians, November’s celebration of the election of Barack Obama as our next president was tempered by sadness and anger at the passage of Proposition 8. That night, we became the first state in the nation to use our constitution to strip rights away from our fellow citizens. Our lesbian and gay friends, family members and neighbors woke up the morning after the election with fewer rights than they had enjoyed the night before. Now it’s time to empower and inspire Californians to win these rights back.

Courage Campaign Calls on Congress to Impeach Judge Bybee

LOS ANGELES, April 29, 2009 — Calling him unfit for a job that requires respect for the Constitution, the Courage Campaign today launched a petition urging California Democrats to officially support a resolution urging Congress to impeach Judge Jay Bybee. As an official with the Bush-era Justice Department, Bybee authored a memo in August 2002 authorizing the use of waterboarding, “cramped confinement,” “walling” — where a detainee’s head is repeatedly pushed against a wall — and even putting insects into a confined space with a detainee.

Courage Campaign Issues Committee Announces Opposition to Propositions 1A-1F

LOS ANGELES, April 28, 2009 — Providing progressive activists the information they need, the Courage Campaign Issues Committee is distributing its “Special Election 2009 Progressive Voter Guide,” an online guide designed to help voters understand the six measures on the May 19, 2009 Special Election ballot. The California-based multi-issue advocacy group, now numbering over 700,000 members, also announced its members have voted to oppose Propositions 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E and 1F.

Democratic Party Demands Congress Investigate Judge Bybee

SACRAMENTO, April 26, 2009 — Calling it a victory for truth and justice, the California Democratic Party today passed a resolution urging Congress to investigate Judge Jay Bybee for his role in President Bush’s illegal torturing of detainees. Earlier this week, the Courage Campaign launched a petition — signed by over 9,000 people — urging California Democrats to support an investigation and impeachment of Bybee.

Wall Street Journal -- "Outreach Grows in California" to restore marriage equality

FRESNO, April 13, 2009 — Gay-marriage proponents in California, anticipating another loss, this time in court, have turned their focus to trying to win over potential voters in some unlikely places.

Last month, 200 gay-rights activists gathered at a Holiday Inn in this city at the heart of California’s conservative Central Valley for a two-day training course on how to pair Internet-based social networking with old-fashioned canvassing to promote a gay-friendly agenda. It is part of a wider effort to reach out to the state’s more conservative precincts, with polls showing Californians are evenly split on the issue.

Courage Campaign Sponsors Statewide Gathering to "Meet in the Middle for Equality"

LOS ANGELES, April 9, 2009 — As the religious right hires actors to carry its message of fear, the Courage Campaign today announced it will team up with real people in Fresno to officially sponsor “Meet in the Middle for Equality” — a day of dignity planned for the first Saturday after the California Supreme Court rules on the legal challenges to Proposition 8, regardless of the outcome.

Courage Campaign Wins Prestigious Pollie Award for "Yatcht Party" Ad

LOS ANGELES, April 1, 2009 — The Courage Campaign, a California-based online organizing network with more than 700,000 members, today thanked the American Association of Political Consultants for awarding “Yacht Party” top honors at the 18th Annual “Pollie” Awards Ceremony held Sunday night in Washington, D.C. The “Pollie” recognizes the best in political and public affairs communications.

Courage Campaign Announces Sponsorship of "Meet in the Middle for Equality" on Saturday After Supreme Court Ruling

LOS ANGELES, March 13, 2009 — The Courage Campaign announced today its official sponsorship of the Fresno-based “Meet in the Middle for Equality” — a day of dignity planned for the first Saturday after the California State Supreme Court rules on the legal challenges to Proposition 8, regardless of the outcome. The goal of Meet in the Middle for Equality is to support the communities of “middle-America” in the struggle for marriage equality.

Courage Campaign Releases "March 2009 Progressive Voter Guide"

LOS ANGELES, February 28, 2009 – Providing progressive activists the information they need to vote on March 3, the Courage Campaign Issues Committee is distributing its “March 2009 Los Angeles Progressive Voter Guide,” an online guide designed to help voters understand the five measures on the March 3, 2009 Los Angeles City Election ballot. The California online advocacy group, now numbering nearly 700,000 members, also annouced its endorsements of Measures A, B, C and D.

"Fidelity" Now Most Watched Online Political Video in California History

LOS ANGELES, February 26, 2009 – The Courage Campaign today announced “Fidelity” — an online video designed to illustrate the love and commitment between all same-sex couples and the threat that Prop 8 poses to their current and future families — has been viewed more than 1,000,000 times, making it the most watched video of its kind in California history.

Courage Campaign and other groups to protest Clinton speech at boycotted Hyatt hotel

SAN DIEGO, February 14, 2009 — Former President Bill Clinton’s refusal to honor a boycott of the Manchester Hyatt hotel supported by gay leaders and labor unions has fueled outrage in both communities.

A petition calling on Clinton to move his speech was launched Friday morning by the Courage Campaign and had gathered 26,537 signatures within 24 hours.

Courage Campaign, California Labor Federation Call On Attorney General To Investigate Republicans On Vote-Trading

SACRAMENTO, February 11, 2009 – Based on persistent reports that Republicans in the Legislature are trading their votes on an urgently needed state budget for votes on completely unrelated matters, the Courage Campaign today delivered more than 6,000 petitions urging Attorney General Jerry Brown start an investigation into Republican vote-trading and bring charges if appropriate.

Confirmation of Hilda Solis: Courage Campaign Calls on Republicans to Stop Blocking Nomination

LOS ANGELES, February 9, 2009 – Saying it’s time for progressives to take a stand, the Courage Campaign — a California-based online organizing group with over 400,000 members — today called on Republicans in the U.S. Senate to stop blocking change and confirm Congresswoman Hilda Solis as Labor Secretary. The group also asked its members to support Senator Ted Kennedy, chair of the Senate Labor Committee, in his fight against the conservative effort to deny Americans the change they voted for in November.

Courage Campaign releases "Arnoldbucks" video and downloadable IOUs

LOS ANGELES, February 2, 2009 — Blasting Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s budget failures that have resulted in the state suspending billions in payments, the Courage Campaign Issues Committee today released an online video to illustrate how Californians will struggle with the absurdity of “Arnoldbucks” — the IOUs the state may be forced to issue due to Arnold’s lack of leadership.

Arnoldbucks Arnold to California: IOU Real Money

LOS ANGELES, January 29, 2009 — Blasting Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s budget failures that have resulted in the state suspending billions in payments, the Courage Campaign Issues Committee today released an online video to illustrate how Californians will struggle with the absurdity of “Arnoldbucks” — the IOUs the state may be forced to issue due to Arnold’s lack of leadership.

Courage Campaign Renews Debate Challenge to Rev. Rick Warren on Prop. 8, Marriage Equality

LOS ANGELES, January 13, 2009 – Renewing the call of more than 25,000 Californians, the Reverend Eric Lee, President of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) of Greater Los Angeles, today urged the Reverend Rick Warren, Senior Pastor at Saddleback Church in Orange County, to accept the Courage Campaign’s invitation to debate his views on Proposition 8 and marriage equality.

Courage Campaign Applauds Labor Unions Joining Fight to Repeal Prop 8

LOS ANGELES, January 13, 2009 — Calling organized labor the most powerful single political force in California, Rick Jacobs, founder and chair of the Courage Campaign, today applauded the move by a coalition of more than 50 California labor organizations, including United Healthcare Workers (UHW) and the California Labor Federation, to file an amicus brief on Friday in support of the three lawsuits now challenging Proposition 8. This coalition represents more than two million working men and women in California.

Statement from Rick Jacobs, Chair of the Courage Campaign, on Proposition 8 Sponsors Filing to Block Proper Disclosure of Donations

LOS ANGELES, January 9, 2009 — Rick Jacobs, founder and chair of the Courage Campaign – an online organizing network with nearly 400,000 members – today made the following statement regarding ProtectMarriage.com and the National Organization for Marriage filing suit in the U.S. District Court in Sacramento to block the proper disclosure of campaign donations:

Courage Campaign launches grassroots activist training camp to build Marriage Equality Movement in California

LOS ANGELES, January 6, 2009 — The Courage Campaign, a California-focused online organizing network, today announced the launch of “Camp Courage,” a skills-building training institute inspired by Camp Obama.

The training program will give grassroots activists the practical, hands-on skills to organize in their communities to restore marriage equality to California for same-sex couples. This issue-focused training program is a major step toward repealing Proposition 8 and building a permanent progressive majority in California.

Courage Campaign Issues Launches "A California Carol"

LOS ANGELES, December 23, 2008 — Criticizing Governor Schwarzenegger’s desire to use the budget crisis to destroy vital public services, Courage Campaign Issues today released an animated video online to illustrate how the governor’s right-wing priorities are doing serious harm to California.

Courage Campaign Members Host Screenings of "MILK" in Local Communities in Concert with "Light Up the Night" Candlelight Vigils Across California

LOS ANGELES, December 20, 2008 — Following action taken yesterday by the Prop 8 campaign to invalidate all existing same-sex marriages in California, Courage Campaign members are organizing 51 screenings of “MILK” in 39 communities across California today. In many of these communities, participants will watch “MILK” and then walk or drive to “Light Up the Night,” the nationwide candlelight vigils organized by the Join the Impact to draw attention to the 18,000 same-sex couples who were married in California before Prop 8 passed in November.

Rick Jacobs, Chair of the Courage Campaign, on Proposition 8 Sponsors Filing to Nullify Existing Same-Sex Marriages

LOS ANGELES, CA, December 19, 2008 — Rick Jacobs, founder and chair of the Courage Campaign – an online organizing network with more than 300,000 members – today made the following statement regarding the sponsors of Proposition 8 asking the California Supreme Court to nullify the marriages of the estimated 18,000 same-sex couples:

“I am appalled the sponsors of Proposition 8 and Ken Starr are seeking to invalidate the 18,000 same-sex marriages that were conducted prior to the passage of the initiative. That Mr. Starr and his colleagues dare to say they only filed the brief because the court asked makes this all the more heinous. The motivation behind this mean-spirited and heart-breaking action should not be allowed to be buried in legal brief. If Proposition 8’s sponsors plan to destroy lives, they should at least have the courage to admit it publicly.

Courage Campaign Releases Statement on Democratic Budget Solution and Governor's Veto

LOS ANGELES, December 18, 2008 — Rick Jacobs, founder and chair of the Courage Campaign — a MoveOn-style online organizing network in California with more than 300,000 members — today made the following statement praising Assembly Speaker Karen Bass and Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg for their innovative and creative solution to the state’s budget crisis:

Courage Campaign Launches "Citizens Plan to Reform California"

LOS ANGELES, December 5, 2009 — Moving to treat the causes, not just the symptoms, of California’s dysfunctional political system, the Courage Campaign today launched the Citizens Plan to Reform California — “CPR for California” — a holistic package of reforms to heal our sick government, including initiative reform, budget reform, clean money, and restoring equal rights.

Courage Campaign Issues Committee Urges Mormon Church to Cease Funding "Yes on 8" Campaign

LOS ANGELES, October 23, 2008 — The Courage Campaign Issues Committee, an online organizing network of over 100,000 members in California, today launched an online petition urging Church of Latter Day Saints President Thomas Monson to cease funding the campaign for “Yes on 8,” a ballot measure that would, according to the ballot description, “eliminate the right of same-sex couples to marry.”

Courage Campaign Issues Committee condemns Prop 8 campaign's blackmail letter demanding donations from businesses that contributed to the "No on 8" campaign

LOS ANGELES, October 23, 2008 — The Courage Campaign, an online organizing network of over 110,000 members in California, today condemned the blackmail-like action of the Prop 8 campaign, after the Associated Press reported that the Prop 8 campaign had demanded equal donations from people who have contributed to the “No on 8” campaign, threatening to list their business names if the contributors did not comply.

Courage Campaign On Action Taken by Supreme Court To Review Constitutional Challenges to Proposition 8

LOS ANGELES, November 19, 2008 — Rick Jacobs, Founder and Chair of the Courage Campaign Issues Committee, released the following statement regarding today’s California Supreme Court decision to review legal challenges to Proposition 8, a ballot measure that eliminates fundamental marriage rights.

“While we are confident the court will find in favor of protecting marriage rights for all, we are preparing for any outcome. Our sincere hope is any action the court takes does not negatively affect the thousands of couples who chose to get married before the November election.

100,308 sign "Repeal Prop 8" pledge to build new Marriage Equality Movement

LOS ANGELES, November 12, 2009 — The Courage Campaign Issues Committee and CREDO Mobile today announced that, together, both organizations had gathered over 100,000 pledges from people committed to repealing Proposition 8 and restoring marriage equality to California.

“The birth of a new Marriage Equality Movement – the civil rights movement of the 21st Century – is unfolding before our eyes,” said Rick Jacobs, found and chair of the Courage Campaign, an online organizing network with more than 150,000 members. “What we are witnessing on the streets and online is a community of people who have come together to say: ‘These are our lives. This is our time. This is unacceptable.’”

Courage Campaign Moves to Define Progressive Agenda for 2009

LOS ANGELES, November 6 2008 —Moving to define a progressive agenda to create change in California, the Courage Campaign — an online organizing network with more than 100,000 members — today will host State Senator-elect Mark Leno, a leader in the fight for marriage equality and a progressive champion in the Legislature, and Eric Garcetti, Los Angeles City Council President as well as Barack Obama’s California campaign co-chair for a statewide “Courage Campaign Conversation” conference call.

Courage Campaign Issues Committee Releases New Hard-Hitting Proposition 8 Ad

LOS ANGELES, November 3, 2008 — The Courage Campaign Issues Committee, the ballot measure committee that is part of the Courage Campaign family’s online organizing network of over 100,000 members in California, today launched a new, hard-hitting 60-second TV ad that directly challenges the role of the Mormon Chruch on Proposition 8. The ad will air on cable TV stations on Tuesday as a final Get-Out-The-Vote message.

Courage Campaign Issues Committee delivers 16,935 signatures to Los Angeles Mormon Temple urging Mormon Church to cease funding the Proposition 8 campaign

LOS ANGELES, October 28, 2009 — Giving voice to thousands throughout the state, the Courage Campaign Issues Committee, an online organizing network of over 100,000 members in California, today delivered a petition signed by 16,935 people urging Church of Latter-day Saints President Thomas Monson to cease funding the campaign for Proposition 8, a measure that would “eliminate the right of same-sex couples to marry.”

Courage Campaign Issues Committee Sends "2008 Progressive Voter Guide" and Mobile Phone Voter Guide to Nearly 100,000 California Members

LOS ANGELES, October 15, 2008 — Using online tools to provide progressive grassroots and netroots activists the information they need to persuade voters before November 4, the Courage Campaign Issues Committee today published the “2008 Progressive Voter Guide,” an online and mobile guide designed to help the Courage Campaign’s nearly 100,000 members and their friends and families understand all twelve of the November ballot measures.

Mayor Villaraigosa Joins Courage Campaign In Taking a Stand Against Prop. 8

LOS ANGELES, October 14, 2008 — In an urgent message sent to the Courage Campaign’s nearly 100,000 members, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa has formally announced his opposition to Proposition 8 — an initiative on the November ballot that “eliminates the right for same-sex couples to marry” — and took a stand against the measure by donating $25,000 to the ‘No on 8’ campaign.

Courage Campaign Urges Congressman David Dreier to Come Out Against Prop 8

LOS ANGELES, October 10, 2008 — The Courage Campaign, an online organizing network of nearly 100,000 members in California, today launched an online petition urging Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas) to come out against Proposition 8, a ballot measure that would, as the ballot description reads, “eliminate the right of same-sex couples to marry.”

Courage Campaign Launches New "Gender Auditors" Web Ad on Prop 8: "Keep the Government Out of Your Pants"

LOS ANGELES, October 7, 2008 — The Courage Campaign Issues Committee, the ballot measure committee that is part of the Courage Campaign family’s online organizing network of nearly 100,000 members, today launched a new web ad that uses humor to educate voters about the consequences of Proposition 8. As the ballot descriptions delineates, this initiative “eliminates (the) right to marry for same-sex couples.”

"Courage" to Take Flight over Sarah Palin rally in Carson Today

CARSON, October 4, 2008 — The Courage Campaign Issues Committee, the ballot measure committee that is part of the Courage Campaign family’s online organizing network of nearly 100,000 members, today launched an aerial advertising blitz featuring an aircraft towing a banner stating “Sarah Palin – Thanks, But No Thanks! No on Prop. 4”.

Assembly Speaker Karen Bass and Senate President Pro Tem-elect Darrell Steinberg sign "Stop Arnold" Petitition

SACRAMENTO, July 28, 2009 — Assembly Speaker Bass said she signed the Courage Campaign petition “because the leaders of this state are working hard to build a budget for the people of this state, not just for a few. The governor is just wrong to borrow money from the state workers to solve a crisis that is not their making.”

Online organizing network representing nearly 100,000 Californians overwhelmed by petition response

LOS ANGELES, June 18, 2008 — The announcement that Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger plans to slash the wages of more than 200,000 state employees has been met with such outrage that one of the state’s leading political organizing groups has been inundated with responses since it began soliciting signatures and comments on a petition asking the governor to drop the plan.

Courage Campaign Demands that Los Angeles County Registrar of Voters Count All "Double Bubble Trouble" Votes

LOS ANGELES, February 6, 2008 — A lawyer for the Courage Campaign today demanded that the Los Angeles County Registrar of Voters (ROV) immediately address the “double bubble trouble” that disenfranchised untold numbers of “Decline-to-State” voters in Tuesday’s presidential primary election. The Courage Campaign is asking the L.A. ROV to determine voter intent and insure that all votes cast by “Decline-to-State” voters in Los Angeles County are counted

L.A. City Attorney Rocky Delgadillo, State Sen. Sheila Kuehl and California Nurses Association Join the Courage Campaign to Highlight Health Insurers' Practice of Dropping, Denying or Delaying Coverage

LOS ANGELES, June 18, 2008—The Courage Campaign, the California-based online organizing network approaching 100,000 members and supporters, unveiled a new TV ad today that targets health insurers’ practices of canceling or denying benefits to patients even during treatment. The ad, released at the peak of the health insurance industry’s three-day convention in San Francisco, directs viewers to ProtectingTheInsured.org, a website for health insurance consumers created by Los Angeles City Attorney Rocky Delgadillo.

The Courage Campaign and California Nurses Association call on the former DNC Chair to boycott AHIP convention on June 19

LOS ANGELES, June 12, 2008—Two influential grassroots and political organizing groups have criticized Terry McAuliffe, the former chair of the Democratic National Committee, for accepting an invitation to speak to the health insurance industry’s chief lobbying group at its annual meeting next week in San Francisco.

Al Gore Speaks Out Against California Education Budget Cuts

LOS ANGELES, May 22, 2008 — Al Gore, former Vice President and Nobel Laureate, added his voice to the debate about the California budget crisis today, telling members of the Courage Campaign that cutting education spending should not be on the table.

In a video and email to the Courage Campaign’s nearly 100,000 members, Mr. Gore said, “Why, in the midst of this downturn, is one of the first proposals for cutting aimed at public education? Because, in order to do well in the future and grow the economy out of these hard times, we have to invest more — not less — in high-quality public education.”

Arianna Huffington, Courage Campaign, California Nurses Association team up for "Yacht Party 2" TV ad

LOS ANGELES, May, 13, 2008 — The Courage Campaign has released a new ad branding the California Republican Party as the “Yacht Party” for its continued support of a tax loophole that allows buyers of yachts and private jets to avoid paying sales tax in California. The ad, titled “Yacht Party 2,” will air tonight in Sacramento the day before Governor Schwarzenegger presents his revised budget cuts to reduce what he estimates is a $20 billion state budget deficit. The ad is being aired two days ahead of schedule, due to substantial support from an online fundraising campaign launched to Courage Campaign members on Monday.

Congressman Bob Filner, Jess Durfee, 1,777 San Diegans Call on Mayor Jerry Sanders to Investigate Blackwater Permit

SAN DIEGO, May 5, 2008 — On Tuesday, May 6, Jess Durfee, Chairman of the San Diego County Democratic Party, will deliver a letter to Mayor Jerry Sanders, calling for an investigation into the new Blackwater facility planned for Otay Mesa.

The letter — which started circulating via email from the SDCDP and the Courage Campaign just last Thursday, May 1 — has now been co-signed (as of Monday, 3 p.m. PT) by 2,501 people, including 1,777 residents of San Diego County, of which 1,003 are citizens of the city of San Diego. Congressman Bob Filner sent a letter to Mayor Sanders as well on Thursday, requesting an investigation into the permitting process.

ABC's Presidential Debate Disaster: Courage Campaign organizes Flag-Pin Protest in front of ABC/Disney HQ

LOS ANGELES, April 18, 2008 — The Courage Campaign, with support from MoveOn.org, CREDO Action, and several bloggers and grassroots groups across California are organizing a “flag-pin protest” from 4-7 p.m. today in front of ABC/Disney headquarters in Burbank.

Courage Campaign airs "Yacht Party" television ad with funding from small donors, SEIU-UHW and Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez

LOS ANGELES, March 26, 2008 — Today, the Courage Campaign is launching “Yacht Party” — a 30-second TV ad re-branding California Republicans as the “Yacht Party” for refusing to close a “yacht tax” loophole despite an initial $16 billion state budget deficit. United Healthcare Workers – West (SEIU-UHW) and Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez are teaming up with over 550 small donors to air the ads in Sacramento and San Francisco today and Thursday as well as Walnut Creek, Palm Springs, and other areas at times not yet determined.

Courage Campaign pleased that 47,153 "Double Bubble" votes have been counted in Los Angeles County ballot controversy

LOS ANGELES, March 5, 2008 — Rick Jacobs, founder and chair of the Courage Campaign, welcomed the news today that 47,153 “double bubble” ballots have been counted by Los Angeles County Acting Registrar of Voters Dean Logan, following a supplemental count of 59,174 previously uncounted ballots cast by “Decline-to-State” voters on February 5.

Courage Campaign Statement on Resolution to "Double Bubble Trouble" Los Angeles County Ballot Controversy

LOS ANGELES, February 26, 2008 — Rick Jacobs, founder and chair of the Courage Campaign, released this statement today on the resolution of “Double Bubble Trouble” — the Super Tuesday ballot controversy that disenfranchised tens of thousands of “Decline-to-State” voters in Los Angeles County.

Courage Campaign Demands that Los Angeles County Registrar of Voters Count All "Double Bubble Trouble" Votes

LOS ANGELES, February 12, 2009 — Attorneys for the Courage Campaign responded today to Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk Dean Logan’s “Preliminary Findings: Review and Analysis of Sample Set of Non-Partisan Ballots Cast in the February 5, 2008 Presidential Primary Election.”

Rick Jacobs Statement on L.A. County "Double Bubble Trouble" Responding to Dean Logan's Report

LOS ANGELES, February 11, 2008 — Rick Jacobs, Chair and Founder of the Courage Campaign, issued the following statement in response to Los Angeles County Registrar of Voters Dean Logan’s report.

Courage Campaign Exposes "Butterfly Ballot" Problem Potentially Disenfranchising 776,774 Los Angeles County "Decline-to-State" Voters

LOS ANGELES, February 4, 2008 — The Courage Campaign today exposed a Los Angeles County ballot design problem that could lead to hundreds of thousands of Decline-to-State (DTS) voters not having their ballots counted.

Bradley Whitford Radio Ad Targets 3 Million Decline-to-State Voters

LOS ANGELES, February 2, 2008 — The Courage Campaign announced today that it will launch radio ads on Monday and Election Day as part of its “Yes, You Can…Vote for President” multi-media campaign informing California’s 3 million Decline-to-State voters of their right to vote for a presidential candidate in Tuesday’s Democratic Party primary.

"Yes, You Can... Vote for President" -- Courage Campaign Targets 300,000 Decline-to-State Voters in California

LOS ANGELES, January 28, 2008 — The Courage Campaign today launched the “Yes, You Can…” campaign to inform 300,000 “Decline-to-State” (DTS) voters of their right to vote in California’s Democratic presidential primary. (NOTE: According to California Republican Party rules, the Republican primary is only open to registered Republican voters).

Progressive Advocacy Organizations Launch "PickYourPresident.org" Presidential Poll of Members and Supporters

DENVER, CA, January 9, 2008 — Today, following the surprising election results from Iowa and New Hampshire, six progressive advocacy organizations from Colorado, California, Michigan, Ohio, Washington and Wisconsin launched a ten-day coordinated online poll to survey their members’ preferences for president. The six statewide organizations represent more than one million members and supporters combined.

Democracy Won; Blackwater Zero Rural Republican voters overwhelmingly recall pro-Blackwater reps; sweep "Save Potrero" Planning Group into power

SAN DIEGO, December 12, 2007 — In a stunning victory that shocked even the most optimistic observers, five members of an elected body that approved Blackwater’s plans to build a mercenary base on the California border were overwhelmingly recalled by voters Tuesday night.

Results from Potrero recall election on Blackwater announced tonight in San Diego

SAN DIEGO, December 11, 2007 — Today is election day for 509 registered voters in Potrero, CA, the location of the first official election held in the United States to address Blackwater’s activities.

A local grassroots group called “Save Potrero” is attempting to recall five Potrero Community Planning Group members who voted to approve Blackwater’s plans to build a mercenary training base in this sleepy rural corner of East San Diego County. Blackwater wants to build this base for 360 staff and “students” on 824 acres of land just a few miles from the Mexico border, consisting of 15 firing ranges, a helipad, and a heavy vehicle operator’s course covering the equivalent of 10 football fields.

MoveOn.org Joins Courage Campaign and Democratic Clubs in Statewide Movement to censure Senator Dianne Feinstein for confirmations of Mukasey, Southwick

LOS ANGELES, November 15, 2007 — The Courage Campaign today announced that MoveOn.org Political Action, the largest progressive online organization in the nation, has joined the coalition of netroots and grassroots activists across California who seek a vote to censure Senator Dianne Feinstein at this weekend’s California Democratic Party Executive Board meeting.

Courage Campaign calls for California Democratic Party to censure Senator Dianne Feinstein for confirmations of Michael Mukasey and Leslie Southwick

LOS ANGELES, November 13, 2007 — Today, the Courage Campaign announced support for a resolution calling for the censure of Senator Dianne Feinstein for her pivotal votes for Michael Mukasey as U.S. Attorney General and Leslie Southwick as a federal judge. A version of the censure resolution, included below, will be submitted for the consideration of the California Democratic Party Executive Board at its meeting November 16-18 in Anaheim.

COURAGE CAMPAIGN CALLS ON BLACKWATER USA TO ABANDON BASE IN FIRE-RAVAGED SAN DIEGO COUNTY

LOS ANGELES, October 24, 2007 — Today, the Courage Campaign called on Blackwater USA to abandon plans to build a para-military training facility in Potrero, located in East San Diego County and site of at least one fatality and some of the worst damage caused by the California wildfires.

Bradley Whitford ("The West Wing") Premieres YouTube Video Condemning the "Dirty Trick Initiative"

LOS ANGELES, September 24, 2007 — Today, Courage Campaign launched NoDirtyTricks.com, with an online video by Bradley Whitford, underscoring the importance of defeating the so-called Presidential Election Reform Act.

Courage Campaign Calls on David Dreier to Come Out Against Dirty Tricks Chairman of Republican House Delegation Asked to Lead, not Pander

LOS ANGELES, September 7, 2007 —Courage Campaign today called on California Congressman David Dreier (R- 26th) to come out against the so-called “Presidential Election Reform Act” which would dictate the re-allocation of approximately 20 Electoral College votes from California to the Republican presidential nominee. Dreier is chairman of the California Republican delegation to the US House of Representatives.

Courage Campaign Announces Historic Partnership With Bloggers And The Netroots

LOS ANGELES, September 6, 2007 -– Courage Campaign, an independent, non-partisan organization in California, announced that it is partnering with netroots and grassroots progressives to build a people-powered online effort to defeat a proposed ballot initiative by GOP operatives described as an “elaborate dirty trick” by the New York Times.

Courage Campaign Asks Governor to Oppose Electoral College Initiative

LOS ANGELES, September 4, 2007 — Courage Campaign Issues Committee sent the following letter today to Governor Schwarzenegger asking him to oppose the so-called Presidential Reform Act, which would steal twenty electoral college votes from California. Joining in opposing this initiative are Sherry Lansing, Bradley Whitford, Sal Rosselli, Arianna Huffington, Assembly Majority Leader Karen Bass and Eric Garcetti.

Courage Campaign calls on Gov. Schwarzenegger to Read Initiative, Keep in Mind "Post-Partisan" Promises

SACRAMENTO, August 31, 2007 — In response to comments Governor Schwarzenegger made one week ago, the Courage Campaign Issues Committee (www.couragecampaign.org), will be delivering 2,148 copies of the “Presidential Election Reform Act,” better known as the “dirty trick initiative,” to Governor Schwarzenegger’s office at 3 p.m. today.

Progressive Organizations Endorse Secretary of State Debra Bowen’s Recommendations

LOS ANGELES, August 4, 2007 — Courage Campaign, a non-partisan, progressive 527, Progressive Democrats of America (PDA) and the Los Angeles County Democratic County today responded to the statement from Secretary of State Debra Bowen about implementation of the top-to-bottom review of election systems. The groups collectively obtained the signatures of over 1,700 people in support of Bowen’s efforts in a two day period.

Progressive Organizations Wage Campaign to Support Secretary of State Debra Bowen in her "Top to Bottom" Election Review

LOS ANGELES, August 1, 2007 – Courage Campaign (www.couragecampaign.org), a non-partisan, progressive 527 and Progressive Democrats of America (PDA), announced an online petition drive urging the strong support for Secretary of State Debra Bowen’s review of election machines in California. Bowen held a public hearing on Monday and is to rule on Friday August 3 as to whether certain electronic machines may be used.

Courage Campaign Launches Petition Drive To End 'The Iraq Tax' on Every Californian and Bring the Troops Home

LOS ANGELES, May 18, 2007 — The Courage Campaign (www.couragecampaign.org), a non-partisan, progressive 527, announced an online petition drive urging the California congressional delegation, specifically those members who have consistently supported the war policy and refused to fund withdrawal in April, to support Rep. Ike Skelton’s bill to withdraw our troops from Iraq by April 2008 when they vote on it later today.

Senator John Edwards Addresses The Concerns of Regular California Voters, Not Just Wealthy Donors

LOS ANGELES, May 30, 2007 — The Courage Campaign (www.couragecampaign.org), a non-partisan, progressive 527, today unveiled a video response from Senator John Edwards to network members who submitted questions to the candidates online at ATM Watch (www.atmwatch.org), a website designed to encourage the candidates to address the concerns of every day California voters.

Courage Campaign Launches Petition Drive In Support of Smaller Safer Higher Performing Schools

LOS ANGELES, May 18, 2007 — The Courage Campaign (www.couragecampaign.org), a non-partisan, progressive 527, announced today that, in cooperation with the L.A. Parents Union and the Small School Alliance (www.smallschools.org), it is launching a petition drive urging the LAUSD school board to reduce the size of schools to create smaller higher performing schools.

Courage Campaign Launches Petition Drive Opposing Blackwater USA's Proposed 'Blackwater West' Mercenary Training Facility Outside Potrero, CA

LOS ANGELES, April 26, 2007 — The Courage Campaign (www.couragecampaign.org), a non-partisan, progressive 527, announced today it is launching a petition drive opposing Blackwater USA’s proposed 824-acre training facility just outside Potrero, CA, a small rural town 45 miles east of San Diego. The petition urges Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and Senators Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein to block the proposed private mercenary training facility.

Courage Campaign Joins Broad Coalition to Oppose Wal-Mart Expansion in Garden Grove, California

LOS ANGELES, April 17, 2007 — Courage Campaign (www.couragecampaign.org), a non-partisan, progressive 527, announced today that it has launched a petition drive urging the newest member of the Garden Grove City Council, Steven Jones, to join with the Main Street Coalition, a broad-based local alliance of clergy, labor, and community leaders, to stand up for the community of Garden Grove and oppose Wal-Mart’s planned 170,000 sq. foot supercenter there

Courage Campaign builds forum for presidential candidates and Californians to focus on issues, not just taking money

LOS ANGELES, March 29, 2007 — Courage Campaign (www.couragecampaign.org), a non-partisan, progressive 527, announced today that California Assembly Speaker Fabian Núñez is inaugurating ATMWATCH.ORG, a statewide effort to press presidential candidates to talk about issues that matter to California.

Courage Campaign Statement on Assembly Vote to Move Presidential Primary to February 5, 2008

LOS ANGELES, March 7, 2007 — Upon passage by the Assembly of the bill to move the California presidential primary to February 5, 2008, Courage Campaign Chair and Founder Rick Jacobs said, “This is a victory for all Californians. At last, we can truly tell the candidates to take our money, but not run. It’s time for presidential candidates to count our votes, not just our money.”

State-wide Efforts Led By Courage Campaign Would Bring National Prominence To State's Issues

LOS ANGELES, February 13, 2007 — In an attempt to bring national attention to California during the presidential campaign season, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously passed a resolution of support today for the Courage Campaign’s on-going efforts to move the California presidential primaries to the first Tuesday in February.

Courage Campaign denounces California's role as "ATM" for candidates in petition to support Speaker Nunez's efforts to move election from June to February 2008

LOS ANGELES, January 25, 2007 — The Courage Campaign (www.couragecampaign.org), a non-partisan, progressive 527, announced today they are issuing a petition in support of Speaker Fabian Nunez’s efforts to move up California’s presidential primary from June to February 2008. Speaker Nunez has been reported as pushing Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and other lawmakers to set an earlier presidential primary that also would include ballot measures for term limit and redistricting reforms. Gov. Schwarzenegger as well as other prominent electeds, including Sen. Dianne Feinstein, have come out in favor of the move, citing the importance of California’s 55 electoral votes in the general election relative to the state’s influence in the primaries.