In a fundraising e-mail sent to its supporters Thursday, Citizens for Community Values (CCV) gloated about what it termed were Election Day victories over “the homosexual agenda.”
The e-mail, entitled “A Surge of Votes for Traditional Marriage,” implies the issue of equal marriage rights was the deciding factor in numerous races.—-
It states, “The national press is ignoring the fact that November 2, 2010, was a turning point for candidates and judges who support the homosexual agenda.
“Here are just a few examples. On Election Day: In Maine, 22 legislators who voted for same-sex marriage were replaced by candidates who support marriage between one man and one woman; In Iowa, the three judges who forced same-sex marriage on the people of Iowa lost their positions; In Massachusetts, more than 20 candidates who support marriage between one man and one woman were elected,” it continues.
CCV's e-mail then quotes an unidentified gay activist to bolster its claims.
“According to one homosexual activist: 'Some of the most progressive legislators in tough races lost. It's a huge setback for the gay community to lose so many committed stalwarts. It's a little frightening.' While we rejoice in victories such as these, we also know this issue requires constant vigilance. Please, continue to stand for the truth in your home, church, and community.”
The e-mail then features a “donate today!” button.
Formed in 1983, the Sharonville-based CCV lobbies for various arch-conservative causes including blocking the availability of pornography to adults, overturning anti-discrimination laws aimed at protecting gays and lesbians, and trying to close down striptease clubs. On its Web site, CCV lists its mission as promoting “Judeo-Christian moral values, and to reduce destructive behaviors contrary to those values, through education, active community partnership, and individual empowerment at the local, state and national levels.”
Promoting what's touted as God's will can be a lucrative business. In 2002, records show Burress made an annual salary of $87,581 plus benefits; his wife, Vickie, who works as CCV's "victim assistance coordinator," makes $28,167 plus benefits.
Cincinnati City Councilman Charlie Winburn is a frequent CCV ally. Winburn's chief of staff, David Miller, was the group's vice president of public policy and now serves as the organization's eyes and ears at City Hall.
