Equality All-Star Volunteer of the Day

Suzanne Blackburn-Volunteer hoping for equality for all

Suzanne is a Portland resident who, when she is not helping protect equality in the state, is a massage therapist and outdoor guide.  She and her partner have been together for 5 years and would like to be able to get married.

Suzanne feels she has made a longtime commitment and would like to take care of her partner like every other married couple.  She knows that sooner or later they are going to need help and does not want there to be any question about their relationship.  She and her partner have prepared legal documents, but even those can be contested.  She is volunteering her time on the No on 1 campaign to make sure that she and her partner can have the protections that only marriage can provide.

When asked why she volunteered her time, she said:

“So much injustice is futile in the world.  But working on this campaign is like being surrounded by the essence of democracy.  This is something that we can all touch, see and feel.”

Suzanne is also very impressed with the professionalism and grace from the staff and other volunteers.  “Everyone is working long hours; making thousands of phone calls and they still manage to remain calm and dignified. I'm glad to be part of the team.”