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An ABC/Washington Post poll today has found that for the first time, strong support for same-sex marriage outweighs strong opposition. African Americans polled have changed their positions the most, fueling speculation that President Obama’s historic public support of gay marriage two weeks ago may be responsible. In an interview on May 9th Obama took a bold step from his previous endorsement of only civil unions. Following Obama’s endorsement of gay marriage, a recent poll by the Wall Street Journal and NBC News revealed that 17% of voters are now more likely to vote for Obama, while 20% claim that they are now more inclined to support Romney come November.

Home to many LGBT communities, California exists as one of the friendliest and most active states over the fight for gay marriage rights. California’s legalization of gay marriage in June 2008 solidified its progressive reputation only to be shot down later that year with the passage of Proposition 8 in November. Backed by 52% of California voters, Prop 8 overturned the state Supreme Court’s previous ruling- again banning same-sex marriage. Though nearly 18,000 couples tied the knot before Proposition 8 took effect, a series of court debates, predominately fueled by the conservative coalition called ProtectMarriage.com, have ensued ever since.

In 2010, the golden state made history once again when the constitutionality of Proposition 8 was challenged in a district court, bringing gay rights advocates and their adversaries face to face in the landmark case then known as Perry v. Schwarzenegger. The result was a real life courtroom drama fueled by the understanding that the ruling would have far-reaching consequences for both sides of the spectrum. Dustin Lance Black’s compelling play, simply titled “8,” brings to life the voices of those who argued passionately within the courtroom during Perry v. Schwarzenegger. Produced by LA Theater Works, 8 was performed for radio earlier this year with an all-star cast that included George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Jane Lynch, Martin Sheen, Kevin Bacon, Jamie Lee Curtis, John C. Reilly, George Takei, James Pickens Jr and many others. The resulting radio play, 8, brings to life the most passionate moments of the historic court case, exploring the issue of gay marriage from a legal, ethical, emotional, and humanitarian perspective. The play was directed by Rob Reiner and recorded before a live audience at the Wilshire Ebell Theater in Los Angeles on March 3, 2012.

GUEST: Paul Katami, one of the lead plaintiff’s in the case Perry Vs. Schwarzenegger

Click here to make an $80 pledge for the 2 CD set of “8” or call 818-985-5735.