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Happy Holidays Adelante Readers and Supporters

As 2010 comes to an end, we want to thank our readers and advertisers who continue to support the effort of Adelante Magazine to provide vital information to our community. We hope that this New Year will bring success and happiness to you, your friends and family. For millions and many of you reading this magazine, 2009 was a very hard year. The on-going economic recession has caused mush stress and hardship in our country. This has been especially hard felt in California where the unemployment rate was a staggering 12.8%. This number is probably much higher if we count all individuals who are unemployed, even those undocumented tax payers. We have hopes that in 2011 the economic situation will turn around for our County and our community. We just have to keep focused on moving forward and being mindful of the important things in life: Health, family and friends.

In 2009, some very positive things happen: First, the United States Congress repealed “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and very soon gay and lesbians in the United States military will be able to serve openly with the same protections others enjoy. This is a huge step forward in equality for our community. The implications of this are far-reaching and the message is clear: If one can serve openly in the US Military and put their lives on the line for this country and be recognized, then in every other corner of this society we deserve the same rights and equal protections offered to any other citizen. This also sends a very positive message to young LGBT persons who are growing up today: You are accepted at the highest levels in our country!

2009 also saw successful challenges to the “No on 8” Law that was passed in California in 2008. This law banned marriage for gay and lesbians in California and has been challenged in appeals courts and we have won on the issue. In December, the US Ninth Circuit Court heard arguments in support of our case and we are still awaiting the decision. Eventually, this law will move up through the court system until ultimately be heard by the United Supreme Court. Again although we are not there yet, these are very positive messages to our community. These enforce that we indeed are equal and deserving of equal rights under the constitution of the United States. When young people in our community grow up knowing that they can marry the person whom they love, and receive all of the benefits and protections which come with that, their outlooks on life and their self esteem will be enhanced.

We are committed at Adelante Magazine to bringing you the latest information regarding issues which affect our community. We are always open to hearing from our readers on what issues they think we should cover and how we can improve the magazine. Should you have suggestions, please e-mail us at: readelante@aol.com. We thank you for your support and wish you a very happy and successful 2011.