Freedom Indiana phones politicians

Freedom Indiana’s campus advocacy group at IU organized what freshman and lead campus organizer Morgan Mohr said was the most important phone bank in their history Sunday evening.

The project was carried out in preparation for H.J.R. 3 to be heard at the Indiana House of Representatives today.

“Previously, we’ve been facing just a small number of legislators on the judiciary committee,” Mohr said. “But tomorrow, every representative will have to decide if certain families deserve certain rights and protections.” 

Students filled the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Student Support Services office with the common goal of connecting voters in Indiana to their state representatives.

They wanted to emphasize to the representatives the opposition that many share of H.J.R. 3, Mohr said.

The upstairs of the GLBTSSS was used for training first-timers.

Scripts were passed out and advice on how to handle conversations was given.

The entire first floor was packed with student-filled chairs making phone call after phone call, and greeters at the door welcomed newcomers.

Bagels and refreshments were offered to everyone, but most volunteers passed, getting right to work.

“We know that messages and direct constituent contact to legislators is effective to change legislator’s minds,” Mohr said. “Some legislatures have cited specific phone calls they’ve received because of this phone bank. It’s not the sexiest form of activism, but it sure as hell is effective.”

First-time volunteer caller for the phone bank Adrianna Garza said she was happy to be around so many positive people.

“Everybody is really happy, which is cool,” Garza said. “It feels like everyone here is a friend.”

Mohr said she knows she is making a difference, and said she feels it is critical for her to be involved.

“I’m the change I want to see in the state,” Mohr said. “I just wouldn’t feel comfortable standing on the sidelines.”

Peter Inman, a volunteer since October, said he fears the effects H.J.R. 3 could have if it passes through the Indiana Congress.

“In my opinion, to convince Americans to vote for this amendment, the other side is going to have to dehumanize the other,” Inman said. “LGBT people and kids especially are already targets of bullying. If this is passed, it’ll give more permission to continue this.”

The American Psychological Association conducted three separate studies focused on researching Proposition 8, a same-sex marriage ban in California overturned in July 2013, and the effects the campaign had on LGBT people.

The research cited 45 percent of individuals under age 18 experienced homophobia, hate speech, threats or violence during the campaign.

Inman said this statistic makes him more dedicated to fight with Freedom Indiana.

If H.J.R. 3 passes through the House, the group plans to continue their phone bank initiative and campaigning until the elections next fall.

In the event that H.J.R. 3 passes today, the group will organize another phone bank Wednesday.

Students can contact the GLBTSSS for the exact time of the event after the house votes.

Mohr encourages volunteers to come early with cell phones and computers to maximize their effectiveness.

The campaign not only works to change the debate surrounding H.J.R. 3, but has also changed the students who have worked on the campaign.    

“It’s been empowering for me,” volunteer and freshman Maggie Oates said. “The technology and tools of the young people are what’s changing the scene around this issue. We are the future of the state, and it’s important to get involved now.”

Follow reporter Suzanne Grossman on Twitter @suzannepaige6.