Regarding Lisa, I’m not privy to comment on the assertions you made about her behavior of the past few weeks. I know Lisa has been outspoken in the past, and while that makes many uncomfortable, somebody needs to be blunt and forthright. If she misspoke in the heat of the moment I would only ask that you remember the blood, sweat and tears he’s put into this fight for the past eight years. Being the lead plaintiff to then lose in Court by a single vote, and now to lose the House by a single vote, is to suffer in a way few of us can imagine. I know, when the victory finally comes, she will be able to shift her perspective and recognize just how close she helped bring us before the final win, but for now we need to stand by her and her family.

I do object to your assertion of Ms. Polyak, though from what I have read I respect her and her partner as individuals in the fight for equality, I do not agree with Lisa’s recent comments that have circulated in the community particularly her rumored involvement in this article. As a board member I believe that to be very much a violation of confidentiality and lack of confidence in her leadership. Also her recent public outburst in Annapolis of which I was present for and submitted a letter to Equality Maryland about was appalling. As a leader of an organization you do not stand and shout obscenities directly outside of the State House.

I have held little criticism of Equality Maryland until recent weeks, but some of the behaviors of their leadership have been questionable which now includes, (if it is indeed true) of what I read here via Mark McLaurin’s comments, about Mr. Butler. If that comment is true, as an attorney, I would find it to be an utmost conflict of interest for Mr. Butler to be the Chair of the Board of the organization that he once interviewed for the top executive position and was declined.

I understand all points of view that of the Equality Maryland board members and that of Mark and David. However, as my comments above note I am increasingly concerned by the behavior that has been transpiring over the course of this week.

I am disheartened by the current motives, discussions and maneuvers that have been circulating within the community regarding all of the organizations mentioned in this article.

I wish the LGBT movement much success in Maryland including the full inclusion of rights for the transgender community which are so essential. Thank you all for the dialogue and it is my sincere hope that this is handled rationally, responsibly and with due diligence.

Sincerely,

C. H. Jones, Esq.