Over the last few days, I have been collecting an amazing number of leading endorsements (to be released in September) for the National Equality March. Although I can't get involved in the day to day decision-making of the March, I figured this is the least I can do to be supportive. What has been interesting to me is the reactions I have picked up. I was surprised by many of them.

First of all, I thought with many of the people I contacted I would have to do a 'sales job' on why they should support the March and why they should attend on October 11. Shockingly, most said to me, "Of course I am coming and of course use my name." And I had to keep my nice little prepared 'why speech' to myself. Damn, and I worked so hard on it! Across the board in business, entertainment, activism, religious leaders, community icons etc, they are coming to DC. Some had questions about logistics and how else they can be helpful but most just said, "Of course." Made for a very pleasant first weekend home for me.

Only less than 1% of the dozens and dozens of calls, emails and Facebook contacts I made said "No." I still have to hear from some of my friends who have yet to return my inquires. The "No" folks were convinced it was going to be a failure (self-fulfilling?) or they disliked one aspect of the March or the other. They were good folks with real concerns and I hope we can reassure them before the event. I think we can.

Now, as a veteran of organizing and attending many marches, I can tell you that already this one is different from any other I have seen over the years. I think a lot of it has to do with the Internet and modern technology. This will in essence be a true 'people's march'. The March has released an astoundingly low budget of just over $200,000 which means many of you will have to step up to the plate and take personal responsibility. You will have to make your own signs, chartered your own buses, organize your own groups, find your own housing, get your own list of endorsers, etc. There are no paid organizers for this event so you have to stop waiting for your engraved invititation and start organizing.

Can't promise you if there will be 20,000 at this March or 200,000. What I do know is that a lot of very special people are coming. We have become invisible in this administration and so far have received almost nothing. And with that in mind, the community is geared to take a stand.

Whatever the total number of people, it is better than not being seen at all.