Solano supports Measure 9 on Oregon's statewide Nov. 7 ballot. It would bar classroom instruction ''encouraging, promoting, sanctioning'' homosexuality or bisexuality, and would apply to public schools from kindergarten to community colleges. Proponents worry that family values are eroding. If traditional-minded people don't win this, the culture is going down,'' said Lon Mabon, who runs the Oregon Citizens Alliance, sponsor of the measure and of previous failed efforts against gay rights.
Opponents deny children are fed a pro-gay agenda.
We're teaching diversity and tolerance.'' Also facing voters Election Day are Nebraska and Nevada proposals to amend their constitutions to say only marriage between a man and woman is valid. And Maine voters will once again decide whether to adopt explicit civil rights protections for gays, now found in 11 states and the District of Columbia. The proposed law has Oregon divided. While the measure is backed by such religious organizations as the Oregon Christian Coalition, it's under fire from others. Earlier this month, some 400 members of more than 30 churches and synagogues met at a Portland church for a Measure 9 protest rally.