(Editor’s note: The Rev. Canon Albert Ogle was interviewed by Andrew Whiteside of “Gay Talk Tonight” while on a family vacation in New Zealand. As public attention turns towards the Scott Lively trial in Lively v Sexual Minorities Uganda in Massachusetts on Jan. 7, the Ogle interview gives a comprehensive background on why this trial is important for LGBT rights globally.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Senate Democrats of the Illinois General Assembly have confirmed that a bill carrying legislation that would legalize same-sex marriage will not be heard this week and will likely be picked up for consideration next week.

The Senate Executive Committee will still consider the measure Thursday, despite the meeting having been delayed several hours.

The Democrats issued a statement following increasing uncertainty around a potential vote on the measure due to senators who are absent for family emergencies, and later said it will be heard next week.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Activists and lawmakers backing legislation that would legalize same-sex marriage in Illinois are regrouping and recounting potential “yes” votes in the Illinois Senate after key members of the chamber reportedly said they will be absent from Thursday’s proceedings in the General Assembly’s lame duck session.

At least two senators — and possibly three — have been called away from Springfield due to family emergencies, according to sources on the ground at the statehouse, who wished not to name the lawmakers.

SAN DIEGO -- Increased awareness of partner violence within the LGBT community and the resources available to cope with the issue are at the forefront of a $25,000 Verizon grant awarded to The San Diego Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center in Hillcrest.