When election time rolls around, referenda often steal the show away from the same withered cast of politicians. The idea that the people can decide for themselves how to govern, even in a small way, is very exciting -- and can be very controversial. It's still early in the season, but as more movements for or against various initiatives make it onto the internet, they will find their way onto this page.

California Civil Rights Initiative

Better known as CCRI, the initiative sells itself as "ending racial and gender preferences, quotas and set-asides" and "realizing the dream of a color-blind society," but more than a few critics see it as perpetuating short-sighted policies on race under Governor Pete Wilson's administration. The California Voter's Guide puts forth a few of the arguments against CCRI.

Maine Won't Discriminate

This web page was set up to help defeat a referendum allowing the continued discrimination against homosexuals in Maine. The referenda is slated to appear on the 1995 ballot. On this page, you'll find links to support groups throughout Maine, that are working against the referenda.

Full text of Maine referendum

The full text of the Maine anti-homosexual rights referenda.

California Statewide Ballot Propositions

This is a rundown of the 1994 ballot props. As the 1996 campaign season progresses, this will be the place to check for current California ballot proposition information.

Referendum, Recall, and Initiative in Indiana

A comprehensive guide to what ballot propositions are, and how they work in Indiana. Well written and informative. This information is pretty typical, so it's a great primer for anybody, anywhere.