“Gay men and women ought to have the same rights as heterosexual men and women — to make contracts, to have hospital visiting rights, to join together in marriage, and I don’t understand why it is considered by some people to be a threat to heterosexual marriage. … The loyalty and love that two people feel for one another when they fall in love ought to be celebrated and encouraged and shouldn’t be prevented by any form of discrimination in the law.”

Al Gore on his support for same-sex marriage (Current TV web site, Jan. 17)

“When I saw that it was a big deal to so many people for different reasons — it was a big deal in Lima, Ohio, and in Texas, for instance, they blacked us out, which was the best publicity we could have ever had — I didn’t realize that it was so hard for a lot of people to accept, and, on the other hand, how much it meant for other people who were working so hard because it was time, that we needed representation of the gay and lesbian community.”

“Friends” actress Jane Sibbett, one half of the lesbian couple that got married on the show; the wedding was the first between lesbians aired on TV (AfterEllen.com, Jan. 27)

“I’ve never not lived in a world where people didn’t know about my private life. And when I first came out, I felt like I had to personally represent the LGBT community, and so I did a lot of public events. But right now, I’d like to pass the mantle. I have a partner, and a dog, and a life and a career… I would love to see other actors come out and become famous, but I know it’s still a painful decision. However, I wouldn’t change what I’ve done for anything.”

Gay actor Chad Allen on being an out actor (Theater Mania, Jan. 23)

“The thing about my partner is, he’s gay, which I’m fine with. Growing up, I never pictured myself being with a gay guy. Now, I’ve come to realize that I could never be happy being with a straight guy.”

Vermont state Rep. Jason Lorber, who does standup comedy when he’s not making laws (Associated Press, Jan. 27)

“This is not just my award, it is an award of all those who courageously fight for LGBT rights in Russia, risking to lose their jobs, to be dismissed from studies, to be harassed, beaten and even killed. Despite all that, they continue to go on the streets of Moscow to fight for equality. They are the heroes who move this world forward. For me to be in Los Angeles, in Hollywood, is a dream come true. But to receive an award here is beyond explanations.”

Russian gay activist Nikolai Alexeyev, on receiving the Hero award at the International Mr. Gay competition (UK Gay News, Jan. 23)

“Honestly, when I first heard that there were rumors out there about me being gay I thought, ‘Wow someone must really hate me.’ There’s nothing wrong with being gay, but I just couldn’t understand why someone would make up lies like that. I remember speaking to Jay-Z about it and he was like, ‘Look, man you haven’t made it until someone says you’re gay.’”

R&B singer/songwriter Ne-Yo on rumors that he is gay (Essence, Jan. issue)