Host a House Party

As Iowans who believe in equality, we must be engaged within the community and have personal conversations about Why Marriage Matters.

In April 2011, One Iowa launched a massive statewide public education campaign to get the word out about why marriage matters. We know that by telling our stories and talking about equality for our families, we can win the hearts and minds of our fellow Iowans. A house party is a great way to gather friends and family to talk about these important issues.

What is a house party?

A house party is opening your home to friends and neighbors who haven't had a meaningful discussion about Why Marriage Matters yet. These conversations can be difficult, especially at rallies or forums. Opening up our homes provides a neutral and comfortable environment to have an honest and relaxed conversation about marriage and what it means to committed, loving gay and lesbian couples.

How can I host a house party?

It's easy. Simply contact Molly at molly@oneiowa.org to get all the tools you need to host your own house party.

Host Testimonies: 

Pro-equality host with the most and One Iowa supporter Mary Beyerhelm Huey hosted a house party at her home in Nora Springs. The purpose of the house party was to invite people to discuss marriage equality in the comfort of her home. 

Mary’s guests were treated to food, drink, live music, and even livelier discussions on why marriage matters. The evening was a huge success and culminated in a group commitment to protecting marriage equality.

“I was pleased with the house party. I believe people who are in support or leaning towards freedom to marry enjoy talking about the issue, and are eager for effective ways of discussing it with others. We wanted the party to feel fun and comfortable, but also wanted to have serious conversations, and I think we achieved that through an informal atmosphere, good food and drinks, knowledgeable guest speaker, and our passion for the issue,” said Mary about the event. “I think the house party gives us the venue to discuss an issue that most people want to know more about, but most of us don't feel very skilled discussing it - especially with someone who isn't in agreement with us. I believe the experience gives us the confidence and some useful tools to use in everyday conversations with others.”