DISQUS

jr · 1 month ago

Okay wait a minute. You guys are boycotting Obama and the DNC because he hasn't done enough for Gay Rights and the anti-gay group is protesting outside his kids school because he hasn't done enough against you. Maybe you guys should join with that anti-gay group and coordinate how to destroy Obama and the DNC.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

Maybe Obama should uphold the promises he made when we gave him the Oval Office and both houses.

Then there wouldn't be a boycott, would there.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

We do not seek to "destroy" the DNC or Obama. We seek to have our party and its leaders uphold the promises they have made. I am a lifelong Democrat, always will be, but until the Democratic party "gets around to" serious LGBT issues, I'll be fine just sitting it out and not getting all wrapped up in the rhetoric: give us money, give us money, give us money, and on and on and on. . .

Patrick Simmons · 1 month ago

And maybe you should open your eyes to your displaced anger and be upset at the DNC and Obama rather then the people who are being oppressed and used by them. Seriously, it's like the DNC loves the LGBT community and their dollars during an election year, but as soon as they get what they want it's "Get the hell out of my face!" until the next big election when they will once again promise the moon in exchange for valuable gay dollars.

Mark · 1 month ago

For the life of me, I can't figure out how insisting my rights (rights if they were stripped from anyone else, the word destroyed wouldn't even begin to describe what would happen in the streets) be protected is destroying anyone.

Stefan · 1 month ago

Let me begin by saying that we are on the same side perhaps with distinct visions, but certainly aligned in goals. I am in agreement with many of the specifics that you cite, just not the way forward.
This is a BAD IDEA and here's why:
We have just had 8 Years of Bush and most of it with the GOP. What did they do for Gays? Nothing. What would they Ever Do for gays? Again Nothing.

Alienating the entire Democratic Party in a Blanketed Manner, which currently has The Most Supportive and Vocal Leader that (on gay issues) we have Ever Seen, because he has not made complete reversals in the Law during less than the first 25% of his term, and against tough opposition I might add, is in my estimation, very foolish, unrealistic, and essentially equates to taking off the life vest and throwing it away in the storm. Is a boycott supposed to make Democratic Leaders Feel Good about Gays? I think not and I will not do this.

At a minimum, Obama has placed our faces out there, beginning in his Campaign and in his Inaugural speech, to the rest of the nation for consideration. We are now the focus of widespread conversation. This One Step gives us Credibility that we have never had due to being hidden away in shame and never talked about or even considered as having needs. What other President or Presidential Candidate even has ever had the courage or character to do this for us? None that I can remember. Let's not forget our history.

We are not the only issue. To act as if we are would be selfish and not appreciative. The President does not Make Laws Alone. He must work with the Congress and Senate, and not just on Gay issues, but on a variety of issues. Do we expect to have greater speed than Healthcare for example?

If we condemn the Democratic Party As a Whole then where do you think you will go for support, I mean to what political party? Not the Republicans. They will Never Support Gays, Never. This is Exactly the type of dissent that Republicans/your opponents want.

Might I suggest that we express dissatisfaction toward PARTICULAR Party Members as they vote or do not in our favor?
I am not going to abandon ship (and swim), just because the rudder needs adjusting. There are No Other Boats Coming
Along friends, and I do not like swimming in sharky water.

A Better Plan.........
Might I also suggest that rather than attacking our Allies, those who, while perhaps not perfect, Are Inclined to defend our Rights, But Rather That we Do Boycott, watch and provide successful argument Against Our Clear Enemies, and here is a great place to start:

http://www.valuesvotersummit.org/speakers

I appreciate sincerely the Efforts of anyone promoting our rights, but I do strongly believe that we need to work effectively toward those goals. Let's be very careful to Identify both Friend and Foe accurately. Even at a “pause”, one can be certain that our Opponents are not pausing. This is not a wise Political Move.
As bad ad it may hurt, I would be Very Happy if Obama ended DOMA in his Second term; again History?? Let’s just hope that, despite your misdirected efforts, he can manage to actually Have a second term.


So Dear Bloggers, and this is a sincere question, Exactly what Positive and Equally as Prominent Proclamations have you made recently in an effort to Gain Support by Rallying Donations FOR Groups that are SUPPORTIVE of Gays?

Mike_in_the_Tundra · 1 month ago

"We have just had 8 Years of Bush and most of it with the GOP. What did they do for Gays? Nothing. What would they Ever Do for gays? Again Nothing."

Things are no different for me now than they were during the Bush years. Granted I live in a state that has looked out for our rights, so the Hate Crimes Bill had no effect on our way of life. But I don't want to wait and wait for change. It's certainly not coming from our "Fierce Advocate." My husband is ill. He probably does not have two years left, although he is doing better than expected. It would have been wonderful if we could have our union recognized not only by our church, but also by our government. In the eyes of the law, he is not related to our children. I am the only legally recognized parent. We have paid hundreds of dollars for legal documents that would not have been needed if we had a marriage license. I'm tired of waiting. I've waited my whole damn life.

Val · 1 month ago

How about this -- the health care bill in Congress that was passed has an amendment to allow gay couples health benefits. Does that affect you?

Patrick Simmons · 1 month ago

Is that law yet? No. You know what is? DADT and DOMA. The basic civil rights of an oppressed minority is a far more important issue then healthcare reform. Sounds like if you had lived in South Africa during apartheid you would have told the blacks there to "wait" too.

Mike_in_the_Tundra · 1 month ago

Yes, it would, and after years of being unfairly taxed, it would be welcomed. However, very few of us expect to see it become law. BTW - the amendment in question doesn't allow gay couples health benefits. That is currently decided by the employer. My employer does cover my spouse. What the amendment says is that the employee with the benefits does not have to pay tax on the contribution of his/her employer towards the spouses health insurance premium. I did call Senator Klobachur's office yesterday, and it sounded as if the wingnuts are already calling in it with complaints about the amendment. We will also need to see if DOMA would prevent it from going into effect.

Mark · 1 month ago

Barack Obama has done absolutely nothing, at all. Heck, he took two campaign trips to VA and three campaign trips to NJ and he didn't even bother to go a little ways north to campaign in Maine to urge people to vote No on the recent ballot initiative. He is still quite popular in that state and his voice could have made quite a difference given the closeness of the vote.

His supposed "steps forward" are just more examples of a cynical politician pandering for votes. Not coming out forcefully and voicing a desire for equality for everyone is disgraceful, and frankly I am fed up with it. If one accepts what you have written Stefan, it makes his actions even more disgusting and cowardly. If in fact equal rights for all is gaining more acceptance as you claim, it should be even easier for him to repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell (keeping such a restriction in place when we are fighting two wars just boggles the mind) and DOMA.

I find it absolutely hilarious, and mind-boggling, that anyone would keep writing checks to the DNC because of what they have "promised to do". Did Obama promise to equate gay marriage with pedophilia when he was campaigning? Because that is what his administration did in a legal brief written in defense of DOMA. Did the DNC promise to have Obama give a token speech about the need for equality every few months in a feeble, transparent attempt to try and appease us while he does nothing? If you are going to give money every month to the DNC, at least have the guts to admit you are doing it because you have liberal politics instead of lying to yourself by claiming Obama is going to do something. When exactly? If not now, it won't be soon, because with the midterms rolling around, he certainly won't have the courage to do it in 2010. I don't think he will ever be able to muster it, quite frankly.

shirl2121 · 1 month ago

Wow, you may be the very people that bring the Repbulicans back in 2010....You have just cut off your nose to spite your face and you will be the ones who suffer the most. Have at it, guys, win the battle and lose the war.....Stupid, stupid move, it was just a matter of time until we finally had so many of the rights and priveldges that we have waited so long for and you are well on your way to removing the on Guy who could have got it for you. Your first mistake, underestimating him and not giving him the time to do it his own methodical, thought out way. I suggest you start sewing tea bags on your hats because that's the crowd your going to have to kneel to if we lose the Democratic majority in 2010 or the White House in 2012. Ready for another eight years of right wing, republican, evangilists because , pat yourselves on the back, your working hard to get them back.

jstephenclark · 1 month ago

We've already heard the DNC talking points. Since the Democratic majorities, including the filibuster-proof majority in the Senate, can't even manage to pass ENDA, I fail to see how things would be markedly worse with GOP control. That's why the DNC scare tactics aren't working anymore.

NotTimothyGeithner · 1 month ago

Incompetence at the DNC and the White House will bring the GOP back. I love the "blame the voters" memo from the DNC.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

"It's YOUR fault the Democrats suck so badly that you had to stop supporting them!

It's your fault the Democrats suck so badly that people gave up on them!

"It's your fault the GOP might get in next election, it has nothing to do with how badly the Democrats performed!"


Do you rehearse this stuff?

ASchmidt · 1 month ago

"Ready for another eight years of right wing, republican, evangilists because , pat yourselves on the back, your working hard to get them back"

Really? Let me ask this then: If a Democrat campaigns on a platform, stands by his platform through debates, and promptly abandons it upon election to office, why are we supporting them? What do they do for us that we should support them? I will support specific candidates but I will not supply funds (as I have in the past) to the DNC or OFA until this administration and the Democrats in general start to follow through with their promises.

It isn't a matter of being impatient, it is a matter of their having abandoned us entirely now that they don't need our votes (until the next election). If it helps any, think of it this way... each election, the Republicans mouth whatever bull they have to in order to get the far right on their side. They know that they don't intend on following through and actually outlawing abortion or enacting Biblical law as civil law... but it gets them votes from their base and then later they say that "it isn't the right time" or "I support you but I can't get enough votes". And that's what it seems 90% of the Democrats do to us every election. Many (but not all) of them say all the right things but consistently fail to act.

So why should I give a donation to a group who is stringing me along? Why shouldn't I target my donations to individuals who actually follow through on the agenda they campaigned on?

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

You are dead right shirl. Gays boycotting the DNC and denigrating BHO for not having done enough...is so plain stupid. If this was the 60s , which the gay agenda consistently claims they are analogous to the Civil Rights movement...then they would be opposing JFK and saying he was not doing enough and they would criticism him, despite JFK being the only President to have even recognized the plight of the AmericanNegro and sent the troops to B'ham after Connor used those hoses.

But hey, you can't get some things across to folks who are so 'tired of waiting'....the thing is they are going to wait a helluva lot longer if GOP is elected and wins back Congress due to these type of crazy antics.

Good Post Shirl...very well said.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

oh good, the idiot homophobe is back.

threadmonitor · 1 month ago

Only briefly. Sorry.

Mark · 1 month ago

How is speaking the truth about someone's actions, or lack of, "denigrating" him?

Gridlock · 1 month ago

So our displeasure with the Democrats not fulfilling their election promises is somehow our fault?

Let me break that down even more simply:

Democrats: give us money and votes and we'll do a bunch of great stuff for you.

Gays: ok, here.

Democrats: thanks, but we're not going to be doing any of that stuff for you anymore, the time isn't right, but can we have more of your money and votes anyway?

Gays: no, you lied to us!

Democrats: Well then it's your fault if the GOP gets in next time.


brilliant argument, shirl. Really outstanding.

Mark · 1 month ago

".....Stupid, stupid move, it was just a matter of time until we finally had so many of the rights and priveldges that we have waited so long for and you are well on your way to removing the on[sic] Guy who could have got it for you."

THe above incoherently written sentence misses the whole point. The fact of the matter is that the "on Guy" isn't doing it. After so many broken promises, I cannot figure out why anyone would so easily swallow hollow assurances from the very same politicians who have broken their word over and over again. When will some people wise up to the fact that Obama is like any other politician, ie he says whatever it takes to get elected. His actions have certainly not disproven that statement, and until they do, he shouldn't get another dime. Trust and respect are earned through actions, not easily broken hollow promises.

Dan W. · 1 month ago

Defund bot the DNC and sellouts at the HRC who are more concerned with access and progress.

We can still give money to individual candidates who's actions match their words.

As long as the DNC believes we can be triangulated against with nowhere else to give our political donations they will ALWAYS triangulate against us.

I gave money to Dennis Kucinich yesterday.

tazz602 · 1 month ago

Add the HRC to the list and I will join. I believe they have been complicit in allowing the administration to stall on GLBT issues.

Keori · 1 month ago

Seconded.

Instead of the DNC or HRC, our money should go to the ACLU's LGBT project, or to local chapters working for LGBT rights and lives. It should go to local shelters for LGBT youth runaways and throwaways, and to AIDS clinics whose funding is being slashed. Keep that money at home, where it will do more immediate good for more people than it will sitting in some corrupt politico's bank accounts.

Dan W. · 1 month ago

The ACLU and Lambda Legal have done fare more for the LGBT community than the DNC and HRC have ever done.

It is perfectly appropriate for any individual or group to decide if they are giving money in the most effective places.

cowboyneok · 1 month ago

Let me be clear. If this was an ABSOLUTE break with the Democrats, I would not participate. This is a PAUSE and its LONG PAST DUE. Action instead of "nice words" or GIVE GIVE GIVE and GET nothing but things that we should ALREADY have as American citizens in the year 2009.

happycozy · 1 month ago

I'm against this "boycott" because the RNC and other Republican organizations are making money hand-over-fist from angry right-wingers who think they’ve lost their country to a baby-killing, African, black-nationalist, communist, fascist Muslim. It’s quite possible Republicans could gain control of the House and win a few Senates seats and governorships next year. If you think movement toward gay rights is going slow now, imagine having a Republican majority in the House and/or Senate. But, hey--that’s your choice to make. I’m not gay, so I don’t have a dog in this fight.
My biggest problem with this “boycott”, though, is that it has no teeth. What the hell does “we are…calling for a pause” mean? Rather than a demand for gay rights, this pause sounds like a tantrum from a bunch of kids. If you say from the start it’s not a boycott, you’ve lost any bargaining power. The dems won’t pay any attention to what you’re doing. So either have a real boycott or try something different to get the dems’ and Obama’s attention, but this tepidity you’re currently embarking on is a joke.

NotTimothyGeithner · 1 month ago

If the boycott will be a waste of time, then why bother complaining about it.

happycozy · 1 month ago

Not a complaint--just an opinion. But like I said, I'm not being denied my civil rights, so I've got no dog in this fight.

NotTimothyGeithner · 1 month ago

You do have a dog in this fight. As Dr. King said, "a threat to justice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."

I suppose the old poem "first they came for the ..." just went over your head.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

After the gays, sex-ed and abortion, I heard they were coming after pre-marital sex and unamericanness.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

O you are real late...they have been after pre-marital sex and unamericaness since the 1920's..and before that it was the Victorian era...

happycozy · 1 month ago

I know I must fight for civil rights for everyone. But I also know I'm not being oppressed, so I can't possibly imagine what it's like. As an African-American female, I have some idea. But I can't get fired, or evicted from my home, or kicked out of the military for my sexual orientation. Homosexuals are the last group of people who can be legally discriminated against. Therefore, I would not dare ask someone who is being oppressed to wait for the right time.

However, I don't see more years of Republicans--as the Republican party stands now with the right-wingers in control--as the answer. Republicans in charge of the congress is how we ended up with the awful DOMA. I don't think Clinton would've signed it if he hadn't gotten pressure from Republicans. And if we cut off donations to the DNC, that's what will happen.

After saying this, I understand why gays want to boycott the DNC. I just think if it's going to be done, it has to be a real boycott, or no one will listen.

Mark · 1 month ago

Clinton wouldn't have signed it if he hadn't gotten pressure from Republicans? Wow, way to rewrite history. Evidently the day it was passed, the Supreme Court ruled that the president no longer had veto power. Furthermore, DOMA passed 342-67 in the House and 85-14 in the Senate. I know the Republicans had a majority in the House and Senate in 1996, but the above tallies make it pretty clear that a whole lot of Democratics voted for it as well.
Why is it so hard for some to accept that both parties have been resistant to doing the same thing. Too many people have the "well, I am a Democrat, so I shouldn't speak out, and neither should you" attitude.

The Democrats have, and are, proving they are no better than the REpublicans on the issue.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Um...MLK quote was:

INJUSTICE anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

"gop might win"

"tantrums"

"bunch of kids"

yawn, same ol same ol

happycozy · 1 month ago

Be dismissive at your own peril.

Dan W. · 1 month ago

You have to gawk at the jaw dropping sense of entitlement of DNC and HRC apologists to demand our money for their worthless organizations and triangulate against us.

jstephenclark · 1 month ago

" I’m not gay, so I don’t have a dog in this fight."

Enough said. Next.

happycozy · 1 month ago

I'm sorry, I didn't know Americablog was an echo chamber were dissent and non-gays weren't welcome.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

Yes, hyperbole is totally called for.

I believe he's saying your perspective is flawed due to not having anything at stake.

Mike_in_the_Tundra · 1 month ago

This is Americablog Gay. Were you looking for Americablog?

JohnnyG · 1 month ago

It's a real boycott, it'll last until Obama starts keeping his campaign promises. That's what is meant by a "pause", it is assumed that Obama and the DNC will give us a reason to end the boycott, by acting on our demands. If they don't however, the pause/boycott will be indefinite.

This boycott is definitely real when it has such a major player as Daily Kos signing onto it. Daily Kos has been criticized by the left for going too soft on the president. It's not an ultra lefty site, it's mainstream and massively influential.

Sandi · 1 month ago

Yep! Cut off your face to spite yourself. Do you think that doing this and possibly weakening the Democratic hold will help you? I think not. In fact, you could be opening up a back door for the Republicans. Then do you think you will get anything changed? NO! In fact, it could get worse. First, Obama does not vote in the Congress or Senate. They do the voting. It is your legislatures you need to direct this towards, not the President! This is just so wrong on so many points! Oh, by the way...I am A Lesbian!

Mark · 1 month ago

It is almost as if those opposed to this boycott have some sort of template instructing them to type the exact same thing.

How else to explain people repeating the same "nose to spite your face line" seemingly unaware of how ridiculous it is to give money to people who don't help or support you.

Mark · 1 month ago

" If you think movement toward gay rights is going slow now, imagine having a Republican majority in the House and/or Senate."

It certainly can't be any slower than it is now. Again, that is the whole point of the boycott. If something, anything, were being done, it wouldn't exist. So the whole "just imagine how slow it would be if someone else were in charge" argument is a fairly worthless one. I don't have to imagine how slow it will be. I can see it now with my own eyes

Ken_Harvey · 1 month ago

Remember: this isn't a boycott of all Democratic candidates. We can still (and should) give money to leaders like Mass Governor Deval Patrick and NY Governor David Paterson. They are both in trouble and have really been "fierce advocates." Massachusetts avoided a Prop 8 style referendum in large part due to Patrick' leadership. So I say GIVE. But GIVE WISELY.

Dee Evans · 1 month ago

I'm sorry but this is dumb. As an African-American, NO ONE has more issues that they would like to see the very first African-American President take on than the African-American community, but we have enough common sense to know that there are some more serious issues facing this 10 month 'young' administration than ours (i.e. Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea, record unemployment, record deficits, struggling economy, failing banks, Swine Flu epidemic, etc.) so we understand that we may have to be a little bit patient. We had to take off our 'Black' hat for awhile and put on our 'American' hat.

This country is in real trouble. Our service men and women are being killed everyday trying to protect this country and I'm sorry if whether or not the LGBT community can get married does not make the top 10 list right now.

As the President says, stop complaining about how dirty the house is and "grab a mop" and help clean...and not just YOUR room!

Besides, this is really being to take on the unattractive tone of whining.

John Aravosis · 1 month ago

I suspect lots of people told other minorities they were whining when they wanted their civil rights. Fortunately for you, they didn't listen :-)

Dan W. · 1 month ago

The only people "whining" are the Obamaniacs who childishly cannot handle truth telling getting in the way of their hero worship.

Our civil rights and equality certainly had a higher priority than flying to Copenhagen to get the Olympics.

Jack J. · 1 month ago

Spoken like a true rightie wingnut. Have you had your FOX today?

rduke · 1 month ago

Surely you have a mirror? Try looking in it.

jstephenclark · 1 month ago

Sadly, it's been clear for quite some time that a good number of African Americans refuse to tolerate any criticism or questioning of Barack Obama on any subject. Dee's comment is just another example.

She's also resorting to a common tactic of African American apologists for Obama: find some way to turn gay criticism into a race issue.

RitornaVincitor · 1 month ago

Picture this hypothetical: Barack Obama and his administration fail to deliver on major promises they repeatedly made to the African-American community, and instead they actually work against the rights of African-Americans. Then African-Americans organize to shut down contributions as a means of protest. Then people condemn African-Americans for doing so, remind them that they are a minority, tell them to shut up and wait for their rights until some later time, to stop "whining", and to continue giving their hard earned money to the Democrats. Would you?

rduke · 1 month ago

Clearly they have their rights now and civil rights for gay people is no big deal. Imagine Dee being told to stop whining when African-Americans were denied their rights.

RitornaVincitor · 1 month ago

There's a definite disconnect when the same kind of basic rights don't translate from one person to the next.

rduke · 1 month ago

I've got your whining right here you arrogant African-American. It is people like you that make me sick. Of all racial minorities you should know the heartbreak and pain that comes from discrimination. Then you come and comment to the last minority in America that is denied equality, and you tell us to quit whining. How fucking dare you!!! I can't even say half of the things I'd like to say to you right now. How......fucking.......dare.......you!!!!

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Please provide any type of evidence that shows gays are a minority, other than classifying themselves as one.

Michael · 1 month ago

Talk about a pointless effort. Why you would waste your time writing this crap is beyond me. All you've done here is show everyone on this blog that you're a bigot. Sorry, but that's what they think. And it's what I think.

And get off your high horse. I'm barely annoying these people. You're pissing them off.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

What is pointless is enabling your own neglect.

I also think that the majority of people here do make calls, write letters and help try to pass ENDA. But we have a majority Congress and Dem Pres so now is the time to start pushing. And we must push loudly because they are mostly tone deaf to LGBT issues.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Go suck on a egg with your self righteous commentary Michael. Who gives a care whether you are an annoyance or pissing off folks other than you. Who gives a care if you don't know the issues well enough to address them but have the arrogance to think you can reprimand someone else.

Get a life with your supercilious ass post.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

1 in 10 (or as you state, 2%) makes us a minority by default, genius.

sidenote: look up the meaning of the word "minority"

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Hey making up 2% of the sexual Behavior does not make you a minority. That is the entire problem with homosexuals...there clearly is no such thing. There are only individuals who engage in homosexual acts.

See..that is why you are not a minority. Simply acting a certain way does not make the individual a minority.

Homosexuals are just not a minority...keep repeating that until you understand it.

What you do is not who you are.

Keith & Dustin · 1 month ago

You believe African Americans are the most important group that Obama should listen to? Did I understand that correctly? If so then please explain how? You have rights that the gay community does not. We do not have the basic legal protections that you enjoy and we are the most discriminated against group in the world. Yes, we believe there are many issues Obama needs to address also, but our basic civil rights are a top priority for us. This isn't just about gay marriage, it's a lot more than that. And the point we are trying to make is we will act together collectively if we feel that he or anyone else isn't helping us achieve equality. I've heard arguments like yours before and the video yesterday of the "kid" with the notebook spoke to that as well. When will he think our equality is important to him? After the economy, health care, wars, jobs, housing, 2010 elections, taxes, environment, etc...

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Please

rduke · 1 month ago

Well genius, how about the fact that we are denied equality. People voted to strip of us of our rights just a week ago. Are you that stupid?

We can get married if we marry someone of the opposite sex. Well you can you be white if you bleach your skin.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

You are not denied a darn thing. Gays can like where they live, work where they like and go to school where they like, all due to the same civil rights protections ALL Americans have.

No one voted to strip anyone of anything last week. Marriage is not some right, never has been. Are you EFFiNg crazy? You can marry the opposite sex just like all other American citizens...instead of whinning about being able to be married...get married...no one is stopping you. You simply want special rights..you want the laws changed to accomodate the non-normative sexual behaviors you insist on having.

Well, guess what ...the vote was against that. America has laws against people drinking and having disorderly conduct as well. Lots of laws on the books specific to behaviors...and NO ONE infers that it is somehow an infringement of civil rights of citizens.

So please....stop with the nonsense.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

can we remove the idiot bigot please?

NotTimothyGeithner · 1 month ago

And he's doing a shitty job on all the other issues too.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

How are you enjoying the rights you didn't have to fight for? Can you tell us what they're like? We still don't have them.

Amazing, isn't it? I cannot do the things you can. All because of something I cannot help... much like the color of your skin.

I bet if the color of your skin was up for debate, you wouldn't be here lecturing us on what's more important.

We've had our "gay" hat off since the dawn of time. We're choosing to put it on now.

You need a history lesson, perhaps then you'll remember what your black hat feels like on your head.

Perhaps a trip back in time to when "black" issues were not in the top 10 list of "important things to do"?

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Gridlock you have the exact same rights as American Negros, just like the rest of American citizens. You can even get married if you choose to the opposite gender, the same right all Americans have.

Skin color has nothing to do with your choosing to engage with the same gender, and unlike skin color sexual behavior is not immutable. It has a very wide spectrum of ACTIONS...from hetero, to bi, to homosexual..as well as chaste, to monogamous to promiscuous.

No one debates skin color because it is simply not debatable. Everyone in society debates behaviors, which is why the sexual habits of those who choose same gender partners ARE debatable.

You need more than a history lesson you need to gain perspective on how this country makes all types of laws against behaviors, whether it be alcoholism, public nudity or polygamy.

Perhaps, you need a trip back in time, to when gays were ever not capable of being in the closet, and working where they chose, living whereever and going into any restaurant or bar. Gay folks can do whatever they like cause they never have a skin color to be singled out with.

the facts are the so called political agenda and 'rights' of gays...benefit no one but gays.

The civil rights that blacks fought for benefitted ALL americans not just a select few with specific behaviors.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

You did not just say all that bullshit.

*checks*

No, you actually did.

Every last thing you said is utterly wrong. Good lord, did you dress yourself this morning? How are you operating something as complex as a computer?

Oh wait, it's just bigotry masquerading as willful ignorance. Cute. Never seen THAT before.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

The beautiful thing about democracy is the diversity of thought. Every thing you have written was willful ignorance of the truth and the facts. Simply because you buy into the distortion and misleading gibberish about individuals who happen to engage in homosexual acts requiring some special types of laws doesn't mean there is any validity to it.

You simply prefer to believe that alternate reality to somehow coddle your narcisstic needs.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

Whose truth?

Whose fact?

Everything you say has is either nonsense, or already debunked, or some conservatard right-wing crap pile.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

LOL...what has been debunked are your beliefs.

Just cause you believe something doesn't make it a fact. Beliefs are not facts and all your proselytizing and propagandizing works for those who do not know your statements have no basis in fact. There are no scientific facts that support anything you've tried to put forth.

NotTimothyGeithner · 1 month ago

There are no scientific facts to support the evidence of a divine being, yet, the President believes in one and regularly mentions it. By your logic, the President should be discounted.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

The President does not claim to be a divine being. Individuals who engage in homosexual acts, beleive they are entitlement to special rights and laws based on their non-normative sexual behavior.

The President is not asking for any special laws...he abides by the laws on the books.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

I think laRapierWit has issues with the gays. Repression maybe?

Gridlock · 1 month ago

Repression and a serious case of not being current on the latest medical news on purpose.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

Otherwise, he would have to face the fact he is wrong and that is probably scary to someone whose entire identity is built around self-identified superiority and normativeness.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

I think I'm going to start denying that Heterosexuality is an orientation.. people are just engaging in heterosexual acts.

It's also not normative, just unexceptional.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

I am EXCEPTIONAL. Yep always thought so.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

I have issues with any individual who wants to claim that because they engage in a non normative behavior that somehow that makes them a minority who is entitled to rights specific to those behaviors.

The issue is that no individual should claim an identity based on what they do. It is nonsense. Individuals are not what they do. And especially they are not what they do sexually.

If we start classifying people based on sexual behaviors we can come up with all types of sexual behavior minorities..like" incestors" or necrophilia..should these sexual behaviors all be granted special civil rights as well?

I take issue with any one who reduces their self-concept to their sexual acts. It is simply absurd.

The DNC should not be in a position where individuals who want legislation based on their set of sexual behaviors are boycotting or putting them on pause. When every single law that is being passed by this administration benefits all citizens..even those who engage in homosexual acts.

Whether it is the LedBetter act, extended unemployment benefits, healthcare reform or cash for clunkers. All Americans benefit, and no one group based on their sexual behavior should be demanding anything let alone boycotting.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

I have issues with people who have "nonnormative" skin color who attack others who could be (and actually are) his allies defending his rights and battling discrimination.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Perhaps, you are unaware that it is those who are melanin challenged that have non-normative skin pigmentation. Three fourths of the people in the world have lots of pigment and are not melanin challenged.

Not that you wanted to know. Again...the rights of individuals who are battling for sexual preferences are not a civil right. they have nothing to do with the civil rights movement nor the hate they endured for centuries.

The civil rights that the american negro fought for were about human rights. Not based on a group of non-normative sexual behavior.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

You missed the point entirely. I shall stop trying.

Oh and the hate of gays, like yours for instance, has not endured for centuries? Don't bother answering - you obviously don't get it.

Hopefully, one day you will realize that your gay-hating helps the right-wing bigots gain political power - which they in turn use against you.

Wake up.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

I didn't miss the point. You did. You assumed that people of color were the non-normative skin and I told you no. People of color make up 3/4ths fo the world...so you missed the point.

Hopefully, one day you will respect individuals for who they are and not what they do sexually.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

^ irony alert

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

Nope that wasn't my point either - try again. But really, don't bother - you do not have the capacity.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

Perhaps people back in the day thought your fight for rights was "non normative" because your "normative" behavior was picking cotton in fields while wearing chains.

I mean.. they could have been right. It might have been the truth.

.. right?

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

People back in the day, assigned behaviors based on skin color. See the difference. The American Negro was not claiming they had any behavior based on their skin color that warranted them civil rights.

They demanded civil rights on the basis of being human beings.

Try not to get things so twisted.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

Why is it always about sex with you. It's always about the "sexual behavior"

How about this. What about nonsexual gays who want to get married. They don't have sex, they just fell in love and want companionship and all the benefits that come from marriage.

Theoretically, what is your answer to that?

terrymalin · 1 month ago

the American negro? LOL? And a black person should be your friend? You guys are worse than the tea baggers by far.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

What's wrong with the very respectable term the American Negro? It is a far better descriptor than black, given the broad spectrum of color that comprises the ethnic group the American Negro and African-America is confusing for people who are from the continent of Africa and did not grow up American. The American Negro, is clear concise and respectfully acknowledges the ethnic group that are the descendants of the American caucasian who was so barbaric that he raped and then sold his own children into slavery.

NotTimothyGeithner · 1 month ago

Yes, the President does not claim to be a divine being. I would hope the Vice President and others would force him to resign if he did believe that. You need to reread what I wrote. Your post was short on reason, and your response to what I wrote was inane and short on reason.

I'm going to say something that will make you upset, but here goes, "Barack Obama is not your boyfriend." He's not, and never will be. Get used to it.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

I already agreed with you that BO was not as you put it 'my boyfriend' when I said he was not claiming to be divine. What was it that you did not comprehend there.

While you beleive the post was short on reason, perhaps it was a case moreso that your post lacked clarity.

IOW's the President can beleive in whatever he chooses. No one has to prove their faith. More importantly, the topic is not about religion or any individuals sanity based on their faith.

OnBorrowedTime · 1 month ago

I was just going to sign the petition, but I see that I would be pledging to contribute to the DNC after the passage of ENDA and the repeal of DADT and DOMA.

No mention of the Uniting American Families Act (HR 1024), which is my primary concern, and no way to edit the petition statement to add it.

Granted, repeal of DOMA would go a long way toward helping same-sex couples in which one partner is not a U.S. citizen, but existing immigration discrimination could continue unabated unless DOMA were not only repealed but also replaced by some kind of federal recognition of same-sex partnerships -- in every state.

amainer · 1 month ago

I sent them two pennies, taped to their latest appeal: my two cents-worth

Ray · 1 month ago

Surely not surprised. After sixteen years of Bill Clinton's evangelical friendly centrism and Bush/Cheney's excellent adventures, one can understand your impatience. We stomped our feet for so long and no one paid attention. Now that change has finally arrived (10.5 months of it), we have a new strategy - stomping our feet again! You guys are geniuses.

So here's what separates us. I'm going to keep supporting the DNC and President Obama with my monthly checks. I know what I voted for when I pulled the lever and I'm confident in its promised delivery. So far the track record looks pretty damn good to me. It's a four year agreement we have. And from what I can see, he (and team Pelosi Reid) are just getting started.

They're tackling major international and domestic priorities and appropriately management of political powder. Every issue being addressed right now is very important, to both me and my partner (of 15 years). I grab the newspaper every morning anticipating what this Administration will take up next! From Climate Change to Health Care to High Speed Rail... we want it all.

That doesn't make your challenge to re-prioritize any less valid. And your "efforts" are newsworthy. Not sure its entirely helpful. In fact, now that I think about it, a boycott seems a bit tone deaf.

I'd imagine after mis-calculations in California, Maine and the loss/lack of support even in the most liberal states - NJ and NY, we'd be deeply soul searching for a new way to position, brand, and drive our message. Clearly we aren't selling it.

Though over the long term (and despite shamefully poor brand management), the public continues to slowly shift towards us. There's a force behind that shift. It's the mainstream supportive and integrative messaging from figures like - well - President Obama!

Rather than self reflect on what we could do better, you choose a strategy of separation from the major political force most Americans now trust - who actually wants to get it done for us.

Seriously, your strategy sounds like another looser to me. But hey, we should trust you guys - you're the voices of our movement right?

Dan W. · 1 month ago

Monthly checks to the DNC? <guffaw>

This post reads like a list of cut and paste DNC talking points. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if you were on the payroll.

However, it's your money and you can do with what you please.

ACLU and Lambda Legal have done far more for the LGBT community than the DNC and HRC have ever done. The DNC takes our money and gives it anti-gay Democrats and the HRC cares more about "access" than "progress"

This should be seen like any other business decision. The HRC and DNC have been bad investments. I simply choose to send my political money to those candidates and organization that are a good investment.

Ray · 1 month ago

DNC talking points. Sure if that's what you want to call them. I'm pretty proud of my vote.

And monthly checks is right Dan - both from from our own accounts and at work via a corporate PAC. And yes, we donate to HRC, ACLU and LL as well. All part of one system to advance the cause.

Do we really think this is a bargaining chip?

rduke · 1 month ago

Well while you are waiting for the people of the United States to "give" you your rights, I'm waiting for the government of the United States to start enforcing my civil rights that I've been paying taxes on for 44 years!

Mike_in_the_Tundra · 1 month ago

Please remember that although we aren't financially supporting the DNC, etc., most of us will continue to support congressional representatives that are our allies. I am more than happy to give my representative, Keith Ellison, my financial support.

rduke · 1 month ago

A favorite saying in sports is, "It isn't losing to get knocked down. Losing is staying down."

Thanks for fighting the good fight John and Joe. The naysayers are pouring out of the woodwork. That means you're doing something right.

The LGBT community can no longer be ruled by fear. Fear has got us to where we are today. The Democrats have their hands in our wallets and then pretend they don't know us.

People keep coming here and saying the Republicans are worse. So what? If you have to compare yourself to a Republican to seem like a decent human being I feel sorry you. That doesn't change the fact that the Demcrats have been using and then ignoring the gay community for decades.

And now we have a "fierce advocate" for a president that does everything in his power to avoid the gay issues he said he would stand up for.

Enough is enough.

Val · 1 month ago

"The LGBT community can no longer be ruled by fear. "

That's right. . . bite off the hand that wants to help you.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

The hand that says it's going to help us...

"after we get the house"

"after we get the senate"

"after we get the presidency"

"after health care"

"after 2010"

"after the 2012 elections if we have a second term"

"probably 2014, but don't hold your breath.."

That hand? The one that keeps moving the schedule back?

Funny, I don't trust that hand. I wonder why.

Patrick Simmons · 1 month ago

Your anger is greatly displaced and completely incorrect. Sadly you are assuming that there is actually a hand being held out for the LGBT community to bite - there is not.

wondermann · 1 month ago

doing something right? Honey, this is a joke

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

I really get a kick out of these people who claim to be "friends" of the gay community and then tell us to wait for the rights they already have. Oh the compassion is killing me.

rduke · 1 month ago

Exactly. I have yet to find one of them that is willing to give up their rights until we get ours. The silence is deafening.

They would be just as vocal as we are if the tables were turned. That, you can count on.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

Yep. Turn on the news and listen to all the groups and people who are screaming about the Stupak abortion amendment (and I support them btw). But why can't we fix the amendment after the bill is passed, the economy is fixed, the wars are ended, green energy is up and running, the electric grid is replaced, and that pot hole out on Constitution Avenue is filled in? I mean there are more important issues than your civil rights - right?

jefferyk · 1 month ago

Funny you should mention this. To me, it seems the very least straight supporters of equal gay civil rights could do is not get married until the playing field is leveled. But they can't even do that. So many of so-called radical feminist, erm, "friends" have gotten married. With friends like that . . .

Tim Dineen · 1 month ago

I resigned from the Democratic Party this week. Sent my voter form in with a change to "not affiliated".

And I am also withholding ALL donations to groups and organizations until I am a full citizen of this country. I am telling people that my gay dollars are not going to anyone - candidate, political action group, cause, or charity - until I have equality in all 50 states and on the federal level.

I'm almost 60 years old. I'm tired of waiting.

rduke · 1 month ago

Good for you. I think we are all tired of waiting. And after seeing what happens when the Democrats get the biggest majority in decades, NOTHING, the writing is on the wall. The Democrats have been using all along with no intentions of actually helping us.

fredndallas · 1 month ago

Like many I suspect, I am sad to see this, but I support you and your action 1000%. I trust your experience and instincts that this is the right action at the right time.

Noticing comments from many apparently non-GLBT folks, I think we need to develop a way to really, really emphasize that this is a response to the whole of the Obama record. Too many are reacting as if we are responding from "rights-greed" (what a concept!), selfishness and impatience when our President has many other worthy high priorities. (Exactly the meme he has attempted to create, of course.)

As John's list of points beautifully illustrates, this is not a reaction only to our issues being "down the list". This is a reaction to our human rights being hand-wrapped by these players in layers of cynicism, deception, manipulation, fraud and dysfunction.

I suspect non-community-members reading that list can't grasp it. It is important that we figure out a way to get the truth of our motivation across to them.

But if we're unable to do that, so be it. After forty years as a 100% loyal Democrat, I didn't sign up for what I've seen in the last 24 months.

Just one part of the price-tag if we fail to act:

How many young GLBT Americans will destroy themselves over the next 4, 8, 12, 16 years while we all wait on self-serving politicians and parties to do what's right?

nicho · 1 month ago

All I can say is the whining astroturf from the DNC has made me glad I have cut them off. Keep it up folks. You're only proving how right John and Joe are. Pathetic. Don't you have real work to do?

R.F. Dew · 1 month ago

I am a straight, 63 year old woman, and I have been politically active and duly cynical for over 40 years, but I have never been as disillusioned by any politician in my life as I am by Barack Obama. His passionate promise to the LGBT community is no longer even a whisper, and he is edging very close to allowing women, too, to lose their right of choice over their reproductive rights. I don't believe he can recover from the bad faith he has sown, and I expect he will lose to Mitt Romney in the next election. There's no downside to this boycott, because Obama is losing his real and passionate base, and he seems peculiarly indifferent. He's not going to do anything about it, but someone else needs to be paying attention!

suebob · 1 month ago

I totally agree with you. I am a straight married female who fully believes in equal rights for all American's - including the rights of all people to marry - with FULL benefits the person of their choice. It is morally wrong to set aside the love so many people have and say it is abnormal. Abnormal is the non recognition of love wherever it exists. Love should be nurtured, not condemned. I also believe adoption should be fully opended to same sex partnerships as well as singles - love should be celebrated.

jwkessler · 1 month ago

I've already decided that all of my future donations will go to those who are strong supporters of progressive issues.

What is the difference between a Republican and a Democrat that acts like a Republican? I can't think of one either, so why worry if an R gets elected.

Mark · 1 month ago

Obama won by doing the unexpected and taking chances. Remember "change?" He'll loose everything by playing it safe... including me. Whether it's climate change, human rights, healthcare or education, we need action NOW!

jimmorrison · 1 month ago

Awesome. well-done. I'm so excited about this. It's about time we woke to how politics works in this country, for better or for worse. But why stop with just these specific legislative demands? the point is that we should be standing with candidates (and a political party) that stands unequivocally and PUBLICLY with us. I started something along these lines several months ago, simply called "The Pledge"

For too long the LGBT community has thrown its support behind candidates who, after being elected, let us down, ignore us, or betray our rights as full-fledged Americans.
For too long this support has been cynically taken, and taken for granted, and has propelled candidates to victory.
For too long we have tolerated this because we had nowhere to go, recognized the importance of other gravely important issues, or were simply forced to vote for the lesser of two evils.

No more.

We are ten, perhaps fifteen, percent of the population. Our support can no longer be taken for granted.
We are not a "lifestyle". We are not a "choice".
We are not people you can "personally" or "religiously" believe do not posses or deserve the Constitutionally protected rights of every other citizen.
We are Americans: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, or Straight.

We will no longer tolerate bigotry, public or private, regardless of whatever other righteous positions our candidates hold.
We will, by necessity, by your cynical betrayals, be the single minded, one-issue voters we have thoughtfully refrained from being.

We have the power to change the course of each and every election. It is time we wield that power.
We will.

We, the undersigned, will not support or vote for any candidate for any public office who opposes, publicly or privately, the full unequivocal equal rights gay and lesbian Americans.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Get real. Gays are no more than 2% of the population. Whereever did you get the idea it was anywhere close to 10%. Please cite your references.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

uh, it's been long established. 1 in 10, all the way back to Kinsey.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Kinsey was refuted long ago...he is commonly misquoted. What he actually said was that 1 in 10 IN THEIR LIFETIMES engages in homosexual acts!

Feel free to enlighten yourself further by looking it up.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

Feel free to avail yourself of the hundreds of studies done that classify homosexuality as an orientation, and not some "aberrant" behavior by every reputable behavioral scientist and mental health organization on the planet.

Secondly, you're obsessed with gay sex. It's a bit strange. You know, the ones that scream the loudest about homosexuality are the most closeted ones.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Look, it is very basic. Sex is a behavior. The only thing that is at issue here is which sexual behaviors are considered normative. As far as your term sexual orientation goes..it is nothing but a unproven biologic theory that individuals who are homosexual latched onto in hopes of convincing society that there was some DNA component to the non-normative sexual behavior they prefer. There is no DNA component to homosexual acts being preferential..the same as with all other behaviors..there is no DNA component for ANY behavior...so..the entire 'orientation' is a specious terms with no factual or clinical basis..

I am not obsessed with any sex. Let me repeat. There is no such thing as a homosexual. There are only individuals who engage in homosexual acts.

There is no other distinction...other than some alternate reality some insist on believing rather than own up to the fact that it is simply a preference.

After all, if there were some DNA component, we would have to find a bisexual gene as ...o well...so you get busy and find some facts to support the THEORIES of the behavioral scientists. There simply isn't any.

It is all such a nice theory.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

No such thing as a homosexual? Really. I guess all the differences in brain composition, size, and lobe connections mean diddly, eh.

No such thing as a homosexual? Really? Despite the American Medical Association, and counterpart medical authorities around the planet who say otherwise?

You're such an ignorant freak, I love it.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Gridlock,
Perhaps you lack the cognitive ability to comprehend what is written. Before you get your panties all in a know. It was Gore Vidal, that said..there is no such thing as a homosexual, there are only individuals who engage in homosexual acts. Guess he would know!

Now, all the gibberish you just wrote about brain composition. size and lobe has been thoroughly debunked including by the scientist LeVay whose work was use to put forth the false and misleading concept of their being any such difference. LOOK IT UP!

The AMA doesn't say a word about what you are purporting. You can call me ignorant if you like but the fact remains...there is no scientific or medicall proven facts to support any of the notions you are ignorantly spewing into the universe. NONE. All the theories, which is what they were when they made it into the mainstream media...never were scientifically PROVEN.

OK? Now...go and educate your mind, about what you claim to know.

Better yet, start thinking of yourself as an individual. Start basing your identity on who you are as a human being vs. what you do sexually that.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

1) Gore Vidal is a kiddy fiddler, who cares what he says. He probably says pedophiles don't exist either.

2) It was not debunked, that's absolutely false.

3) "Official Statement Concerning Homosexuality from the American Medical Association:

Our AMA: (1) believes that the physician's nonjudgmental recognition of sexual orientation and behavior enhances the ability to render optimal patient care in health as well as in illness... With the help of the gay and lesbian community and through a cooperative effort between physician and the homosexual patient effective progress can be made in treating the medical needs of this particular segment of the population; (2) is committed to taking a leadership role in: (a) educating physicians on the current state of research in and knowledge of homosexuality and the need to take an adequate sexual history; these efforts should start in medical school, but must also be a part of continuing medical education; (b) educating physicians to recognize the physical and psychological needs of their homosexual patients; (c) encouraging the development of educational programs for homosexuals to acquaint them with the diseases for which they are at risk; (d) encouraging physicians to seek out local or national experts in the health care needs of gay men and lesbians so that all physicians will achieve a better understanding of the medical needs of this population; and (e) working with the gay and lesbian community to offer physicians the opportunity to better understand the medical needs of homosexual and bisexual patients; and (3) opposes, the use of "reparative" or "conversion" therapy that is based upon the assumption that homosexuality per se is a mental disorder or based upon the a priori assumption that the patient should change his/her homosexual orientation.

4) Official Statement Concerning Homosexuality from the American Psychiatric Association:

"Sexual orientation" is a term frequently used to describe a person"s romantic, emotional or sexual attraction to another person. A person attracted to another person of the same sex is said to have a homosexual orientation and may be called gay (both men and women) or lesbian. Individuals attracted to persons of the other sex are said to have a heterosexual orientation. Sexual orientation falls along a continuum and individuals who are attracted to
both men and women are said to be bisexual. Sexual orientation is different from gender identity, which refers to the internal sense of whether one is male or female. Sexual orientation is a relatively new concept. In fact, although same sex behavior has always existed, the idea of a homosexual identity or a homosexual person is only about 100 years old.

The concept of sexual orientation refers to more than sexual behavior. It includes feelings as well as identity. Some individuals may identify themselves as gay lesbian or bisexual without engaging in any sexual activity. Some people believe that sexual orientation is innate and fixed; however, sexual orientation develops across a person's lifetime. Individuals maybe become aware at different points in their lives that they are heterosexual, gay, lesbian,or bisexual.

Is Homosexuality A Mental Disorder?

No. All major professional mental health organizations have gone on record to affirm that homosexuality is not a mental disorder.


Done yet, moron?

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Excuse me...you cited an opinion.
I asked you for facts. Anyone including the AMA can give an opinion...it does not mean it is factual.

The AMA statement has no basis in fact.

Now how about you find some facts.

This is a political statement as it clearly says based on:

"help of the gay and lesbian community"

Gridlock · 1 month ago

I guess the fact that it's the medical view of THE ENTIRE ASSOCIATIONS MENTIONED went right over your low brow, eh.

It's a statement, a conclusion if you will, of DECADES OF STUDY.

You're just a sad buffoon who doesn't like the blacks and the gays mixing.

Too bad.. I hear some blacks ARE gay too. Horror!

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

The AMA is a nothing more than a professional organization, who gave an opinion. Lots of physicians do not belong to the AMA. And the APA was forced by the gay community in the 90s to change their classifications by the belligerence of the gay community. The changes were not based on scientific fact. Just lewd, crude yelling by gays.

What you fail to understand is that there are no decades of studies that have not been debunked, refuted and completely shown to have no scientific basis.

This is all political. No different than how the gay community put pressure on the FDA to fast track drugs to market because they felt they were in crisis..despite many other individuals suffering from life threatening conditions as well.

You are failing to understand the issue. It is not even relevant that there are individuals who happen to be black who happen to be gay...so what!

The point is that you have failed to come up with even one fact to support what you have been claiming as your beliefs for homosexuality. Now, the reason for that is because you have been so thororughly propangandized to that view for a political agenda. That political agenda is not based on any facts.

The AMA has no studies to support their statement...the statement is based on what the gay and lesbian community SAY. There is no such thing as sexual orientation. There simply isn't and the scientific community has not once shown there to be. There were scientists who theorized such, but they studies were flawed, and invalidated and the very basis of sexual orientation was about DNA...and there is no dna that constitutes sexual behavior. It is a human preference..willful, deliberate and preferences. That's it.

I could care less about what blacks and gays do. One thing for sure though the gay community does. The culture is still very there are separate bars and restaurants dependent on skin tone.

Perhaps, that is why many of the gay community don't understand the lack of support for the issues they claim they are being denied, the world sees that the gay culture, itself is quite discriminatory.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

"The AMA is a nothing more than a professional organization, who gave an opinion"

laRapierWit is nothing more than a bigot, who gave an opinion.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

God, all of this is totally wrong and batshit.

Tell me: do you choose who you are attracted to? Do you make a conscious decision to be attracted to whatever unfortunate thing you try and screw?

No, you don't. Nobody does. It's not a preference, it's not a choice, it's not deliberate.

ATTRACTION IS NOT A CHOICE.

What behavior you engage in ACTING on that attraction is another matter.. be you straight, gay, stupid, whatever.

The attraction is hardwired. Yours is. Mine is. You don't choose it.

You'll no doubt attempt to dissuade people from that, despite the observable reality EVERYBODY ON THE PLANET participates in, and good luck with that because it's nigh on impossible... even for you, and whatever turns YOUR crank.

viriato · 1 month ago

Why only the DNC, among national Dem Party organs?

If you want to pressure Congress too, you need to include the DSCC and DCCC.

Yvonne · 1 month ago

I'm not signing any petition& neither will my friends,LGBt is sounding like the Town Hall Tea Partiers lately, demanding that Obama bow to you,one thing for sure is people who aren't gay or lesbian that are for L&G issues might just change their minds to & not support them,they will figure that other issues are more important to them.Besides It's congress you need to get after.By trying to wield this "Political Muscle" as someone stated previously you will lose in the end. Go see what the GOP will give you. Nothing! P.S. please don't comment to me saying we just want what was promised because there are More pressing issues going on& I think that's what the rest of the country is focused on.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

"there are more pressing issues than your equality"

Fuck you. Really. I would love to strip your rights from you, evict you from your apartment, prevent you from seeing your partner in the hospital and the thousand other rights you already enjoy, you entitled cow.

yvonne · 1 month ago

Oh I see the nastiness coming out! entitled cow,you have a lot of fucking nerve.evict u from apt? seeing your friend in hosp?Bold aren't we now! where was that boldness when Bush was in office? Where was it when Reagan was in office? where was it when Clinton was in office? Oh! I'm far from being a cow,its you who sound like a disgruntled kid.

Dan W. · 1 month ago

I have those protest signs in my hall closet.

You are clearly no friend of our community. You're are just one of the president's sycophants who cannot handle truth-telling getting in the way of your childish hero worship of your political hero.

yvonne · 1 month ago

Hero worship my ass,The thing is I'm telling the truth and you don't like it! What I said here is what a lot of people think outside the gay community.And you don't know who my friends are so don't make assumptions

jefferyk · 1 month ago

Once again: fuck you.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

all that's left is a "you people" to be uttered.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

That boldness was in place when i was across countless fucking protest lines screaming back at bigoted baptist shitbags.

And yes, evicted from your apartment, being denied access to your partner, and all the other indignities gays have to endure every fucking day because of people like YOU and your sycophantic leanings.. just so you could see what it's like.

Jack J. · 1 month ago

You are so right! As a gay man, I'm truly ashamed of this.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

You're not gay, you're a fool.

Jack J. · 1 month ago

"Gridlock" explains how that poached quail egg you call a brain works, you old queen.

And your crystal balls are wrong, I'm gay justt not a rightie teabagger-in-drag like you.

Live with it and STFU.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

No, just a spineless shitslice too busy fellating Obama to realize that while the rhinestones on your collar ARE really pretty, you're still wearing a fucking leash.

Pull too hard, and the Dems will hang you by it you mealymouthed house faggot.

John Aravosis · 1 month ago

Gridlock, watch your mouth. You can destroy these folks easilyenough without being an ass.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

so "old queen" is better than "house faggot"? I'm honestly not sure where i crossed the line

John Aravosis · 1 month ago

Yvonne, you didn't read what we write above. We specifically wrote that this isn't just about making our issues a priority. The president has actually taken a number of hurtful actions on lgbt issues. That is simply unacceptable. But back to your point, you don't feel that our civil rights are that important of an issue. Well we do.

Jack J. · 1 month ago

You guys have become one-trick ponies.

You had 8 to do this when Bush was in office but were too chicken-shit to face the rethugs.

You folks never had faith in the man you elected. Obama will do as he promised you he would but go do your little "boycott" and help your buddies in the GOP.

You are pathetic.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

just say "you people" and get it the fuck over with, you drooling DNC automaton.

Dan W. · 1 month ago

No you are pathetic, carrying more about the political career of your hero than about civil rights and equality.

I still have the protest signs in my hall closet.

John Aravosis · 1 month ago

Lol too chickenshit to face the repubs! Have you ever read this blog? Watched me on tv? Perhaps caught the campaign I launched against Dick Cheney's daughter? I'm sorry, I don't mind criticism, but the notion that we never went after Bush is just bizarre.

atlasspanked · 1 month ago

This is just ACT UP warmed over. Ineffective, pointless foot-shooting.

Kinda like J.A. pre-election, when he was shrilling about Hillary and preaching how godlike Obama was.

Whatever.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

... and your more effective strategy is.....?

John Aravosis · 1 month ago

Ineffective? Did you see the White House's reaction to the DOMA campaign? Have you read this blog ever, followed any of our campaigns? Ineffective is not a word often used to describe our advocacy campaign.

nicho · 1 month ago

Actually, Obama was the least of three evils. McCain/Palin would have been the worst. Clinton/Clinton/FigureheadVP would have been second worst. Obama was the only thing we had left to take a chance on. We lost out, but Clinton/Clinton Part 2 would have been a disaster.

missskeptic · 1 month ago

My kid is trying to get a paying position with Organizing for America, so I have to decline.

ocan · 1 month ago

why can't i have the same right like everybody else just because i'm gay?

Ironhelix · 1 month ago

yeah. this is SOOO much more important right now than the economy and lost jobs, homes, health care, the war in Afghanistan, etc. etc. Pres. Obama isn't going to fix everyone's issues TODAY. Considering it's only been 10 months since he took office and the world's problems weren't solved the first week he sat behind his desk, perhaps SUPPORTING, rather than BOYCOTTING, might be the better position. Remember, if Obama isn't POTUS and a republican gets in office, your cause has NO CHANCE!! Remember, G.W. Bush? He is how we got here in the first place.

nicho · 1 month ago

Bullshit -- and you would have told Martin Luther King that the economy, Vietnam, the famine in Bangladesh etc. were more important than civil rights for blacks. There will always be "other things" going on. This is no excuse for a betrayal from the party.

timncguy · 1 month ago

Obama currently IS president and dem control both houses of congress and it STILL isn't doing us any good not on ly on LGBT issue, but on the same issues you list in your post.

The white house and dems are pushing through a watered down health care bill. They are NOT reforming Wall Street. They watered down the stimulus bill to the point where it isn't being as effective as it could have been, etc, etc, etc

How much woese could it be to have repugs back in control? A lot worse, I agree. But, the LGBT community might as well have the rest of the dems join us in the pain.

Oh, and if you believe lack of LGBT support could cost dems the election, maybe the BEST course of action is to get the dems to take the actions they promised on LGBT equality. And, while you're at it, you might suggest they grow a spine to take on REAL health care reform and regulate Wall Street.

fritzrth · 1 month ago

"Remember, G.W. Bush? He is how we got here in the first place."

Actually we got to where we are now, at least as far as DOMA and DADT, thanks to Bill Clinton.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

... so your position is that Obama is incapable of multitasking?

Funny.. he seems to be able to work on "economy and lost jobs, homes, health care, the war in Afghanistan, etc. etc." as you put it.

That's multitasking, isn't it? Yes, it is.

So why are you saying he's incapable of adding one more IMPORTANT thing in that list he's already working on?

Explain yourself.

Jack J. · 1 month ago

Why aren't you venting you faux outrage at Congress instead of Obama? You know damn well that it starts with them and NOT the presidency.

Explain yourself.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

You didn't answer the question. Try doing that first.

nicho · 1 month ago

Not to mention that he can run around to sports events sniffing jocks. That's all time he could spend on "other issues."

Keori · 1 month ago

He took Wall Street's titty out of his mouth long enough to do an in-person shill for those losers Creigh Deeds and Jon Corzine before the 3rd. He could damn well have taken 30 seconds on the way out the door to tell an intern, "Draft up a press release saying that the White House opposes Question One in Maine, and urges all Mainers to vote no. Run it through the usual channels for release." But he didn't.

Fuck him.

jcwtts1 · 1 month ago

My only suggestion is that perhaps a simultaneous fund raising push for people like Pat Murphy would better demonstrate the muscle of the LGBT community. You could then argue that it wasn't that you were taking money away from people who are trying to help you but rather you are refusing to fund people who don't. That you are moving from the paint brush to the scalpel. It could be a very effective argument. Pat Murphy for example still isn't raising any real money on ActBlue which is a way not only to fund a candidate you like with small donations and better organization, but to also prove to the skeptics out there who think the support equity for LGBT is a political suicide pact. Prove that a guy who is walking the DADT bill through the house can survive in one of the most conservative districts in SE PA. It will give credence to you claims of having muscle and money. Just an opinion.

J

ps - please publish the list of grievances more wildly, it is a stronger argument than you might expect.

Dan W. · 1 month ago

I agree with the idea that this shouldn't just be a boycott of the DNC, which is admirable enough, but a movement to restate who we are giving to and why.

It is much better to give our money to people who's actions match their words. I gave money to Dennis Kucinich yesterday.

tracydavenport · 1 month ago

Please people. Come on!!! Yes, by not donating to the DNC and President Obama. All you are doing is allowing for the actual that will end up help you, actually be defeated.. And if they are defeated, do you think the REPUBLICAN PARTY IS GOING TO CHANGE THINGS FOR THE BETTER FOR YOU? I actually think they'll make it worst for you. So, please boycott, the individuals in AMERICA, that will eventually help. I don't want to hear any complaints, when RETHUGS GAIN POWER AND MAKE IT A REAL HEEL ON EARTH FOR THE LGBT COMMUNITY. lET'S USE OUR BRAINS!!!!

timncguy · 1 month ago

you're kind of missing the point. the dems are not only not helping us, they are actively working against us. Hell, Obama even makes jokes at our expense. Would he get away woth that against any other minority? He was made to apologize for an inadvertant joke about Special Olympics when he was on the Tonight Show. No one has even asked him to opologize for the many INTENTIONAL jokes he has made about gays.

So, MAYBE if the rest of the dems FEAR losing in the future without our support, they will actually start keeping their promises to us in order to regain our support.

If they aren't willing to keep their promises i WANT THEM TO LOSE. Let the rest of the dems feel the pain right along with the LGBT community. Why should non-LGBT american's be getting the kind of support they want by using LGBT money without giving the LGBT community anything in return? Maybe it will teach them a lesson.

Dan W. · 1 month ago

An Obmaniac with a sense of entitlement to get our campaign contributions and triangulate against us because we have nowhere else better to go.

When the DNC takes ACTIONS, they will once again deserve money, but not before.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

Boring.

timncguy · 1 month ago

Andy Tobias is gonna be soooo.. MAD. LOL

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

The "house queer" may get kicked back into the fields with the rest of us undesirables.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

Thank you John and Joe. Now if only HRC's Solmonese could learn how to lead and use the power of the purse and ballot to effect change.

You guys are awesome.

Dan W. · 1 month ago

Defund the HRC while were at it and replace it with an organization that values "progress" more than "access".

Wesinoregon · 1 month ago

GOOD, especially since the Republicans couldn't do worse than the Democrats up to now because both have done nothing. If John McCain had won would we be really any worse off than now? At least the Republicans hate us to our faces and don't lie about it. Instead of "Don't Ask Don't Tell", It's "Don't Do Don't Pay". It's just good business. I'm sure the money could be better spent than giving it away and not getting "the product". It's a scam. Buyer Beware type of thing. The type of thing people contact the BBB about. Too bad they aren't forced to give past money back as a refund.

jp · 1 month ago

"We are asking voters to pledge not to withhold contributions ..."

Are you sure this is worded correctly?

John Aravosis · 1 month ago

corrected, thanks

nicho · 1 month ago

The list of offenses forgot "Going to Saddleback Church during the campaign and groveling on national TV in front of the rabidly anti-gay Rick Warren."

JohnnyG · 1 month ago

And when asked why he opposes gay marriage, saying that it's because "God has to be in the mix" implying gays aren't in God's mix. There wasn't much official outrage about that quote because Signorile ect, were in full Obama worship mode at the time and we're willing to cover-up for him. Who needs Fred Phelps when we have Obama saying the same thing, just less directly, God hates fags. Fags aren't in God's mix.

timncguy · 1 month ago

it also needs to be pointed out that it is ILLEGAL to include god in the mix of secular laws. period.

popebuck1 · 1 month ago

FYI, guys: Your opening sentence of the FAQ section begins, "We are asking voters to pledge NOT to withhold contributions to the Democratic National Committee, Organizing for America..."

I think this is the opposite meaning from what you intended.

John Aravosis · 1 month ago

/thanks, sorry, we corrected it.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

If a financial investment not only yields zero profit, but you also can't get your initial investment back, then why would you continue to invest in it?

Jim Olson · 1 month ago

A suggestion: when we go to share this on Facebook, there is not a good thumbnail available. Any way to improve this?

gruntled · 1 month ago

Did you take this from my Facebook update? ;)

timncguy · 1 month ago

why haven't you included the DSCC and DCCC in this effort?

Dan W. · 1 month ago

We should. And we should boycott the worthless HRC as well.

lisa · 1 month ago

Oh please, like i'm going to withold donations to obama so a republican can get elected? i'm a lesbian, and while i agree with putting pressure on the democrats to get our civil right, i won't do anything at the expense of the party losing and the REPUBLICANS winning. they think we're the devil incarnate. how is that any better than how the democrats view us?

Dan W. · 1 month ago

Throw your money away on a politician who triangulates against you and gives meaningless speeches but doesn't take effective action. It's your money.

donbux · 1 month ago

Then donate to candidates who actually support our rights; don't blindly throw money at the DNC and then watch them ignore us or throw us under the bus repeatedly because "it's not time yet".

tracydavenport · 1 month ago

Well you guys do what you like, but if Republicans gain power again, and the Rethugs begin to make laws against the LGBT community I don't want to hear any complaints. Please cut your own throats.. Give the Man sometime Damn!!! He can't make everyone happy all at once. I find that all these groups upset with Obama because he hasn't did what they want when they want and how they want, is just ridiculous!!! It's spoiled children. "Mom can I have a new video game", yes but you'll have to wait until I get some extra money", "I want it now". We all need to be understanding. If all these things are soo easy to accomplish, then one of you should run for the Presidency, and see how easy it is. You guys are not being logical. But like I said, please continue with you Campaign. Please be my guest and "Cut off your nose to spite your face."

Dan W. · 1 month ago

Horsefeathers. This isn't about "patience".

It only took the President five months to actively betray us the DOMA legal brief.

JohnnyG · 1 month ago

Obama and the DNC are the spoiled children who want money they haven't earned. When and if they earn it, they'll get their money.

timncguy · 1 month ago

Obama made SPECIFIC promises that he has not delivered on.

Obama promised to BEGIN repealing DADT on his first day in office. He didn't say later, he didn't say sometime in the future. He said he would begin the process on his first day in office. He did no such thing.

Obama said he would be a fierce advocate for the LGBT community. He has done no such thing.

This is not a case of children asking for something. This is a case of the parent bribing the child with promises when asking for the child to behave in a certain way. The LGBT community behaved in the way they were asked to. And, it is time for the parent to deliver. The parent promised to begin the process of repealing DADT on DAY ONE. So, get it started. The parent promised to be a fierce advocate. So, start advocating.

donbux · 1 month ago

Obama will have to do a lot of work to earn my forgiveness for the DOMA brief the Justice Dept filed last summer. This is far worse than a matter of mere time. He's actively undermined our rights. He promised to be a "fierce advocate" for us, which doesn't even require any legislation. All it would take would be a public statement in support of our rights or in opposition to initiatives intended to deprive us of our rights. So far? Silence. I got taken in by Bill Clinton. I'm out of patience.

Yvonne · 1 month ago

You got taken in by Bill Clinton? suppose no one brought up gay issues at all then,Would you have brought it up to Bush? No you waited for Obama& since hes not RoadRunner'ing now to this list you have here you'll throw him under the Bus! Fierce advocate doesn't always mean blasting out over a mega phone. Earn your forgiveness? who the hell are you? a God? Sorry but you are one of many people in this country.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

1) Obama has been throwing us under the bus since he was elected

2) Fierce advocate means YOU STAND FOR SOMETHING and when possible, you engage in actions in order to further your stated goals. He has done neither.

3) Yes, earn our forgiveness. We put his ass in the white house, and gave the dems both houses. WE WANT A FUCKING RETURN ON OUR INVESTMENT.

donbux · 1 month ago

No, I'm not a God. I'm a voter, and a potential contributor, and a damn angry one at that. And I choose to withhold my donations from politicians who throw me under the bus. Did you READ the DOMA brief?

I find your choice of words interesting: you seem to think that advocacy for LGBT rights is tantamount to "blasting it out over a megaphone". Interesting because those are almost precisely the same words my sister used to criticize my decision to come out 25 years ago. "Why do you have to shout it from the rooftops" was actually what she said. So I have to wonder: Do you think that Obama's support for LGBT rights should be done quietly, behind closed doors, on the DL? That's not "fierce advocacy". Fierce advocacy means using the bully pulpit to advance potentially unpopular ideas because it's the right thing to do. That's what Obama promised, and what he's reneged on.

yvonne · 1 month ago

The LGBT should be out there like the bithers& tea Partiers and whoever else seems to take to the streets,people notice this stuff,in this case it's a good thing.listen what I'm saying here what alot of people are thinking outside of the gay community is all.If people want to swear at me,call me names and just be shitty, fine. I'm outta here,

PBomb · 1 month ago

Your statement is definitely not true. President Obama has acknowledged gay families and couples. You have the first president in a long time, acknowledging the existence of a gay family or gay relationship, extending health benefits to gay government employees, signed a hate crimes law, lifted the ban on HIV travel, honored Harvey Milk with the Presidential medal of honor and has repeatedly said he will overturn DADT, DOMA, and ENDA, all in a matter of 10 months. You will have a problem with forgiving him?

I hate to be on the wrong side of history.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

He did not give gay employees health benefits - he gave them U-haul truck rental reimbursements. With the exception of Hate Crimes, all the other things you mention are nothing more than gestures. The substantive things, like DOMA and DADT are being pushed along the path of continuing delay. Which is why we are pushing back. Its really that simple. We want to see the Democratic party win and stay in power - but if that only results in continued inaction, what do you suggest we do? Oh, wait. . . . and wait. . . . and wait. . . . and wait. . . and wait. . . and wait. . .

donbux · 1 month ago

Obama had nothing to do with the hate crimes bill (give me the name of one legislator whose arm he twisted to support it). Moreover it's the least useful of any of the legislation that we're fighting for, since as many others have pointed out it doesn't do anybody any good until they're already dead. And for what it's worth, Obama didn't lift the HIV travel ban: Bush did. Obama just implemented the policy change that Bush enacted.

What I mean by making a public statement in support of our rights is TAKING A STAND on Maine's question 1, for example, or on the "everything but the name" initiative in Washington. What did we get from Obama? A couple of lesbians at the Easter egg roll and some bland language about "same sex parents" on occasion, but utter silence on the things that mattered last week.

You defend my complaints by arguing that Obama has "repeatedly said he will overturn DADT, DOMA, and ENDA". Yeah, he's SAID he'll do it. What's he actually done? He's since backpedaled on DADT, now saying that he wants to "revise it in a sensible manner" and conspicuously avoiding the word "repeal". His Justice Department has aggressively defended DOMA with the most vile language imaginable, comparing our relationships to incest and bestiality. And both he and the DNC call us "naive" for wanting action on these key pieces of legislation sometime during his first term, when the Democrats have the largest majority in Congress they're likely to have during Obama's entire presidency.

If Obama makes DADT and DOMA history I'll be happy to recant. But as of now, I DO NOT and WILL NOT FORGIVE the vile smear against me and my marriage that was the DOMA brief, and I hold him responsible for it.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

spoiled children, impatient, more important things..

when you find your ovaries, let us know. this weakling act is getting tiresome.

Jack J. · 1 month ago

Yeah, and you like the sound of your own voice whining.

You're so full of shit you leave a trail when you walk.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

It's not, but we can hold the Dems hostage.

Do you really think they want to be out of power?

USE THE LEVERAGE WE HAVE. It's a game of chicken.

For too long we've been too scared to play it because of the opinion you just said.

Fuck it. What else do we have to lose?

It's hardball time.

glorysong · 1 month ago

You are not Gay. Why are you keeping up mess.

glorysong · 1 month ago

Lisa I agree with you. I think you are doing the wrong thing to with hold from the Obama or the DNC. President Obama is working hard in there. But you see that the Republicans are working aganist him. Maybe some of you are call the White House and sit down Obama one on one. He hear you. Give him time to fight for you. He is trying to push through the Health care Bill. This is what the Republicans what you to do because they do not care about you one way or another. You are to hear some of the things they say about Gay people it is terrible. And those so called Christians also. Work with Obama.

RFinLA · 1 month ago

I'm there. Thanks, John.

Chris Tanner · 1 month ago

I completely disagree with this idea. You little question and answer section glosses right over the biggest reason that this is a ridiculous idea. By witholding money from Democrats (at any time) allows Republicans to gain an advantage and win elections. Next year all 435 seats in the US House are up for reelection. Now is NOT the time to shoot yourself in the foot and thumb your nose at Democrats while we sit by and watch Republicans gain control of the House. Stop your knee-jerk reactions fueled by pure emotion and think things through before you encourage people to essentially HELP Republicans gain control of Congress. In fact, to be sure, It makes more sense to go the other way (at this point) to increase funding for Dems to assure they keep control of Congress. Additionally, the are members of Congress who are outspoken supporters of LGBT rights such as Jared Polis, Tammy Baldwin, etc, etc and this will hurt them also. This is all-around a very bad idea.

JohnnyG · 1 month ago

Additionally, the are members of Congress who are outspoken supporters of LGBT rights such as Jared Polis, Tammy Baldwin, etc, etc and this will hurt them also."

Not if people choose to donate to them individually. Not donating to the DNC just means you're not letting them decide which candidates get your money. It doesn't mean not donating to Dem candidates at all, just doing it individually instead.

Dan W. · 1 month ago

The election is still months away. If the DNC wants money, they can EARN it. We can still donate to individual candidates have EARNED it through their actions. Why should I give money to an organization (DNC) that gives money to anti-gay Democrats? I'd rather give to pro-gay Democrats.

nicho · 1 month ago

No, it't the failure of the Democrats and Obama that is going to give seats to the Republicans.

Obama and the do-nothing Democrats have given the impression they are useless. Krugman explains it this morning:

The Obama administration’s job-creation efforts have fallen short, so that unemployment is likely to stay disastrously high through next year and beyond. The banker-friendly bailout of Wall Street has angered voters, and might even let Republicans claim the mantle of economic populism. Conservatives may not have better ideas, but voters might support them out of sheer frustration.

The answer isn't to ask people for more money for a PR effort. The answer is to rack up some serious accomplishments that will energize voters.

donbux · 1 month ago

Nothing in this boycott prevents any of us from making contributions to INDIVIDUAL candidates, of either party, who support LGBT equality. I'm not giving a red cent to the DNC, but I'll give that much more to Kirsten Gillibrand, Tom Duane, and as many other national, state and local politicians as I can afford, who openly and actively support LGBT rights. If most of these politicians happen to be Democrats (which they probably will be) then the Democratic party and its majority in Congress will benefit. But as current events demonstrate a Democratic majority isn't in itself sufficient to assure our equality. DeeDee Scozzafava would have been a strong voice for equality in NY's 23rd, but the anti-marriage equality Democrat Bill Owens won. I'd rather have had Scozzafava.

donbux · 1 month ago

PS: I'm watching Barney Frank's next race. If there's a credible challenge to him in the primary I'm all over it. He's become far too entrenched, and he's now part of the problem, not the solution.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

What, really, is the point of keeping the current set of pols if they ignore LGBT issues. The stopping of donations to the DNC does not mean we can't instead funnel our donations to LGBT "proven" candidates. Some of that DNC money goes to pols who do not support equal rights - think blue dogs. In fact, more money goes to blue dogs then progressives because their seats are the hardest to keep. It's a game and we will always be played like a pawn unless we stop funding our own abuse.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

Democrats: Will tell you lies to get your money and votes, fucking you over.

Republicans: Get votes and money by telling you how they'll fuck people over.

Hrmmm... which one, which one...

jstephenclark · 1 month ago

"It makes more sense to go the other way (at this point) to increase funding for Dems"

LOL!!!!! Right.

RitornaVincitor · 1 month ago

Tell you what. Since you feel so strongly that gays can hurt the Democrats, raise your voice and tell the Democrats that they need to keep their promises to the gay community if they want to stay in power.

David · 1 month ago

Instead of pausing from making donations to the DNC and Obama, I think it would be more helpful to make donations to the Green Party. Oh wait, that's insanity. lol

Dan W. · 1 month ago

Spoken like someone who thinks the choice is being a doormat or nothing.

Dan W. · 1 month ago

Spoken like someone who thinks the choice is being a doormat or nothing.

Brian - DFW · 1 month ago

Why haven't you included HRC and the Victory Fund? They're both ineffective Democrat organizations.

Dan W. · 1 month ago

The HRC is worthless. I'm all in favor of boycotting them and replacing them with an organization that values "progress" more than "access".

Andrew W. · 1 month ago

You can "pause" donations all you want - the Democrats don't have enough votes to pass ENDA or repeal DADT and DOMA., especially in the "Christian" Senate.

It is misleading and actually naive to suggest that the President and the Democratic Party can pass these laws. Not ALL Democrats support LGBT Equality. They refuse to support us because of their "religious beliefs." You can't change that politically. It is counter-productive to suggest that you can.

The loss in Maine only made matters worse. Gay is the political 'lightning rod" again. Witness New York State where Governor Paterson wants a "vote" on same-sex marriage (which he correctly referred to as "equality") but legislators are refusing.

The biggest problem we face in the political arena is we don't REQUIRE that politicians take a stand in order to get our support. HRC has a useless scoring system based on "gay-friendliness," that serves to give them salary-justifying "busy work," but does not change anything.

The continued reliance on a "political" solution to LGBT Equality - without requiring commitment from politicians, is a waste of time and energy.

John Aravosis · 1 month ago

Actually I worked in the US Senate as a lawyer, helping write and pass legislation. I know first hand how it's done. This president has done next to nothing to help. And if he did help it could move
mountains. And in any case, what about all the bad things Obama is doing on gay issues? Is that because we're naive too? I think not

Andrew W. · 1 month ago

You miss the point John. Senators with "religious beliefs" are immovable. They can't be "lobbied." The President doesn't have a magic-wand that can change religious beliefs.

The point was to stop supporting ANY politician that did not support "equality." Get them to commit BEFORE they got our support. The political reality, that we are now in the middle of, confirms simply electing "Democrats" would be favorable for the LGBT Community. ENDA, DADT and DOMA legislation is DOA. The Hate Crimes Bill held the Defense Spending Bill "hostage." It was NOT willingly passed by your "Democratic" Congress. Plus, after Maine - LGBT issues are off the table. They are too controversial.

Instead of continuing to play the same stupid game - perhaps it's time to rethink our goals and methods. 40 years of consistent strategies and consistent losing ought to be a wake-up call. It should spark some new ideas - maybe a new strategy.

There will not be a political solution to LGBT equality - not this year and not the next 10-15 years. So, every dollar we put into politics is wasted. Every time we create hope - based on politics - just frustrates and disappoints more and more of our community. We are creating false hope. It's time to be honest and objective. It's time to create a winning strategy for equality. Wishin and hopin hasn't worked.

happycozy · 1 month ago

I certainly believe the first step is to get politicians to say upfront, before voting them in, whether or not they support gay rights. The problem, however, is in the southern states. No southern dem will ever support gay civil rights because they won't get elected. It's very frustrating--as someone who lives in the buttcrack of the south. The southern (and midwestern) dems are what's holding up progress. The $64,000 question is how do we get progressives elected in the south (and midwest)?

Andrew W. · 1 month ago

The problem in the South is the importance of religion. In Alabama 80% of the population makes religion "important." That's the kiss of death for LGBT issues.

The truth is 2 out of 3 "religious" people DO NOT make their religion MORE important than equality - including ours. But, we don't reach out to them - instead we focus on the one-third that will never change their beliefs. It's a game we can win - but, we don't play. Instead we play on non-winning game of "faith in politics."

Unless we grow up and change our strategy it will be decades before we will have sympathetic politicians. That's why i don't understand why we spend hundreds of millions on a losing strategy.

Guest · 1 month ago

Type your comment here.Oh, yeah! I'm so sure a moajority of us GLBTers would prefer a Republican administration at this point! Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it!

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

We won't roll backwards with a Republican administration on anything substantial or of real value (think u-hual rentals). But we are not rolling forward with this administration and if we don't push the status quo will prevail. But this is not about getting a different group of pols - its about getting our current group to do what they promised.

nicho · 1 month ago

And, how exactly would you tell the difference. Bill Clinton signed a bill barring HIV-positive people from entering the country. George Bush signed a bill repealing that. Barack Obama took credit for the repeal.

Guest · 1 month ago

Clinton was progressive, but overly ambitious his first two years and was hugely hampered the remaining six years of his Presidency. Many of his actions were politically constrained, so I don't blame him much for what he had to do. At least he pushed forward while he could. He didn't have two wars and an economic recession to address, either.

As others here have mentioned, there are many very pressing issues to handle while other issues of concern to us are being addressed slowly but surely. After all, with less than a year in office, Obama has done wonders for America.

nicho · 1 month ago

Wonders, absolute wonders -- as long as you're a rabid anti-gay right-wing preacher, a multimillionaire banker on Wall Street, a CEO of a Big Pharma company or health-care insurance racket. I can see where they are absolutely giddy.

Dreamer · 1 month ago

Clinton's issues were many-fold, but I wouldn't blame it on an overly ambitious with a progressive agenda. He was more of a third way democrat if anyting.

The issue here is that Obama has made the choice to passively, and in some cases actively, oppose the interests of a portion of his base. There are innumerable small moves he could've of taken (and others major ones he shouldn't have taken) that would have lead him to a different place with the GBLT community. He could've campaigned against the ballot measures, could've avoid filing legal briefs he didn't need to, could've spoken up in support of any number of issues. He would've even be in this situation if he had just kept the issues alive in the political discourse.

There will ALWAYS be more 'pressing' issues than the rights of any particular minority, but if you have courted that minority the least you could do is make sure that things are always moving forward... and not becoming more entrenched as this administration seems intent on making it.

EXL · 1 month ago

Thank you Americablog for standing up, speaking out, and refusing to accept the status quo.

jefferyk · 1 month ago

Yay!

McTim · 1 month ago

John and Joe, thank you for standing up for the community and sending out a strong message to the Dems and the President. I would add another demand to the list, namely that the administration finally ought to start condemning state- and nationwide ballot measures to take away LGBT civil rights, and to speak up against the likes of NOM twisting the President's remarks out of context as they did in their Prop 8 campaign.

rylock · 1 month ago

I agree with this wholeheartedly, but since legislation takes so long, wouldn't it be more practical to launch a boycott until Obama signs an executive order to stop DADT while Murphy's bill is moving through the House?

kujhawker · 1 month ago

You know I used to be for just seeing some action. An executive order, the administration pushing the congress to put DADT, DOMA, et all into comittee so it can get going.

At the time I was looking just for movement, any movement not actually passing of laws, just knowing they were working their way through congress was good enough.

But after countless opportunities and even defending DOMA, just movement is no longer good enough. I want actual results before giving more money.

sd92104 · 1 month ago

By chance, last night I got an email from OFA re the House Health Care bill, and after America Blog's expose of the DNC's lies re Maine (and Andrew Tobias's wretched performance in the comments section here), I unsubscribed from their email list and told them why. Glad to see you're coordinating this effort! I should have waited a day.... :-)

Kip Williams · 1 month ago

Right strategy, wrong message. I think that repealing DADT is too small a goal. We should boycott for full civil rights. The Dallas Principles has a great list of full civil rights goals here - http://www.thedallasprinciples.org/The_Dallas_P...

John Aravosis · 1 month ago

Well we think that holding the president to his actual promises is a fine start :-)

glorysong · 1 month ago

Holding Donations fron the DNC and Obama is the wrong thing to do. You are hurting your case. This takes time to do. President has a lot on his plate. Give him some time to work on it. Because when he do he is going to have another fight from the Right. That is when everyone could step in to help him fight. Holding Donations is no fight. The fight is when he start fighting for you. Where will you be? Will you be there to help him fight?

jstephenclark · 1 month ago

DNC talking points from an astroturf commenter.

glorysong · 1 month ago

No, I am someone who will stand and fight with you if your cause is right. I am not going to hurt my party, but I will stand fight with you. And I am not Gay.

jstephenclark · 1 month ago

This rebuts my comment how? Astroturf never says "you caught me; I'm astroturf." Why else would some straight party hack be hanging out on this discussion board for an hour?

I have no doubt that, as a party hack and fair-weather friend, you'd support the gay community when the party says its ok.

kujhawker · 1 month ago

Well it is good to know you will only firhgt for gay rights as long as it does not hurt you party. We now know where you stand. You are only for civil rights and equality as long it is painless and doesn't cost you anything.

nicho · 1 month ago

You were doing so good -- until you got to "if." If we have to buy your support for such things as civil rights -- bye bye now!

Gridlock · 1 month ago

Our cause is right, the political establishment is attempting to throw us under the bus.

Pick a side.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

God, it's like every cliche rolled into one.

jstephenclark · 1 month ago

Please ignore the critical comments orchestrated by the DNC. They're just astroturf and are repeating the same talking points.

I have not only signed the pledge but have already declined a contribution request from the DNC, making clear to tell the solicitor why. Be prepared to resist intense pressure and disinformation from solicitors.

I will give to individual Democratic candidates and causes, but not to the political bigots at the DNC. I'll reconsider when I see a real attitude change in the White House and at the DNC.

John Aravosis · 1 month ago

Thanks jstephen

Guest · 1 month ago

Thanks, I just donated $1000 to the DNC.

RitornaVincitor · 1 month ago

As an act of homophobia?

bblock · 1 month ago

Awesome, Guest. Hey everybody, anonymous astroturfer is going to pick up the slack! Isn't that great? There's no need for any of us to give money to the DNC anyway! I love when a plan comes together.

nicho · 1 month ago

And I just threw $1,000 into the sewer -- so we're even.

Eric · 1 month ago

What about donating to the ACLU and other pertinent, representative organizations? This climate demands money and if the DNC isn't receiving your funds, who is, or who should? You haven't addressed this, and I am interested and others should be as well.

kujhawker · 1 month ago

I definitely think there are good causes out there to give.

But do you know what I would like to see someone start a DNC escrow fund.

People could contribute to it till the DNC and Obama meet the goals.

It would earn interest and more importantly the DNC could see the contributions mount up. Contributions they could have if only they would follow through with promises. Once promises are met it is theirs.

Eric · 1 month ago

I agree - if anything the solution isn't to stop donating, but to donate in such a way that the financial contributions are seen directed towards a specific goal. I think bigger, restricted donations are the answer.

Truth be told the DNC has bigger priorities and is courted by more financially-potent interests. Withdrawing financial support will make gay civil rights issues even less important/profitable.

T2inDC · 1 month ago

Donate directly to the lawmakers that support our causes. Rep. Patrick Murphy (D-PA) is leading the fight on the repeal of DADT in the House. He is up for re-election in 2010 and we need him to stay put in the House. Rep. Joe Sestak is challenging Sen. Arlen Spector for the Senate. He also is a fierce advocate for our community and repeal of DADT. So donate directly and send a gay thank you note!

AnnCPR · 1 month ago

I believe in all of the LGBT community issues and always have.
However, I think this is a huge mistake. It will hurt your cause in the long run and alienate many that have supported you over the years.
Hurting the DNC and OFA will get you nowhere.
Actually, you are cornering them and Obama when there is little to be gained. Cornering people and organizations who will be the ones to make things happen for you is poor strategy.
It would be nice if things were happening faster for the LGBT community and causes, but PATIENCE.
Mistakes are going to be made here and there along with some detours.

Obama just signed the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act that provides civil rights to those in the LGBT community for the first time.
I am wondering if you thought to consult Judy Shepard, the Executive Director of the Matthew Shepard Foundation before you did this?

THIS IS A SIGNIFICANT DOWNPAYMENT FOR LGBT CAUSES! Many waited years for this to happen.

Remember Aesop's fable: the turtle always wins.

John Aravosis · 1 month ago

The turtle compared our relationships to incest and pedophilia, then didn't even bother to apologize.

RitornaVincitor · 1 month ago

Home run! Right out of the ballpark!

annCPR · 1 month ago

I do not have to apologize for someone who accused me of comparing LGBT relationships to incest and pedophilia, they need to apologize to me.

PS. Despite what some may think, I have never been a DNC hack, and I am certainly no DNC astroturfer.

jstephenclark · 1 month ago

More DNC talking points from another heterosexual.

Eric · 1 month ago

you mean a voter?

RitornaVincitor · 1 month ago

In a truly ideal world where everyone acts on pure logic, I might consider your points before rejecting them as false. But in the real world I'll be DAMNED if I'll give another penny of my hard earned money to the Democratic Party until I get some ACTION on those PROMISES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! But thank you for telling me to be patient and particularly for not reminding me of the inclusion of gay families in the White House Easter egg roll. That still chokes me up.

NotTimothyGeithner · 1 month ago

And correct assumptions. Remember, "logic is only the beginning of wisdom."

nicho · 1 month ago

The turtle doesn't always win. Sometimes the turtle gets run over and squished if it spends too long in the middle of the road.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

"It will hurt your cause in the long run and alienate many that have supported you over the years. "

How many times have we heard this, and then been thrown under the bus by the very same people who say "this item is more important than your equality, so you need to sit down and be quiet and wait"

"It would be nice if things were happening faster for the LGBT community and causes, but PATIENCE. "

Well, that was fast.

The people being bashed, left homeless, being fired, being denied housing, being denied the right to be at their partners side while they pass away in a hospital, being denied all the financial rights inherent to hetero relationships, having their careers stripped from them after decades of loyal service DO NOT HAVE THE TIME TO WAIT ANY LONGER.

Nor, I think, do they care one fig what "allies" think we should be doing. Their necks are on the line. Yours isn't. You will never know that feeling, and if you did you would not be counselling "patience" after waiting decades.

Would you have told african americans "patience" back in the 60's? Would you have told them all their marching was "meaningless"?

Doubtful.

Cornering people and organizations who will be the ones to make things happen for you is poor strategy.

Well lets see, what have we tried already? Play nice, don't scare the hets, assimilate, be unthreatening.. all that's done is projected an image of the fey, limpwristed gay who doesn't have the constitution for a fight. It's turned us into the sexless, campy funny friends on numerous sitcoms... toothless individuals who are fun at parties, but can't have any rights.

Been there. Done that. Didn't work. What did work? Getting in people's faces. Stonewall. Act Up.

No more Mr. Nice Faggot.

NotTimothyGeithner · 1 month ago

A lot of people did tell African-Americans just that. Black preachers were fond of that message. Rev. King and Abernathy were exceptions, not the rule. Black churches fully supported segregation in such a manner. My guess is without segregation a lot of the Churches would have folded, so they did have a vested interest.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Blacks lived under JimCrow for over 50 years and you think that somehow you can compare the political agenda for gays to the civil rights struggle of the American Negro. What arrogance.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

We've been waiting since the dawn of time.

Also, we cross all ethnic boundary lines, so black gays have been waiting right along with us.

Take your exclusivity clique elsewhere, bigot.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

There is no exclusivity, you simply are deranged into believing your actions make you a minority...and waiting since the beginning of time is a flat out ludicrous lie. Gays have consistently enjoyed all the rights of other human beings. The problem is they want ppl to tolerate and accept it as normative sexual behavior, when clearly it isn't. That is why you get confused thinking you some type of minority...you are not. You do not belong to any distinctive class of humanity...you simply engage in sexual behavior that the majority of humans don't.

That makes you an individual with non normative sexual behavior...not no friggin minority.

Stop getting it twisted and making up shyt.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

LOL, I wish i could put you in a glass case on top of my fireplace so I could laugh at you twice a day.

You're just precious *pinches your ass*

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Well,

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Well, most folks when they have their disllusionments shattered react irrational. They want to strike out at others and call them names...typically they rant like you do as well.

Doesn't bother me one bit, to know you are all hot air and no substance.

Just one more factless nitwit.

RitornaVincitor · 1 month ago

Just a little interjection here. You keep referring to "you" when speaking of gay people. Then you say that gay people are not a minority. Well then, we must either be a majority, or you are speaking of a group that doesn't exist. If you refer to us as "you", then you acknowledge our existence as a group.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

You, specifically refers to the poster I am replying to.

RitornaVincitor · 1 month ago

"That makes you an individual with non normative sexual behavior...not no friggin minority."

Seems to me you are saying gay people are not a minority. Kind of like saying that racial minorities are not minorities, but simply human beings with a different appearance, that have consistently enjoyed all the rights of other human beings. I'd have to disagree.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Homosexuals are not a minority..they have nothing but a BEHAVIOR which is different that does not constitute them being a minority based on an immutable biologic distinction.

OK...gender and race are completely biologic...sexual behavior is a willful act, sexual preference is a willful choice.

Having a non-normative behavior does not consitute being a minority...if it did...drug addicts would be a minority group, along with professional athletes, and comedians.

Individuals who engage in homosexual acts, HAVE all the rights of other human beings. They simply desire rights based on their sexual behavior and society need not comply with that and it would not be a human rights violation.

We don't allow alcoholics to claim minority status, nor do we make laws to support their alcholic behavior.

RitornaVincitor · 1 month ago

Well, I tried to reach you, but I'm afraid you are a lost cause. Try not to hurt anyone.

CaptJackHarkness · 1 month ago

Back2Stonewall is on board 100%

http://www.back2stonewall.com/?p=10428

nicho · 1 month ago

John, does your sign-on software have some way to tell us how long someone has been a commenter here and how many comments they've made? Other sites do that -- and it really illustrates who the trolls and astro-turfers are.

bblock · 1 month ago

Good for you John & Joe. I have decided to become a 'fierce advocate' of this administration's agenda. They can expect real actual action by me in 2016....

Mike_in_the_Tundra · 1 month ago

Of course, I signed the pledge, but in reality, I shut off our family's gAyTM several months ago. However, this may make it simpler the next time the DNC calls. A couple of weeks ago, the caller from the DNC argued with me for about ten minutes.

Chris Johnson · 1 month ago

Great Idea! Way to go! Let us withhold money from the DNC and let the Republicans win. I forgot that we will get much further with Republican's in control again!

nicho · 1 month ago

Well, we dumped tons of money on the DNC last year -- and so far the GOP has gotten everything it wanted.

Keith & Dustin · 1 month ago

The democrats have their fate in their own hands. It's a strategy to persuade them to do what they said they would. And from what I've seen, we aren't any better off with the democrats we elected over the repugs we sent packing. Many gays were already withholding donations because of Obama's lack of support so this isn't anything new really. What the Dems need to understand is that we want ACTION!, not the same old tiring song and dance routine.

rduke · 1 month ago

Don't blame us, blame the lying Democrats. WE are just responding in kind.

bblock · 1 month ago

The fact is, it doesn't really seem to matter who's in control. I'm as as sad about that conclusion as anyone.

jstephenclark · 1 month ago

Thanks for repeating the party talking points. We've read them already.

Tanith · 1 month ago

Hey, Chris. Then what would you suggest that will convince the DNC and Obama to change their behavior and keep their promises? What's the alternative to nothing? More of nothing?

Not being facetious here.

Guest · 1 month ago

I love this and thought about doing it long ago.

We we no longer be log-cabin Democrats

nicho · 1 month ago

We need to start collecting a book of Obama Failure Quotes: "It's only a two-minute prayer." "He has a lot on his plate." "He needs to pander to the right in order to win." "He had no choice." "He has to enforce the law (sometimes)." "It's only been (fill in the blank) months/years." "He doesn't have the votes."

Tanith · 1 month ago

I don't have any money to speak of, but I do have a vote to withhold. That said, as soon as I saw your post I copied the link and the title, and sent it to my beloved gay brother with the enjoinder, "Pass it on." He has lots of friends, some who own deep pockets, and so do they. I hope those pockets are zippered shut for as long as it takes.

Kelly Canfield · 1 month ago

Sweet! I'm in, Signed and Sent Mails.

Forget the naysayers; having something you can ask friends, neighbors and supporters to DO is huge.

Gymjim · 1 month ago

I tried to sign and send but it is not going thru.

Summer Sterling · 1 month ago

Any word on how many signatures there are for the pledge?

Kelly Canfield · 1 month ago

I'll disagree about ACT-UP.

They formed in '87 in a vacuum of anything done to fight AIDS by the government, and it had been a good 6 years of NOTHING.

Playing the media shocked the conscience, and kept, no, forcefully INJECTED the debate into the mainstream.

Aside from that, you present a false equivalence. This "pause" is a pressure tactic, as well as a blog and media tactic, with a stated goal.

I say this is effective, useful criticism, in the cold hard form of cash-at-bay.

Michael · 1 month ago

I don't really have a problem with this per se. More than anything, it's symbolic. But what it won't change are the mathematics of the situation. We still have to get 60 votes on every one of these bills. I just don't know if this is the way to convince them. And while you're finding those 60 votes, find an appropriate vehicle to attach ENDA, MREA, and the DOMA repeal to, because these will never, ever, ever, be passed as stand-alone bills.

And in that sense, you say "Democrats promised us these things." For ENDA, DADT, and especially for DOMA, we are going to need every single Democrat to take our side. But for every Republican like Collins and Snowe, we're going to lose a Lincoln, Pryor, and Landrieu because voters in Arkansas and Louisiana don't go crazy for gung-ho LGBT supporters. And I just don't know if this is the way to convince them.

As for Obama, there have been missteps. But as a practical matter, I wholly expected his distance. And I think that even John Aravosis and Joe Sudbay had to be well-aware that this administration would sign ANY bill that we managed to get passed in both houses--but little else.

Because even I have to say this: Really? Withholding everything until our entire legislative agenda is passed? You want every single bill passed? With this Congress? Have you lost your mind? I want it to be true. But it won't happen. Even our strongest supporters, such as Rep. Tammy Baldwin has stated that she seriously doubts that DOMA will be repealed this term. So that pretty much says, you're on a break... indefinitely.

This is how we respond to electoral victory? With a whimper? No more cooperation. No more efforts to try to lobby people. Just sit in our corner and pout? Because the Republicans will gain seats in the 2010 mid-term elections. They will gain them in the Senate and the House. And when that happens, what then? Think it's going to be any easier passing legislation?

I understand that this is symbolic, and it's being done to make a point. The game of big money politics will continue, and this is only another way of telling Congress and the President that we are serious. And for most of us, where money has been tight, the political giving has already diminished to a trickle. So, really, this is a matter of making news in the press, and continuing the pressure, even though there will be little substantive effect by the actions we take. What it does do is increase our own cynicism of Democratic leaders, and in that sense it does deter voter enthusiasm. Consider me less than enthusiastic about this.

I would change my mind on this if the leaders of this boycott were at least slightly realistic. Perhaps a boycott until Senate leaders passed ENDA... that would be realistic and would set a realistic goal ahead of them and for ourselves.

But the entire agenda? Get real.

NotTimothyGeithner · 1 month ago

If its largely symbolic and doesn't actually direct money to competitors of the DNC, then I don't understand why some people feel the need to write lengthy arguments against the boycott. Is Tim Kaine in full melt down mode over at the DNC?

Gridlock · 1 month ago

.. how is it a victory if the promises made to us are broken?

If only 1 goes through, that's what.. 1/10 return on our investment?

Hell no.

We want what we were promised and what we devoted time and money towards.

We want an acceptable return on our investment.

You know what would be a GREAT indicator that these things were being worked on? Some forward momentum. Some accomplishments. Some serious work towards them.

Think of us as investors: businesses need to PROVE they are working to provide their investors with a return.

What corporation tells its shareholders "eh, not right now. Maybe later. Btw, can we have more money in return for nothing?"

How long do you think those shareholders would keep their stock in this company?

about 0.2 seconds.

That's where we are.

Lastly, WE are not creating voter disenfranchisement. THEY ARE. We're simply pointing out all the things they have not done.

If they did them, nobody would be upset ...now would they?

This whole "people might not vote Dem next election" scare tactic IS NOT WORKING ANYMORE. It's time we turned the tables on them... either fulfill your promises or find yourselves out of power next time around, either by the GOP or some third party.

If they don't want to fulfill their promises, and if supposed "allies" keep telling us our rights just aren't important, than frankly they can enjoy the scorched earth program we can enact.

I'm tired of being a pawn and a wedge. I'm much more comfortable being a blade held against a political throat.

Michael · 1 month ago

Ok, well, that's fine. I'd ask you to read what I wrote. I'd have less of a problem if the leaders of this boycott were somewhat realistic. You want "momentum"? Well, I said that I would change my mind if the leaders were realistic, and if this were directed at the passage of another bill, such as ENDA, then I think that this boycott could motivate Democrats BECAUSE IT GIVES THEM A REALISTIC GOAL TO ACCOMPLISH.

But asking them to pass the entire agenda in the next year is not realistic, and it is even more likely to dissuade Democratic leaders from moving on anything.

Set a goal, accomplish a goal, move on to the next goal. Trying for the Hail Mary when the game is in the first quarter is not the way to win.

You want momentum? Asking for your entire agenda in one year is way more than momentum. It's the entire ballgame. And it's not going to convince leaders to do anything. All Democratic leaders will do is ignore this, and render its practical effects even more meaningless.

Create meaning to this boycott by giving it a realistic goal. Passage of ENDA.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

They aren't even WORKING ON ANY OF THE ITEMS.

rduke · 1 month ago

This is more than symbolic. I've never been so serious. I will give my money and votes to a third party. The days of supporting the Dems while they kick dirt in our face are over.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

"and in that sense it does deter voter enthusiasm"

My enthusiasm has been at an all time low since Obama decided to "change" DADT. He detered my voter enthusiasm.

NotTimothyGeithner · 1 month ago

Considering the uniformity of some of the different posters, someone with administrator access may want to see if they have similar IP addresses. Maybe find a tech type who might be able to ballpark where the posts are coming from.

There seems to be too much uniformity from some of the comments today, right after the boycott of the DNC was announced.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

I always assumed trolls dipped from some communal pond of stupid, nonsensical arguments

NotTimothyGeithner · 1 month ago

Yeah, but I always find run of the mill GOP type trolls to be far more entertaining with more variety. A lot of the posts from "friends with advice" seem lacking in details and specifics that makes me go, "hey, maybe the DNC really is posting."

It could easily be random or just one person who is upset someone has criticized his/her imaginary spouse, but it would be worth looking into if John or Joe knew someone who could do the IP reverse look up thing without too much trouble.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

If it is some DNC job, i would bet they'd use IP randomizers anyway.. then again, they don't seem that savvy

NotTimothyGeithner · 1 month ago

I figure Tim Kaine is in charge over there, so competency and good ideas would be extremely surprising.

Dan W. · 1 month ago

The DNC and the HRC are both struggling financially it seems. Of course they send their trolls here. When we don't give our money it threatens their livelihood. All we are to the Democratic Party is a GayTM machine to give money and go away as they triangulate against us. The HRC is a worthless organization that cares about "access" not progress.

What I think is hysterical is their breathtaking sense of entitlement to our money. "How dare you give money to the people and causes that benefit you the most." "How dare you not give your money to my political hero even though he betrayed his campaign promises to you." "How dare you not underwrite my swanky D.C. cocktail party where I get to mix the Washington elite for my own betterment.

joseph123 · 1 month ago

What a stupid idea. Republicans are rejoicing this little development.I just donated a thousand bucks to the DNC, thanks to your hate!

Gridlock · 1 month ago

LOL sure you did.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

doubt it

Dan W. · 1 month ago

LOL. Like anyone believes this...

And the only hate here is coming from you.

Michael · 1 month ago

I will hereby desist from offering any constructive criticism.

But in my opinion, if and when we pass ENDA, it will have nothing to do with this boycott, and everything to do with the hard-working efforts of advocates, volunteers, and citizen lobbyists. I'd simply request that in lieu of sending money, you make phone calls, write your Congressman letters, help with phone banks for referendas, and the sort. If you want to pass ENDA, don't use this as an excuse to sit on your ass. Do something and make a difference.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

I'd like a list of your actions and accomplishments please, backed up with some kind of evidence that they actually took place.

Michael · 1 month ago

More than you will ever, ever know, and more than you will probably ever do. But in the last year, I phone banked for No on 1, and against Prop 8. I canvassed and went door to door this year, last year, and for several years before that in two different states. The least of the things that I have done is donate money.

But you know what? Screw you. I'm sorry that you don't want to get off your ass and resort to passive-aggression to make your point. If this is a party for the embittered, count me out.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

I love how you assume I, and others, do nothing. Where do you get this information? How are you privy to it?

Oh, you're just assuming. You don't actually know.

Screw yourself.

Michael · 1 month ago

I love how when I respond to one guy that everyone seems to think that it's directed at them. Hence Gridlock making the requirement that I provide evidence of my own merits so that I can justify encouraging people to keep on getting out there and fighting.

Ugh. The only constructive criticism that I suggested (if you had read my prior comments below), was to make the boycott a little more directed at passage of a single piece of legislation... ENDA. Having a funding boycott until ENDA is passed might urge Congress to get off their ass just a little sooner. Requiring that they pass everything, and I mean everything, is unlikely to persuade Congress to do anything that they won't do on their own terms.

That's fine. You do your thing, I'll do mine. I have personally decided not to participate. And this conversation has done nothing to convince me otherwise.

NotTimothyGeithner · 1 month ago

If you can't handle barbs on the internet, I imagine you weren't that effective a canvasser or phone banker, or were easily discouraged.

I imagine you're one of those people who knocked a few doors with a partner, was discouraged, complained to one of the field organizers, and demanded to do a thoroughly useless task like licking envelopes.

I'm assuming this, but you are getting a tad upset about internet world. My guess is you just didn't have the constitution to really have canvassed for any of these things.

Mike_in_the_Tundra · 1 month ago

It's amazing that you know so much about so many people. I know that I've done a lot more than donate, and I'm certain that goes for a lot of others who post on this blog.

rduke · 1 month ago

Seriously, you might consider reigning in your ego. You don't know what any of us have or have not done.

jstephenclark · 1 month ago

"I will hereby desist from offering any constructive criticism."

Really? Then, why did you then immediately launch into a condescending lecture?

Gridlock · 1 month ago

(cuz it wasn't constructive) :P

rduke · 1 month ago

That was damn funny.

suebob · 1 month ago

Sorry now you supported his royal highness Barack Obama when you could have had someone who sees all American's as equal? You broke it - you bought it and you will be paying for it a long time. Hope you like it under the bus along with all the women regardless of sexual preference. All hail the great passage of Health reform that further involves the government in controlling a women's right to PRIVATE medical decisions about her body. I am sure next will be further limitations on partner medical benefits - they probably forgot to add that in the house bill as restricting benefits to same sex partners. I thought Democrats were different, at least the Democratic Party I USED to belong to supported rights for EVERYBODY - not just married black/white males.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

... *wonders what to say to all this..*

thepulpit · 1 month ago

If there is no struggle, there is no progress..."
"Agitate! Agitate!! Agitate!!!" - Frederick Douglas

Agitation: persistent urging of a political or social cause or theory before the public.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

What laRapierWit does not appreciate is that we were part of the coalition of minorities that got Obama elected. He also fails to realize that he is not helping his own cause, of defending Obama, by attacking some of the very people who worked their asses off to get Obama elected.

As a member of a minority himself, you would think he would understand that concept.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

What you do not understand Visser, there are a whole lot of soldiers who go to war for the cause.

Great, you worked your ass off..but fighting against your team is not going to win the war. You will not only lose the battle but the war as well.

This is not about anyone defending Obama rather it is about the fact that he is the QB on our team...and taking him down in the 1st qtr of the game cause you don't like the score is just plain STOOOOOOpid!

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

"fighting against your team"

Seems to me you've done a pretty good job of that yourself by insulting and denigrating gay and lesbian people here on this site. Promoting discrimination and offending your teammates is just plain STOOOOOOpid!

And who exactly is fighting against the team? Your quarterback, Obama has called on all of us to set aside those things which seek to divide us - but yet you have chosen to work against him by continuing to judge, discriminate and offend.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Sorry John...you are twisting and misconstruing. Gaysandlesbians are on the team and refusing to play. Gaysandlesbians are rebelling against their own squad because they do not get the plays they want...so it is the gaysandlesbians who are judging, discriminating and offending.

Had they not so, this thread would not exist.

Stop trying to turn the tables on where this originated.

The QB did not quit, nor turn his back on his teammates, rather he said..it is 1st qtr and I will run the plays that include you. Gaysandlesbians said EFFthat! we want in the game NOW...and if you don't play us, we are going to quit the team...cause we are TIRED of waiting..it is OUR turn.

It is the gayandlesbian political agenda that is creating the turmoil and mutiny WITHIN their own locker room.

Gays&Lesbians promote discrimination on their own. The Gay&Lesbian community is notorious for having separate bars, clubs and restaurants based on skin color. Gays&Lesbians promote and accept jim crow culture within their communities.

And their boycotting of the DNC and the President is no different from the discriminatory actions they frequently engage in, tolerate and promote within the gay culture.

So, it is the gay&lesbians community that divides us..just like continue to divide themselves along the color line, to this day.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

No - you are allowing the right-wingers and the GOP to divide the Democratic party. That is plainly obvious as you agree with them. And that's how we wound up with Bush for 8 years. Not because we advance our fight for equal civil rights, but because people like you are being used by our opponents to divide us.

threadmonitor · 1 month ago

Ok. We've been more than tolerant of your insulting nonsense, laRapierWit, but, now, enough with your one-note flute.

Mark · 1 month ago

"Sorry John...you are twisting and misconstruing. Gaysandlesbians are on the team and refusing to play. Gaysandlesbians are rebelling against their own squad because they do not get the plays they want...so it is the gaysandlesbians who are judging, discriminating and offending."


The above quote is quite simply the most ridiculous thing I have ever read. If "larapierwit" were alive during the sixties he probably would have told black Americans that they were not being team players when they marched on Selma. Martin Luther King Jr. was not being a team player when he wrote his letters from a Birmingham jail.

The pretzel logic people will deploy to justify discrimination when it is being practiced by someone they slavishly follow and worship is extraordinary in its incoherence and dishonesty.

Dusty · 1 month ago

They don't care.

laRapierWit · 1 month ago

Yes, I see.
It is a real issue that the individuals calling for tolerance are so intolerant of other issues, lol..it is sheer lunacy.

Mark · 1 month ago

How in the world is asking that your rights be respected "intolerant of other issues"?

Val · 1 month ago

you know what Dusty after the last 8 months of self absorbed "me, me, me" attitude at the expense of issues we collectively face like health care which btw now has a clause allowing the health care bill in Congress that was passed has an amendment to allow gay couples health benefits, recession, job loss, homelessness, environment, wars . . . You are exactly right Dusty.

I can tell you this, you all are doing a great job of pushing away folks who support you. Because I for one no longer care. Keep up the good work.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

Good - I think that works to our advantage - now take that to your leaders and decide what you want - work on all causes, including LGBT, or shun the LGBT community and their support of your other "more important" causes.

The religious right uses the LGBT community to divide the Democratic party. When you see that and stop advocating against members of your own team, we can all win. But no, you agree with the GOP and the right-wingers.

Val · 1 month ago

nope. You all own this one all by yourselves. This battle is yours to lose and you are doing a fantastic job. Let me know how winning with just your base turns out.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

Well, if we had better friends who weren't total fairweather douches, we would be doing better.

Sorry, i know there are more important things to work on for people who already have their rights and have no idea what it is to be a second class citizen.

JohnVisser · 1 month ago

My dear - we have been "all own our own" for decades. Thanks for the support.

Gridlock · 1 month ago

I love the paternalistic lecturing from people who already enjoy their rights telling those that don't to sit down and shut up.

Again, the stupid argument that Obama has too much on his plate.. he can work on a thousand things at once, but not equal rights!

And to round it off, the "your whining is driving straight allies away!".

Well. Anymore cliché's you wanna throw at us, chief?

Mark · 1 month ago

Fighting against the team? If the team is doing nothing to advance the cause, why are you continuing to support it? At what point does it cease being the right team? Does it require ten years of broken promises, twenty, thirty?

peterdocherty · 1 month ago

so you boycott, who are you helping,anyone will agree with anything if you have a gun at his/her head go for it but be careful it could backfire, and if the new age republicans get in all gays would be knocked back to the fifties. So good luck

Gridlock · 1 month ago

God, the tired "but the GOP will get in!" argument.

elb03 · 1 month ago

For what it is worth, as a gay Marine veteran, I appreciate your staunch support.

shawntobis · 1 month ago

Not all Democratic organizations are bad

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 5, 2009

Contact: Seth Bringman

614-221-6563 ext. 145

Ohio Democratic Party Celebrates Election of 10 LGBT Municipal Candidates Throughout Ohio

COLUMBUS – Today, Ohio Democratic Party Chairman Chris Redfern issued the following statement on the victories of openly-gay and lesbian candidates in this week’s municipal elections:

"The Ohio Democratic Party is proud to have recruited and groomed candidates across Ohio who reflect the great diversity of our Party and our state,” said Redfern. “Democrats helped elect candidates young and old, male and female, gay and straight, from all geographical areas and of diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds. Ohio Democrats fielded an unprecedented number of openly-gay and lesbian candidates this year and achieved historic success by electing ten of these candidates to office. We celebrate that success.”

The Ohio Democratic Party's LGBT Caucus provided constant support to these candidates, hosting fundraising events, providing boots on the ground and helping their campaigns push back on anti-gay attacks.”

Profiles of the ten candidates follow:

Amanda Armstrong (elected to the Medina Educational Service Center Governing Board) is a 2007 graduate from Cloverleaf Local Schools, seeks to bring new insight to the board. Having formerly led the Medina County Young Democrats at age 16, as well as having served as the High School Coordinator for the Ohio Young Democrats, Amanda is experienced in helping young people voice their concerns. Currently a Junior at The College of Wooster, Amanda is devoted to hearing and communicating the concerns and ideas of students and parents.

Kevin Johnson (elected to the Portsmouth City Council Ward 1) brings to the Portsmouth City Council 39 years of experience in government, business and civic involvement. His priorities are to focus in on the nuts and bolts of Council operations, improve them and encourage public participation in the process of strengthening the City's image and infrastructure.

Nickie Antonio (elected to the Lakewood City Council) will continue work responsively and collaboratively in the community to improve the health, safety and viability of our city for all its citizens of Lakewood.

Joe Lacey (elected to the Dayton City School Board), a Certified Public Accountant, brings valuable experience to the Board. In the past four years Joe's colleagues have looked to him on questions of budgeting, forecasting, insurance, bond refinancing and other finance related issues. Joe serves as the chair of the Board's Finance Committee.

Mark Tumeo (elected to the Cleveland Heights City Council), has a long, distinguished record of public service and community involvement. Before he was elected to the Cleveland Heights City Council, Mark held a series of civic and political positions in various parts of the nation.

Eric Resnick (elected to the Canton City School Board) is best known around the Ohio LGBT community as a staff reporter for the Gay People's Chronicle. He is a lifelong resident of Canton and a product of the Canton City Schools, having graduated Timken High School in 1981 before heading to the University of Akron to study Special Education.

Carol Fey (elected to the Bexley City School Board) has 16 years of involvement with Bexley Schools, from Elementary to High School. She served as School Board liaison for the Cassingham Elementary School PTO for several years, then became Vice President, and President of that PTO for 2004-05; she served as President of the Bexley Middle School PTO for 2005-06.

Sandra Kurt (elected to the Akron City Council Ward 8) a long-time engineer with a major local corporation and community advocate, will fight to ensure Akron prospers during these tough times, so that Akron remains a place where our children want to extend their roots.

Judge Jerry Larson (elected to the Akron Municipal Court) is committed to the future of our community. A graduate of Firestone High School and The University of Akron, he has also been involved in several community organizations such as Board of Trustees for the Community AIDS Network, the Phi Delta Theta Scholarship Committee, he was a MADD Red Ribbon Award Winner and is a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church.

Jim Sands (elected to the Athens City Council) has a long history of service to the community. He has been an active member of Project Plant, a past Chair of the Board of the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce, a charter member of the Athens A.M. Rotary Club and currently its President, he is president of the Athens Foundation Board of Directors, Vice President of the Board of Directors of the Dairy Barn southeastern Ohio Cultural Arts Center, a past member of the Athens Board of Zoning Appeals, a member of the Advisory Board for the Horticulture Program at Tri-County

-30-

steve999999999 · 1 month ago

I'm sorry. I don't think I heard you correctly, Mr. Aravosis. Read through the list of horrific, Neanderthal behavior Obama and his administration have gleefully perpetrated against the LGBT community and then explain why there should be a "pause" in donations. I think every last dime of LGBT money should be going to organizations that aggressively and publicly target bigots and liars (e.g. Obama) who actively seek to demean, discredit and marginalize members of our community. Reread your own column. How the hell could you even consider donating money to the DNC at this point? There is no "across the aisle" anymore. They're all thugs.

Val · 1 month ago

How old are you people? 3?

Here is my wish for you. That you get everything you deserve. Everything. Especially since you all worked so hard and you have earned it.

One last word. . . Maine

Gridlock · 1 month ago

awesome! the first "you people" of the day.

Patrick Simmons · 1 month ago

Oh yay! Val wants to call everyone children because of his/her complete inability to debate the issue in an adult manner. Ok, I'll play...Yes, I'm 3 years old with a full beard and the ability to use a laptop. Next!

Elizabeth Creely · 1 month ago

I support this "pause" for numerous reasons. The reason that is topping my list currently is the utter lack of leadership and principle the Dem's have shown towards legalized abortion. Pro-choice women like myself- who have benefited from legal abortion- have been assured time and time again that we will be represented by them, that they do really care about the findings of Roe v Wade...and then, poof! they cave to the demands of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops by inserting and carrying the "Stupak" amendment, thereby banning coverage for abortions from both public AND private insurance. It's atrocious.

Patrick Simmons · 1 month ago

I'm amazed at how many so-called civil rights supporters are now turning their backs on the LGBT community for taking this bold stance. It just goes to show that they were never as much for LGBT civil rights as they were for LGBT votes and dollars. If they want to keep waving the rainbow flag of solidarity and claim they support gay rights then it is time for them to PROVE IT and call upon Obama to make good on his promises to the LGBT community.

Joey · 1 month ago

This is much much too soon.

Maybe in a year or two it would make sense.

But no serious political person ever expected gay marriage, DADT, ENDA, or any of the other LGBT oriented issues to be addressed in 10 short months, with an economy on the brink, healthcare being THE litmus test of this president, and not to mention, 2 wars.

EuroRant · 1 month ago

"We know through painful experience that freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed. Frankly I have never yet engaged in a direct action movement that was "well timed," according to the timetable of those who have not suffered unduly from the disease of segregation.
For years now I have heard the word "Wait!" It rings in the ear of every Negro with a piercing familiarity. This "wait" has almost always meant "never." We must come to see with the distinguished jurist of yesterday that "justice too long delayed is justice denied." -- Martin Luther King Jr. (Letter from Birmingham Jail - April 16, 1963)

I have been waiting since I was 20-years-old and now I am 54 ... would you please inform us what your definition of "too soon" is?

(btw: How old are you?)

Patrick Simmons · 1 month ago

100% agreed!!!!

Patrick Simmons · 1 month ago

Some people have been waiting 40 years since Stonewall, I think ONE month was too long to wait, let alone 10 LONG months or a year or two, as you so nonchalantly put it. Civil Rights for all is much more important then healthcare reform.

mikeintx · 1 month ago

Gay rights are not more important than Health care Reform. You must need mental health care.

Patrick Simmons · 1 month ago

LOL. Oh I get it, because my issues aren't as important to you as they are to me I must be mentally ill? You're a real peach aren't you.

An_American_Karol · 1 month ago

Were Civil Rights less important than the War in Vietnam? What the hell does one have to do with the other?

Mark · 1 month ago

This is why nothing ever gets done. Because when the politicians tell us "it's too soon" too many people nod their heads in agreement and castigate those who are actually fed up and trying to do something about the discriminatory status quo.

Mark · 1 month ago

This country has existed 233 years. Is that long enough for you?

Brad · 1 month ago

Would you prefer we wait until Dems lose more seats in Congress? Or before a reelection campaign for Obama? Or after, when he is no longer beholden to our support?

It's now or never.

phoenix · 1 month ago

Is this pledge on Facebook?

starman1695 · 1 month ago

When you change back to GLBT, I may consider what you have to say. Until then, don't bother me.

lansing quaker · 1 month ago

GEE, John!

Remember when you asked "Is Laura Bush qualified to be President?" when HILLARY CLINTON was in the primaries? Remember?! Remember banning commenters from the old blog that supported Hillary and criticized Obama, especially on his non-existent gay rights record?

Why stop now? Keep on cheerleading for YOUR GUY and YOUR "TEAM" and the "Democrat" you propagandized for for so long? This little gay stopped giving to the Democrats on May 31, 2008. Glad to see you've joined the party on this side. I wasn't stupid enough to buy snake oil the DNC provided.

Grow a pair and commit to your principles -- y'know, the same ones you showed in 2008, eh?

Mark · 1 month ago

This is an all-around awesome idea. Money is the lifeblood of politics and nothing makes politicians shut up, listen and do what we freakin voted them in for like threatening to cut them off. I only hope enough people get onboard to make a difference.

Frank · 1 month ago

I quit giving $ to Dems months ago and have explained exactly why every chance I've had. Hope this gets continually more popular. So where's the petition? (I'll search on Google).

jimobrien · 1 month ago

If you look at the European and Canadian examples what you discover is that once the gay/lesbian community receives the civil right to marry they stop supporting the liberal left. It is gradual but the community abandons the liberal left.
The left has no interest in freeing you from your bonds...
Ever wonder why the African American community remains so oppressed?

nonny · 1 month ago

Umm, guys? After that list above, you STILL think Obama will come through?

Look, the Republicans need voters now. Why not give them a try. Seriously, the Democrats are all saying "Gays are unhappy with us? What will they do, vote Republican? HAHAHAHAHHAAH!"

David · 1 month ago

Can anyone explain to me exactly *what* the Republicans have done against gays? What, *exactly*, did President Bush and the Republican Congress do against gays for the 1st 6 years of the last Administration? California is a very liberal state--do you think Prop 8 passed because all the Republicans voted for it? What about Maine?

Looks to me like you can either vote for a Republican, who may or may not support you, or you can vote for a Democrat, who *says* he supports you and then throws you under the bus. On gay issues, it's not a wonderful choice.

Mike · 1 month ago

Calling all gay people...if you derive your self worth from the state, then by all means, engage in a "temporary" boycott of the DNC, in the hopes that, gosh, maybe this time will be different. But if what you seek is simple equality before the law, and to have your natural rights matter as much as us heteros', then consider donating that money that would otherwise be wasted on a corrupted Democratic (or for that matter Republican) party, and instead start giving it to pro-freedom, pro-liberty organizations that put principles ahead of party. Organizations like the Cato Institute, or the Reason Foundation at the federal level, or the Independence Institute at the state level. As a "small l" libertarian who happens to be registered as Republican, I can assure you that I, and thousands like me, care more about your civil liberties and most basic rights than the Democratic party ever will. There is a liberty movement afoot in America in which politicians in general, regardless of party, will either respect all of our full liberties, or be quickly replaced. Please consider being a part of it.

joelbelan · 1 month ago

Don't demean the value of this gesture by saying "go donate to a bakesale" There is no party developed enough and debugged to support. The DNC is bar FAR the lesser of 2 evils. We should just start marrying Illegal aliens getting them to "vow" to vote for the most-non-church/corp suaded choice.

Aaron · 1 month ago

The highest-ranking supporter of marriage equality in any administration, ever, was Dick Cheney.

But, hey, let's still pretend that the Democrats, who have only ever given us lip service, are so much better for gays than the Republicans. After all, we want to be taken for granted, don't we?

joelbelan · 1 month ago

That is a LIE. Cheney even believes his own daughter's safety, and civil rights should be up individual States to vote on. What a dad... To spout such outrageous crap one must ask whose payroll are YOU on Teabag? We know millions are available for writers whose morals are for sale.

major707 · 1 month ago

Most gays are like abused wives, they keep going back to their abusive husbands (Democratic Party) thinking things will be different this time. The only way out is tough love and this boycott is just the first step.
And I might add the old saying the sign of an insane person is one that does the same over and over expecting a different outcome. I don't know what the right approach is but I think we need to get the attention of the DNC and the Obama administration. They are rightly concerned about the 2012 elections...New Jersey and Virginia was a shot across the bow!

mikeintx · 1 month ago

Oh yeah and so was NY23.

Wayne · 1 month ago

Since Obama was elected he has done more for marijauna smokers than he has done for the gay community that voted for him. Not only will I not contribute to the DNC as long as they ignore their political promises, I will not vote for any democrat. Don't give me any crap about how they're so much better than the republicans. At least I KNOW where I stand with them!

goy · 1 month ago

Jeebus, John (and Joe) - LOOK AT YOUR LIST OF EXAMPLES! What makes you think BHO's administration or the Democrat-dominated Congress is going to meet their commitments to ANYONE?? You've already given them what they wanted: control.

At some point it's going to become clear to all progressives and conservatives: the clown posse running this country is interested in one thing - their own personal aggrandizement. If you'd stop ignoring what we DO know of his past, you'd see that this goes double or triple for BHO. How anyone can be surprised at his behavior to date is an absolute mystery.

No part of BHO's promised gay rights agenda is going to get any attention until it's politically expedient. And if the far-left Democrats already have what they want, 'withholding' funds that they know they'll eventually get isn't going to change that. They're already willing to give away seats in order to ram socialized medicine down Americans' throats, so clearly they're not feeling any political pressure to maintain the majority, which is the only thing your withheld funds can be used for. The Democrats know that the so-called "Republican" party's so-called "leadership" is going to follow their socialist lead in lockstep, just as they did under Bush. And they have no compunction regarding the exploitatioin of various social groups. You've been had.

Neither political party currently has America's national interests or American citizens' interests at heart. NO ONE should be more keenly aware of this than people in the gay community. Best to accept this now and start working to flush these criminals out of government.

Kenny · 1 month ago

I support this effort, but I'm wondering why you are not showing the tally of people who have signed the petition.

Sabio · 1 month ago

What a great strategy... for the first time in the history of this country we have a President who at least claims he will help us and instead staying in the room and reminding him of those promises we are going to leave the room and pout. I can't imagine how this would not work.

Patrick Simmons · 1 month ago

You obviously have posted without even having the decency of reading the blog. You may enjoy spending your life jumping through hoops and groveling for scrapes at the feet of the great straight master, but there are a few of us who believe in LGBT rights who have had enough. But you go back to your corner like a good little gay and make sure you use the puppy pad and maybe you'll get a little treat at the end of the day.

Patrick Simmons · 1 month ago

Wow, look at all the faux LGBT supporters coming out of the closet and spewing forth anger at the gay community just because they are threatening to boycott or "pause" support to the DNC. I hope this shows everyone that it wasn't gay rights they were pretending to show support for, it was gay dollars and gay votes.

JMR · 1 month ago

I feel certain that many people feel the same way as the author of this post. Unfortunately, it becomes difficult to follow because of so many grammatical errors. Hard to sign on when it seems that the initial appeal is presented in a less than careful way.

the czarina · 1 month ago

I have sent the following email to both the White House and the DNC websites:

I am in my 50's, a life-long Democrat, and worked vigorously through house parties, phone-banking, and donations, for President Obama's election.

I never found a Republican idea I liked and passionately despise everything into which that party has devolved.

So it is with regret that I inform you that I have taken Americablog's pledge not to donate to or support my Party until promises made to the GLBT community are kept.

For your information, I am heterosexual and have no close family members who are GLBT. This is a Civil Rights issue of burning importance and a matter of keeping promises, plain and simple.

I hope this situation is extremely temporary: that the President and the Democratic Party keep their promises so that I may soon again open my modest wallet but also my excellent volunteering skills to my Party.

In Solidarity, Joe and John.

joelbelan · 1 month ago

We put President Barack Obama into the White House with a pen in his hand to do good. We sacrificed and donated cheered and volunteered. We have 23 Democrats voting to undermine the efforts towards progress for a fair and free country. These elected officials including our president appear to be deaf to anything but the opening and closing of corporate coffers. I too hope this gesture is temporary, but it is the most universally understood vote. Wallets, yours and mine. CLOSE 'EM. Standing together we will be heard.

philipcfromnyc · 1 month ago

If President Obama cannot or will not remember the promises that he made to gay Americans as he accepted our votes and our support, then it falls to us to remind him of the full power of that support by withdrawing it until such time as he comes to his senses and realizes both the power and the necessity of that support...

Granted, President Obama signed the Matthew Shepard / James Byrd Hate Crimes Act into law, marking the end of a struggle that lasted for well over a decade, to include sexual orientation in the protective ambit of this statute – a statute that ex-President Bush vowed to veto were it ever to have crossed his desk. President Obama has also lifted the policy that prohibited any person infected with HIV from entering the US or applying for permanent residency (“green card” status) on the same terms as other people, thus drawing praise from public health advocates who have strongly criticized the ban as being counterproductive and damaging to efforts to prevent the spread of this disease.

However, President Obama could put an immediate end to the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” military policy by issuing an executive order implementing the “stop loss” provisions of the ban on gay persons serving in the Armed Forces; he would not need Congressional approval to implement the “stop loss” provisions of this ban. Yet we hear a deafening silence from the White House relative to this issue.

President Obama continues to defend the obscene federal statute known as the “Defense of Marriage Act” (DOMA), despite the fact that he could instruct his Justice Department not to defend this measure from a challenge filed in federal court; ex-President Clinton did precisely this when he refused to defend a measure that would have expelled any member of the armed forces diagnosed as being infected with HIV, and which would have withdrawn from that member healthcare and other forms of assistance routinely granted to members of the armed forces who are “separated” due to other medical conditions.

President Obama could throw his full weight behind the “Employment Non-Discrimination Act” (ENDA), which would pass Congress provided it were supported by the President; yet again, we hear a deafening silence from the White House relative to this issue.

Clearly, President Obama considers us to be little more than political ballast, to be jettisoned at the first opportunity should the need so arise. Let us therefore sign the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Give” pledge – and mean it – until such time as we receive positive feedback, in the form of active political support on these (and other) issues from the White House.

PHILIP CHANDLER

r4 dsi · 1 month ago

Hi,
I like this article but..
Can someone tell me about Barack Obama?
I know that he is a serious candidate for '08, but I would like to know where he stands on the issues. I checked his site but nowhere can I find the info. i am looking for.
so please tell me...

Steve Bond · 1 month ago

Lip Service is very unbecoming to a man that we helped get into office.

Ron Crutcher · 3 weeks ago

I'm disgusted. Obama was the first candidate I ever donated to and these hard facts show he is way off course. It's time to remind him what he PROMISED before I continue my support of him. Period.

MG · 2 weeks ago

Uhhh... I was over him from the start... This country is going to the shitter... and Obama is using it as toilet paper to wipe his ass... Someday we will have our rights... I don't want them to be granted by him though...

starman1695 · 2 weeks ago

Anybody else get the feeling that MG is just a little bigotted?

Steve Bond · 2 weeks ago

I am only giving to Allen Grayson and Moveon.org right now. That's it.

kevinpaiz · 1 week ago

I have to say that I am wondering whether we should even support any Democrats at all? I mean, when the Republicans had control of Congress, there was no support for the GLBT community and now that the Democrats are in control; it seems like there is absolutely no support for the GLBT community! I am seriously considering leaving the Democratic party and join either the Libertarian or Green party.