AMERICAblog: Top Obama aides holding conf. call with LGBT members of the DNC on Monday afternoon
Diogenes
· 5 months ago
It's a small point, but I can't resist: Instead of calling it "the gay ATM", you've got to call it the GayTM. It's just too cool to pass up. I know it leaves out the L,B, &T, but c'mon...the GayTM sounds so slick! No?
KarenMrsLloydRichards
· 5 months ago
The DNC and the Obama Administration think they'll back up to the GayTMs in huge Hummers, attach chains to the machines, thrust those babies into forward, and pull those GayTMs right out of the wall!
mamazboy
· 5 months ago
I've been thinking along those same lines, Diogenes. GayTM is perfect. Every little improvement counts!
Diogenes
· 5 months ago
No Equality, No GayTM! I see T-shirts, frisbees, messenger bags!
dimitri
· 5 months ago
Joe & John, perhaps y'all can give the LGBT caucus some ideas to bring up. How about, for a start, some federal rights. How about making sure the UAFA is included in the up and coming immigration reform.
Support the UAFA.
R_obert
· 5 months ago
They can all the tele-conferences they want, but we at the bottom, hold the money, and that's how we should put pressure on the guys at the top, (gay, and congress). Talk is wonderful, results will get my $, and not one cent before. Our guys need to play hard ball and press back. Why should we be afraid of them? We are in the right, and they know it. It's simple, the Constitution and Equality are on our side.
bbock
· 5 months ago
I live in California, but I gave $$ to Maine Freedom to Marry. I think that gays and lesbians should divert all the money that we would normally give to the DNC and DNC candidates.
MElouise
· 5 months ago
Thank you! :)
I'm a native Mainer and working me butt off to help everyone in my state have the same legal rights I as a straight have. State level first; fed is gonna take some time... BUT FAIR IS FAIR.
Butch1
· 5 months ago
Does anyone know who the DNC gays will be? Perhaps, they need some talking-points written down and ready to use. If the WH starts its yelling, they need to tell them that if and when they are ready to hear our thoughts, give us a call back and then, hang-up.
Diogenes
· 5 months ago
Perfect! When they stop yelling and pause for a breath, they'll be listening to the dial tone. Can we stream this call live online? Surely the White House isn't into secrets!
FunMe
· 5 months ago
Someone has GOT to secretly tape it.
Please?
Pretty please?
Butch1
· 5 months ago
If they knew others were listening in they would be on their best behavior. It's not unlike a bully picking on his victim only to have an adult surprise them and watch the behavior of the bully instantly change 180 degrees.
(transparency - don't believe a word of it.)
Diogenes
· 5 months ago
Who says we have to tell them they're being streamed? Linda Tripp didn't go to jail. We'll get Ashton Kutcher to get on the line at the end of the call to tell them "You've been Punk'd!"
Butch1
· 5 months ago
I like it! ;-)
aggieric
· 5 months ago
I remind all of you again - please don't forget the Uniting American Families Act. Personally, in another year and a half, I will have to choose between my country and my partner. He wants to say here, but...
SD_Dave
· 5 months ago
He bro, I just e-mailed Congresswoman Susan Davis (CA-53) and both of my Senators, Dianne Feinstein (what a waste) and Barbara Boxer (a little less of a waste) and urged them to get on it!
It is absolutely ridiculous that in 2009 we are still having to protest this shit!
unitednation
· 5 months ago
Thanks Dave,
Boxer has already cosponsored. Feinstein did respond rather cryptically a few weeks ago, kind of odd because she helped Shirley Tan out.
If anyone lives in Penn. - Senator Specter came out for UAFA at the Hearing but has yet to Cosponsor.
Hey we may have to live in exile but at least federal employees have their moving expenses;-0
DutchButch
· 5 months ago
This is from Rep. Schakowsky (Illinois!) 'Legislation has been introduced by Ellen Tauscher, the chief sponsor of the bill, HR 1283, to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell. I'm a co-sponsor. I have good reason to believe the President will support this legislation -- but it's not clear when.'
Not clear 'when' Obama will support it????? How about NOW!!! How about clearing THAT up with this meeting with these oh-so-important-White-House-staffers?
Diogenes
· 5 months ago
Tell Schakowsky, Tauscher, and Obama that you'll be sending financial support, "but it's not clear when."
DutchButch
· 5 months ago
Ah! Too funny!! Will use it sometime, somewhere in my communications with them for sure!!
FunMe
· 5 months ago
Talk is CHEAP.
And a conference call? How about a face-to-face meeting? A lot more can be accomplished when you look at the other person straight in the eye.
The only thing that will "placate" me is:
1. End of DOMA 2. End of DADT 3. Signing into law: ENDA
That's it ... for now!
How about a little tip for Obama. Get this done NOW and you'll have all the time in the world to take care of other problems.
Christophe
· 5 months ago
Want this man's administration to understand something:
Being Gay in America is something one IS, not something one "does"; and that difference is paramount, because living in America is too difficult without a level playing field. Success requires protection from those motivated by hate against us; the right to freedom from discrimination in hiring; proper reward in loyal service to the US Armed Forces; equity in domestic and international treatment and travel; and a respectful forum for our relationships, and our contribution to this nation. There is no need for insult in this process: the pain has been too great; and the wait has been too long. The sky has simply not fallen; and History, and the Law - are on our side. For a man that prides himself on understanding "nuance" - he *must* learn to appreciate these distinctions - as opposed to the lies told about us. It is in this president's, and this nation's, interest - to get on our Good Side, and soon. He, and our nation, have to learn that there is an Upside to doing so - far outweighing the "downside" our "critics" wish to perpetuate. We work damn hard for this country, and won't be backhanded by anyone, in the current effort.
To the "GLBT groups" I would add: Get on the E.D.U.C.A.T.I.O.N. bandwagon, in relation to the GLBT Community re: its interface with the larger world - and Stay There! Do the right thing, help GLBT youth, aged and infirm, and Teach!
Peace
KarenMrsLloydRichards
· 5 months ago
The DNC's LGBT reps to Messina and Gaspard:
"Hello? Can you hear us? This line doesn't seem to be very good. We want to thank President Obama for all the fabulous work he has done so far for the LGBT community! And it's only been 150 days! He's been so forceful saying how much he thinks DOMA and DADT are not good. And granting more benefits and protections for federal workers and their partners (we won't say "spouses"!) was a fantastic and brave first step! And counting us in the Census! (Did you guys ever figure out who will actually do that? Will be it be Rahm? We sure hope so!). The President is to be commended and we will issue more effusive and praiseworthy press releases to that effect. That's what we do. Hello? Are you there? This connection isn't very good. Could we maybe schedule, possibly, a meeting face-to-face with you for another meeting with some more important White House people. Hello? Hello?" [line goes dead].
rand503
· 5 months ago
Love it, Karen! We all know that's exactly how things will go. But the line won't go dead. After promising fealty, Messina and Gaspard will indeed rip into them for 'creating' the mess. They will issue them marching orders to 'get on message' with the LGBT community.
IF there is any conversation of substance, the WH will assure the DNC that they are 'working diligently' on our issues, and that we can expect results 'soon.' It will be said with an air of finality that says, don't dare ask for any more specifics and this meeting is over.
Mark
· 5 months ago
I couldn't agree with you more.
I have a suspicion that those caucus members who participate in this conference call are going to be the biggest pansies when it comes to getting our message across. But that's ok. I think there are plenty of us who are closing down the GayTM (good one Diogenes) until we see results...and promises aren't results.
aggieric
· 5 months ago
here are some DNC LGBT caucus names, including the chair. It's mostly a cut-and-paste job from newspaper articles so it's messy and a bit random:
Evan Low, a city councilman of Campbell, California John Perez, a state representative for Los Angeles Melissa Sklarz, a transgendered delegate from New York Arizona State Rep. Kyrsten Sinema California delegate Shannon Minter (male) Rick Stafford, the LGBT Caucus Chair former executive director of the Gay and Lesbian Leadership Council at the Democratic National Committee, Stonewall Democrat Brian Bond Linda Chavez-Thompson DNC Vice Chair Rick Stafford DNC LGBT Caucus Chair Christopher Pappas (New Hampshire) who became the first delegate elected in 2008. The Treasurer of Hillsborough County Jason Rae (Wisconsin) who - at 21 - is the youngest "super delegate" in the nation. Rae has declared his delegate vote for Barack Obama. Rae is a Member of the Democratic National Committee LGBT Americans Caucus. Jane Bradshaw (Georgia), who was elected as a pledged delegate to Barack Obama from Atlanta. This will be the first national convention for Bradshaw, who is a member of the Atlanta Stonewall Democrats.
Javier Morillo-Alicea (Minnesota) who is President of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 26 in the Twin Cities. Morillo-Alicea was elected as a pledged delegate to Barack Obama and is a member of the Minnesota Stonewall Democratic-Farmer-Labor Caucus..
Amanda Simpson (Arizona) of Tucson. Simpson is a consultant and test pilot for an major aerospace company. Active in local Democratic politics, Simpson is also openly transgender and a pledged delegate for Hillary Clinton. Simpson is a member of the Southern Arizona Stonewall Democrats.
Jeff Richardson (District of Columbia) who serves as Vice Chair of the District of Columbia Democratic State Committee and as a Member of the Democratic National Committee. Richardson has declared his delegate vote for Barack Obama. Richardson is a member of the Gertrude Stein Democratic Club, the Stonewall Democrats chapter in the District of Columbia.
Sonya Lewis (Colorado) was elected a pledged delegate for Hillary Clinton in a crowded field due to the competitive caucus system in Colorado. As a lesbian and a Latina, Lewis hopes to use her participation in the Democratic National Convention to promote an action agenda shared by multiple Democratic communities. Lewis is a member of the Colorado Stonewall Democrats,
Paul Tran (Texas) of Dallas. A founder of the Young Stonewall Democrats network, Tran is nationally active in both youth and Asian American organizing within the Democratic Party and has helped to found numerous Stonewall Democrats chapters both in Texas and across the nation. Tran is a pledged delegate for Hillary Clinton and member of the Dallas Stonewall Democrats and a past president of the Stonewall Young Democrats of Dallas.
Heather Mizeur (Maryland) who serves as a Delegate in the Maryland House of Delegates and a Member of the Democratic National Committee. As a "super delegate" Mizuer has declared her support for Barack Obama.
Ian Palmquist (on the day job he's ED at Equality NC
SD_Dave
· 5 months ago
Very Nice! Thanks for doing the footwork!
psychodrew
· 5 months ago
All they care about is money. Now that's change we can believe in.
DaveOinSF
· 5 months ago
Show that this is in good faith. Cancel the fundraiser.
UnkaWillbur
· 5 months ago
The progressive community, as a whole, needs to start playing hardball NOW, or health care is in the toilet for us all, LGBT or S.
Name
· 5 months ago
"This does go to show -- and I've heard it from many people on other issues -- if you want the attention of the Obama White House, you have to play hard ball."
I don't understand if you have to play hardball with the Obama Administration, then why aren't they playing hardball with the Republicans?
Butch1
· 5 months ago
That would require cojones, of which they apparently, have none.
Frank Probst
· 5 months ago
Good Lord, these idiots just can't stop blowing it. You're offering a conference call NOW? You screwed the pooch twice in one week, and now the best you can do is a conference call? Please. I hope they all say, "Sorry, can't talk right now. I'm on the other line with my travel agent trying to get a refund on these plane tickets."
travelingmanrick
· 5 months ago
I think that the time is ripe for us to start a new grass roots group that has protests nationwide much the way that ACT UP did back in the day. I am sick and tired of getting taken for granted.
We have been far too eager to leave it up to the mainstream organizations and the suits to quietly argue our case. I say we start protesting in cities nationwide...do you think we could pull it off?
Just asking...
MikeinSanJo
· 5 months ago
If there is any sort of "Decision" or "Agreement" or "Position/Policy Statement" by our LGBT "Leaders" 10 minutes after this conference call, we'll know WE'VE BEEN FUCKED AGAIN!
Most of these douches would have been thrilled to accept Obama's wilted olive branch and accept the "Federal Benefits" temporary gift (Presidential Memoranda go away when he leaves office).
John, are you going to be on this call? We need someone in there who won't be blinded by all the glittery fairy dust the Obama folks have taken to throwing our way. We need someone who will ask a tough question and not be distracted by the jibber-jabber they will undoubtedly receive in return.
"Gay America: What is the president doing to help us, the demographic you so convincingly pandered to during the campaign and the same people who overwhelmingly responded to that call? You made so many promises in your campaign, but unless I'm mistaken, all I've heard is "Fuck Off!" since you took office.
Obama Administration: Well, we've just released a new line of Corelle Dinnerware with several "YOU GOT P'WNED" & "SUCKERS!" graphics to let you know how much we appreciated your votes. Why Corelle? So you can throw them against the wall again and again... cuz you won't be able to afford to replace them!"
dacnova
· 5 months ago
If I hear Creigh Deeds needs last minute money this fall, I may hold my nose and make a small donation. (He voted for the Amendment that keeps my marriage from being recognized, so I'm having trouble actively supporting him though I have no choice but to vote for him.) But this ATM, which has been as generous as I could afford for several years, is not going to be available until I see some actual results. They know most of us are going to keep voting Dem; did they not stop and think we'd shut our wallets?
I wish there was a viable fiscal conservative/social progressive party. (Not a "No Taxes" party... more of a financially responsible party...)
Gridlock
· 5 months ago
No choice?
You're on a leash. They know it.
But they're on your leash too. If they want your money and vote, then they have to earn it. If they don't earn it, why would you give it to them.
MichaelS
· 5 months ago
We're NOT on a leash. We actually wouyld have been better off with Bush in office... we'd still get the same DOMA brief, but it wouldn't have any credibility coming from Bush. Coming from Obama, it gives all the wingnuts very credible and very damaging talking points. No, give me an honest homophobe any day over a lying, craven one.
usagi
· 5 months ago
Yep. I wish that would penetrate the skulls of the "Oh noz! McCain/Palin would have been SO much worse!!1!" crowd. The actual outcome is the same, and with honest homophobes, you know where you stand.
DaveOinSF
· 5 months ago
If DADT repeal comes to a vote in this Congress, I will bet $50 that McCain votes yes.
Butch1
· 5 months ago
"(He voted for the Amendment that keeps my marriage from being recognized, so I'm having trouble actively supporting him though I have no choice but to vote for him.)" ====================================
Are you serious?? Why don't you get your money's worth and let him punch you as well?!!
When you stop drinking the kool-aid, you might consider making your vote not available to this person. How can you vote for or support a person who doesn't believe you should be married? This person is not your only option.
dacnova
· 5 months ago
He claims he voted against it at the ballot box. Something about letting the people vote or some other BS. He'll still get my vote because the GOP alternative would be happy to put sodomy laws back on the books. The GOP ticket for Gov, Lt. Gov, and AG is about as far to the right as possible. So I'm not a big Deeds fan, but we need to keep control of the governor's mansion because of the 2010 census. Redistricting. It's not kool-aid drinking; it's pragmatism. I don't like it any more than you do, but consider the alternative.
Butch1
· 5 months ago
"but consider the alternative" ==================================== He isn't your only choice. Think outside of the box for a moment. Don't vote for either of them if he is hardly any better than the republican. Perhaps, you should call his office and pin them down on his views and explain that he will be losing your vote unless he starts doing the right thing. Or, check out other progressive parties in your state. I don't consider it wasting a vote. But, we need to get out of the mindset that we have to hold our noses and vote for someone because they stink less than the other one. Good luck.
dacnova
· 5 months ago
3rd party votes are a wasted vote on the State or Federal level.
Butch1
· 5 months ago
I disagree. How else are we going to get rid of the "dead-wood" and those who work against us ever achieving our rights? One doesn't keep rewarding them by voting them back into office at every turn. Don't fall for the excuse that they are our only choice. If more people start voting 3rd party they can be removed.
Bruno
· 5 months ago
The GOP alternative can put sodomy laws on Virginia's book if he wants, but they'll be federally prohibited. Will anything else happen that TRULY separates either candidate on LGBT issues?
thecrustybastard_blogspot_com
· 5 months ago
You "have no choice" but to vote for a person that votes against you? LOL WUT? Is there a gun against your head?
How about this idea: go to the polls and support someone who...oh, hell I dunno...maybe supports YOU. That vote counts just as much. Seriously.
Why be complicit in your own oppression? And if you don't have enough self-respect for that, why be complicit in the oppression of your friends?
Man, it's exactly this shit that gets us nowhere fast.
nokkonwud
· 5 months ago
Talk is good.
Action is better.
Webster
· 5 months ago
Talk is cheap.
Action is imperative.
dacnova
· 5 months ago
Forgot to mention... this sounds like a move of desperation 4 days before the major fund raiser. Do you think they're expecting even more prominent gays to back out? (Hello, Tammy, Jared, and Frank, I'm talking to YOU.)
Wren Margaret
· 5 months ago
Yeah, it reeks of "wonderful" desperation. Hehe.
mml34
· 5 months ago
ohhh goodie! a meeting! gee whiz that's fabulous! alert the media, a meeting! i wonder if we'll get to go into the oval office again, or if we'll have to meet at the kitchen counter or out back on the porch?
Diogenes
· 5 months ago
No, they'll flash their headlights and wait in their car.
Oh, I'm going to hell.
Phoenix_Rising
· 5 months ago
Well, now, I think the picnic table that he met with Hillary at would be PERFECT.
It's right next to the swingset in the side yard, which should be handy for acting out the hard-to-pin-down positions of the administration on our rights.
KarenMrsLloydRichards
· 5 months ago
Not even a meeting; it's a phone call. A conference call. How 1986.
Butch1
· 5 months ago
They don't like havin' us field faggots in the house proper. The porch faggots get mad that we are usurping them. Barney, the porch faggot doesn't like us resisting the Boss. Maybe, in the kitchen, and if we're good, a few scraps thrown our way. MMMmmmmmm, I'm gettin' hungry already. Are they gonna serve kool-aid with those scraps? They gave some to Barney . . .
mml34
· 5 months ago
maybe we could entertain the WH staff? we're so good at entertaining, and decorating you know?!
csnet
· 5 months ago
Millions of campaign contributions were made in the last cycle to the Democratic party and candidates who have now turned their backs on their campaign promises
If these leaders hasd any shame they would promptly refund these contributions based on fraudulent solicitation.
Hmmm. I almost forgot, they have no shame.
Gary
· 5 months ago
It doesn't help that Obama made a speech today that could easily have been delivered to a "promise keepers" rally.
MichaelS
· 5 months ago
Wouldn't this be the Gay & Lesbian Leadership Council of the DNC?
...and let's not forget Andy Tobias, DNC Treasurer
buddhistMonkey
· 5 months ago
((( "That might have been a big deal in 1979, not 2009." )))
Don't kid yourself. It would have been a big deal in 2008.
wandering_i
· 5 months ago
Where's David Geffen in all of this?
This rich, Hollywood power gay championed Barack Obama from the get go, hosting several high-profile fundraisers on his behalf. One has to wonder what his thoughts are on the current DOMA brief flap, and what his plans are for future fundraisers.
FunMe
· 5 months ago
Great question!
At least Mixner has spoken and removed himself from the DNC fundraiser along with other wealthy gays.
caphillprof
· 5 months ago
You all do realize that the NSA will be listening, taping and, I hope, leaking this conversation. I'm sure they'll have it in Jerusalem and Moscow, if not Washington DC.
Indigo
· 5 months ago
The White House needs to play catch-up. Nothing less than full equality right across the board is enough. I'm not sure they know that. As for donations, I want my money back!
Nick_Upstate
· 5 months ago
Yes, to supporting Freedom to Marry and other similar causes in Maine and other states. Obama is going to do nothing to support the kinds of things the LGBT community needs. Obama is a 'day late and a dollar short,' to quote on old expression, regarding his conference call. I don't think anyone is fooled by this.
Liam
· 5 months ago
No last minute conference call is needed.
It's simple. No gay rights? NO GAY DOLLARS!
The time for meetings, press releases full of promises for future legislation, and empty signing ceremonies is over.
We will funnel our money, time and energy into candidates with a proven track record of fighting for us and our families.
My advice to the Dems would be to stop covering your ass and get to work. Elections are around the corner.
Nick_Upstate
· 5 months ago
You wonder just who it is that has a proven track record in fighting for LGBT civil rights. Perhaps, you know some but I would suggest looking for the newer people out there who will be running for Congress and Senate in the coming days and get involved with them. A few bucks in that direction might help get them started and the encouragement you could supply might make a difference. Congress needs new blood.
RichardS
· 5 months ago
No more donations to the DNC or DSCC until DADT, DOMA are gone and EDNA is passed...period! As long as we keep giving without getting anything back they're going to play the game....... 'can't get it done now'...'don't have the votes'...bla, bla..... It's time to put the check books away when it comes to the DNC & DSCC...
Frank Probst
· 5 months ago
BTW, does anyone know if GMHC is still sending someone to the fundraiser?
DaveVentura
· 5 months ago
Obama Administration: We're going to talk to some gay people on the phone! Response: *Crickets Chirping*
This seems rather silly about the conference call. You'd think that they would have been doing this on an ongoing basis just as part of doing business.
wayne
· 5 months ago
A CONFERENCE CALL!! Dear God, what joke. The horse is already out of the barn. Stop all funding of the DNC now! It's an insult to think a pathetic conference call is going to clear up this mess. Nothing less than a face to face with BO and with results across the board.
ShirleyGoodnessanMercy
· 5 months ago
My thought exactly.... a fucking conference call! Jesus, where do the insults end????
nicho
· 5 months ago
If they don't come out of that "conference call" with something more than vague promises -- or if they don't come out screaming that's all they got -- their organizations will be toast. I hope they realize that.
I will have no respect for anyone who lets themselves be led down the garden path by a third- or fourth-level White House flunky.
When other groups -- especially groups who oppose Obama -- were pissed off, he went and spoke to them directly. They didn't get some assistant to a deputy assistant to the secretary of the White House secretary.
And, you just know that Obama takes Rick Warren's calls on the second ring.
offspring
· 5 months ago
I hope people notice your point that many will over look when in the past large groups had a problem with him , HE meant with them directly.
Radon
· 5 months ago
The 40th anniversary of Stonewall. How far have we come in 40 years? Clearly not far enough.
How quaint. A phone call to placate those with money. And give them important updates on how Obama is proving himself to be an all talk/no action homophobe. Updates are unacceptable. I wonder if the DNC members are going to have the balls to demand action? If I was one of them, I would say, first the Obama White House acts and passes laws protecting/guaranteeing the civil rights of our community, and then and ONLY then would I give them any money whatsoever.
But I'm not monied, so what could I possibly do?
nursejefe
· 5 months ago
We also need to get the ball moving faster on the the final steps of lifting the HIV travel ban. Why is it still sitting in limbo in the OMB?
offspring
· 5 months ago
how about lifting the stupid idiototic band on gays donating blood. stupid crap like that is held up as legit when in fact it is far from it and people see that it separates us from society as all possibally disseased.
offspring
· 5 months ago
until i hear a PLAN to get doma and dadt gone a legit plan i am not giving a dime or a vote.
offspring
· 5 months ago
i nominate lt choi to head up the commitee for us to get rid of dadt, and as far as the rest of the gay leadership in washington send them packing
Barney
· 5 months ago
You guys just keep hoping. How many times do you have to kicked in the head before you realize NOBAMA just keeps tossing little bread crumbs to keep you crawling back? He's just announced that fathers in America need to step up. This is the launch of a new initiative. What happened to your issues? He's made, and broken, campaign promises to you and he's pushing better fathers. The DNC sits silent, waiting for you guys to come crawling back. Will you?
That's the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus - elected members of the House. Not, I'm pretty sure, the same thing as the Democratic National Committee LGBT Caucus.
Remember - the DNC LGBT Caucus has pulled out of the fundraiser next week - but Frank, Polis and Baldwin have not.
SD_Dave
· 5 months ago
Dammit! You're right.
In that case, could it possibly just be the Stonewall Democrats?
aggieric
· 5 months ago
See my most recent post -
ShirleyGoodnessanMercy
· 5 months ago
I'm so pissed at how the Obama Administration has fucked over us gay citizens, and insulted us, and said "fuck you" to those of us naive enough to think he actually wanted justice and equality for us...
I wouldn't even accept a personal invitation to the White House right now. I am just too hurt, too disgusted, too angry, and too mind-boggled by the unnecessity of it all. Only a heapin' helpin' of actual justice will make me utter his name again with a smile... and I was his biggest supporter last fall.
BrooklynRider
· 5 months ago
It might be a little more convincing if they held a town hall meeting and spoke directly to the gay community. The people they are going to talk to are as much politicians as anyone else. I fully expect a behind the door deal and everyone comes out smiling and talking about a "Clear Plan" that will never be articulated.
djreedps
· 5 months ago
When anti-gay groups have opposed gay rights legislation in the past, one tactic they have is to point out when supposed friends of the GLBT community have done anti-gay things. One example is when Democratic President Bill Clinton passed Don't Ask, Don't Tell as a compromise because the then Democratic-led Congress early in his first term opposed letting gay soldiers openly serve in the military. A second example is when President Bill Clinton during his second term signed the Defense of Marriage Act (DoMA) into law. In the past, anti-gay people have said, "Well, your guy Bill Clinton signed DADT and DoMA." It's hard to argue against that statement.
So what Obama's Department of Justice did in not only defending DoMA but equating consenting gay adult couples with pedophiles and incest abusers not only outraged GLBT people but it also gave a ton of ammunition to anti-gay groups. Now, the anti-gay groups and anti-gay members of Congress have a very significant new argument against repealing DoMA: they can just point out that it was President Obama's Department of Justice conflating gay people with pedophiles and incest abusers. Furthermore, they can argue, President Obama has never condemned those remarks of his own Department of Justice. On the contrary, Obama's press secretary defended the DoJ's DoMA court brief.
So even if a repeal of DoMA were to be debated and voted on in Congress, it now has much less chance of passing due to President Barack Obama's Department of Justice DoMA legal brief. See, even Obama's administration thinks gay people are as evil and sinful as pedophiles and incest abusers.
Pat Robertson, James Dobson (+ his successor), and every other anti-gay activist probably salivated and thanked Jesus when they heard about the Obama DoJ defense of DoMA.
fredndallas
· 5 months ago
Yes and I really and truly totally believe that was intentional and sick.
Barack Obama has a deep, personal, dysfunctional emotional, homophobic problem with gay folks. We must continue to expose it -- and yes, make it personal.
Only when he is personally embarrassed to the extent that many people begin to ask, "hmmm...what's his problem?" will we get traction.
Antinous
· 5 months ago
They want money people, don't be fooled. Keep your cash in your pockets until you see some changes, don't be fooled again, don't take this lying down, fight back.
Gary
· 5 months ago
SWEEEET! We get a phone call . . .
. . .oh never mind. . .that line is busy. . . .they're going to get the old fax machine . . .bdzzzrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxrrrrrrrrrrrrrrxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Anyone who has ever contributed to the Obama campaign knows that that he or she will be solicited again and frequently. For those of you who can afford make a pledge to donate to the Maine campaign to preserve equal marriage rights every time President Barack Obama and/or the DNC asks for money. Whether we go down do defeat in Maine or not at least we'd know that our money went to those who are fighting for us.
marcus
· 5 months ago
I TRIED to warn all of you that obama was not going to be a gay rights advocate,, which is why i wrote in HILLARY last november,, he fooled ALL of you who voted for him, and now bitch about being thrown under the bus,,
just do what any self respecting gay person can do at this point, STOP sending money to the dnc, and give it to people who actually DO care about us...
I did try and warn all of you about him, but NOOOOO, you had to have the change you can believe it,, well do you sleep well at night knowing the person you voted for has thrown you under the bus?
All Comments
Support the UAFA.
I'm a native Mainer and working me butt off to help everyone in my state have the same legal rights I as a straight have. State level first; fed is gonna take some time... BUT FAIR IS FAIR.
Please?
Pretty please?
(transparency - don't believe a word of it.)
It is absolutely ridiculous that in 2009 we are still having to protest this shit!
Boxer has already cosponsored. Feinstein did respond rather cryptically a few weeks ago, kind of odd because she helped Shirley Tan out.
If anyone lives in Penn. - Senator Specter came out for UAFA at the Hearing but has yet to Cosponsor.
Hey we may have to live in exile but at least federal employees have their moving expenses;-0
'Legislation has been introduced by Ellen Tauscher, the chief sponsor of the bill, HR 1283, to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell. I'm a co-sponsor. I have good reason to believe the President will support this legislation -- but it's not clear when.'
Not clear 'when' Obama will support it????? How about NOW!!!
How about clearing THAT up with this meeting with these oh-so-important-White-House-staffers?
Will use it sometime, somewhere in my communications with them for sure!!
And a conference call? How about a face-to-face meeting? A lot more can be accomplished when you look at the other person straight in the eye.
The only thing that will "placate" me is:
1. End of DOMA
2. End of DADT
3. Signing into law: ENDA
That's it ... for now!
How about a little tip for Obama. Get this done NOW and you'll have all the time in the world to take care of other problems.
Being Gay in America is something one IS, not something one "does"; and that difference is paramount, because living in America is too difficult without a level playing field. Success requires protection from those motivated by hate against us; the right to freedom from discrimination in hiring; proper reward in loyal service to the US Armed Forces; equity in domestic and international treatment and travel; and a respectful forum for our relationships, and our contribution to this nation. There is no need for insult in this process: the pain has been too great; and the wait has been too long. The sky has simply not fallen; and History, and the Law - are on our side. For a man that prides himself on understanding "nuance" - he *must* learn to appreciate these distinctions - as opposed to the lies told about us. It is in this president's, and this nation's, interest - to get on our Good Side, and soon. He, and our nation, have to learn that there is an Upside to doing so - far outweighing the "downside" our "critics" wish to perpetuate. We work damn hard for this country, and won't be backhanded by anyone, in the current effort.
To the "GLBT groups" I would add: Get on the E.D.U.C.A.T.I.O.N. bandwagon, in relation to the GLBT Community re: its interface with the larger world - and Stay There! Do the right thing, help GLBT youth, aged and infirm, and Teach!
Peace
"Hello? Can you hear us? This line doesn't seem to be very good. We want to thank President Obama for all the fabulous work he has done so far for the LGBT community! And it's only been 150 days! He's been so forceful saying how much he thinks DOMA and DADT are not good. And granting more benefits and protections for federal workers and their partners (we won't say "spouses"!) was a fantastic and brave first step! And counting us in the Census! (Did you guys ever figure out who will actually do that? Will be it be Rahm? We sure hope so!). The President is to be commended and we will issue more effusive and praiseworthy press releases to that effect. That's what we do. Hello? Are you there? This connection isn't very good. Could we maybe schedule, possibly, a meeting face-to-face with you for another meeting with some more important White House people. Hello? Hello?" [line goes dead].
IF there is any conversation of substance, the WH will assure the DNC that they are 'working diligently' on our issues, and that we can expect results 'soon.' It will be said with an air of finality that says, don't dare ask for any more specifics and this meeting is over.
I have a suspicion that those caucus members who participate in this conference call are going to be the biggest pansies when it comes to getting our message across. But that's ok. I think there are plenty of us who are closing down the GayTM (good one Diogenes) until we see results...and promises aren't results.
Evan Low, a city councilman of Campbell, California
John Perez, a state representative for Los Angeles
Melissa Sklarz, a transgendered delegate from New York
Arizona State Rep. Kyrsten Sinema
California delegate Shannon Minter (male)
Rick Stafford, the LGBT Caucus Chair
former executive director of the Gay and Lesbian Leadership Council at the Democratic National Committee, Stonewall Democrat Brian Bond
Linda Chavez-Thompson DNC Vice Chair
Rick Stafford DNC LGBT Caucus Chair
Christopher Pappas (New Hampshire) who became the first delegate elected in 2008. The Treasurer of Hillsborough County
Jason Rae (Wisconsin) who - at 21 - is the youngest "super delegate" in the nation. Rae has declared his delegate vote for Barack Obama. Rae is a Member of the Democratic National Committee LGBT Americans Caucus.
Jane Bradshaw (Georgia), who was elected as a pledged delegate to Barack Obama from Atlanta. This will be the first national convention for Bradshaw, who is a member of the Atlanta Stonewall Democrats.
Javier Morillo-Alicea (Minnesota) who is President of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 26 in the Twin Cities. Morillo-Alicea was elected as a pledged delegate to Barack Obama and is a member of the Minnesota Stonewall Democratic-Farmer-Labor Caucus..
Amanda Simpson (Arizona) of Tucson. Simpson is a consultant and test pilot for an major aerospace company. Active in local Democratic politics, Simpson is also openly transgender and a pledged delegate for Hillary Clinton. Simpson is a member of the Southern Arizona Stonewall Democrats.
Jeff Richardson (District of Columbia) who serves as Vice Chair of the District of Columbia Democratic State Committee and as a Member of the Democratic National Committee. Richardson has declared his delegate vote for Barack Obama. Richardson is a member of the Gertrude Stein Democratic Club, the Stonewall Democrats chapter in the District of Columbia.
Sonya Lewis (Colorado) was elected a pledged delegate for Hillary Clinton in a crowded field due to the competitive caucus system in Colorado. As a lesbian and a Latina, Lewis hopes to use her participation in the Democratic National Convention to promote an action agenda shared by multiple Democratic communities. Lewis is a member of the Colorado Stonewall Democrats,
Paul Tran (Texas) of Dallas. A founder of the Young Stonewall Democrats network, Tran is nationally active in both youth and Asian American organizing within the Democratic Party and has helped to found numerous Stonewall Democrats chapters both in Texas and across the nation. Tran is a pledged delegate for Hillary Clinton and member of the Dallas Stonewall Democrats and a past president of the Stonewall Young Democrats of Dallas.
Heather Mizeur (Maryland) who serves as a Delegate in the Maryland House of Delegates and a Member of the Democratic National Committee. As a "super delegate" Mizuer has declared her support for Barack Obama.
Ian Palmquist (on the day job he's ED at Equality NC
I don't understand if you have to play hardball with the Obama Administration, then why aren't they playing hardball with the Republicans?
We have been far too eager to leave it up to the mainstream organizations and the suits to quietly argue our case. I say we start protesting in cities nationwide...do you think we could pull it off?
Just asking...
Most of these douches would have been thrilled to accept Obama's wilted olive branch and accept the "Federal Benefits" temporary gift (Presidential Memoranda go away when he leaves office).
John, are you going to be on this call? We need someone in there who won't be blinded by all the glittery fairy dust the Obama folks have taken to throwing our way. We need someone who will ask a tough question and not be distracted by the jibber-jabber they will undoubtedly receive in return.
"Gay America: What is the president doing to help us, the demographic you so convincingly pandered to during the campaign and the same people who overwhelmingly responded to that call? You made so many promises in your campaign, but unless I'm mistaken, all I've heard is "Fuck Off!" since you took office.
Obama Administration: Well, we've just released a new line of Corelle Dinnerware with several "YOU GOT P'WNED" & "SUCKERS!" graphics to let you know how much we appreciated your votes. Why Corelle? So you can throw them against the wall again and again... cuz you won't be able to afford to replace them!"
I wish there was a viable fiscal conservative/social progressive party. (Not a "No Taxes" party... more of a financially responsible party...)
You're on a leash. They know it.
But they're on your leash too. If they want your money and vote, then they have to earn it. If they don't earn it, why would you give it to them.
No, give me an honest homophobe any day over a lying, craven one.
The actual outcome is the same, and with honest homophobes, you know where you stand.
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Are you serious?? Why don't you get your money's worth and let him punch you as well?!!
When you stop drinking the kool-aid, you might consider making your vote not available to this person. How can you vote for or support a person who doesn't believe you should be married? This person is not your only option.
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He isn't your only choice. Think outside of the box for a moment. Don't vote for either of them if he is hardly any better than the republican. Perhaps, you should call his office and pin them down on his views and explain that he will be losing your vote unless he starts doing the right thing. Or, check out other progressive parties in your state. I don't consider it wasting a vote. But, we need to get out of the mindset that we have to hold our noses and vote for someone because they stink less than the other one. Good luck.
How about this idea: go to the polls and support someone who...oh, hell I dunno...maybe supports YOU. That vote counts just as much. Seriously.
Why be complicit in your own oppression? And if you don't have enough self-respect for that, why be complicit in the oppression of your friends?
Man, it's exactly this shit that gets us nowhere fast.
Action is better.
Action is imperative.
Oh, I'm going to hell.
It's right next to the swingset in the side yard, which should be handy for acting out the hard-to-pin-down positions of the administration on our rights.
If these leaders hasd any shame they would promptly refund these contributions based on fraudulent solicitation.
Hmmm. I almost forgot, they have no shame.
Brian Bond
Executive Director
gllc@dnc.org
Thomas Petrillo
Finance Director
PetrilloT@dnc.org
...and let's not forget Andy Tobias, DNC Treasurer
Don't kid yourself. It would have been a big deal in 2008.
This rich, Hollywood power gay championed Barack Obama from the get go, hosting several high-profile fundraisers on his behalf. One has to wonder what his thoughts are on the current DOMA brief flap, and what his plans are for future fundraisers.
At least Mixner has spoken and removed himself from the DNC fundraiser along with other wealthy gays.
It's simple. No gay rights? NO GAY DOLLARS!
The time for meetings, press releases full of promises for future legislation, and empty signing ceremonies is over.
We will funnel our money, time and energy into candidates with a proven track record of fighting for us and our families.
My advice to the Dems would be to stop covering your ass and get to work. Elections are around the corner.
Response: *Crickets Chirping*
This seems rather silly about the conference call. You'd think that they would have been doing this on an ongoing basis just as part of doing business.
I will have no respect for anyone who lets themselves be led down the garden path by a third- or fourth-level White House flunky.
When other groups -- especially groups who oppose Obama -- were pissed off, he went and spoke to them directly. They didn't get some assistant to a deputy assistant to the secretary of the White House secretary.
And, you just know that Obama takes Rick Warren's calls on the second ring.
How quaint. A phone call to placate those with money. And give them important updates on how Obama is proving himself to be an all talk/no action homophobe. Updates are unacceptable. I wonder if the DNC members are going to have the balls to demand action? If I was one of them, I would say, first the Obama White House acts and passes laws protecting/guaranteeing the civil rights of our community, and then and ONLY then would I give them any money whatsoever.
But I'm not monied, so what could I possibly do?
He's just announced that fathers in America need to step up. This is the launch of a new initiative. What happened to your issues? He's made, and broken, campaign promises to you and he's pushing better fathers. The DNC sits silent, waiting for you guys to come crawling back. Will you?
Remember - the DNC LGBT Caucus has pulled out of the fundraiser next week - but Frank, Polis and Baldwin have not.
In that case, could it possibly just be the Stonewall Democrats?
I wouldn't even accept a personal invitation to the White House right now. I am just too hurt, too disgusted, too angry, and too mind-boggled by the unnecessity of it all. Only a heapin' helpin' of actual justice will make me utter his name again with a smile... and I was his biggest supporter last fall.
So what Obama's Department of Justice did in not only defending DoMA but equating consenting gay adult couples with pedophiles and incest abusers not only outraged GLBT people but it also gave a ton of ammunition to anti-gay groups. Now, the anti-gay groups and anti-gay members of Congress have a very significant new argument against repealing DoMA: they can just point out that it was President Obama's Department of Justice conflating gay people with pedophiles and incest abusers. Furthermore, they can argue, President Obama has never condemned those remarks of his own Department of Justice. On the contrary, Obama's press secretary defended the DoJ's DoMA court brief.
So even if a repeal of DoMA were to be debated and voted on in Congress, it now has much less chance of passing due to President Barack Obama's Department of Justice DoMA legal brief. See, even Obama's administration thinks gay people are as evil and sinful as pedophiles and incest abusers.
Pat Robertson, James Dobson (+ his successor), and every other anti-gay activist probably salivated and thanked Jesus when they heard about the Obama DoJ defense of DoMA.
Barack Obama has a deep, personal, dysfunctional emotional, homophobic problem with gay folks. We must continue to expose it -- and yes, make it personal.
Only when he is personally embarrassed to the extent that many people begin to ask, "hmmm...what's his problem?" will we get traction.
. . .oh never mind. . .that line is busy. . . .they're going to get the old fax machine . . .bdzzzrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxrrrrrrrrrrrrrrxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_wusc4ZC4DPc/SjqX9TJ97...
just do what any self respecting gay person can do at this point, STOP sending money to the dnc, and give it to people who actually DO care about us...
I did try and warn all of you about him, but NOOOOO, you had to have the change you can believe it,, well do you sleep well at night knowing the person you voted for has thrown you under the bus?