When it comes to voicing "pretty words" about LGBT equality, Barack Obama doesn't hold back and likes to toot his own horn. The problem is, however, when action is required, Obama must be dragged along screaming to be forced to act. The repeal measure for DADT is a case in point. LGBT activism and refusal to shut up forced his hand, not his burning support for LGBT Americans. I suspect that behind the scenes something similar motivated the Justice Department decision to cease defending DOMA. When it comes to CIVIL LAW marriage, Obama continues to put his personal sensibilities ahead of full civil law equality. With today marking the beginning of Pride Month, Obama issued a statement which in my view should be taken with a grain of salt at best. I am more impressed by strong actions than by "pretty words." Here are snippets of Obama's statement via The Advocate:*
The story of America's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community is the story of our fathers and sons, our mothers and daughters, and our friends and neighbors who continue the task of making our country a more perfect Union," reads the statement. "It is a story about the struggle to realize the great American promise that all people can live with dignity and fairness under the law. Each June, we commemorate the courageous individuals who have fought to achieve this promise for LGBT Americans, and we rededicate ourselves to the pursuit of equal rights for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
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"Since taking office, my Administration has made significant progress towards achieving equality for LGBT Americans. Last December, I was proud to sign the repeal of the discriminatory 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy.
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"My Administration has also taken steps to eliminate discrimination against LGBT Americans in Federal housing programs and to give LGBT Americans the right to visit their loved ones in the hospital. We have made clear through executive branch nondiscrimination policies that discrimination on the basis of gender identity in the Federal workplace will not be tolerated.
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No one should be harmed because of who they are or who they love, and my Administration has mobilized unprecedented public commitments from countries around the world to join in the fight against hate and homophobia."
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Is Obama better than the Chimperator? Most definitely. But he could do so much more and use his "bloody pulpit" far more to fight homophobia - especially that found in the black community.
1 comment:
I've gotten hate before for my views about Obama, but at this point in time, I no longer care. He is the worst sort of politician. He mouths support, but there isnt any true understanding and belief behind his words. He is just grandstanding for both money and votes. I would much rather have a hater in office, at least you KNOW where they stand. And often if one can open the eyes and the hearts of a hater, they are usually loyal forever. But because Obama is speaking one thing and believing another, tis quite hard to pin him down.
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