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Pres. Obama promises to end DADT, support ENDA, on eve of National Equality March
Submitted by E. Ross on Monday, 12 October 2009 – 11:53 AM2 Comments
President Obama addressed gay rights on the night before the National Equality March, describing the fight for gay equality in light of the history of rights movements, and pledging his support on a list of issues where he sees the opportunity for progress.
“I’m here with a simple message: I’m here with you in that fight,” he said, emphasizing his support despite the slow pace of progress. “Do not doubt the direction we are headed and the destination we will reach.”
In addition to praising the hosts of the dinner, the Human Rights Campaign, Pres. Obama also:
- recognized the commitment of Judy Shepard and the imminent passage of the Hate Crimes Act in Congress, saying, “This bill is set to pass and I will sign it into law.”
- supports an inclusive ENDA, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act.
- will defend his appointees when they are attacked for their sexual orientation.
- wants to renew the Ryan White Act for AIDS funding, and repeal the HIV status ban on entering the US.
- will repeal DADT: “I will end Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, that’s my commitment to you.”
- called on Congress to repeal the so-called Defense of Marriage Act and to pass the Domestic Partners Benefits and Obligations Act.
- honored the founders of PFLAG and the advocacy of parents for their GLBT children.
“Hope is stronger than hate,” he said, promising to work for an America “where no one is a second class citizen.” He did not give timetables, but pledged to continue working for equality “day by day, law by law, changing mind by mind. That is the promise.”
The full speech is posted here on 3 videos, and is worth watching:
