The Obama administration yesterday announced that there would be an extension of some benefits to the same-sex partners of federal employees, but stopped short of offering full healthcare coverage. (The actual signing of the document is expected to happen tonight, so details are not complete). Did the President forget we are here? Last week, the Obama administration filed a legal brief defending the law forbidding federal recognition of same-sex marriage, even though Obama opposed it during his presidential campaign. (In a statement the day of the filing, administration attorneys said Obama considered the marriage ban discriminatory and wanted it rescinded, but was legally obligated to defend the law as long as it remained in force). As a candidate, Obama was a staunch supporter of gay and lesbian rights. Since taking office, however, he has disappointed many gay activists by defending some of the policies he criticized. He said he could end Don’t Ask/Don’t Tell, but as we have been saying here, he has done nothing yet.The administration in fact intervened with the Supreme Court and opposed efforts to overturn the "Don't Ask/Don't Tell" policy. The justices sided with the president, declining to hear a constitutional challenge. White House officials say they want Congress to repeal the policy outright instead of having to intervene on a case-by-case basis. What is being done though in Congress? Why is it taking so long? Our men and women in service to our country should not have to keep hiding. Oh and speaking of don’t hide, check out the shirt Lt. Dan Choi is holding up above. His sister is making them and you can get one! They are using proceeds to fund future legal battles! Go to www.donthidetm.com to place an order. You were looking for ways you could help, here is a way to make the fight more visible and also to put a little money back into the cause.
Today, nearly 70% of Americans favor military service by openly gay men and women. Let’s put an end to DADT now!
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