Justice Dept. Bans Event by Gay Staff
June 6, 2003
By ERIC LICHTBLAU
The prohibition, which prevents a group of employees from
holding their annual gay pride event at the department's
headquarters, is a first for any federal agency.
Justice Department officials told the group, called DOJ Pride, that it could not hold its annual event at the department because the White House had not formally recognized Gay Pride Month with a presidential proclamation, Marina Colby, a department policy analyst who is president of the group, said. The group represents several hundred gay and lesbian employees at the department.
http://www.nytimes.com/2003/06/06/politics...10324615aa7cc29
Let me know if the link dudn't work...
Full Version: Justice Dept. Cancels Gay Pride Event for LGBT Staff
From a friend:
http://www.nytimes.com/2003/06/06/politics/06GAYS.html
This is my favorite. Bush doesn't want to "politicize sexual orientation"
by issuing a proclamation on Gay Pride Month.
Here are some of the proclamations signed this year. Notice April 30th-
PRAYER, Aprl 2 donate life MONTH, Jan. 15 Religious Freedom Day, Jan 14,
National Sanctity of Human Life Day.
COME ON!
May 31 National Child's Day, 2003
May 21 National Maritime Day, 2003
May 9 National Safe Boating Week, 2003
May 2 Jewish Heritage Week, 2003
Apr. 30 Loyalty Day, 2003
Apr. 30 National Day of Prayer, 2003
Apr. 25 National Charter Schools Week, 2003
Apr. 18 National Park Week, 2003
Apr. 11 Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A., 2003
Apr. 2 National Donate Life Month, 2003
Mar. 28 To Take Certain Actions Under the African Growth and Opportunity
Act with Respect to the Republic of the Gambia and the Democratic Republic
of Congo
Mar. 18 Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and
American Democracy, 2003
Feb. 28 Save Your Vision Week, 2003
Feb. 28 Irish-American Heritage Month, 2003
Jan. 31 National African American History Month, 2003
Jan. 15 Religious Freedom Day, 2003
Jan. 14 National Sanctity of Human Life Day, 2003
Jan. 13 The Centennial of Korean Immigration to the United States
Jan. 13 A Proclamation: To Modify Duty-Free Treatment Under the Generalized
System of Preferences
Jan. 2 National Mentoring Month, 2003
http://www.nytimes.com/2003/06/06/politics/06GAYS.html
This is my favorite. Bush doesn't want to "politicize sexual orientation"
by issuing a proclamation on Gay Pride Month.
Here are some of the proclamations signed this year. Notice April 30th-
PRAYER, Aprl 2 donate life MONTH, Jan. 15 Religious Freedom Day, Jan 14,
National Sanctity of Human Life Day.
COME ON!
May 31 National Child's Day, 2003
May 21 National Maritime Day, 2003
May 9 National Safe Boating Week, 2003
May 2 Jewish Heritage Week, 2003
Apr. 30 Loyalty Day, 2003
Apr. 30 National Day of Prayer, 2003
Apr. 25 National Charter Schools Week, 2003
Apr. 18 National Park Week, 2003
Apr. 11 Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A., 2003
Apr. 2 National Donate Life Month, 2003
Mar. 28 To Take Certain Actions Under the African Growth and Opportunity
Act with Respect to the Republic of the Gambia and the Democratic Republic
of Congo
Mar. 18 Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and
American Democracy, 2003
Feb. 28 Save Your Vision Week, 2003
Feb. 28 Irish-American Heritage Month, 2003
Jan. 31 National African American History Month, 2003
Jan. 15 Religious Freedom Day, 2003
Jan. 14 National Sanctity of Human Life Day, 2003
Jan. 13 The Centennial of Korean Immigration to the United States
Jan. 13 A Proclamation: To Modify Duty-Free Treatment Under the Generalized
System of Preferences
Jan. 2 National Mentoring Month, 2003
Yet another issue we can hardly be surprised about. While some of our brethren steadfastly defend the disasterous leadership we are under, I notice they hardly ever respond to these overt examples of the President and his team undermining the cause of gay rights.
In this case, it is not even the cause. This is an event that has apparently gone on over time, only to be stifled now. Lets remember that the fire and brimstone John Ashcroft (yes, the one who lost a Senate election to a dead man) is the leader of the pack at DOJ. He would just as soon lock us all up as to allow us to celebrate our pride.
And the world continues to wonder when the rest of America will dig its head out of the sand and recognize how we are moving backward rather than forward.
In this case, it is not even the cause. This is an event that has apparently gone on over time, only to be stifled now. Lets remember that the fire and brimstone John Ashcroft (yes, the one who lost a Senate election to a dead man) is the leader of the pack at DOJ. He would just as soon lock us all up as to allow us to celebrate our pride.
And the world continues to wonder when the rest of America will dig its head out of the sand and recognize how we are moving backward rather than forward.
Hmmm... I play in a women's brass quintet that was invited to play at a brown-bag lunch for a DOJ gay employees' group last year. It just occured to me that we hadn't heard from them this year. Now I know why, and it's not because of musicianship... frown
As I said on the Santorum thread about a month ago, that creep's comments more than anything provided an opening for the Far Right to come out against homos; he sacrificed himself--with no penalties, whatsoever--for the cause. The cause, that is, of insulating the GOP from charges that it's pro-homo, because the Christian Hate Crowd have already demanded that Bush and Co. cut their ties to queers, and Ashcroft, a solid member of that fanatical klavern, is just letting them know once again where he stands.
These hateful people are indefensible. Especially by homosexuals.
But let's look at another example of what this good Christian fanatic believes in and does, from Joe Conason's SALON column:
These hateful people are indefensible. Especially by homosexuals.
But let's look at another example of what this good Christian fanatic believes in and does, from Joe Conason's SALON column:
QUOTE
May 30, 2003 | Ashcroft, Unocal and the Burmese junta
If you've ever wondered what John Ashcroft would do when faced with a choice between defending an energy company and discouraging slavery and murder in the developing world, the unappetizing answer may be found here. FindLaw columnist and Human Rights Watch attorney Joanne Mariner explains how the Justice Department, in its zeal to protect Unocal, is seeking to destroy the Alien Tort Claims Act -- the law that allows people injured by serious violations of international law abroad to seek civil damages in American courts against perps based in the United States.
The case in question is known as John Doe I vs. Unocal Corp. The plaintiffs are \"Burmese villagers who claim that they were subjected to forced labor, murder, rape, and torture during the construction of a gas pipeline through their country. Soldiers allegedly committed these abuses while providing security and other services for [Unocal's] pipeline project. \" And those alleged abuses were horrific:
\"Jane Doe I, one of the plaintiffs in the case, testified that when her husband tried to escape the forced labor program, he was shot at by soldiers, and that, in retaliation for his attempted escape, she and her baby were thrown into a fire. Her child died and she was badly injured.
\"Other villagers described the summary execution of people who refused to work, or who became too weak to work effectively.\"
Citing reports by Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, Mariner believes there is no question that the atrocities attributed to the Burmese military occurred. Unocal and its French partner Total vociferously deny any culpability, of course.
But the underlying issue is whether the oil company should be held accountable for crimes allegedly committed on its behalf. A panel of the U.S. District Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit found evidence that Unocal paid the Burmese regime and encouraged its use of slave labor. (The State Department's most recent report on the Burmese dictatorship's ongoing vileness -- including its \"common\" use of forced labor and child labor -- is available here.) Now Unocal is appealing that decision, and the attorney general's minions at the Justice Department have intervened with a sweeping brief in support of the company.
If you've ever wondered what John Ashcroft would do when faced with a choice between defending an energy company and discouraging slavery and murder in the developing world, the unappetizing answer may be found here. FindLaw columnist and Human Rights Watch attorney Joanne Mariner explains how the Justice Department, in its zeal to protect Unocal, is seeking to destroy the Alien Tort Claims Act -- the law that allows people injured by serious violations of international law abroad to seek civil damages in American courts against perps based in the United States.
The case in question is known as John Doe I vs. Unocal Corp. The plaintiffs are \"Burmese villagers who claim that they were subjected to forced labor, murder, rape, and torture during the construction of a gas pipeline through their country. Soldiers allegedly committed these abuses while providing security and other services for [Unocal's] pipeline project. \" And those alleged abuses were horrific:
\"Jane Doe I, one of the plaintiffs in the case, testified that when her husband tried to escape the forced labor program, he was shot at by soldiers, and that, in retaliation for his attempted escape, she and her baby were thrown into a fire. Her child died and she was badly injured.
\"Other villagers described the summary execution of people who refused to work, or who became too weak to work effectively.\"
Citing reports by Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, Mariner believes there is no question that the atrocities attributed to the Burmese military occurred. Unocal and its French partner Total vociferously deny any culpability, of course.
But the underlying issue is whether the oil company should be held accountable for crimes allegedly committed on its behalf. A panel of the U.S. District Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit found evidence that Unocal paid the Burmese regime and encouraged its use of slave labor. (The State Department's most recent report on the Burmese dictatorship's ongoing vileness -- including its \"common\" use of forced labor and child labor -- is available here.) Now Unocal is appealing that decision, and the attorney general's minions at the Justice Department have intervened with a sweeping brief in support of the company.
QUOTE
GatorJamie:
Hmmm... I play in a women's brass quintet that was invited to play at a brown-bag lunch for a DOJ gay employees' group last year. It just occured to me that we hadn't heard from them this year. Now I know why, and it's not because of musicianship...
Intresting twist as to why the event was cancelled gator. You didnt play the Gator fight song last year did you????
Hmmm... I play in a women's brass quintet that was invited to play at a brown-bag lunch for a DOJ gay employees' group last year. It just occured to me that we hadn't heard from them this year. Now I know why, and it's not because of musicianship...
Clinton may have signed DOMA (an election year wedge issue), but there were TONS of Gay Pride events at Federal agencies nationwide during ALL of his 8 years in the WH. We're going backwards with the GOP in power.
Of course an annual tax cut is worth so much more than any human rights.
Of course an annual tax cut is worth so much more than any human rights.
QUOTE
PhillyFan:
Intresting twist as to why the event was cancelled gator. You didnt play the Gator fight song last year did you????
Naw, it was performance art entitled "Ashcroft Can Suck My Spit Valve," featuring 5 militant, hairy-legged lesbians with large brass instruments shaped like female genitalia.Intresting twist as to why the event was cancelled gator. You didnt play the Gator fight song last year did you????
Oh, wait. Maybe that was it.
QUOTE
GatorJamie:
featuring 5 militant, hairy-legged lesbians with large brass instruments shaped like female genitalia.
uhhhhhhhhhhh, can't you guys just be lipstick lessies? There goes lunck....
featuring 5 militant, hairy-legged lesbians with large brass instruments shaped like female genitalia.
Its been nothing but setbacks under Shrub, and no surprise about this, especially when Shrub considers Santorum a "inclusive man", like what the hell does that mean! :mad:
As you know I am usually a staunch Repub/Bush supporter. But THIS SUCKS! :mad: frown
[ June 06, 2003, 12:21 PM: Message edited by: copman ]
:mad: frown[ June 06, 2003, 12:21 PM: Message edited by: copman ]
One question - do they need a presidential proclamation to have a baby or wedding shower? Cause, you know, those events are just broadcasting people's sex lives to their co-workers.
QUOTE
copman:
As you know I am usually a staunch Repub/Bush supporter. But THIS SUCKS! :mad:
Why, Copman, why? Come over to our side. We even support unions, including patrolpeople's unions (okay, I'm being PC--patrolmen's unions). W. and his friends don't REALLY like you, Copman, they just want to USE you...to keep all of us down.As you know I am usually a staunch Repub/Bush supporter. But THIS SUCKS!
:mad: Just think, President Gore by now would have found another way to take money from the revitalized economy to put even MORE cops on the streets, guarding our ports, and so on. W.'s empty rhetoric and lies are just that: empty rhetoric and lies.
QUOTE
fantomas:
We even support unions, including patrolpeople's unions
Dear Gay Rights Movement,We even support unions, including patrolpeople's unions
I give you DOMA, but i support your cause... sorta like blowing smoke up your ass...
Sincerely,
William Jefferson Clinton.
GOD I hate Republicans!
PhillyFan, you are the worst of them. You cannot accept the terrible leadership and don't seem to care about what they are doing to the advancement of gay rights. They canceled an event the has been happening for years and you can't come up with any excuse for them this time I guess. So you'll just joke with the lesbians about their band.
You guys are ignorant idiots!
PhillyFan, you are the worst of them. You cannot accept the terrible leadership and don't seem to care about what they are doing to the advancement of gay rights. They canceled an event the has been happening for years and you can't come up with any excuse for them this time I guess. So you'll just joke with the lesbians about their band.
You guys are ignorant idiots!
Dear Denver Fan,
I have fully supported Gay Rights for my 8 years in office and have told everyone how much i support the cause of gay rights. I just wanted to let you know how much i support you to have a pic-nic at the DOJ... now excuse me, i have to sign DOME and screw your cause for the next 20 years... Just remember, i told you i support your cause. Telling you makes your feel better, too bad my actions dont do anything to help you.
Sincerely
William Jefferson Clinton.
PS how are you enjoying "dont ask dont tell"... that was also my work.
I have fully supported Gay Rights for my 8 years in office and have told everyone how much i support the cause of gay rights. I just wanted to let you know how much i support you to have a pic-nic at the DOJ... now excuse me, i have to sign DOME and screw your cause for the next 20 years... Just remember, i told you i support your cause. Telling you makes your feel better, too bad my actions dont do anything to help you.
Sincerely
William Jefferson Clinton.
PS how are you enjoying "dont ask dont tell"... that was also my work.
QUOTE
PhillyFan
Blah blah blah all I ever talk about is William Jefferson Clinton because I'm obsessed with him and even though in numerous ways he was a friend of homosexual, bisexual and transgender people both in and out of office and even though he did try to integrate the military in terms of sexual orientation and met with a firestorm of criticism and opposition both from the military leadership itself (including our current egg-faced Secretary of Disinformation-State) and conservative members of his own and the other (GOP) party, and even though he did sign DOMA, which was proposed by the same crackpot right-wingers who have pushed versions of it through in many US states including most recently W.'s Texas and even though W. doesn't give a damn about me or anyone except his very rich friends and wouldn't shed a tear if homos disappeared from the face of the earth despite his supposed Christian \"compassion,\" I just can't get enough of him. Give me more, Sir, I mean, W., give me more.
Sincerely
Blah blah blah all I ever talk about is William Jefferson Clinton because I'm obsessed with him and even though in numerous ways he was a friend of homosexual, bisexual and transgender people both in and out of office and even though he did try to integrate the military in terms of sexual orientation and met with a firestorm of criticism and opposition both from the military leadership itself (including our current egg-faced Secretary of Disinformation-State) and conservative members of his own and the other (GOP) party, and even though he did sign DOMA, which was proposed by the same crackpot right-wingers who have pushed versions of it through in many US states including most recently W.'s Texas and even though W. doesn't give a damn about me or anyone except his very rich friends and wouldn't shed a tear if homos disappeared from the face of the earth despite his supposed Christian \"compassion,\" I just can't get enough of him. Give me more, Sir, I mean, W., give me more.
Sincerely
Dear Fantom,
As i have taken credit for the wonderful economy of the 90's, i must also take credit for DOMA, singed and authorized by myself. Well either that or tell you that i sold you down the river trying to gain votes from people who i view as more important that your vote this particular election. In return for slapping you in your face, i will allow your celebration at the DOJ.
Sincerely Bubba
---------------------------------------------
Now for those of you who "think" this man supported you.. get a clue. Talk speak is one thing, action is another. You bitch because W doest give some stupid f**king pic-nic... yet overlook the DOMA act that set your rights back further than any stupid little non-pic-nic celectration ever did. W doesnt support gay rights? Tell me to my face, so now I know where he stands. I can move on with my life. Clinton said he supported you, then stabbed you in the back. Give me the non-liar every day.
As i have taken credit for the wonderful economy of the 90's, i must also take credit for DOMA, singed and authorized by myself. Well either that or tell you that i sold you down the river trying to gain votes from people who i view as more important that your vote this particular election. In return for slapping you in your face, i will allow your celebration at the DOJ.
Sincerely Bubba
---------------------------------------------
Now for those of you who "think" this man supported you.. get a clue. Talk speak is one thing, action is another. You bitch because W doest give some stupid f**king pic-nic... yet overlook the DOMA act that set your rights back further than any stupid little non-pic-nic celectration ever did. W doesnt support gay rights? Tell me to my face, so now I know where he stands. I can move on with my life. Clinton said he supported you, then stabbed you in the back. Give me the non-liar every day.
The sheer fact that anyone could try and sell himself and others that the current administration's record on gay rights is anywhere close to the last one's is simply beyond comprehension. To say that President Clinton could have done more is a true statement. To say that he and his team were no better than President Bush and his team is completely delusional.
Do you really believe in this man and his party so much that you can convince yourself that your rights are equally protected by them? I mean, we are all entitled to believe what we want, but you are in a very small group of people who just refuse to face reality. You are welcome to stay there, but quit trying to sell the rest of us, because it is simply not true.
I honestly feel sad that there are people out there who don't care enough to see the reality of what is happening here. It can be for lots of different reasons, but in the end don't sell the rest of us out just because you are willing to be treated like a non-entity in this society. It might be fine with you, but it is not fine for lots of other folks.
Do you really believe in this man and his party so much that you can convince yourself that your rights are equally protected by them? I mean, we are all entitled to believe what we want, but you are in a very small group of people who just refuse to face reality. You are welcome to stay there, but quit trying to sell the rest of us, because it is simply not true.
I honestly feel sad that there are people out there who don't care enough to see the reality of what is happening here. It can be for lots of different reasons, but in the end don't sell the rest of us out just because you are willing to be treated like a non-entity in this society. It might be fine with you, but it is not fine for lots of other folks.
Did i say W was pro gay? of course not. But is he going to lie to me about it?
You guys bag on W, yet overlook so much because the last admin appeased you with words. Oh, and a few gay nominations to put in their hat...
I say none of them are pro-gay.
Your willing to overlook something like DOMA because the appointed ambas. of Sweden was a fag (under bubba).... Thats great progress for you, not for me.
So, everyone have fun at their DOJ pic-nic.
You guys bag on W, yet overlook so much because the last admin appeased you with words. Oh, and a few gay nominations to put in their hat...
I say none of them are pro-gay.
Your willing to overlook something like DOMA because the appointed ambas. of Sweden was a fag (under bubba).... Thats great progress for you, not for me.
So, everyone have fun at their DOJ pic-nic.
Always entertained by PhillyFan's antics.
But he's at least half right on this one.
Clinton sold out the gay agenda (and any other agenda if it suited his purpose) before he even took office. That's because he's a sleazy, self-promoter.
George Bush (and the religious/conservative associates) are reticent to advancing any overt action item on the GLBT agenda. His appointment of John Ashcroft was a clear indication that his administration is more threatened/concerned with the Conservative Right as opposed to the Activist Left. This administration will do whatever it takes to appease that wing of the Republican party.
IMHO The great resistance to advancing our quest for full civil and human rights are the moral centers of this country. The political parties seem to take their cues from them. Fight the battle on their turf, not their proxy's turf (in this case, the White House).
And that means taking this crusade to the pulpits: Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Baptist, Methodist, Lutheran, Buddhist, Muslim, et al.
But he's at least half right on this one.
Clinton sold out the gay agenda (and any other agenda if it suited his purpose) before he even took office. That's because he's a sleazy, self-promoter.
George Bush (and the religious/conservative associates) are reticent to advancing any overt action item on the GLBT agenda. His appointment of John Ashcroft was a clear indication that his administration is more threatened/concerned with the Conservative Right as opposed to the Activist Left. This administration will do whatever it takes to appease that wing of the Republican party.
IMHO The great resistance to advancing our quest for full civil and human rights are the moral centers of this country. The political parties seem to take their cues from them. Fight the battle on their turf, not their proxy's turf (in this case, the White House).
And that means taking this crusade to the pulpits: Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Baptist, Methodist, Lutheran, Buddhist, Muslim, et al.
QUOTE
6iron:
Always entertained by PhillyFan's antics.
But he's at least half right on this one.
SHOCKING! heh heh Always entertained by PhillyFan's antics.
But he's at least half right on this one.
In memorium of the DOJ pic-nic... philly fan will go have a beer at beer-thirty this evening! I'd wear a 1/2 shirt and tight shorty shorts... but that would be taking it too far. Raze would be mad that i stole one of his outfits anway...
[ June 06, 2003, 03:52 PM: Message edited by: PhillyFan ]
PhillyFan, you don't get it do you? I never said I liked Clinton's actions any better. But that is all you can throw because you have nothing else. Rather than tossing Clinton back into the picture, why not back up your support for GW and tell us why we should support him. I can't see him doing anything good for Gays and I certainly don't see you finding anything worth backing him on. Let's not forget how much he loves Santorum, and how he at first supported Lott until the public made it clear they didn't. It's good politics in the GOP to pick on Gays because we don't have enough population to affect their tenure. It's just a long story that will get longer. And when Bushy is out of office, be it in 1 1/2 or 5 1/2 years, we will be far worse off for it than anything done by any past admin.
In the 1930's and 1940's Eleanor Roosevelt was one of the first very visible public officials who would allow herself to be photographed with African-Americans and at African-American functions. This seems like a shallow gesture now, but at the time it was absolutely shocking. For the first time a public official, loved by much of the country, with the ear of the President, was acknowledging the African-Americans were indeed part of the American society and should be treated with respect.
Every group that has tried to gain acceptance in this country has had to fight for that same acknowledgement from whomever is in the majority. Although gay/lesbian acceptance has been steadily growing for the last 20 years, it took leaps and bounds in the 90s, in part because of the attitudes and actions of the Clinton Administration.
The value of what Clinton did cannot be measured merely in terms of legislation, because he failed miserably on that front. But he did, for the first time, embrace the gay and lesbian community fully as part of the Democratic base and American Society.
Gestures like proclaiming June Gay Pride Month, openly encouraging the formation and recognition of groups like DOJ Pride, and nominating scores (not tokens) of openly gay and lesbian officials are vital because they acknowledge 1) our existence 2) our importance to the country (given the talents and ability to do a job) and 3) our presence in society. Laws must be passed to protect and affirm our rights, but Clinton's non-legislative actions were vital to creating the support among the straight community for gay and lesbian civil rights.
With this latest action, the Bush Administration does reverse that tide, a bit, while signaling to their hard-core anti-gay supporters that they are still on board. But I truly believe, given the attitudes of Americans in poll after poll, that it will be seen as a negative. Americans may not like the idea of two guys getting it on, but they certainly dislike more the idea of gratuitous discrimination.
Every group that has tried to gain acceptance in this country has had to fight for that same acknowledgement from whomever is in the majority. Although gay/lesbian acceptance has been steadily growing for the last 20 years, it took leaps and bounds in the 90s, in part because of the attitudes and actions of the Clinton Administration.
The value of what Clinton did cannot be measured merely in terms of legislation, because he failed miserably on that front. But he did, for the first time, embrace the gay and lesbian community fully as part of the Democratic base and American Society.
Gestures like proclaiming June Gay Pride Month, openly encouraging the formation and recognition of groups like DOJ Pride, and nominating scores (not tokens) of openly gay and lesbian officials are vital because they acknowledge 1) our existence 2) our importance to the country (given the talents and ability to do a job) and 3) our presence in society. Laws must be passed to protect and affirm our rights, but Clinton's non-legislative actions were vital to creating the support among the straight community for gay and lesbian civil rights.
With this latest action, the Bush Administration does reverse that tide, a bit, while signaling to their hard-core anti-gay supporters that they are still on board. But I truly believe, given the attitudes of Americans in poll after poll, that it will be seen as a negative. Americans may not like the idea of two guys getting it on, but they certainly dislike more the idea of gratuitous discrimination.
I am amazed, I have been away for a few months, log in and read almost the same thing. Last time it was Senator Jackboot's comments. Phillyfan you defended him by bring up Clinton and DOMA. Now with the DOJ pride issue, Clinton and DOMA. I guess its good for you to have this one point to use for duck and cover.I am not going to expend the energy to tell you how lame that line is, same with your if you dont like your tax refund send it back line of reasoning(?)
I do suggest that you consider changing your login to Nero
I do suggest that you consider changing your login to Nero
CPT -- what an excellent post. It completely captures exactly why the past 2 and 1/2 years have been so frustrating. As has been discussed before, and you so eloquently point out, the real problem is the environment the administrations create around gays and lesbians. The openness of the previous administration did more than any legislation ever could. (The saying is true -- you cannot legislate any kind of phobia out of being, you have to change people's awareness.)
The closed nature of this administration, and their clear signals that we are moving backward are what cause the real problem here.
And, I also agree that this issue will slowly turn against the right-wing conservative groups, and they will one day find it is an empty strategy. When that day comes, we can all celebrate with Karen Walker and some Gin Rickies.
The closed nature of this administration, and their clear signals that we are moving backward are what cause the real problem here.
And, I also agree that this issue will slowly turn against the right-wing conservative groups, and they will one day find it is an empty strategy. When that day comes, we can all celebrate with Karen Walker and some Gin Rickies.
Yes, Clinton signed DOMA (PF's tired old mantra), but he also signed an Executive Order providing a non-discrimination policy for Federal Employees based on Sexual Orientation. So, when not staring in the face of the GOP's anti-gay stance, he found ways to support Gays.
Clinton also signed Gay Pride Proclamations etc. while in office which is something the "inclusive" Pres. W is too chicken-shit to do lest he upset the religious fanatics and PhillyFan.
Have we heard any outrage by the Log Cabin dwellers on the DOJ issue? Or are they just STILL working within the closet...er, I mean party?
Clinton also signed Gay Pride Proclamations etc. while in office which is something the "inclusive" Pres. W is too chicken-shit to do lest he upset the religious fanatics and PhillyFan.
Have we heard any outrage by the Log Cabin dwellers on the DOJ issue? Or are they just STILL working within the closet...er, I mean party?
Funny, PhillyFan hasn't come back. Must have called him out on something he couldn't respond to.
Hornfan agreed!
I do not know about the rest of you but I felt a real sense of hope each time Mr. Clinton inc. "Sexual orientation" in the State of the union speach. Now we are back to be invisible.
I do not know about the rest of you but I felt a real sense of hope each time Mr. Clinton inc. "Sexual orientation" in the State of the union speach. Now we are back to be invisible.
QUOTE
fantomas:
Nah - I got to stay & try to help reform the GOP from within. They are moving...but SLOWLY!
QUOTE
copman:
As you know I am usually a staunch Repub/Bush supporter. But THIS SUCKS! :mad:
Why, Copman, why? Come over to our side. As you know I am usually a staunch Repub/Bush supporter. But THIS SUCKS!
:mad:
People!, This has nothing to do with Clinton, and I wish Phillyfan would move into the present instead of living in the past every time his beloved Bush gets a jab!!! This (the repression of gay rights and gays themselves) is about the current administration. If this trend does not stop we will find ourselves being locked up and all our homes, businesses, and property being taken away. Think that sounds dramatic? I don't.
I grew up in the Columbia, SC area and saw the same thing happen when a staunchly religious governor, David Beasley, came into power. Most of the gay establishments closed down in a very short time. I can remember only two gay bars being open in Columbia, a city of over 300K people. At the same time I was volunteering my services to a Republican state senate candidate, and when I asked him about his opinion on an anti-gay rights bill, he would not respond to me. I stopped volunteering and eventually moved to Ft. Lauderdale.
The point being here, is that I have seen it happen before, and this time I am not going to go away from the situation. WE all should not turn our backs on what is happening here. We must stand firm and demand our rights as tax paying citizens!
p.s. Beasley was anti gay but not anti adultery, and was his own hypocritical worst enemy. He was religious only when it was convenient to him.
I grew up in the Columbia, SC area and saw the same thing happen when a staunchly religious governor, David Beasley, came into power. Most of the gay establishments closed down in a very short time. I can remember only two gay bars being open in Columbia, a city of over 300K people. At the same time I was volunteering my services to a Republican state senate candidate, and when I asked him about his opinion on an anti-gay rights bill, he would not respond to me. I stopped volunteering and eventually moved to Ft. Lauderdale.
The point being here, is that I have seen it happen before, and this time I am not going to go away from the situation. WE all should not turn our backs on what is happening here. We must stand firm and demand our rights as tax paying citizens!
p.s. Beasley was anti gay but not anti adultery, and was his own hypocritical worst enemy. He was religious only when it was convenient to him.
Wade N Atlanta; Isn't that all republicans? Religious when it suits them.
QUOTE
Nah - I got to stay & try to help reform the GOP from within. They are moving...but SLOWLY!
In what freakin' direction? :confused:
QUOTE
HornFan:
GWB has made more gay appointments than his Republican predecessors. The GOP is getting more inclusive- it just takes time. The country is not gonna go backwards on gay rights any more than they could go back on civil rights. Its much slower movement on the right of course but since they will be in power half the time why not have some " family " on both teams? :confused:
QUOTE
Nah - I got to stay & try to help reform the GOP from within. They are moving...but SLOWLY!
In what freakin' direction? :confused:
Here was a Presidential Proclamation -
"BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Gay and lesbian Americans have made important and lasting contributions to our Nation in every field of endeavor. Too often, however, gays and lesbians face prejudice and discrimina-tion; too many have had to hide or deny their sexual orientation in order to keep their jobs or to live safely in their communities.
In recent years, we have made some progress righting these wrongs. Since the Stonewall uprising in New York City more than 30 years ago, the gay and lesbian rights movement has united gays and lesbians, their families and friends, and all those committed to justice and equality in a crusade to outlaw discriminatory laws and practices and to protect gays and lesbians from prejudice and persecution.
I am proud of the part that my Administration has played to achieve these goals. Today, more openly gay and lesbian individuals serve in senior posts throughout the Federal Government than during any other Administration. To build on our progress, in 1998 I issued an Executive Order to prohibit discrimination in the Federal civilian workforce based on sexual orientation, and my Administration continues to fight for the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, which would outlaw discrimination in the workplace based on sexual orientation.
Yet many challenges still lie before us. As we have learned from recent tragedies, prejudice against gays and lesbians can still erupt into acts of hatred and violence. I continue to call upon the Congress to pass meaningful hate crimes legislation to strengthen the Department of Justice's ability to prosecute hate crimes committed due to the victim’s sexual orientation.
With each passing year the American people become more receptive to diversity and more open to those who are different from themselves. Our Nation is at last realizing that gays and lesbians must no longer be "strangers among friends," as the civil rights pioneer David Mixner once noted. Rather, we must finally recognize these Americans for what they are: our colleagues and neighbors, daughters and sons, sisters and brothers, friends and partners.
This June, recognizing the joys and sorrows that the gay and lesbian movement has witnessed and the work that remains to be done, we observe Gay and Lesbian Pride Month and celebrate the progress we have made in creating a society more inclusive and accepting of gays and lesbians. I hope that in this new millennium we will continue to break down the walls of fear and prejudice and work to build a bridge to understanding and tolerance, until gays and lesbians are afforded the same rights and responsibilities as all Americans.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2000 as Gay and Lesbian Pride Month. I encourage all Americans to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities that celebrate our diversity and recognize the gay and lesbian Americans whose many and varied contributions have enriched our national life.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of June, in the year of our Lord two thousand, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-fourth.
WILLIAM J. CLINTON
In May of 1998, I was proud to sign Executive Order 13087, which amends Federal equal employment opportunity policy to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation in the Federal civilian work force.
Executive Order 13087
Further Amendment to Executive Order 11478, Equal Employment Opportunity in the Federal Government
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, and in order to provide for a uniform policy for the Federal Government to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, it is hereby ordered that Executive Order 11478, as amended, is further amended as follows:
Section 1. The first sentence of section 1 is amended by substituting "age, or sexual orientation" for "or age".
Section 2. The second sentence of section 1 is amended by striking the period and adding at the end of the sentence ", to the extent permitted by law.".
WILLIAM J. CLINTON
THE WHITE HOUSE,
May 28, 1998."
Where's the Presidential Proclamation for Gays and Lesbians from our current White House? Don't look too hard fellas, as you conduct your search. THERE ARE NONE
:mad:
"BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Gay and lesbian Americans have made important and lasting contributions to our Nation in every field of endeavor. Too often, however, gays and lesbians face prejudice and discrimina-tion; too many have had to hide or deny their sexual orientation in order to keep their jobs or to live safely in their communities.
In recent years, we have made some progress righting these wrongs. Since the Stonewall uprising in New York City more than 30 years ago, the gay and lesbian rights movement has united gays and lesbians, their families and friends, and all those committed to justice and equality in a crusade to outlaw discriminatory laws and practices and to protect gays and lesbians from prejudice and persecution.
I am proud of the part that my Administration has played to achieve these goals. Today, more openly gay and lesbian individuals serve in senior posts throughout the Federal Government than during any other Administration. To build on our progress, in 1998 I issued an Executive Order to prohibit discrimination in the Federal civilian workforce based on sexual orientation, and my Administration continues to fight for the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, which would outlaw discrimination in the workplace based on sexual orientation.
Yet many challenges still lie before us. As we have learned from recent tragedies, prejudice against gays and lesbians can still erupt into acts of hatred and violence. I continue to call upon the Congress to pass meaningful hate crimes legislation to strengthen the Department of Justice's ability to prosecute hate crimes committed due to the victim’s sexual orientation.
With each passing year the American people become more receptive to diversity and more open to those who are different from themselves. Our Nation is at last realizing that gays and lesbians must no longer be "strangers among friends," as the civil rights pioneer David Mixner once noted. Rather, we must finally recognize these Americans for what they are: our colleagues and neighbors, daughters and sons, sisters and brothers, friends and partners.
This June, recognizing the joys and sorrows that the gay and lesbian movement has witnessed and the work that remains to be done, we observe Gay and Lesbian Pride Month and celebrate the progress we have made in creating a society more inclusive and accepting of gays and lesbians. I hope that in this new millennium we will continue to break down the walls of fear and prejudice and work to build a bridge to understanding and tolerance, until gays and lesbians are afforded the same rights and responsibilities as all Americans.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2000 as Gay and Lesbian Pride Month. I encourage all Americans to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities that celebrate our diversity and recognize the gay and lesbian Americans whose many and varied contributions have enriched our national life.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of June, in the year of our Lord two thousand, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-fourth.
WILLIAM J. CLINTON
In May of 1998, I was proud to sign Executive Order 13087, which amends Federal equal employment opportunity policy to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation in the Federal civilian work force.
Executive Order 13087
Further Amendment to Executive Order 11478, Equal Employment Opportunity in the Federal Government
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, and in order to provide for a uniform policy for the Federal Government to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, it is hereby ordered that Executive Order 11478, as amended, is further amended as follows:
Section 1. The first sentence of section 1 is amended by substituting "age, or sexual orientation" for "or age".
Section 2. The second sentence of section 1 is amended by striking the period and adding at the end of the sentence ", to the extent permitted by law.".
WILLIAM J. CLINTON
THE WHITE HOUSE,
May 28, 1998."
Where's the Presidential Proclamation for Gays and Lesbians from our current White House? Don't look too hard fellas, as you conduct your search. THERE ARE NONE
:mad:
PS, i'll be right back... i must sign the DOMA Act.
William Jefferson Clinton
William Jefferson Clinton
PhillyFan can't possibly argue a point without a Clinton reference and certainly hasn't come up with any salient arguments FOR GWB or the GOP. It's truly pathetic.
We all know about DOMA, but YOU keep ignoring the positive things Clinton did to actually SUPPORT Gays that didn't require GOP approval.
[ June 08, 2003, 02:26 PM: Message edited by: HornFan ]
We all know about DOMA, but YOU keep ignoring the positive things Clinton did to actually SUPPORT Gays that didn't require GOP approval.
[ June 08, 2003, 02:26 PM: Message edited by: HornFan ]
Phillyfan, really give it a rest, we all know about DOMA! But do you think Bush will ever mention us ( in a positive way) during a state of the union?
Your repeated DOMA remark is about as lame as it gets.
One thing I have noticed is us "Left wingers" can admit when our party is wrong, and have. I suggest you take off your rose colored glasses!
Your repeated DOMA remark is about as lame as it gets.
One thing I have noticed is us "Left wingers" can admit when our party is wrong, and have. I suggest you take off your rose colored glasses!
QUOTE
I suggest you take off your rose colored glasses!
Uh, in PhillyFan's case, I'm afraid we're talking BLINDERS.
Guys and Gals:
We are missing the boat. We should actually be supporting the Republican candidate. If anything, they will sell their soul and convictions for $$$ and who has more dollars than us?
I was recently on capital hill lobbying for a bill in my industry (and Phillyfan before you make a damn smart ass comment, I'm a partner in a construction company and a CPA as well...how butch and republican is that?). I am amazed that all the staff, who apparently do all of the work, are concerned about is what party or dinner they are attending that evening and if your event is good enough, you'll get an audience later. I was speaking with the young man representing the democratic representative that I would do anything for and he was shocked that I was a democrat (don't you know I had to bring up Martha being a scapegoat for the bastards at Enron and Worldcom "FREE MARTHA". I guess $200,000 equals $50,000,000,000 in the media's eyes). He asked what occured to make me a democrat. I said, "Nothing really occured. I'm in the same place I was 20 years ago. It was them that left me. I'm still waiting for them to come back. In the meantime, y'all have moved in my neighborhood and you are really nice neighbors."
Philly Fan...did you get on the moving truck with them?
[ June 08, 2003, 06:32 PM: Message edited by: Aubie in Bham ]
We are missing the boat. We should actually be supporting the Republican candidate. If anything, they will sell their soul and convictions for $$$ and who has more dollars than us?
I was recently on capital hill lobbying for a bill in my industry (and Phillyfan before you make a damn smart ass comment, I'm a partner in a construction company and a CPA as well...how butch and republican is that?). I am amazed that all the staff, who apparently do all of the work, are concerned about is what party or dinner they are attending that evening and if your event is good enough, you'll get an audience later. I was speaking with the young man representing the democratic representative that I would do anything for and he was shocked that I was a democrat (don't you know I had to bring up Martha being a scapegoat for the bastards at Enron and Worldcom "FREE MARTHA". I guess $200,000 equals $50,000,000,000 in the media's eyes). He asked what occured to make me a democrat. I said, "Nothing really occured. I'm in the same place I was 20 years ago. It was them that left me. I'm still waiting for them to come back. In the meantime, y'all have moved in my neighborhood and you are really nice neighbors."
Philly Fan...did you get on the moving truck with them?
[ June 08, 2003, 06:32 PM: Message edited by: Aubie in Bham ]
QUOTE
PhillyFan:
PS, i'll be right back... i must sign the DOMA Act.
William Jefferson Clinton
PhillyFan still obsessed with the Clintons. When he cant possibly defend his hero Chimp, always bring up Clinton, very predictible and totally expected.
PS, i'll be right back... i must sign the DOMA Act.
William Jefferson Clinton
GWB- Gay White Boy?
Oh wait, that stands for:
Governing With Bigotry, PhillyFan is so tired. Perhaps he has forgoten that the election ended years ago and he doesn't have to Clinton bash anymore.
But my guess is that he can't read. Since none of his posts have stayed on the subject and none of them have in any way defended Bushy. You'd think he would try and argue his point and explain his support for Shrub, but he can't. That is because there is nothing there to argue. Plain and simple GWB is harmfull to everything we have gained.
Oh wait, that stands for:
Governing With Bigotry, PhillyFan is so tired. Perhaps he has forgoten that the election ended years ago and he doesn't have to Clinton bash anymore.
But my guess is that he can't read. Since none of his posts have stayed on the subject and none of them have in any way defended Bushy. You'd think he would try and argue his point and explain his support for Shrub, but he can't. That is because there is nothing there to argue. Plain and simple GWB is harmfull to everything we have gained.
Aubie in Bham, great link for you if you don't already know about it.
Save Martha!
It is so true that she is taking the fall that Bushes buddies at Enron didn't
Save Martha!
It is so true that she is taking the fall that Bushes buddies at Enron didn't
Conan O'Brien: "The Justice Department has barred a group of gay employees from holding their annual gay pride event at the department's headquarters.
The move was part of Attorney General John Ashcroft's new 'Don't ask, don't be gay' policy"
The move was part of Attorney General John Ashcroft's new 'Don't ask, don't be gay' policy"
QUOTE
copman:
Nah - I got to stay & try to help reform the GOP from within. They are moving...but SLOWLY! That working from within thing is going great!!!
What do you think are the major accomplishments of the gay repugs "working from within?".....oh, I bet I know, that press release from LCR after the Rick "man on dog" Santorum episode.
[ June 09, 2003, 08:00 AM: Message edited by: RazorbackTX ]
OK, i'll come to the gay pic-nic... i'll bring the potato salad and some plastic forks, why dont you guys bring your democratic DOMA act.
QUOTE
PhillyFan:
OK, i'll come to the gay pic-nic... i'll bring the potato salad and some plastic forks, why dont you guys bring your democratic DOMA act.
No PhillyFan, you bring the big tent and PA Senator Santorum.
OK, i'll come to the gay pic-nic... i'll bring the potato salad and some plastic forks, why dont you guys bring your democratic DOMA act.
Is Cheney's lesbian daughter invited to the picnic?
Which SIDE would she sit on?
[ June 09, 2003, 10:44 AM: Message edited by: ironjohn8 ]
Which SIDE would she sit on?
[ June 09, 2003, 10:44 AM: Message edited by: ironjohn8 ]
Two very simple questions for PhillyFan:
1. Is this ACTION by Ashcroft part of Dubya and the GOP's definition of "inclusion"?
2. Do you agree or disagree with Ashcroft's action?
To treat this issue as one big joke or to deflect from it by using Clinton references is your typical response to all things GOP. If you are so pro-GOP, why not put a little meat in your responses instead of ignoring the subject at hand? :confused:
1. Is this ACTION by Ashcroft part of Dubya and the GOP's definition of "inclusion"?
2. Do you agree or disagree with Ashcroft's action?
To treat this issue as one big joke or to deflect from it by using Clinton references is your typical response to all things GOP. If you are so pro-GOP, why not put a little meat in your responses instead of ignoring the subject at hand? :confused:
QUOTE
HornFan:
2. Do you agree or disagree with Ashcroft's action?
Gay Pride Events dont float my boat. 2. Do you agree or disagree with Ashcroft's action?
ie you guys would be pissed if they had "traditional family day" in your hometown with a big parade of families carrying bibles and such...
I just laugh when you guys get so upset at something this pety... proclaim Bush a hater of gays, when he's done nothing for or agaisnt us. Then spout something about Billy Bob having gay pride month... but yet stabbed you all in the back. blah.
W and the texas sodamy laws... blah, dems have been in control of that state for decades and did nothing about it, yet they support you, sure they do.
Clinton's gay pride month doesnt effect me. The doj pic-nic doesnt effect me. The gay pride parades dont effect me... but that DOMA act sure does effect me DIRECTLY, but hey guys... at least we got a month..
This is a "lo-fi" version of our main content. To view the full version with more information, formatting and images, please click here.