The following statement was just sent over by Rafael McDonnell at Resource Center Dallas on behalf of Executive Director Mike McKay:
“President Obama’s pledge to work with the legislative branch to end the misguided ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy is worthy of praise. It’s important to note, though, that GLBT Americans have heard these words before. As a candidate, President Obama said them on the stump; and just last fall, he said them at the HRC dinner in Washington. Talking is for campaigns; action is for leaders.
“The time is long overdue to move beyond speeches and put the ‘fierce advocacy’ we were promised before the 2008 elections into action. A line has been drawn in the sand: the GLBT community must hold both the President and Congress accountable for getting rid of this archaic, discriminatory policy. Audacious action and leadership are needed. We will help with the roadmap to get us to that goal.
“Regrettably, the President chose not to speak on two other issues of importance to our community: the Employment Non-Discrimination Act and the Defense of Marriage Act. Every day, GLBT Americans here in North Texas and across the country lose their jobs for simply being who they are. Every day, GLBT Americans are denied hundreds of federal benefits bestowed on married couples. The United States of America, where we pledge allegiance to a flag that promises ‘liberty and justice for all,’ needs action and leadership on these issues – sooner rather than later.”
