Illinois LGBT Friends and Family

No Participation Until President Obama Addresses GLBT Campaign Promises

Thomas W. — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 09:26:36 EDT

I’ve unsubscribed from barackobama.com not because I hate our president or because I feel betrayed, but because my participation in his campaign is dependent on his agenda. It is not unconditional. When the president’s attention once again includes GLBT equality, as I’m confident it will, I will once again become an avid participant.

I also made repeated donations and did everything I could to spread the President's message. During the campaign, I often found myself defending the President to friends who were suspicious of his level of support for gay rights. I find myself defending him still, but it's getting harder and harder to do.

I'm no single-issue voter; I recognize how many pressing issues our country has on its plate. But the President promised to be a "fierce advocate" for gay Americans. Instead, we've had nothing but fierce silence--until last week, when we were fiercely attacked in Justice's DOMA brief. I'm still a strong supporter of the President, but the frequent emails from administration officials about other issues are just a constant reminder of what it hasn't addressed. I prefer not to receive them unless and until the President starts to make good on his promises to gay Americans.

Florida 4 Obama

freedom4u_n_me — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 11:30:43 EST

I just wanted to let all of you know that I'm in Florida for the winter!

I'll be involved here (looking for fellow supporters in the Daytona Beach area!) and I'll see you in the spring!

I know all of you will keep up the great work that you do and volunteer in your community this holiday season!

Gail/freedom4u_n_me

voter fraud protection, grassroots

Duane Kuehn — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 10:50:42 EDT

Hi All,

     What a long and sometime tumultuous ride we have had! I am so proud of this country because of fellow people like you. We are America.

     Of course, it is not over yet. I figure that I cannot just sit home and not vote on Tuesday, because I think it is going to be a "win". Lol I know that I have to keep on others to keep them motivated to go out and vote, for sure. One way is to offer rides to others, especially the elderly, but anyone.

     Frankly, an admittance, me bad, I know that there have been voting days when I just had to force myself to go out and vote because I just plain didn't feel like driving to the polling place. What always forced me to go is that I know if I do not vote, then I have nothing to say about the outcome. Now, we have to contend with gas prices so I will have to fill my tank (which I can surely not afford) and offer to drive others to the polls.

     Nevertheless, I see a greater problem here. I am most worried about voter fraud. Computers with too sensitive touch screens (this has to be rigged, as there are too many 'double check's which can be programmed which have not been). From the 2004 gaffs to next Tuesday's vote, I am afraid and I am sure I have a right to be.

     I believe everyone should be afraid, after what we have seen in the past few elections. One county with around 500 registered voters allegedly posted around 5000 votes for George Bush! There should never be a ballot without a paper trail; this is just plain sense.

     I am now thinking (do not laugh, I do that sometimes) that I might take a box or a few boxes, a few thousand slips of paper and some pencils to the local polling place. That I would try to sit at the polling place all day and ask voters leaving the booths that they please write, privately, for whom they voted and stick it into the box(s?).

     Later, after the polling is over, I would count those slips and check to see if there is any big difference between my count, my averages, and the election results posted by the voting precinct I was at all day.

     Now, I am wondering, what if this happened at local polling places all across the country. Is it possible, a People’s Paper Trail to keep tabs on the big boys?

     All of you have created and maintained a wondrous grassroots campaign. I will bet you can do the same to make sure this is a clean election.

     Is anyone else interested in such a thing? It does not have to be fancy but it is something we can do to watchdog our election.

Loveya,
Duane Kuehn

"One more reason to be proud of my hometown"

Jamie Citron — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 13:05:20 EDT

I wanted to share with you the following email I received this morning from Obama Pride Chicago member, Michael R.

I'm a volunteer with Obama for America in Chicago. I'm doing everything I can here to support the campaign-- I even threw a house party and encouraged my friends to donate. But since Illinois is already pretty blue, I wanted to find ways to expand impact I can make.

That's what makes Hometown Pride such a great idea. I grew up in Florida, so I have dozens of old friends in this important state. By contacting five or more friends back home, I'm making a difference where it counts the most. So far, this is who I've reached out to:

My Mother-- I forwarded information about the campaign to her, and she passed it along to eight of her friends. They've started volunteering, making donations, and-- most importantly-- talking to their friends as well.

My Best Friend-- he's gay like me, but he was misinformed about a lot of Obama's positions on GLBT issues.

Summer Coworker-- It was only a summer job during college, but he and I email from time to time. Asking him to get his friends in the loop was a way to reach out to people I never would have met myself.

My "Aunt & Uncle"-- we're not really related, but I made sure my longtime family friends know how important this election is. When people are like family, they listen differently, and I think they really wanted to know what I thought.

My "Long Lost Friend"-- I hadn't spoken to her in a year, and a phone call about this historic campaign was the perfect excuse. She'd planned to vote for Obama, but didn't know about the registration deadlines. She registered online while we were catching up.

Participating in Hometown Pride is easy, and it puts my efforts where the campaign needs them most. Sometimes people just need to hear from someone they know to get excited. Best of all, come November, when my friends help send Barack Obama to the Whitehouse, I'll have one more reason to be proud of my hometown.

Voices from the Field: Ben Z.

Jamie Citron — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:21:20 EDT

Obama Pride Chicago hit the doors of Davenport, Iowa this past weekend working hard to ensure an Obama Victory on November 4th. Obama Pride member Ben Z. reports:

Obama Pride Chicago joined nearly 100 other local Obama supporters on Saturday on a three hour bus ride to the Obama field office just outside of Davenport, Iowa. As it happened, John McCain was holding a rally downtown at the same time we were set to knock on doors in the city's precincts. His presence in the Quad Cities made us even more fired up to get out into the neighborhoods and get out the vote for Obama…

Read the rest of Ben Z.'s post HERE.

Or, plan your own target state trip by emailing us at pride@barackobama.com

Help Barack win Michigan!

Alena — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 17:29:37 EDT

By now, you've probably heard the news that John McCain is scaling back his campaign in Michigan. But, the Michigan Obama campaign is not slowing down one bit, and needs your help more than ever! Michigan has a history of elections being decided in the final weeks before Election Day, and polls here are known to swing dramatically in the last days before the election. While polls currently show Senator Obama in the lead in Michigan, we all know how volatile polling can be - and how important it is to keep our momentum going in Michigan.

Sarah Palin said it herself on Fox News Friday: "I want to get back to Michigan, and I want to try." Michigan's Lt. Governor John Cherry, a veteran of Michigan politics, predicts McCain's announcement will lead" to a flurry of anti-Obama spending by independent groups." The McCain campaign may be pulling out of Michigan, but their supporters aren't giving up. Michigan's Republican Party is redoubling its own efforts to elect John McCain, which is why it's so important to keep our focus on Michigan so we can ensure it votes for Senator Obama on November 4.

Come to Michigan to help keep this critically important battleground state in the Obama column on Election Day! With only a month until the election, there's never been a more important time than now to get involved. From knocking on doors to making phone calls, you can make the difference in this vital swing state. To get involved, visit mi.barackobama.com/cometomi, or contact Derek Dobies at 734-740-6698.

Fair Wisconsin endorses Barack!

Jamie Citron — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 15:35:08 EDT

Fair Wisconsin would like to announce to its members the endorsement of Barack Obama and Joe Biden. There are only 36 days until the election, and there is much work to be done. Please take action to help elect Barack Obama President on November 4th!

Senator Obama has called for an end to federal discrimination by fully repealing the Defense of Marriage Act and Don't Ask, Don't Tell, and supports an Employment Non-Discrimination Act that includes sexual orientation and gender identity. Wisconsin's own Our Lives Magazine recently profiled Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin, a national leader for LGBT equality and the co-chair of Barack's national gay leadership and policy committee. For more information about Barack's positions on issues important to the LGBT community, please visit http://pride.barackobama.com

Are you from Wisconsin? Do you have friends or family there? Help us win Wisconsin without leaving home!

Obama Pride Chicago: Debate Watch Party

Jamie Citron — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 20:40:07 EDT

Michelle Obama: "He has never stopped pursuing that better world."

Jamie Citron — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 14:11:17 EDT

Michelle Obama states her case in The Advocate:

The World As It Should Be
By: Michelle Obama
In about a month, Americans will head to the polls to cast their votes for the next president of the United States. It will be a momentous day. But this presidential election has already changed our country in profound ways. The candidacies of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton have smashed old barriers and broadened opportunities for all Americans. And I’m grateful to them -- both as a citizen and as a parent of two young girls.
But our country’s journey toward equality is not finished. It’s been five years since Lawrence v. Texas. It’s been 39 years since Stonewall. And we still have more work to do before we achieve equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender Americans.
Election Day offers an opportunity to take another crucial step toward equality. Millions have joined this movement for change. People are hoping again -- believing again -- that we can come together to create a stronger, fairer nation. And on November 4 we’ll have a chance to put that hope into action.
Translating hope into action is something Barack has done for his entire career.
Barack and I met in Chicago 20 years ago. He thought the best way for me to know him was to get a sense of the work he cared about most. After college he had worked in neighborhoods that were devastated when steel plants shut down and jobs dried up. He’d been invited back to speak to people from those neighborhoods about how to create new opportunities for their families. He asked me to come with him.
I watched as Barack took off his jacket, rolled up his sleeves, and instantly connected with every person in that room. He gave the most eloquent talk about “the world as it is” and “the world as it should be.”
Too often, he said, we accept the distance between the two, and we settle for the world as it is -- even when it doesn’t reflect our values and aspirations. But he reminded us that we know what fairness and justice and opportunity look like. And he urged us to believe in ourselves and find the strength to strive for the world as it should be.
Barack Obama, the 2008 presidential nominee, is the same man I fell in love with on that day 20 years ago. He has never stopped pursuing that better world.
As an Illinois state senator, Barack championed the law that amended the Illinois Human Rights Act to prohibit discrimination on the basis of both sexual orientation and gender identity in the workplace, in housing, and in public places. In the middle of a tight race for U.S. Senate, Barack went on the record supporting a complete repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act. As a U.S. senator, he voted to protect our Constitution from the stain of discrimination by voting against the Federal Marriage Amendment.
He has supported full funding for the Ryan White CARE Act and has pledged to implement a national HIV/AIDS strategy to combat the continuing epidemic in the United States. He has also spoken out against the stigma surrounding HIV testing, a stigma tied all too often to homophobia. And he’s led by example: On our trip to Kenya, we both took a public HIV test.
This is why Barack is running for president—because he believes that if we work together, we can build the world as it should be.
We all know what that world looks like.
It’s a world where we repeal laws like DOMA and “don’t ask, don’t tell” and oppose amendments that would write discrimination into our Constitution—because discrimination has no place in a nation founded on the promise of equality.
It’s a world where the federal government protects us all against hate crimes and we recognize that equality in relationship, family, and adoption rights isn’t an abstract principle but goes directly to whether all Americans can lead lives of dignity and freedom.

Hometown Pride: How to get started!

Jamie Citron — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:33:14 EDT

We are just weeks away from the most critical election of our lifetime and every vote counts. The difference between Barack Obama and John McCain could not be clearer and as LGBT people we know what's at stake. Senator Obama's LGBT Vote team is asking you to take part in a program unlike anything done before. Not only are we asking you to get involved where you live, but we are also asking you to make a difference where you are from. It's crucial to remember all the contacts we have – even if we don't live near them anymore – and talk to them, we can bring in the handful of votes that decide this election. LGBT Americans are from every corner of the country. Join us today and make a difference in a corner of the US that you know best.

Find three to five people back in your hometown who you think you could have a conversation with about Barack and Joe. When you talk with these people, tell them why you personally support Barack and Joe. These are your friends and people who know you, tell them your story.

Get Started Today.

Not sure who to talk to? Think about people you're still close to, like family members – but also think about people you might not have talked to in years. Think about:

Family members, Former Teachers, High School Friends, Your Piano Teacher, Sports or Drama Coach, an old Babysitter, Barber or Sunday School teacher. T-Ball Teammates, College Friends, Mentors and Professors. Your first boss and co-workers at the drive-in, bookstore or corner diner. What about your first boyfriend/girlfriend?

Not sure what to say? If you're talking about LGBT issues, we have some great talking points to help you start the conversation.

· John McCain has never once voted to progress LGBT equality. He voted against federal legislation that would protect LGBT people from being fired just for who they are, he believes gay people should not be able to serve in the military, visit their loved ones in the hospital and he isn't even sure we should be able to adopt.

· Barack Obama has a clear and consistent record in support of LGBT people. He promises to include me and other LGBT people in his vision of America and will work to make sure I am secure in my job, safe from hate crimes and equal in the eyes of the law.

· The Supreme Court is one vote away from overturning important decisions about personal privacy, like Lawrence vs. Texas and Roe vs. Wade, that protect all Americans from government intrusion – especially LGBT people.

Don't stop here. Do you know that your former high school English teacher is worried about social security? Is your softball coach or first boss worried about the struggling economy? Did your uncle just lose his job? Find out about Barack's plans to help every American HERE.

MySpace Democrats Announcement...

Beth for Obama'08 in Skokie, IL — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 06:17:47 EDT

----------------- Bulletin Message -----------------
From: DNC
Date: Sep 7, 2008 2:47 AM

Sometime in the next few days, MySpace Democrats and our allies on MySpace will roll out a major push to support Barack Obama.

We're going to need your help to show just how much MySpace Democrats supports Barack Obama.

We will need you to repost our bulletins, blog about the campaign when it launches and take action your self to help us elect Barack Obama

Stay tuned for more...

Join MySpace Democrats - http://groups. myspace. com/myspacedems

Subscribe - http://blog. myspace. com/myspacedemocrats

Add - http://www. myspace. com/myspacedemocrats

Obama Pride launches official Facebook page!

Jamie Citron — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 16:55:10 EDT

Obama Pride is now officially on Facebook. Join and find other supporters in your area, keep up with the blog, take a peek at new photos and videos from speeches and events around the country, register to vote, post and find Obama Pride activities near you.

JOIN TODAY!

Game On!

Vicki — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 18:47:50 EDT

In light of Gov. Palin's stemwinding and sarcastic speech last night, I say we send Hillary and every female surrogate we have to take her down! Send the women out to defend you and set her lies straight, while you focus only on McCain. Don't give them the satisfaction of lowering your sights to her level.

I know your staff reads all the blogs (wondering why I don't have this job?), but wanted to make sure you see this:

http://rossdouthat.theatlantic.com/archives/2008/09/free_advice_for_democrats.php

The press will dig up dirt on her - that is a given -- so you can take the high road (as usual) and let Joe mop the floor with her in the debate. Actually, I wouldn't mind seeing you unleash Michelle on her too!!

Obama/Biden '08!

Our Brothers & Sisters

Jamie Citron — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 15:06:34 EDT

Happy Labor Day!

CLICK HERE (or click the picture below) to watch a new Obama Pride video! It was originally premiered at the LGBT Caucus meeting at the Convention last week.

"When I am President of the Unites States, gays and lesbians will have somebody who will fight for equal rights for them, because they are our brothers and they are our sisters."
-Senator Barack Obama

Obama Pride at Convention: Day One

Jamie Citron — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 23:22:17 EDT

Day One. We are officially one full day into the convention. I am writing to you right now from the Pepsi Center, while Michelle Obama gives tonight’s keynote address. I wish I could convey the feeling here to you. The excitement is palpable; I see the same hope in the eyes of the delegates that I saw in the eyes of the caucus goers back on a cold January night in Iowa. Democrats from every state, all so excited to be here, and I have lost count of all the rainbow Obama, Biden and Clinton buttons I see all over the convention center!

Earlier today was the first DNC LGBT Caucus meeting led by Caucus Chair Rick Stafford.

Incredible speakers including Tim Gill, Shannon Minter, Melissa Sklarz and Marjory Hill reminded us of the central place LGBT Americans hold in the party, and of the role we play in changing America for the better. Tammy Baldwin concluded the meeting by letting us know that there are 40% more LGBT delegates than in 2004 and more total than have ever participated before.

As I am typing this Michelle is speaking about the common thread that runs through all Americans. It reminds me of when she said,

“We are only here because of those who marched and bled and died, from Selma to Stonewall, in pursuit of that more perfect union.”

We are all in this together.

America is in Denver tonight. The convention room is filled with an amazing quilt of people, all strengthened by a common cause and empowered by unshakeable hope. Every time I saw another Obama Pride or LGBT for Clinton button I was excited by the part our community is playing in this convention conversation, in this historic election, and in the future of our country... and it is still only day one!

Governor Sebelius has just adjourned the convention until tomorrow at 3:00 PM so I will leave you for tonight but please check back tomorrow! The LGBT Delegates are gathering for lunch with Tammy Baldwin, Barney Frank and a host of exciting speakers. I look forward to telling you all about it.

UPDATE: Rocker and gay rights activist Cyndi Lauper spent day one on the floor of the convention with Obama Pride staffer Alex! Cyndi spent the evening visiting with LGBT Delegates, talking to press about LGBT equality and even had a visit with the Biden family. Check back later today for photos!

$865 to go

Richard — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 22:09:02 EDT

Ok I have raised $135 dollars so far. That is a far cry from the $1000 that I am requesting. I will match you dollar for dollar until we reach a $1000 donation from small donors. Total out of pocket for me will be $1000, total out of pocket for you can be as little as $5. Just log into my personal page and donate and I will match your donation.

Thanks!

Travelingmanrick

Obama Pride welcomes Joe Biden to the team!

Jamie Citron — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 11:09:40 EDT

Obama Pride is glad to welcome friend of the community, Senator Joe Biden, to the 2008 Democratic ticket. You can welcome Joe too, and share your story with him, HERE.

$1000 Challenge

Richard — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 22:22:14 EDT

Well folks I have raised $1000 for Barack Obama so far and this is a second challenge for you. For every dollar that is donated through my personal fundraising page I will match you dollar for dollar up to $1000 in total donations on my part. This means if you donate $25 I will match your donation. If I get just ten $100 donations I will then donate $1000 to the general election fund.
Because I maxed out for the primary I will not be eligible to donate to the general until he accepts the nomination. Please join me in giving to a great cause and having an impact on this election.
We cannot afford to have 4 or 8 more years of a republican regime in this country. We as Americans deserve better than that. So please join me by clicking on my Personal Fundraising Page and making your donation today. If you know someone that you think might be interested in donating please forward them this blog link! I would hate it if I could not raise the total of $2000.
My Sincere Thanks,Travelingmanrick

Barack's LGBT Friends & Colleagues

Jamie Citron — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:11:49 EDT

The Advocate has spent the last month talking to personal friends and colleagues, all LGBT, of Barack's, as well as Illinois activists who know his work the best. The piece does a great job of reminding us of his great stances on our issues but also shines light on the important ways LGBT people have impacted Senator Obama's life. I strongly urge you to read the whole piece.

Barack Obama had just finished a long day of campaigning for the U.S. Senate in 2004 when he called his daughters on the cell phone to say good night. Then he sat back in the car, turned to an aide (who had also been a close friend for more than a decade), and asked, “So, Kevin—have you and Greg thought about having kids?”
The aide, Kevin Thompson (who no longer works for the candidate), says Obama often asked questions about his life as a gay man: wondering how he and his partner made various decisions, why they didn’t want to get married, why they weren’t planning to have kids. And after Obama marched in a Chicago pride parade for the first time, Thompson says, questions again poured forth: “He wanted to know the history of Pride—how is it that every city has one, what was the origin of it, what was the whole story about Stonewall.”
Obama had seen Thompson through ups and downs. They first met when Thompson worked with Michelle Obama in the Chicago mayor’s office in the early 1990s. At the time, Thompson was married to a woman, but in the difficult period when his marriage ended and he started coming out, he says, Michelle became one of his closest confidantes. “I knew that [my coming out] made a lot of people uncomfortable, no matter what they said. I never worried, never wondered for a second what Michelle and Barack thought of me. They were the kind of friends who I knew would always be with me.”

Please take a minute to read the entire article here.

Northalsted St. Wrap-up

Jamie Citron — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:27:57 EDT

Congratulations Obama Pride Chicago on registering and re-registering over 1,000 voters from all over the Midwest at Northalsted Market Days!

Would you like to get involved with an Obama Pride event near you? Click here for events in your city.

LIVE from Northalsted St.

Jamie Citron — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 16:32:18 EDT

Obama Pride,

I am blogging to you from booth #333 at Northalsted Market Days, the largest street festival in the Midwest and Chicago's most famous LGBT event. We are registering voters from all over and have registered or re-registered 800 people and counting! Check back tomorrow for our grand total. Do you need to register? Have you moved since you last registered and you need to re-register? CLICK HERE.

Barack Responds to the New CDC Numbers on HIV/AIDS in the US

Jamie Citron — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 10:29:40 EDT

Senator Obama released the following statement on the Center for Disease Control's report about new cases of HIV/AIDS in the United States.

"We have now learned that 56,300 new HIV infections occurred in the United States in 2006, not 40,000 that had been previously cited. These new figures should bring new focus to our efforts to address AIDS and HIV here at home.
"As president, I am committed to developing a National AIDS Strategy to decrease new HIV infections and improve health outcomes for Americans living with HIV/AIDS. Across the nation, we also need to prevent the spread of HIV and get people into treatment by expanding access to testing and comprehensive education programs. This report also demonstrates the need for more timely data about HIV transmission so that we can effectively evaluate prevention efforts.
"Combating HIV/AIDS also demands closing the gaps in opportunity that exist in our society so that we can strengthen our public health. We must also overcome the stigma that surrounds HIV/AIDS – a stigma that is too often tied to homophobia. We need to encourage folks to get tested and accelerate HIV/AIDS research toward an effective cure because we have a moral obligation to join together to meet this challenge, and to do so with the urgency this epidemic demands."

To read Senator Obama's plan for fighting HIV/AIDS world wide and at home, click HERE

Estimated 27% Increase in LGBT Convention Participation

Jamie Citron — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 19:00:57 EDT

National Stonewall Democrats, the national voice of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and allied Democrats, announced today that a total of 360 LGBT delegates will participate in the Convention in December at the end of the month. The number represents a 27% increase from last year and breaks any previous record.

"The Democratic Party is being positively shaped by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender advocates who believe in Democratic principles of fair play, hard work, security at home and equal opportunity for all," said Jon Hoadley, Executive Director. "The Democratic National Convention is an avenue for our community to participate in civic life and advance the values that the majority of Americans share. Many of our brightest elected officials, chapter leaders and party officers began their participation in Democratic politics as delegates to past conventions and by increasing the number of LGBT participants, we are growing the ranks of future Democratic leaders."
Stonewall Democrats announced their unofficial count based on numbers reported by state Democratic parties to the Secretary's office of the Democratic National Committee. 324 LGBT participants were reported by state parties to the Secretary's office. Additionally, Stonewall Democrats was able to identify for the Secretary's office 34 more openly-LGBT participants than were first reported. As with previous years, as the convention nears, it is expected that more LGBT delegates will self-identify as openly-LGBT.

Click HERE to read the full release.

Obama's letter to the Family Equality Council

Jamie Citron — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 14:59:45 EDT

In light of Senator McCain's recent mixed comments on LGBT adoption Jennifer Chrisler, Executive Director of the Family Equality Council, wrote a letter to Senator Obama asking for an answer to the following question.

As a lesbian mother and the executive director of Family Equality Council, the national organization working to ensure equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender families by building community, changing hearts and minds and advancing social justice for all families, I know how hard parents work to raise happy, healthy children. Regardless of their sexual orientations and gender identities, regardless of how many parents or caregivers are present in a family, all parents begin each day with their children at the forefront of their thoughts. On behalf of diverse families, I ask for your plan to recognize, respect, protect and celebrate all of the loving families you seek to represent... These families want to know how your administration will address their needs. What policies and positions will you take to make sure that all loving families are recognized, respected, protected and celebrated? How will you lead all families to a brighter future?

We wanted to share Senator Obama's response with you. He started by sharing his own experience being raised in a unique family.

While we live in a nation that is enriched by a vast array of diverse traditions, cultures and histories, it is our commonality that most defines us. The desire to build a life with a loved one, to provide for a family and to have children who will grow and thrive -- these are desires that all people share, regardless of race, sex, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity. My own experience has taught me this lesson well. I was born to a single mother, my devoted grandparents helped raise me, and then I married the woman of my dreams and had two beautiful daughters.

Senator Obama then went on to discuss his plan to help ease the burdens currently felt by all families, including LGBT families.

We know that the cost of the American dream must never come at the expense of the American family. For decades we’ve had politicians in Washington who talk about family values, but we haven’t had policies that value families. Instead, it’s harder for working parents to make a living while raising their kids. It's even harder to get a break.
That's why I'll double spending on quality after-school programs - so that you can know your kids are safe and secure. And that's why I'll expand the Family Medical Leave Act to include more businesses and millions more workers; to let parents participate in school activities with their kids; and to cover elderly care. And we'll finally put federal support behind state efforts to provide paid family and medical leave. We'll require employers to provide seven paid sick days each year. We'll enforce laws that prohibit caregiver discrimination. And we'll encourage flexible work schedules to better balance work and parenting for mothers and fathers. That's the change that working families need.

Finally, Barack reiterated his commitment to and respect for LGBT families.

We have to do more to support and strengthen LGBT families. Because equality in relationship, family, and adoption rights is not some abstract principle; it's about whether millions of LGBT Americans can finally live lives marked by dignity and freedom. That’s why we have to repeal laws like the Defense of Marriage Act. That’s why we have to eliminate discrimination against LGBT families. And that’s why we have to extend equal treatment in our family and adoption laws.
I’ll be a president that stands up for American families – all of them.

Thank you to Jennifer Chrisler and the Family Equality Council for asking the important questions and for helping build a stronger American family.

Let's send some messages to demand responsibility in government

Duane Kuehn — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 15:40:59 EDT

Hi All,

     We have watched our political system become filled with irresponsibility and a demand that people are above our law.
      I hope you will please investigate these links, which are timely, and make a decision if you would want to see responsible politics put back into the system.

     This one is Karl Rove (McCain’s new campaign spin/lie master). He claims nothing less than “executive privilege” to not honor a Federal Subpoena. I forget when he was elected President! Do not let him get away with this!

http://sendkarlrovetojail.com/?utm_source=47433

     Hold McCain responsible for his lies in his advertisements.

http://therealmccain.com/pac/?utm_source=rgemail

     Like Barack says, it is “bottom up” instead of “top down”. We cannot expect one man to change everything about the way government is run. We must take action ourselves to help Barack. One think is holding people responsible for what they say and what they do.
     Bush said many things about responsibility and takes none himself.

     Let us hold these people responsible for what they do. Show them that we are not just some supporters of Barack Obama for some “movement”. That we are the movement and we mean business.

Loveya,
Duane Kuehn

Hey Wow! Win a beautiful heritage Obama Quilt!

Duane Kuehn — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 10:28:08 EDT

Hi All,

     Okay, he it is, I have begged and pleaded for people to donate at my Fundraiser. I have crawled and cried and… Okay, maybe not. Lol

     This, is where you should surely donate! Any amount will help and we can help these wonderful persons who made this quilt reach their goal. I know we can do it, you and I.

     The great part is that you will be put in the pot to win this quilt! It will be a great heirloom for sure. A quilt made in honor of the man who has already changed the way politics works. He is already one of the greatest figures in American history.

     Please, let’s do this. For us, for Obama, for our children’s future.

http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/maingroup/QUILTERSFOROBAMA

Loveya,
Duane Kuehn

Repost: Obama vs. McCain-bush drone

Duane Kuehn — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:16:27 EDT

     A young man stepped up to the podium at the 2004 Democrat's National Convention to give a speech. A riveting speech it was. He touched the heart, the mind and the soul as he spoke of the civil rights of all Americans. About the need to take back our government, to change the way government operates and make it transparent to the people once more.

     That we ARE one nation and should refuse those who would tear us apart for their own political gain. That we are a diverse nation, Latin’s, Blacks, Whites and every shade in between. Members of various religious creeds, races, and individuals along the vast spectrum of sexuality financial capability. That we are God’s diversity and in our diversity is our true strength. That we are a house divided by political mudslinging and lies. That we must come together as a house united. Not mentioning what we all know, that a house divided can only fall.

     A "Keynote Address" he was giving too, a message of hope for the future, its unarguable truth unheard of in modern politics. I was glued to my seat, listening as this man spoke. Reminding myself that we are so good at coming together for one another in times of tragedy. Knowing that the current Bush/Cheney Administration itself was a tragedy of our proud heritage.

     His speech was in favor of John Kerry and we watched as a group, now indicted for their actions, called the “Swift-boat Veterans” slung heaps of lies and mud upon one honored veteran; and in doing so slung mud upon every veteran in the grand military history of this country. The people we swayed by the mud, untruth and spread of fear which would never come to be. He advocated John Kerry and John Kerry lost the election.

     Giving us four more years of economic decline, military bumbling, an oil consortium growing rich as the rest grew poorer. But for the rich, like Warren Buffet who, upon receiving his $395 million dollar tax break said he didn’t ask for it, he certainly didn’t need it. The other wealthy were not so forthcoming as another four years of feeding the rich at the expense of every hard working American.

     But, the average American was also rewarded with tax breaks. Little did they suspect that they would pay dearly much more than they received. The Bush administration stood tall and proudly demanded that the dollar was strong, the economy on the upswing, as they had for four years prior. No one seemed to pay much attention that the dollar, for seven straight years, had been continually falling on the world market. The world market being the true barometer of a national economy, though the elite like to confuse things with GNP and deficit spending or consumer buying.

     For six years, George Bush replaced “unemployment” with “unemployment rolls”, a smooth move. “The unemployment rolls are down this month”, not mentioning that the unemployment rolls are reduced each month that any unemployed person’s benefits have run-out. They didn’t get jobs, they just were off the rolls. When they did get jobs, it was usually making much less money than they had been.

     Seven, going on eight, years of deceitfulness and blatant lies in government, all allowed by an obviously controlled press. Yes, you can fool all of the people some of the time. Even for eight years running.

     This man who gave that keynote address speech that was so riveting. His name, we know, is Barack Obama.

     I watched him over the years and yes, he fulfills his promises. He acts in a bipartisan manner and even produced the most compelling ethics laws that the State of Illinois has ever seen. In the United States Senate, he began to open the government, in spite of George Bush's disabling of the Freedom of Information Act.

     He recently created a huge stir with his support of the new FISA legislation. Though fulfilling his promise to fight to have the immunity provision removed, it remained in the bill, as expected. The rewrite of this FISA bill itself, reins in Bush's domestic surveillance but allows for International surveillance, so long as an American citizen is not involved in what is espied.

     That the PAA was to expire in August and Bush had already demanded that he would veto another extension, the passing of this bill is necessary. Add the fact that it was known that this bill would pass the Senate with little friction, I must wonder. Why did Barack Obama support it when it would pass with or without his vote? The only answer is that there was an "Old-School" trade-off.

     You see, Obama knew that his support would create a wave of unrest in his supporters but said, "I will take my lumps". What nobody seemed to be watching at the time is that, probably the most important financial and health legislation was also going through the Senate, a Medicare bill that Bush promised to veto.

     A number of Republican's oddly did an about face and approved the new Medicare legislation. John McCain the only Senator absent for the vote (but he has a history of being absent from the Senate floor for his entire career more than any other Senator anyway). Ted Kennedy, recover ing from brain surgery even made an appearance, casting the deciding vote, which made the legislation veto-proof. Hence, I believe that Obama put himself on the line for an "Old-School" trade-off. He is, after all, only a Senator and must work within the system. I think that everyone might understand that.

     I almost forgot the "Change" thing. Yes, "Change" has been used in many campaigns before. However, contrary to what many people claim, Barack Obama defines "Change" if one reads his proposals or listens to his speeches it is all there.

     Open (called now, "transparency") Government is Barack Obama's "Change". A change in how government operates. A reopening of the doors that have been closed as government operates behind them. Promising executive order to reverse many of those Bush put into effect. Like George's lengthening the President Act that the activities of Presidents would not be public knowledge for a full 25 years! Moreover, reversing the executive orders Bush used to disable the Freedom of Information Act. Barack also promises to correct George Bush's extension of the "National Security" classification to include what Cheney had for lunch at a public restaurant. (My joke, me bad.)

     I hope that everyone recognizes that Barack Obama does bring us a new Hope. That the "movement" part of his campaign is the promise to Change the way that a government we have come to mistrust, operates. This from a man whose political history is the "proof in the pudding" that he keeps his word.

     I watch now as the McCain campaign begins to smear tactics. Slinging lies blatantly into the media which devours them like Adam and Eve devoured the Fruit of the Garden. I wonder how many people will be swayed into believing these lies and campaigning spins.

    I hope very few.

Loveya,
Duane Kuehn

Attn 18th congressional dist-IL: I'm "Getting by with a little help from my friends"........I need you now!

freedom4u_n_me — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 18:58:28 EDT

I'm happy to announce that I was just made the 'Organizer for the 18th congressional district of IL'!

Our main objective is to GET OUT ThE VOTE! We want to begin weekly meetings for planning, phone banking, trips to IA, and voter registration activities.

GOAL: The weekend of Nov. 1st- Nov. 4th: WE WANT AT LEAST 175 PEOPLE (from our district alone) IN IA TO GOTV!

I'm in Peoria County. Can you help me?

I need your help in:

Adams

Brown

Bureau

Cass

Knox

Lincoln

Macon

Marshall

Mason

Menard

Morgan

Pike

Putnam

Sangamon

Schuyler

Scott

Stark

Tazewell

Woodford

So far I need to find a handicap accessible, FREE, center where we can have meetings and do phone banking.We will be receiving a lot of help from the campaign. If you're afraid money will be an issue, don't worry!

Please contact me:

Gail/Obama in the heart, Peoria,IL http://my.barackobama.com/page/group/ObamaintheHeartPeoriaIL

gail.newtson@gmail.com

Thanks..............everybody!

Voices from the Field: Rebecca, Jeff & Laura from San Francisco

Jamie Citron — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 14:40:18 EDT

Though initially all split between Obama, Edwards and Clinton in the Primary, Rebecca Prozan, Jeff Soukup & Laura Spanjian came together to head up Obama Pride's efforts in Northern California. Together, they wrote the following op-ed for the Bay Area Reporter to coincide with San Francisco Pride. We wanted to share it with you on Obama Pride as well! Thank you to Rebecca, Jeff & Laura for their inspiring words and hard work!

January 20, 2009. Finally, after eight years of destructive, incompetent leadership the George W. Bush era will be over.
And we will have the chance to move into a new, progressive era with an inspiring Democratic leader as our president.
Imagine all the things that could happen with a Democratic president. Overturning "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and ending discrimination against LGBT Americans in uniform. Repealing the so-called Defense of Marriage Act and ending federal discrimination against LGBT families. Passing a fully inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act and ending discrimination against all LGBT Americans in the workplace.
To make these dreams a reality, we all need to work together to elect Barack Obama the next president of the United States.
Staying divided, or more importantly, staying home, only gives us one outcome: President John McCain and more of George Bush's failed policies.

To read the rest of the piece please CLICK HERE.

Adopted Son Speaks Out

Jamie Citron — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 12:56:57 EDT

Upset with John McCain's shifting stance on LGBT Adoption, High School Senior and adopted son of two Lesbian moms, Alan, decided to share his thoughts on the matter with The Bilerico Project.

As someone who was adopted by two lesbian moms, I was certainly disappointed to find out that John McCain, a candidate for President of the United States, doesn't "believe in gay adoption."
What's not to believe in? Many gays and lesbians adopt children and create wonderful, loving families. My moms adopted me out of foster care when I was eleven years old. I'm seventeen now. I love my family. My moms provide for me in all the ways that other parents provide for their children. We have our problems just like everybody else, but in the end we take care of each other. We believe in each other.

Alan continues by saying:

John McCain says he supports a quicker route to adoption so kids who need homes can get them faster, but he clearly has a bias against my kind of family and all the ones I listed above. If John McCain had his way, my family would not exist. I'm not giving up my family just because John McCain is confused about what really makes a family.

If you would like to read Alan's entire post, please visit The Bilerico Project by clicking HERE.

My two moms, my little brother and me, we're doing just fine. We could do a little better if we had the support of people like John McCain, who as President or even as a senator has so much power over how other people live their lives. Without his support, we'll keep doing what we've always done-love each other, care for each other, argue like all families, make up like all families, and continue to work for a country that really respects all of its people and families.
We'd rather have our next president support us. Wouldn't you?

46-point lead among LGBT voters!

Jamie Citron — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 12:39:45 EDT

On Monday, a new Harris poll reported the first major data on the views of LGBT Americans in the 2008 General Election Cycle.

Among LGBT adults, 60 percent favor Obama while 14 percent favor McCain. Three percent of LGBT adults favor Barr, while 1 percent choose Nader. Six percent choose "other," while 17 percent of all LGBT voters are not yet sure which candidate to support -- comparable to the general population.

The poll went on to say:

Barack Obama leads John McCain among registered voters 44 percent to 35 percent, while Bob Barr, the Libertarian candidate and Ralph Nader each receive 2 percent, a new Harris Interactive poll reported.

For more information on the polls findings, please click HERE.

To get involved click HERE!

Fun GM 40 &new volunteer at Campaign HQ seeks Temp Housing

Evan Shapiro — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 12:12:39 EDT

Hi there. My name's Evan Shapiro and I will be working at the Obama Headquarters in Chicago from Sunday July 27 until Election Day. I will be arriving on Saturday night July 26. I am seeking temporary, and free to low cost housing for a few days until I can find a longer term sublet. Also interested in any leads you may have for reasonably priced short-term housing for August, Sept and October. You can reach me at evanshapiro@gmail.com. You can check out my profile if you are interested in seeing a picture or reading about my commitment to the Campaign. Thanks a bunch!

repost: Obama, Washington behind the scenes

Duane Kuehn — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 16:49:00 EDT

Hi All,

Covered by the FISA fiasco we weren't watching behind the scenes.

As Barack Obama was taking the big hits for voting "Yes" on the FISA bill (which it was known was already going to pass by a huge majority without his vote), nobody seemed to notice the Medicare bill and the number of Republican Senators that jumped ship and voted, "Yes" on it.

Many of us were wiping the tears from our eyes as if maybe Barack Obama had stood us up for a date. When in fact, as Barack is not President yet but we are very aware of his persusive bipartisan influence; the Medicare bill was being passed with a majority vote that George Bush cannot veto.

A huge victory for the people of this country. What happened? We all know the give and take of Washington politics, the behind the doors goings on which Obama says will Change when he is President. But, Obama is not President yet and still apart of the give and take of Washington Politics.

I would venture to gain that the give and take was a trade off on a FISA bill which was going to pass anyway, for a Medicaid bill which wasn't going to pass. A bill which will now help to pave the way for a badly needed Universal Health Care bill.

Who knows but, I say 3 cheers to mybarackObama! Not to mention Ted Kennedy who surely had much to do with this.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/11/opinion/11krugman.html?em&ex=1216008000&en=ba067d25713ebe77&ei=5087%0A#secondParagraph

Loveya,

Duane Kuehn

The Audacity to Flout Tradition

WeDemocrats — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 18:04:15 EDT

Barack Obama has re-energized American Politics. No one has been able to draw the huge crowds he does; no one has renewed the pulsating desire to participate like he has. Many speak of the JFK years with longing and claim to see images of that era reflected in the Obama campaign.

I don’t. Having lived during the JFK era, having worked as a teenager to get him elected, the comparison doesn’t quite jibe.

Kennedy was a creation of old fashion politics, cigar filled back room deals with the likes of the father of the present mayor of Chicago Richard Daley. He more than most understood that he could flout tradition only a wee bit without losing support of his base. Obama on the other hand began his national career flouting tradition by running against the Democratic machine’s choice in Illinois for United States Senator. He beat the Party candidate in the primaries, and then went on to win the fall election. His audacity to flout traditions has time and time again proven him right.

repost: McCain fundraising loopholes 527's

Duane Kuehn — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:41:59 EDT

Hi All,

I stole this link from newday4us's blog.

As we all know, John McCain locked himself into the public funding system before he realized that the Republican Primary would be a "walk in the park" for him. Then he could not get out of public funding without explaining a few million dollars in loans and a few million in corporate jet transport through his wife Cindy.

We know that Barack made the right decision going with us, the people of the United States.

Unfortunately, as Barack said, the McCain campaign will have plenty of misleading advertisement from the "527's". More than that, he is recieving huge donations through the loopholes via the RNC.

Barack will be needing donations and lots of them. I have donated and hope to donate more with every monthly check. Now, I decided to open one of those fundraiser spots and hope some of you might help me out to reach that goal. I can't start donating in my own fundraiser thing until my next rather measly but not complaining check.

I hope that I get the links right and I hope some of you all will help me out with my fundraiser thing, though I know that ya'll already donate elsewhere. 5 or 10 dollars is great and will be very much appreciated by me and the campaign.

The link to the article about McCains funds:

http://blog.newsweek.com/blogs/stumper/archive/2008/07/07/for-mccain-money-talks.aspx

I tried to do a takeoff on the old saying and make it, "Wish in One Hand, Hope in the Other", kind of lame I guess.

The link (hopefully correct) to my fundraiser page:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/main/WishIn1Hand

Loveya,

Duane Kuehn

This one has the link

Duane Kuehn — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 16:56:19 EDT

Hi All,

I sent the message about more smear information but forgot to add the link! Sorry.
Loveya,
Duane

http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/Mikeystyle/gGBLHQ

More smear information

Duane Kuehn — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 16:50:09 EDT

Hi All,

Some more wonderful information on smears.

Loveya,
Duane

repost: Obama and Gays in the Military

Duane Kuehn — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 13:26:34 EDT

Hi All,

We should all learn from history. When the very far right Republican Party that was his creation elected George Bush the father, he turned on them, he voted "Yes" to Civil Rights.

The result was a Republican Party of close-minded bigots who turned on him. This turning included many death threats, and death threats in Texas are promises in a land where people keep their promises.

Rather than run, George Bush gave what some consider the most amazing speech of his political career, and that man could give a speech. He called the Party Big-Wigs and Big Money to a meeting and talked to the outraged and angry mob.

The gist of his speech was that when he was in the armed service, he watched black men fight and die next to him. That if these black people could fight and die for this country, they deserved Civil Rights in this country. George Bush walked away from that meeting to thunderous applause.

John McCain is no fool. He must attack Obama's stance of allowing gays to serve openly in the military. He must because these are his trump cards with the huge voting block of the Religious Right.

Bill Clinton tried to allow gays to serve openly in the military. One of his generals had a hissy-fit about it and it changed to a "don't ask, don't tell" policy". It was a little better than the days of Vietnam when our troops were spied followed and spied upon in attempt to catch and criminalize anyone who was gay. A time when some of our most honored and highly decorated soldiers were thrown out of the service, not for sexual misconduct but for the mere fact that they were bisexual or gay.

Strange when one considers that the most famous of military leaders, Alexander the Great, was a homosexual. The homosexuality of Alexander of Mesopotamia is a documented fact, which proves that gays can be the best of soldiers and military leaders. That the Spartans were often homosexual couples because they would fight harder when fighting beside someone they loved.

The point being that gay men and women do not join the army to get a date.

Being gay is not a behavior; it is a natural part of life. It is not a "choice" for most anyway, most hate themselves for being gay and nobody would choose to live life in a closet of self-hatred. I do not think the marines have to worry about being raped by a gay soldier.

Sexuality should not really enter into the picture but as a man has the right to say, "I have a girlfriend back home", or a woman has the right to say, "I have a husband back home", and so does the gay soldier have the right to share his life back home with his comrades in arms. Gay soldiers should not be forced to tell lies to their friends in the service for fear of court martial.

If a gay person chooses to fight for the United States of America, the United States of America should recognize that person's human rights; and the armed services are no exception.

repost: thermal energy

Duane Kuehn — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 11:35:13 EDT

Hi All,
Here is a message I received from John Chamberlain at St.Louis for Obama. I hope you will all take a minute and enter a not on the Obama mypage as this asks. It is a marvelous system of renewable energy.

Apologies for any repeat postings.

I just sent this message to the Obama Team regarding America installing a real and feasible 100% renewable energy supply for America on a national scale - i.e. Thermal Solar power (not Solar PV panels), see:

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/06/business/06solar.html? and http://www.trec-uk.org.uk/csp.htm .

This technology is applicable mostly to the American West & Southwest, i.e: California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona. It is also applicable world-wide, with 90% of the world's population living within 1700 miles of a suitable area for such Thermal Solar power production, meaning only a max 5-8% transmission loss using HVDC lines. This make Thermal Solar power a TRULY 100% renewable power technology which can be applied world-wide to replace coal, oil and nuclear power stations and really start to clean up the world again. If it were fully installed in the USA (for less than the cost of the Iraq war) we would cut US C02 emissions by over 50% within 5-8 years.

The message to the Obama campaign is below. Please check this out. If you support the promotion of this technology, please send your own message on the subject to the Obama Team at this weblink:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/s/mypolicy -under 'Energy and Environment'

The McCain campaign is about to release a series of TV advertisements across America on Energy Policy, and the Obama Campaign needs to hear our thoughts on what real and renewable energies it should be promoting in return. Remember, Thermal Solar is in service TODAY and is 100% Renewable. Thermal Solar power plants only take about 2 years to build, and could take care of 100% of America's electricity needs in an area the size of 10% of Federal lands in Nevada. These plants could be dispersed across Western and Southwestern Sunbelt states and create thousands of jobs there too.

As members of the Obama Campaign let's promote 100% renewable energy technologies which really do work like Thermal Solar (and Geothermal) power, not hokey half-way houses like Biodiesel or so-called "Clean Coal" both of which will just do further damage to our planet in different ways. It may not be sensible to put 100% of our energy production into one technology, but clearly Thermal Solar should play a major or majority part in our future energy production.

If you support the promotion of this technology, please send your own message on the subject with your own technical and business inputs to the Obama Team at this weblink:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/s/mypolicy -under 'Energy and Environment'

This is not to say that other renewable power sources are not effective also (like wind, wave, tide etc), but this power technology is new to many people and in my mind offers the best advantages for the planet.

Sincerely yours,

John Chamberlain

BSc Eng, MBA

PS Some other links and resources regarding Thermal Solar Power are below:

Below is a link which gives you a good feel for production costs of Thermal Solar power vs. coal and other fuels.

http://www.trec-uk.org.uk/csp/costs.htm

www.ausra.com will likely have the lowest cost Thermal Solar power, and their new fabrication plant in Nevada has just been opened by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (click on RHS of webpage). Ausra uses Fresnel lenses (the same as in lighthouses) inside their mirrors to concentrate the solar power and heat the tubes of liquid above. Below are two nice slide shows on the technology:

http://www.ausra.com/pdfs/SolarThermal101_final.pdf

http://www.ausra.com/pdfs/070820discussion.pdf

http://www.ausra.com/pdfs/SolarPACESMills-Morgan.pdf

http://www.ausra.com/history/ History of Solar Power. Click on "1905-1954" and use the green arrow to scroll right to 1913. Amazingly this Thermal Solar technology was producing 55 HP (around 40 KW) back in 1913 !

Ausra's view on the future of Thermal Solar for the US is as below:

http://www.ausra.com/news/releases/080306.html

This is a very good article by John Hay on the same subject of Thermal Solar (check pages 1 and 2) plus a very interesting video

http://www.tellingthoughts.com/us-politics/baseload-renewable-power-solar-thermal-90-us-needs

It has also been pointed out that thermal solar plants usually need access to water supplies (not always accessible in desert areas!), although many types can use closed loop systems which limits the issue. In addition, Thermal Solar does not have to be the only renewable solution used, and others can clearly include wind, geothermal and solar PV.

LGBT Pride Events

Jamie Citron — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 14:16:00 EDT

Obama for America HQ in Chicago sent out the following email. Click the link to order a special limited edition Obama Pride 2008 T-shirt or to view a slideshow of the best photos from Prides around the country.

Dear Friend --

Thanks to supporters like you, we made a big impact during Pride month.

Volunteers all across the country helped grow this grassroots movement and bring more voices into the political process. You organized your communities to march in Pride parades, registered voters, and shared Barack's message of change by reaching out to friends and neighbors.

Check out some of the best photos from Pride events all over the country, and make a donation of $30 or more to receive a special edition Obama Pride T-shirt to show your pride in style:

Pride month may be over, but you can still show your pride and support this campaign through Obama Pride events.

On My.BarackObama, it's easy to find an Obama Pride event near you. You can also set up an event of your own, invite your friends, and post it online for others to find.

To get started in your community, just log onto your My.BarackObama account and go to our Pride events page. (If you don't have a My.BarackObama account yet, creating one is simple and quick.)

http://my.barackobama.com/prideevents

We are proud to join with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender supporters in celebrating the accomplishments, the lives, and the families of the LGBT community.

Thank you for everything you're doing,

Obama for America

P.S. -- Please forward this email to others who may be interested in seeing the slide show and getting a T-shirt of their own.

Gay rights and the Bible

Duane Kuehn — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 12:52:02 EDT

"You can make the Judea/Christian Bible say anything you want it to say", the answer to just about any interpretation that does not agree with the status quo.

The "status quo" is the interpretation that best fills the pocketbooks of wealthy preachers and churches. Even in this, "enlightened" age "Bible Thumpers" and their innocent followings preach hate and discontent, oftentimes without a clue that they might be incorrect.

The "clue", of course is always the knowing that the Bible, for some reason seems to contradict itself. Some appear to easily ignore that two opposites seem to be said at the same time. "The Word is not confused; it is humankind that confuses the Word. -Jesus the Christ.

In the case of Christianity and Homosexuality, this is summed in Christ's words to love thy God and thy neighbor vs. a backhanded approval of hating homosexuals.

The heartbreaking problem with this is that each time the Bible is re-translated; the "status quo" becomes the guide. This is to say that in new versions of the Bible, which make scripture easier to read, not only change the words but tend to bury the Wisdom a bit further with each new translation. Making it, each time, just a little bit harder to find what the Bible actually says.

Dealing with such an explosive issue as "homosexuality" becomes a bit less easy as newer Bibles actually include the term "homosexuals" in the story of Sodom and Gomorrah. Though that which a modern society terms "homosexuality" as "sin" is very far from the truth of the story of Sodom and Gomorrah.

For the modern "Christian", reading through the Torah (Old Testament) is not so necessary. However, Jesus of the New Testament (also called the New Testament), references the Torah and it is nice to get a better picture of this older scripture.

What the Bible really says about homosexuality is not so easy to explain, as the Bible actually is not pornographic and references to sexual behavior are normally a symbolism of "selfishness". One does not have to be an avid reader of the scripture to realize that all of that which is called "sin" therein is based upon one thing, "selfishness".

The "selfishness" of Eve, in biting the forbidden fruit was the deception that she would become as "God"; is symbolized by the sexually placed fig leaves over the genitalia. The "selfishness" of the men of Sodom is as well symbolized by the sexually placed offer of the two virgin daughters.

Further reading of the scripture will give to us a better glimpse of life in the "City of Men" (meaning not a city of "God" but a city of the ego of humankind). That, "Even the women and children were thieves and murderers (not that even the women and children were homosexuals). You see. Sexual excursions are often used to symbolize "selfishness".

The men surround the house in the story of Sodom to signify the selfishness of the city. Later we find written that, "Even the women and children of Sodom were thieves and murderers". The sin of Sodom was the failure of the city to follow God's Word, "If a stranger should sojourn unto your land, give him water for his thirst and a place of shade to rest." Neither Sodom nor its sister city Gomorrah had any hospitality.

"Lust", in this modern day of sexual obsessions, is most often thought of in a sexual context. However, Biblically "lust" is a selfish desire of anything, such as coveting, killing, etc. All the hurtful things some people do to others to please the ego of the self.

In fact, if one is not used to reading the Bible, some important definitions might be in order. Definitions, which, to the best of my knowledge, most church leaders, leave to the imagination. Things left ignored for the probable reason of keeping the Bible "mysterious".

"Evil" is most often considered the opposite "Good". More in line with the truth of "Evil" is the old adage, "Sometimes Good can come from Evil".

This because "Evil" is simply and unequivocally, "Good which is used (twisted) for Selfish Purpose". One can test this definition in any circumstance.

My personally favorite description of the Bible is, "The Good Book which is often used for Selfish Purpose". I believe the Bible to be filled with timeless wisdoms, which, like a garden hoe, can be used to cultivate Spiritual Growth.
Nevertheless, also like a garden hoe, it can be used to hit one's neighbor over the head.

The same rule applies to "Evil" as applies to "sin", if it is selfish there is Evil at hand.

Another Biblical word that is easily misunderstood is "Love". We live in an era that is obsessed with "sex" and this "sex" spills into the term "Love". "Sex" can be, but is not always, a physical manifestation of "Love". The same rule, again, applies and will apply throughout the Bible. If it is selfish for either partner, then it is not "Love", it is an egotistically invoked sexual enterprise, in the name of selfish pleasure and often to the detriment of one's partner. This self-gratification is not of "Love".

Biblical "Love", in today's language, would be "Acceptance". When "sex" is a manifestation of this "Acceptance", it is "Love". One of any sexuality should take care in one's behavior concerning sexual excursions.

The Biblical "God", when speaking to Moses from a burning bush, defines God for us. This bush is not to be confused with a President. When Moses asks for a name, that which is called "God" replies, "I AM THAT I AM" (emphasis is Biblical, not my creation). In this manner, we may replace the term "God" with "I AM THAT I AM". The reason for this replacement is twofold.

The Bible is written by a patriarchal society for a patriarchal society. The "male" is dominant in this society and therefore "God" is depicted as a male. The Bible is, in fact, a personification of creation itself. Substituting "I AM THAT I AM" for the term "God" renders the "male" image of God neutral and gives a more forthright and understandable depiction of the nature of God.

In this, "I AM THAT I AM" shall say, "Let us create man (Spiritual humankind) in our image". Moreover, a bit after, "I AM THAT I AM" created man (Spiritual humankind) in his (read the) image of "I AM THAT I AM". "Male AND Female created He (I AM THAT I AM) THEM.

"God" has created spiritual humankind in the image of "I AM THAT I AM". Both, male and female are the single image of "God". For God will later create the human form of the dust and blow into the nostrils the Spiritual essence of "I AM THAT I AM".

This is important because "God" does not change the Word. Before "God" creates the physical body of humankind, God shall say to the Spiritual-essence of humankind to, "Be fruitful and multiply". Some claim this to be the first Commandment of the Lord; however, the Word does not give humans the right to select, that which is commanded, and that which is not commanded.

Commandments of the Lord are specifically related as such and the Primary Commandment of the Word is not to eat of the Fruit of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. True today as when written, that "Fruit" is to twist "Good" into "Evil" for selfish purpose.

These things written here are of importance if one is to recognize what the Bible "says" of "homosexuality".

Probably the closest point to mention anything of that which we today term "homosexuality" is found in the story of King David and Jonathan, son of Saul.

King David is notorious for his love of women, his infamous virile attractions causing many instances that might be considered un-Godly by those who would call themselves "righteous". However, possibly to the regret of those very "righteous", King David is not allowed to enter the Kingdom for one reason only, "You have warred and you have blood upon your hands".

King David tells of his love of Jonathan, "A love that even far exceeds his love of women".

King Saul chastises Jonathan for "confusing his mother's birthright" or "confusing his mother's nakedness". Most will interpret this as Jonathan's losing his inheritance of the kingdom to David.

However, in a patriarchal society, the inheritance of family name, property and status are the "father's birthright", including the kingdom. The mother's birthright is religion and gender specific. "Confusing thy mother's nakedness" is a direct reference to sexuality.

To assume this is evidence of Jonathan and David having a physical relationship would be no different from reading "homosexuality" into the Story of Sodom. However, that at least Jonathan may have experimented in what we would term a homosexual manner that is very common to young men. The conclusion drawn being that King David, "God's chosen" was, in the least, unconditionally Accepting of Jonathan's experimentations.

In the New Testament, we find Jesus answering a man in the book of Matthew. The question arises about the rule that the brother-in-law of a widow is to marry the widow that she may bare a son to continue the family name.

"All things are not for all to understand. Some are born Eunuchs, some are made Eunuchs by man and some are Eunuchs in devotion to the Father." -Jesus the Christ

People usually think of the term "Eunuch" as defined by its Greek definition, a male who has been castrated after birth.

In his statement, however, Jesus is obviously using the colloquial of "Eunuch" as being, "one who does not reproduce".

No male can be born, "castrated AFTER birth", this is also evidence that those whom we would now term "homosexual" are (or can be) BORN homosexual. That some are born homosexual is consistent with the finding of many studies. The most recent of which being the homosexuals have asymmetrical brains as do straight women. Men and Lesbians are shown to have symmetrical brains.

"some are made Eunuchs by man", are those castrated after birth.

Priests of the time did not castrate themselves "in devotion to the father", be they the Biblical Levites or others. Especially when one recognizes that history lacks the medical knowledge, lack of anesthetic, anesthesia and sharp instruments. Castrations were often deadly. Castrations being normally the result of cuttings with hatchets, swords or knives, which, by today's standards, were extremely, dull.

Another main reference to justify a spreading of hatred toward that which we term "homosexuality" is found in Leviticus.

Leviticus is the book of laws of the time that covers everything from taxation, health and sanitation to recompense and devotionals.

Most used to approve persecution of homosexuals is the rule not to lie with a man as with a woman. This law, however, has to do with health and sanitation, as do some of the others.

One should not eat prepared meat on the third day, "…ye shall be put to death". In a time with no adequate preservation, prepared meat would begin to spoil by the third day and, "…ye shall be put to death".

There was no refrigeration, drying prepared meat would turn it into a rock and salting would produce and inedible block of salt.

Shellfish was not to be eaten, "…surely ye shall be put to death." Shellfish spoiled within a matter of hours and "…surely ye shall be put to death."

For a man to lie with a woman as with a man brings only one possible sexual position to mind, anal sex, "…surely ye shall be put to death." There was no tap water and bar of soap in a bathroom. Water, in fact, was a very important commodity, not to be wasted in baths. Anal would be a serious conduit for the spread of disease and "…ye shall be put to death."

For a man to lie with a man then a woman would be even more dangerous in the spreading of disease and "…surely ye shall be put to death.

This is not to condone or condemn any type of sexual behavior of any sexuality. One should take care in sexual behaviors.

In Exodus, Moses' father-in-law tells Moses that Moses should create a system of judges whereby Moses does not spend so much time sitting as judge of the people. There is no evidence whatsoever that God approved this plan. God, of course, had given man the authority to exercise judgment (that which is commonly termed "Free Will"). Hence, each individual could choose to follow her/his own Free Will or follow the Will of God.

We can almost see that place in Leviticus where the law of Moses itself begins to change, that humankind takes it upon himself to not only sit in judgment of others but to do that which countermands God's Commandments. Placing "and ye shall be put to death" as humankinds right to condemn others and give as due a capital punishment, usually by stoning. We see it as also becomes claimed as God's instructions to countermand not to kill. Much earlier, we see also that God gives instructions for punishments of those who kill inadvertently and those who kill with premeditation. No punishments from God give humankind the right to kill her/his fellow.

Neither Moses nor Aaron is allowed to deliver the people into the Promised Land, for they had not the Faith. In the New Testament, Jesus will speak of the church leaders (Pharisees) and scribes (those who wrote scripture) and how they changed the scripture to suit their (selfish) purposes.

Under what is called Mosaic Law (Never called God's Law) the rule of judgment will be that if two persons shall witness against a crime, the criminal is guilty automatically. If there is only one witness, the judge shall decide guilt or innocence.

The most persecuted of the time were those against who were most easily witnessed by two persons, the prostitute. Jesus shall walk with the prostitute, the most witnessed against and most punished by stoning. Jesus took the most persecuted in hand that all should know not to persecute one's fellow.

Still so many deny Him!

There are other spots here and there in this Judea/Christian Bible that some grab as meat to spread hatred of the homosexual. Those places only worth mentioning in answer to those who opt to grab any camel hair that they appear more righteous than the neighbor does.

Loveya,
Duane Kuehn

Michelle Obama: "Barack has made crystal clear his commitment to ensuring full equality for LGBT couples."

Jamie Citron — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:20:47 EDT

On June 26th, Michelle Obama joined several hundred LGBT activists to speak about her husband's record on LGBT rights and his vision for our shared future...

We have Barack Obama, who believes that we must fight for the world as it should be.

A world where together we work to reverse discriminatory laws like DOMA and Don't Ask, Don't Tell.

A world where LGBT Americans get a fair shake at working hard to get ahead without workplace discrimination.

A world where our federal government fully protects all of us - including LGBT Americans - from hate crimes.

And, a world where our federal laws don't discriminate against same-sex relationships, including equal treatment for any relationship recognized under state law.

A world that recognizes that equality in relationship, family, and adoption rights is not some abstract principle; it's about whether millions of LGBT Americans can finally live lives marked by dignity and freedom. Barack has made crystal clear his commitment to ensuring full equality for LGBT couples. That is why he supports robust civil unions. That is why he has said that the federal government should not stand in the way of states that want to decide for themselves how best to pursue equality for gay and lesbian couples -- whether that means a domestic partnership, a civil union, or a civil marriage. And that is why he opposes all divisive and discriminatory constitutional amendments - whether it's a proposed amendment to the California and Florida Constitutions or the U.S. Constitution. Because the world as it should be rejects discrimination.

But, it's not just about the positions you take, it's also about the leadership you provide.

(Photo copyright AP Images)

Continue reading for Michelle's full speech...

Obama Pride Video

Jody Rodgers — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 02:58:50 EDT

Jen Hauseman and Jake Standish, co-directors of Seattle Pride and inspiring Obama supporters, had the idea of creating a video to introduce Barack Obama to the LGBT community. I worked with them on making a short video that highlights some of his past speeches with an emphasis on Obama's commitment and bold support of the GLBT community. I hope you enjoy the video and please pass it on!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRGHwRQ4qU4

Also, we have a very simple Pride button design that we will be adding to our templates page on Buttons4Obama.com very soon. If you haven't thought about making buttons for the campaign please check out the site as it is a lot of fun and we all know the world needs more flair!

Obama Announces David Noble as LGBT Vote Director

Jamie Citron — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 19:40:50 EDT

Welcome Dave!

The Obama campaign announced Wednesday that David Noble, former executive director of the National Stonewall Democrats and current director of public policy and government affairs at the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, has been appointed as director of the LGBT vote for the campaign. Noble will be stepping down from his position at NGLTF and officially starting with the campaign on June 21.

CLICK HERE for full post.

Obama's Statement on Pride 2008!

Jamie Citron — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 14:24:31 EDT

Chicago, IL -- Senator Barack Obama today released the following statement commemorating Pride month.

“I am proud to join with our lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered brothers and sisters in celebrating the accomplishments, the lives, and the families of all LGBT people during this Pride season. Too often, the issue of LGBT rights is exploited by those seeking to divide us. But at its core, this issue is about who we are as Americans.”

“It’s time to live up to our founding promise of equality by treating all our citizens with dignity and respect. Let’s enact federal civil rights legislation to outlaw hate crimes and protect workers against discrimination based upon sexual orientation and gender identity or expression. Let’s repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell and demonstrate that the most effective and professional military in the world is open to all Americans who are ready and willing to serve our country. Let’s treat the relationships and the families of LGBT Americans with full equality under the law.”

“We are ready to accomplish these goals because of the courage and persistence of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people who have are working every day to achieve equal rights. The gay couple who demand equal treatment in our family laws as they raise their children; the lesbian soldier who wants nothing more than to serve her country openly and honestly; the transgendered workers who asks for the simple dignity of being judged by the quality of their work. Generations of LGBT Americans, at once ordinary and extraordinary, have made possible this moment in our history. With leadership and hard work, we can fulfill the promise of equality for all.”

The Obama for America campaign is proud to be actively participating in over 60 local and state wide Pride events over the summer. To find the events nearest you please visit www.pride.barackobama.com/pridemonth; join us around the country as we show our Pride and support for Barack Obama!

Human Rights Campaign Endorses Barack Obama

Jamie Citron — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 14:13:57 EDT

PRESS RELEASE - Human Rights Campaign Endorses Sen. Barack Obama for President of the United States 6/6/2008

WASHINGTON–The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights group, today announced that the organization will endorse Senator Barack Obama (D-Ill.) for president of the United States. The decision was made by the HRC Board of Directors based on Senator Obama’s support for GLBT equality, his demonstrated leadership, and his unwavering commitment to civil rights.

Read Full Endorsement

Let us go forth

Duane Kuehn — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 02:15:39 EDT

Hi All,

     Congratulations for a job well done!
     Mrs. Clinton has still not conceded, which is sad for the Democratic Party. I hope that she is not preparing to tear the Democratic Convention to pieces with lawsuits and such.

     We need solidity, solidarity. We need not make this such a battle of Republicans vs. Democrats as if we are Two Parties, as teams in a political football game. Now is the time to recognize that we are not Reps or Dems, “We ARE the People of the UNITED STATES”. “We the People” own this government and our government need to become Open, Transparent. Our elected officials should serve “We the People” not act behind closed doors or feed us false information to sway us to their agenda.

    I am thinking of calling myself a Democan. Lol

     It is time now to pull the people together. Put all of our personal thoughts aside and think of the “whole” of US. I hope we can set ourselves behind the goals of Barack Obama, and recognize his achievements. He did not slur Mrs. Clinton as many may have in his run for the nomination.

     I do not know whom Barack will chose as his running mate but remember that if he does choose Mrs. Clinton; their actual platforms are almost equal. For Barack she may not be such a bad choice. However, as in most things, Barack Obama knows much more than I do.
    Of course, only most things, not everything, I have to grab a little dignity here. LOL LOL

     It has been a historical primary, let us now offer our sincere condolences to the Clinton Clan, they fought hard for what they wanted and we should give them more credit for sticking to their guns and not give them abuse for ‘being “against” us’; for they are not really against us, they are a part of us. Moreover, they have shown great strength against a perceived adversary. They too, are knowing people and they shall make a great friend against McCain’s, or any other Bush candidates, lack of care for “We the People of the United States”.

     Let us be the strong who apologize to our fellows whom until today we have differed in opinion. If we are the victor’s, then to them hand the spoils.

Loveya,
Duane Kuehn

As We Move Forward

Duane Kuehn — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 02:11:56 EDT

what i want to see

missy — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 03:15:23 EDT

so WHEN Obama takes the presidency i really hope to see great change in our country..its not even a specific issue or area of interest..i was so let down when f***ing Bush took office..when he was elected to another term the phrase "let down" is a dramatic understatement..what happend to the voice of the people..oh yeah its the voice of the people with money..higher taxes so the rich get a tax break..i am slightly irritated with the politics of our current oval office and congress people so bare with me..i pay taxes, i dont recieve any government benefits, i am not an ex con, but i am a lesbian and because of that i am basically not recognized by the state or country for that matter because of the state i live in and i feel that i should be able to marry the person that i love..Barack bellieves that all people be treated equal, whether its because of his heritage, being a minority himself, or he just out right believes thats what our country was built on and feels it should stay, well, finally begin he has all my support..and the healthcare system, ugh, i shouldnt even start on that..i am a mother of one, a full time employee and full time student in college at the age of 28, and some how i am not qualified for assistance and to top it all off my job or school provide medical dental vision or any type of insurance period..it really pisses me off....until next time....VOTE OBAMA

Barack Obama Deserves the Support of North Carolina’s LGBT Community

Doug Ferguson — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:11:47 EDT

Blogger's Note: This posting also was published as an Op-Ed in Q-Notes on April 30, 2008:
http://www.q-notes.com/2008/04/30/guest-commentary-obama-deserves-our-support/

On April 17, 2008, Q-Notes let down North Carolina’s LGBT community by refusing to endorse either of the remaining Democratic Presidential candidates:

http://www.q-notes.com/2008/04/17/primary-concerns/.

It makes no sense for Q-Notes to expect North Carolinians to “get out there and work your rear off” for the eventual nominee, while at the same time declaring your own support for the remaining Democratic candidates to be “remarkably tepid.”

My own enthusiasm for Senator Barack Obama’s campaign cannot be overstated, and I have friends who would fall on their swords for Senator Hillary Clinton. If the editorial staff of Q-Notes could not have found something to get excited about in either of these remarkable candidates for the Democratic nomination, then they must not be following the same campaign as the rest of us.

Q-Notes endorsed another strong advocate for our community, former Senator John Edwards, earlier this year. In doing so, the publication focused on Senator Edwards’ demonstrated support for LGBT rights, rather than to let his more limited shortfalls (including previous statements about how his religious beliefs guide his opposition to same-sex marriage) disqualify him from consideration. I was thus disappointed by the different standards Q-Notes used to justify its refusal to endorse either of the two remaining Democratic candidates. [Continued after the break.]

Bitter

Richard — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 02:54:04 EDT

The definition for bitter according to Merriam Webster 2 : marked by intensity or severity a : accompanied by severe pain or suffering b : being relentlessly determined : VEHEMENT C : exhibiting intense animosity d (1) : harshly reproachful d (2) : marked by cynicism and rancor e : intensely unpleasant especially in coldness or rawness 3 : expressive of severe pain, grief, or regret.

OK so now we know what it means to be bitter. It is important to include the definition as it applies to Barack's comments that are flying around on the Internet and on television this weekend. The pols will twist it as Hillary did to accuse him of talking down to the voters of Pennsylvania, or as McCain would have us believe that he is an elitist. The irony of them calling Barack an Elitist is laughable.

The truth is not whether voters are bitter, the polls prove that much of the electorate is not only disillusioned but they are bitter with the politics of yesterday, the real challenge is how does Barack tap into that bitterness, cross that bridge to the electorate and show them that he understands their pain.

For most Americans like myself we have been bitter for some time, for being lied to by the current administration for 7 plus years, for the congress and the senate for not forcing an end to this war, for the exportation of jobs at alarming rates, for the response to Katrina...the list could go on and on.

Most important is how anyone who is running for public office could not realize the truth when they hear it. We could parse words all day long about how Barack could have better framed the words that he used. That said, the truth is still the truth. We can put lipstick on a pig, but it is still a pig, pretending that the good people of Pennsylvania and this country are not disenfranchised does not make it any more real than Hillary rewriting her history with regard to sniper fire.

Any candidate running for office who cannot see that the electorate is angry and bitter is out of touch with the heart and soul of the American people, this makes the argument that it is time for change all the more real.

Thanks,

Rick Owens
Volunteer for Change

Visit My Blog at: http://travelingmanrick.blogspot.com/

To watch CNN pundits discuss this honestly watch here:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=BwG4BlK8w_Y

Obama Talks All Things LGBT

Jamie Citron — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 10:11:08 EDT

Early this week Barack sat down with The Advocate's Kerry Eleveld and covered a lot of ground! From DADT to a different kind of campaign, Barack lays out why his actions match his message, and emphasizes his strong commitment to LGBT people across the nation.

For another perspective check out Ben Smith's Blog over at Politico.

To read the interview in its entirety, click here.

Travelingman's New Blog Space

Richard — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 23:54:34 EDT

Hi Group,I have decided to start my own blog. This is just the begining for me. I am pretty new to the whole blog thing and am still learning. I decided to start my own blog so that there is a permanent site that my friends and fellow obama maniacs can go and see my latest thoughts on politics. We have had a tremendous amount of posts on our group website and our posts are getting shifted to the archive very quickly. I wanted for group members to be able to visit my blog on a regular basis...this is the only email that you will get regarding my blog...this is not an advertisement, nor am I getting paid to do this. I am just an avid volunteer and I wanted a place where I could record this incredible time in all our lives. If you have a minute, stop by and have a read. Don't forget to bookmark the site in your favorites and come back often for the latest musings. I will also post blogs about upcoming events here in Charlotte and North Carolina. Each of my posts will be of my own writing or either a direct link to another story. I will not put anything on the blog that I think is in poor taste. If you see anything that is offensive please do not hesitate to contact me.Enjoy and please feel free to leave a comment. Link: http://travelingmanrick.blogspot.com/

--
Thanks,

Rick Owens
Volunteer For Change!

Yes We Can!

Hillary's Lies got her fired.

Richard — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 23:52:42 EDT

Watergate-Era Judiciary Chief of Staff: Hillary Clinton Fired For Lies, Unethical Behavior

As Hillary Clinton came under increasing scrutiny for her story about facing sniper fire in Bosnia, one question that arose was whether she has engaged in a pattern of lying.

The now-retired general counsel and chief of staff of the House Judiciary Committee, who supervised Hillary when she worked on the Watergate investigation, says Hillary’s history of lies and unethical behavior goes back farther – and goes much deeper – than anyone realizes.

Jerry Zeifman, a lifelong Democrat, supervised the work of 27-year-old Hillary Rodham on the committee. Hillary got a job working on the investigation at the behest of her former law professor, Burke Marshall, who was also Sen. Ted Kennedy’s chief counsel in the Chappaquiddick affair. When the investigation was over, Zeifman fired Hillary from the committee staff and refused to give her a letter of recommendation – one of only three people who earned that dubious distinction in Zeifman’s 17-year career.

Read the full article here.

http://www.northstarwriters.com/dc163.htm

This makes Bosnia look like a non story.

Valor Theft

Richard — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 17:40:48 EDT

Today I got a great link about Valor Theft, I had never even heard of such a thing until the stink about Hillary and duck and run to our cars junk. This is a great letter to the Pennsylvania Progressive from a veteran who served in Bosnia at the time of the visit. The following was pulled from their website at: http://pennsylvaniaprogressive.typepad.com/my_weblog/2008/03/bosnian-vet-acc.html there is also a running thread on The Daily Kos as well. I do not think this is going away quietly. It is about time someone called her on her words, cause words do matter.

Bosnian Vet Accuses Hillary of Valor Theft

A veteran of Bosnia who was at the event in Tuzla where Hillary Clinton falsely claimed to have landed under sniper fire is accusing the Senator of theft of valor. As General Walter L. Stewart Jr. of the Pennsylvania National Guard said earlier today on a conference call, soldiers who actually have been in war zones and performed under fire deeply despise those who falsely claim such valor. They feel this way because it attempts to cheapen or make less, their real and actual valor.

The General pointed out "this wasn't an emergency resupply mission to the Alamo. If there had been any danger that mission wouldn't have landed."

Common sense tells us the First Lady and Chelsea would never have been put in harms way by our military. Hillary's tale of bravery and valor, because it was false, is finding resentment among those who actually did serve and Tammi K. (nee Jann) Hertherington who was at Tuzla when Senator Clinton landed is one. Here is her story.

Dear Sir,

I feel compelled to write to you in regards to Senator Clinton’s remarks regarding her visit to Bosnia.
I was present at the base in question when the First Lady visited and am intimately familiar with the situation on the ground at the time. It strikes me as beyond misstatement or clarity of memory for Senator Clinton to suggest that this visit in any way compares with the reality of those of us serving in theater experienced or presented a threat to her or her daughter.
As a service person in the US Army, I was deployed to Bosnia immediately after the Peace Accord was signed and served there for eleven months in 1996. I was there at Tuzla Air base when the First Lady visited, and there was no sniper fire or anyone running under cover. I saw both the First Lady and her daughter in our headquarters building (we called it the 'White House'). When I saw them in the lobby of our Headquarters neither her or her daughter had on the "Flak" vests which even we were required to wear at all times when not inside a building.
It was my fortune to be working in the Headquarter building as a Communications Specialist, and while I did go out to the ZOS (Zone of Separation) once and lived under "Full battle rattle" rules, I would never in any way compare my experience with those who daily risked their lives. That was the M.P.'s who went on daily missions trying to round up weapons and militant individuals who opposed the Peace Accord and the contract workers who aided the Multi-National forces in trying to rebuild the infrastructure (bridges, communication, water) that had been blown up. If, as I believe, it is improper for me to compare my involvement with those who took the bulk of the real risks it is even more improper for any visiting dignitary to compare their own for any reason, let alone for personal gain.

I am quite angry that what I and my fellow soldiers worked to achieve should be used as a playing card to build up a political nominee and tear down another. This is not what those of us who actually risked our lives were working for, we were trying to maintain a Peace Keeping mission in a country that had been ravaged by ethnic cleansing. To trivialize the atrocities suffered by the real people I met in that country for political gain is beyond my ability to comprehend. I met mothers who had lost their children and children who had lost their parents. The sheer leap of credibility that the First Lady would have brought her daughter into an active war zone is an insult to the people there who suffered more than real risk, they suffered real loss.

I did have contact with some of the general population on a daily basis. Many came to work for the Military in custodial capacities. Many carried all that they possessed in plastic bags every day. They brought their own food and cooked daily on little burner plates. I was constantly amazed at how upbeat and optimistic some of the people were in spite of things. It still is hard for me to think of Srebenica and all of the women who lost husbands, sons, and fathers because of religion and nationalistic fervor.
My father still works as a Civil Servant at WOMAK on Ft. Bragg, NC and a couple of years ago he met a Bosnian woman and her daughter, who had lived through the worst of it. They got to talking and found out that I had been over there and told him to tell me 'thank you' for what we had done. It still humbles me and chokes me up a little to know that even after all of these years there is appreciation for our past efforts.
I was simply a soldier doing my job in Bosnia and I believe in what we accomplished there. I do not either want to make of my service more than it was nor to denigrate those who served with me and those who lived through more than any of us. It seems to me that if I simply stand by while others “spin” their involvement for their own personal or political ambitions that I would be contributing to the slander of my fellows in arms and the people we were working to help in Bosnia, so I offer you my personal experience of the reality of the situation.
To verify my story I have included a copy of an commendation I received for service in the Bosnian theater during that period. It would be my honor to provide you more of my perspective if it would serve to deliver the truth to the American people.
Best Regards,

Tammi K Hetherington (nee Jann)

(formerly)

SPC

141 Signal Battalion, 22nd Signal Brigade, 1st Armored Division, US Army

Task Force Eagle

Understanding Wright from wrong.

Charles Lee — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 17:50:26 EDT

It's been a while, but here we go.

Here is a COPY of something special I found on Daily KOS.

The media fails America once again by naijaman Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 07:11:04 AM PDT

The truth about the Reverend Wright controversy is now starting to be revealed: The media manufactured it for ratings. How else can one explain the fact that anyone who actually takes the time to watch any of the videos would have a different impression from the one being pushed by ABC/NBC/CNN/MSNBC and most especially FOX?
I decided to pull of the video of Reverend Wright's sermon in which he allegedly made the comments blaming America for 9/11, and guess what I found? He was quoting Ambassador Edward Peck, who made those comments on FOX NEWS (oh, the irony) the day after the 9/11 attacks. Here is the evidence:
http://www.youtube.com/...

Around the 3-minute mark, Reverend Wright asks the church members if they saw the ambassador on Fox News, and what he had said. Then he proceeds to pull out a sheet of paper, and read the words of ambassador Peck.

This is another example of how the media has manufactured a controversy in order to sway the American public. We all should be very concerned about the media in the country, because after all...this is the same crowd that gave us the Iraq war.

-------

Basically, Wright was quoting someoe else for his public pulpit speech, but he is also being attacked for what he said outside of the pulipt. The problem is that poeple are combining both, and not understanding that Obama stands behind the Pastor, but not behind the evil remarks he made outside of the pulpit.

My take on Rev. Wright

Richard — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 09:55:25 EDT

I will attempt to tread lightly here as I really do not wish to for one minute to offend anyone. As a white male I have no experience in Black Churches. That said, I did live in downtown Detroit for two years when I was in my early twenties. This was my first real exposure to being a minority. The building I lived in had about 80 units, and I was one of three whites who lived in the building. The grocery stores I shoped at were mostly african-american. This was an incredibly valuable experience for me.

For the mot part everyone was very kind to me, a neighbor lent me his car when mine died, I was invited to attend "Fiddler on the Roof" at the Fox theater by my next door nighbor. The appartement manager would hire me to help with odd jobs around the building because I was indeed very much struggling to make ends meet. I always look back fondly on those days, not only was I financially challenged, but my heart was full of hope that life would some day get better for me.

My family warned me not to live there, I saw their concern but also knew on some level that it was out of fear that they felt that way. As a twenty year old I was young enough that I did not have that ingrained fear of the unknown. I would like to add that my reason for being on my own at twenty was because my mother was very unhappy that I had recently come out as a gay man. At that time I thought that my family was just incredibly bigoted. Looking back now as a 40 year old man I really think that it was more so that they were just afraid of the unknown.

I have watched my family slowly begin to embrace my sexuality, embrace my partner and yes even adjust their views on african-americans. I do not think either my family nor myself can ever fully understand that experience, but we can emphathize. My mother is now angered when she sees an injustice directed towards me, it has opened her eyes to discrimination in a way that she was never exposed to. It was the conversations we have had over the years that led her to a place where she can finally talk about discrimination with a sincere understanding.

This all correlates to my opinion about Rev. Wright. Let me say that I am not going to judge his statements, they have been replayed ad nauseam in the media. In my humble opinion I think it took far more courage as a parishoner to stay in the church because of those kinds of remarks. Were I to be in attendance and witnessed those kinds of remarks by someone that I admired and respected it would have inspired me to talk with them to see if maybe I could help them in some way to heal their wounds, talk about their anger, work to find solutions to the problems going on that would inspire such words.

This was how I managed to repair my relationship with my family. It took me nearly twenty years to do that so I can understand why Barack did what he did. Just because someone you like is saying something you do not agree with does not mean you have to kick them out of your life. Taking years to talk with them and to counsel them is far more couragous than just walking out of the church forever and abandoning them to their heartfelt pain over the wrongs that have failed to be addressed within our society.

I really hope that I have not offended anyone here, I just think that it is important to think about this issue from a broader perspective. It took me many days of heartfelt thinking to come to this conclusion. Now I get it, now I understand why I can so identify with this candidate.

Thanks,

Rick Owens

Volunteer for Change!

Yes We Can!

Meeting Barack Obama in Charlotte, NC

Richard — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 18:26:40 EDT

As some of you know there are several of us who have been volunteering here in Charlotte, NC for Barack Obama with the "Charlotte NC for Barack" group. We were all very excited that he was coming to Charlotte for a Town Hall meeting this past Wednesday.

The most exciting thing about this was that the Campaign called me to find someone to introduce him for the event and to see if we could find 60-80 volunteers to sign up. This was the first time I had actually gotten to formally talk with anyone from the campaign. We had a meet up at Jillian's on Tuesday and 200 people showed up to ask to become volunteers for the event.

On Wednesday I woke up at 4 AM because I could not sleep. So I got up, made some coffee, read the newspaper, showered, shaved, iorned my shirt and got ready to go to the office. I really debated telling my boss or not as I am certain he is a republican. Since I was leaving early and I was afraid I might be on TV I figured that honest was the best policy. My boss gave me a bit of a hard time, but told me to go and have a good time.

I arrived to the venue pretty early because I wanted to soak it all in, I watched the press corps setting up, the secret service doing last minute checks, armed police officers with dogs going through the building. It was kind of surreal for me as I have only seen it on television. I watched as the venue began to fill up from my seat at stage right. They had reserved a section for various supporters, politicians, delegates, VIP's and there I was right in the middle of it, me, just a regular guy who is inspired by Barack to get involved.

At 3:15 a member of the campaign staff showed up and asked myself and two of my fellow volunteers to follow them along with Raheem & Tammi who were going to introduce him. To be honest none of us knew what to expect. They lead us through a winding path, back behind some curtains, then along a long hallway and suddenly we were backstage. From there we could hear the crowd getting anxious to hear the Senator speak and we were able to peek through the curtains and watch the crowd doing the wave.

Suddenly I looked up and there was Anderson Cooper, a newscaster from CNN who was tagging along with Barack all day. The cameras went up and then in a split second Barack appeared at the door. We all just stood there as he came bounding onto the back stage area and it was just the six of us with the camera's and two staffers and of course the Secret Service. He said lets get a group photo and he came over to us quite quickly and he went to the center (I always do the same thing because I am tall too.) this put him right next to me. He laughed and said ok everybody squeeze in as he pulled each of us beside him closer. Then he shook each of our hands, smiled broadly, and seemed so genuine to me. Then after he shook everyones hand in an instant he was gone...

The same staffers who brought us out to meet him then appeared and led us back to our seats. We sat down just as he came onto the stage. What surprised me the most was that the first thing he said was that he wanted to thank some super volunteers who had been working really hard here in Charlotte and he thanked myself and Susan Higgins, then he made us stand up and get recognized by the crowd with a round of applause. Susan and I both were totally shocked by this, and it was incredible to be recognized for your efforts. All that I can tell you is that, no matter what I do, it will never be enough in my book. Every day I realize there is so much to be done, so much I can do. To be recognized for my effort was so humbling to me and only inspires me to work that much harder.

I hope you enjoy what I have written, but more than anything I hope that it can help to inspire you to know that no matter what we all need to be involved, we all need to work together and we all need to volunteer.

Later when I came home and turned on CNN I was watching myself shaking hands with the next President of the United States of America. Today was a day that will never be forgotten. There are so many stories like mine in this campaign, this is so not about me and anything I have specifically done. This is about how when ordinary people like us get together we can do extraorginary things. Please get active and participate.

Thanks,

Rick Owens
Volunteer For Change!

Yes We Can!

Barack's Open Letter to LGBT America

Jamie Citron — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 11:52:45 EDT

I’m running for President to build an America that lives up to our founding

promise of equality for all – a promise that extends to our gay brothers and sisters. It’s

wrong to have millions of Americans living as second-class citizens in this nation. And I

ask for your support in this election so that together we can bring about real change for

all LGBT Americans.

Equality is a moral imperative. That’s why throughout my career, I have fought to

eliminate discrimination against LGBT Americans. In Illinois, I co-sponsored a fully

inclusive bill that prohibited discrimination on the basis of both sexual orientation and

gender identity, extending protection to the workplace, housing, and places of public

accommodation. In the U.S. Senate, I have co-sponsored bills that would equalize tax

treatment for same-sex couples and provide benefits to domestic partners of federal

employees. And as president, I will place the weight of my administration behind the

enactment of the Matthew Shepard Act to outlaw hate crimes and a fully inclusive

Employment Non-Discrimination Act to outlaw workplace discrimination on the basis of

sexual orientation and gender identity.

Click to read the full letter.

Staying above the fray.

Richard — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 18:37:35 EDT

I want to encourage everyone involved with this campaign including Barack to please do everything possible to stay abve the fray when dealing with negativity. I think that the campaign needs to attempt to start treating Clinton like McCain treated Huckabee. As a non starter, an also ran, someone staying in just to make life difficult. Stop reacting to her bait. Just do what we do best, campaign on change.

I also read that Obama is considering going to Europe, Asia, and the middle east. I think going to Europe is a great idea, but it would be great if they could get the word out and have a huge crowd show up to see him. :) Both England, Paris, and possiblly Berlin, even Barcellona (good for the latino vote) This would give him an opportunity on the international stage and would blow the world away on his message of change in this country!

I hope that he goes overseas....when it hits the press it will steal the show before Pennsylvania!

Shame on you Hillary Clinton

Anthony Thomalla — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:18:02 EDT

Hillary seems to talk with two faces, not that she's necessarily two faced...at least she's not two faced as far as I know. Still, in one breath she says Barack doen't have the experience to be Commander in Chief while in the next breath she says he should be her running mate. Frankly, I find her breath rather offensive. Forget the fact that Obama leads in the polls, has more delegates than her, has obtained more of the popular vote, and has won more states, which would put him at the top of any ticket, but, you cannot have it both ways Hillary. You cannot say Obama doesn't have the experience to be Commander in Chief then suggest he be your running mate when the quintessential test for VP is; Can this person stand as what? Commander and Chief! In what parallel universe does this make sense? Besides, a Commander in Chief with good judgment doesn't authorize a misguided trillion dollar war in Iraq when the enemy is in...Afghanistan. So now what? Its 3:00 a.m., your children are in bed and a phone rings in Washington. Iran has just tested a nuclear bomb...I know let's invade Canada! They've got all the Maple Syrup."

conyers

Charles Lee — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 15:39:25 EDT

On March 3th 2008 my life took yet another interesting turn. I met Congressman Conyers. After a brief conversation he recommended I take the LSAT and become a lawyer.

After some soul searching and discussing this with my closest friends and family I have decided to do just that.

I plan to study Constitutional Law, and to enter American politics on a platform based on the ideas driving Barack Obama to victory.

I will one day to create Change through just legislation.

I will give back to the country that gave me so much.

I hope this movement inspires all of us to do more than go through the motions in life.

"We are the Change we have been looking for!"

If you want to host or help organize the May 30th fund raiser, here is the link:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4rppq

I will add your name (or group) as an organizer in the event, helping us cross polinate into new areas.

I might be in philly for the big one but I have to see where I am with my school work.

How do we reach them?

freedom4u_n_me — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 05:06:39 EDT

I am feeling rather disheartened this past week. It's not because of this campaign or the people I've met here. It's not even Senator Clinton or the 'politics as usual' games, ads, etc. that are being played out.

I'm disheartened by a large (at least larger than I'd like) portion of the American people. I know. I dislike even saying it. Yet, why would they listen to negative sound bites, believe everything they hear and see, and fall for the 'fear factor', again?

How do we reach them? How do we get them to listen, think for themselves and do a little reasearching of facts before casting their votes?

I'm an optomist at heart. Therefore, I know I won't give up, I know we won't give up! I know we will overcome these obstacles!

I'm usually very accepting and understanding of people with a different opinion than mine. Yet, with the shape our country is in, how could people not want change? How can they think that Senator Clinton or McCain could bring about change? After her outbursts and non-stop rhetoric in the beginning of the last debate, how can anyone think that she would be a 'negotiator' with other world leaders? Why would anyone want to continue the politics of the past with Senator McCain or Clinton?

So, my fellow 'believers' in Obama, I ask you..............How do we reach them, what do we say, how can we convince them?

Thanks in advance for your replies!

Gail/freedom4u_n_me/Obama in the Heart, Peoria, IL/Illinois Chapter of Families for Obama/Phi Theta Kappa Members 4 Obama

Rep. Steve King (R), Iowa

Richard — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 22:51:22 EST

Hey Everyone!

I am on a roll tonight. I do not know about you but I watched Rep. Steve King of Iowa make some horrible statements regarding Senator Obama today. I have to say that I was inspired to actually sit down and actually write my congressman, senators and the speaker of the house to express my sincere opinion that Rep. King should be censured for these comments.

This is the first time in a very long time that I have actually been really incredibly angry and did something about it. I wrote a letter, I complained to my elected officials and I said.

Dear Senator,

I was extremely disgusted to read and hear about Rep. Steve King's comments regarding Senator Barack Obama over the weekend.

I would say to you that any man or woman who is brave enough to run for the highest office in this land is a patriot in every way, be they black, white, male, female, democrat or republican.

If republicans cannot debate the very serious issues that face this country in this serious time of war and recession I fear that the voters are going to remember this come election time.

You and your fellow Senators should not just repudiate this kind of language in politics but you should encourage members of the house to vote for censure of Rep. King. This behavior is repulsive in the worst kind of way and is a black eye on the republican party.

We the voters expect better and you should as well.

Sincerely,

Richard Owens

Spy in our camp!

Charles Lee — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 12:05:42 EST

From: Brian Burke Sent: Mon 3/03/08 9:51 AM To: Ohio Out of State Volunteers (OhioOutofStateVolunteers@groups.barackobama.com)

Not! Just needed everyone's attention.

Last night on Hannity he was asking ppl on street to name one accomplishment of Barack and they couldn't.
How about a legal scholar (Harvard Law Review) who became a community activist instead of a money hungry lying cheating Wall Street corporate attorney?

Don't think the Republicans are not worried by now or do not know that Hillary winning nomination is their best way of keeping the White House.

REMEMBER THIS: Abraham Lincoln was a self-educated downstate Illinois attorney but became well known and his supporters were zealous because of the character of the man. Extremely smart, bright, decent, witty, etc. etc. etc. ABE was not even an incumbent when he became President and previously had served a mere term in Congress before becoming the President of the United States. But he kept the Union together and was a brilliant commander-in-chief (leading Grant, Sherman, etc. etc. etc.) even though he never served in the military. When people wanted general Grant removed because he was a heavy drinker, Lincoln replied that, if so, perhaps Lincoln should send cases of whiskey to his other generals -- displaying great judgment and wisdom. When the civil war was over and many wanted to make t he Confederates suffer, it was Lincoln who had the heart and mind and soul (i.e., "judgment") to reply that our former enemies are now our fellow citizens, making reconciliation that much easier. (We know of the poor judgment of the Allies in WWI and how their onerous terms at Versailles upon the Germans is credited with the rise of Hitler.)

Barack Obama has a resume that can out shine most. How many of us can name one accomplishment of Hillary Clinton? According to her, her accomplishments include those of her husband's administration during his 2 terms in office. But not its failures. We all know the "Millionaire's Club," the Senate, is not the National Football League. Most people don't sit around watching CSPAN. So, for Hannity (a Republican) to go to Times Square (NYC) and ask New Yorkers to name one accomplishment of Barack Obama is very misleading. Which is what he wants to do -- mislead viewers. Come to Rush Street in Chicago and ask people to name one accomplishment of Hillary Clinton. I cannot name one. Failed health care reform when she was a first lady. Honestly, I cannot think of one accomplishment. I cannot think of any accomplishment even of Edward Kennedy, whose been in the Senate almost longer than a nyone else. Unless they sponsored a bill that is widely talked about (average voters don't sit around talking about Senate bills), the average person does not know what ANYONE in the senate does, and most don't do much that gets talked about outside of Washington circles.

A lot is at stake, let's educate the masses. Clintons have a lot of supporters who have power over the press, same with Republicans. The masses can be fooled, or at least just enough of them to turn a tight election in the wrong direction.

On Sun, Mar 2, 2008 at 10:23 PM, Matthew Binder <youlooksofine82@gmail.com> wrote:
Hey guys sorry about not planning anything for tonight after canvassing I'm pretty exhausted! It was a beautiful day out today! I will be canvassing out tomorrow also after 2,3pm until evening, probably complete one or two turfs. We are looking for volunteers still (as many others are) out in District 20, the main office is out on 1195 Technology Dr. Columbus OH, If anyone wants to partner up with me let me know! And if anyone is actually doing anything tonight or Monday night let me know, I might be able to make it.

Matthew

Good luck to all you guys workin hard! The hard work will pay off. And what a fantastic experience it has been!

----------

If you want to help in person, contact us. We want to put this contest to rest.

Reach me here, or click some buttons on the site, or make some calls.

Please help. Read this.

Charles Lee — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 15:02:52 EST

So here we are in the final stretch of "The big ones". and I have never been so confident that our efforts will not be in vain. On my way to Hq in Cleveland I saw some reprinted Obama literature being read by two people in the downtown mall.

Hold up. Reality check. People are downloading the pdf's from our site, and reprinted and distributing them as we speak. But it is a small operation, compared to what it could be.

So please take the issues that concern you and download the digital copies on our site and get them to your neighborhood shops. Get them into the pizzerias, laundromats, convienence stores, or whatever small shop will allow you to leave information.

This is a critical moment in our movement, and it offers us a unique oppurtunity to bring hard copies to the masses.

At the very least, we could download the pdf's and email them to friends who are apathetic in hopes we rekindle their hope for a better tomorrow. Or send themthe link below.
http://www.barackobama.com/issues/

Reach me here for help if you have difficulty in downloading the digital copies (pdf's) from the site.

Charles Lee
Intern

Cleveland rocks!!!

Charles Lee — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 22:31:04 EST

Here at the Cleveland HQ we had AMAZING day canvassing!!! AMAZING!!! If you are in the area, come by and help out! Even if it is for a few hours, the more the merrier! Well I gotta run now, but I would like to turn your attention to the fundraiser I have set up, and you can read about it by checking my profile.

Reach me here!

"There is a short time between now and victory!"

Be a part of it!

Equality is a Moral Imperative

Alex Okrent, Louisiana Field Director — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 11:53:30 EST

Senator Obama just released an open letter concerning LGBT equality in America, reaffirming his steadfast commitment to equal rights for ALL Americans.

I’m running for President to build an America that lives up to our founding
promise of equality for all – a promise that extends to our gay brothers
and sisters. It’s wrong to have millions of Americans living as second-class
citizens in this nation. And I ask for your support in this election so that
together we can bring about real change for all LGBT Americans.

Click here to read the rest.

Spreading the word

Alex Okrent, Louisiana Field Director — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:00:36 EST

In a display of his commitment to spreading the message of equal rights for all, Senator Obama has taken out full-page ads in several LGBT newspapers in Texas and Ohio.

The ad, which will be featured in Outlook Weekly in Columbus, the Gay People's Chronicle in Cleveland, The Dallas Voice, and OutSmart in Houston.

Click here to read more on the advertisements.

Making plans, now, for Sep.

freedom4u_n_me — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 09:07:59 EST

I just wanted to give everyone a heads up on this event!

On or about the weekend of Sep. 13th, thousands of us will be "Walking 4 Change" in Washington, DC. We will wear our Obama gear and spread the word about 'our candidate' in the heart of political activity! Permits are being submitted this week.

I am organizing a group from central IL as a sister event. Everyone is welcome to attend, well up to 5000 of us! So, either sign up to attend and travel with us, or, create a sister event in your area. This event has been in the works for almost a year, being hosted by Diversity4Obama.

I'm looking forward to it! How about you?

http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post_edit/gGg5xq/zMgHx

Gail/Obama in the Heart, Peoria, IL/ Illinois Chapter of Families for Obama

"im voting for mccain because barack is going to lose..."

Charles Lee — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:20:52 EST

This was an interesting remark from my dearest friend. He is a PolySci major, and I must admit that it did shake me a bit.

You see, my pal whom we will call Mr. Apathy somehow rationalized that because he believed that Mccain would get more votes than Obama, he should jump on the winning team.

This argument sounded similar of the faulty logic of many of the arguments I heard students having about the bush and kerry debates, as people then told me they would rather a president not flip flop on issues, and because kerry is a flip flopper I will vote for bush becuase everyone else will too.

Now really this is interesting, because we had always agreed that politics in this country had sunken into the depths of dreadful boredom and repetitive sound bites of disgust. We agreed that there were no leaders who could inspire, and lead with a record unscathed by any gate scandals, questionable votes or despicable affiliations with companies.

So here is our candidate, ready to go to Washington. He is the Mr. Smith we said would never get his way, and the media (unintentionally?) reinforced this view by making a movie and book of it, which further cemented our culture's apathy toward change.

So why is Senator Obama being rejected by Mr. Apathy?

I don't know.

Mr. apathy happens to be:

A armed forces veteran.

Late on his car payments and it's about to be reposessed.

Late on his financial aid loans.

Maxed out on his credit cards.

Suffering from depression.

Why would he rather endorse Sen. Mccain when Sen. Obama's policies would probably help him more?

My best guess is that he is truly afraid of change, and is unable to believe that we can make a better tomorrow. After four years of an Education that molded him to believe there is no better way so why bother, he can not imagine better days. After a lifetime of neglect by those who have governed him, he can no longer hear words of relief, he is now deaf. He does not know what change is or can be, because it was always in the movies he saw or the books he read, so he lacks the ability to feel it in his heart, and to live it with his soul.

All I have left to say to Mr. Apathy is:

I beg of you to go with me on this journey into our future. I promise you when we get there and we are met by the millions of others, we will begin to understand the concept of change. Through years of hard work, we will be that change.

Us, we, and even they are included.

Carpe diem

Charles Lee

Obama's Gay Supporters Speak!

Alex Okrent, Louisiana Field Director — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 15:28:20 EST

This article recently published in Bay Windows, a leading LGBT newspaper.

Obama’s gay supporters speak
by Laura Kiritsy
Editor-in-chief
Friday Feb 22, 2008

Queerty.com has some interesting interviews with three of Barack Obama’s gay supporters, Tobias Wolff, Stampp Corbin and Eric Stern - who, incidentally, initially backed John Edwards. Some interesting insights from these guys about why they’re supporting Obama, including the fact that unlike his rival Sen. Hillary Clinton, Obama wants to repeal DOMA in its entirety.

Check out the article at Queerty

DANCE 4 CHANGE!

Charles Lee — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 23:51:13 EST

I realized I won't be making it to Ohio for the big one, but I must admit I believe he will win because the people speak louder than Clinton's failed fund raising abilities.

So now I ask if you will not be in Ohio and live in the area to consider attending my May 30th fundraiser. It will be held at the upstairs lounge on Grand in South City. It can easily be reached by Metro, just pop the address into tripfinder. There is a wonderful Vietnamese restuarant on the ground floor and another bar that will have indie/electro music as well.

If you want to help spread the word, or want to help work the event, simply sign up and contact me! I will need at least 10 more volunteers through the night to help with registering new voters, and adding people to our group!

DANCE 4 CHANGE!

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4rppq

Ok back to work...

Oscars Donation Game

DSig80 — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 14:01:14 EST

In order to inspire donations, I am announcing the Oscars Donation game. If you would like to participate please respond to this blog with your guesses for Oscar winner. Participants commit to donating $5 for each category they get incorrect. I will post the results after the Oscars.

Also, consider throwing an Obama Oscars party of your own, with these same rules!

Best Picture: Atonement, Juno, Michael Clayton, No Country For Old Men, There Will Be Blood

Best Actor: George Clooney (Michael Clayton), Daniel Day-Lewis (There Will Be Blood), Johnny Depp (Sweeny Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street), Tommy Lee Jones (In The Valley of Elah), Viggo Mortensen (Eastern Promises)

Best Actress: Cate Blanchett (Elizabeth:The Golden Age), Julie Christie (Away From Her), Marion Cotillard (La Vie en Rose), Laura Linney (The Savages), Ellen Page (Juno)

Supporting Actor: Casey Affleck (The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford), Javier Bardem (No Country For Old Men), Philip Seymour Hoffamn (Charlie Wilson's War), Hal Holbrook (Into the Wild), Tom Wilkinson (Michael Clayton)

Supporting Actress: Cate Blanchett (I'm Not There), Ruby Dee (American Gangster), Saoirse Ronan (Atonement), Amy Ryan (Gone Baby Gone), Tilda Swinton (Michael Clayton)

Director: Paul Thomas Anderson (There Will Be Blood), Ethan Coen and Joel Coen (No Country for Old Men), Tony Gilroy (Michael Clayton), Jason Reitman (Juno), Julian Schnabel (The Diving Bell and the Butterfly).

If you'd like to make guesses in other categories as well, please be my guest.

60 minutes.

Raeanne — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 23:12:40 EST

I watched Barack on 60 minutes tonight. It struck me once again how powerful he is, and how powerful his words are. I am still kicking myself that I missed his "candidacy announcement" in Springfield, Il last winter.... I remember how cold it was that day, and I didn't make it out. I don't think I'll ever stop regretting that.

One thing that I noticed on 60 minutes that furthered my support for Barack was his integrity. He discussed how he refused to blackmail other candidates, he refuses to dig up any "skeletons" that they may have. He is such an honorable man... from my angle, he runs quite an honest campaign. How can anyone deny this?

call to action.

Raeanne — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 09:27:05 EST

yesterday i realized that *i* can have a small part in this campaign. that i can make a difference. i picked up the phone and called people in louisiana to encourage them to GOTV (get out the vote) and go vote for barack. while not everyone was polite, most of them did not mind my phone call. i talked to quite a few who had already placed their vote for obama, and that gave me goose bumps!

you can do this too... it's easy. don't be scared, just do it! click on the action link on the obama website, and "make calls." you'll be satisfied that you had a small part in his campaign.

Come on Illinois

Anthony Thomalla — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 07:58:19 EST

Here in Indiana we cannot vote until May! Come on Illinois...we need you to get out today to cast your vote and keep the dream alive along with much needed momentum!

A Letter from a Supporter

Alex Okrent, Louisiana Field Director — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 13:38:36 EST

The campaign received this email today, and I wanted to repost it to show the effect this campaign is having on ordinary Americans.

I'm a lesbian who grew up in a family of Southern Church of Christ Christians. I'm a military brat even more than that, the daughter of a warrant officer in the army. In high school, I spent a lot of time being afraid and disgusted at how the world treated lesbians and gays, and I didn't even come out of the closet until I graduated college and had divorced twice. (Both marriages pressured by my parents.) When Bush was elected, I had hoped that America would change, but it just got worse. And worse. And worse.

When I came out to my parents, they shunned me, and my father told me that we would never have a relationship again because I didn't hold the same convictions that they did.

The fear and bleakness of my future terrified me.

This year, I'll be 25, and my son will be 3. Senator, I want you to know that more than voting for you, I'll be putting my son's future in your hands. I know that you can help us shape this country into what it was supposed to be... A haven of peace for everyone. What it should have been from the start.

Read the rest below the fold...

Shameless Plug

Anthony Thomalla — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 23:21:05 EST

At the end of the last debate HRC made a shameless plug for her televized towm hall meeting on Monday, the night before Super Tuesday. The monderator chastized her for it but it got out. Barack should have equal time but it is not likely to happen. Barack looked more presidential but HRC's carnival tactics may get more people to tune in. Fortunately, this event will likely pull Clinton supporters not independents.

Tsunami Tuesday

Anthony Thomalla — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 11:06:35 EST

The largest primary contest, next Tuesday, is fast approaching. To date Clinton has led the national polls, however, Barack has made a steady climb toward catching her. For an example see:

http://www.pollster.com/08presidentialprimary.php

After a resounding win in South Carolina and upstaging President Bush's State of the Union Address, Obama saw a nice spike. As predicted, however, HRC flew to Florida and painted this non-event into a testament of victory which gave her the headline advantage. This was nicely quelled by the announcement this morning that Senator John Edwards was exiting the race which in many ways thrusts Obama and Clinton into the national consciousness as equals going into tomorrow's final debate before the Tuesday voting begins. Debate info can be found:

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/12/21/top-candidates-to-be-invited-to-super-tuesday-presidential-debates-in-california/

It is essential for Barack, now more than ever, to present himself as presidential during this debate. He cannot stammer when he gets flustered or look to the mediators to get HRC back on her leash if she attacks. He needs to be able to show his confidence and his innovative platform in order to garner the support of independents and disenfranchised Edwards backers. Following the debates he needs to find a way to stay in the national consciousness with another big endorsement or announcement. As for we supporters...it is crucial to make as many personal contacts in the 23 Tsunami States. Call your neighbors, parents, children,...call everyone you know to go out and please support Barack. Every single vote is going to count. If you know a Obama supporter who has a broken leg go offer them a ride. This one really counts big.

Turn up the Heat!

Anthony Thomalla — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 17:54:07 EST

All of the Democratic candidates agreed not to campaign in Florida to which even Clinton has adhered. She is, however, going to go there after the polls close to claim victory and will probably say something like "My opponents say this is a meaningless victory because the delegates do not count but today we showed them who Florida wants and how much we'll count in the Fall general election." This will in turn capture a few headlines around the country and will give some people the impression she won another state primary despite the fact it is a meaningless victory in terms of delegates. Obama will have to make another big splash in the media so people don't just remember Clinton's last "big victory." By next Tuesday South Carolina and the Kennedy's will seem miles away. Turn up the Heat and keep fresh in the voter's minds.

Illinois it's our turn!

freedom4u_n_me — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 07:52:24 EST

Hello everyone,
It's 'our' turn now....please sign up to help out in Illinois!

Everywhere ILLINOIS
Sangamon County
Decatur area
Peoria area

Every state that will be voting on Feb. 5th.............. check your 'neighborhood' and see how you can help! YES, WE WILL!

My thanks, today, go out to All of US, and to the Kennedy family!
Thank you for your endorsement Caroline, Patrick and Ted!

Gail/ freedom4u_n_me/ Obama in the Heart, Peoria, IL/ Illinois Chapter of Families for Obama and Moms for Obama

"This campaign can't only be about me. It must be about us - it must be
about what we can do together. This campaign must be the occasion, the
vehicle, of your hopes, and your dreams. It will take your time, your
energy, and your advice - to push us forward when we're doing right, and to
let us know when we're not. This campaign has to be about reclaiming the
meaning of citizenship, restoring our sense of common purpose, and realizing
that few obstacles can withstand the power of millions of voices calling for
change." Barack Obama

Letters to the editor are important!

freedom4u_n_me — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 12:10:38 EST

There's still time.......let's do it today! Don't worry about your writing skills. Here is everything you'll need to write a letter to the editor of SC newspapers! Then send a letter to your local paper, too!

http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/sclte

Thanks everyone,

Gail

Here's what we can do before Feb. 5th

freedom4u_n_me — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 11:05:52 EST

Check this out for ideas on how you can help 'our' candidate bring 'our' government back to 'us' before Super Teusday:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4vbzw

This should work in all of the states voting on Feb. 5th. I set this event up for Illinos, but you can do this anywhere!

I believe: "We Will!"

Gail

Last Day To Vote

Anthony Thomalla — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 21:19:08 EST

Today Saturday 12/08/2007 is the last day to vote for the official www.puppies4obama.com 2007 Obama Dog. Voting ends at midnight EST.

Senator Obama's Statement on World AIDS DAY

Alex Okrent, Louisiana Field Director — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 19:09:59 EST

http://www.barackobama.com/2007/11/30/world_aids_day_statement.php

World AIDS Day Statement

Chicago, IL | November 30, 2007

Chicago, IL -- This World AIDS Day is a time to reflect on what this global crisis is costing us. It's a cost that's measured in generations lost, in cultures traumatized, and in societies that have grown more unstable as a result of this pandemic. And it's a cost that 33 million people worldwide bear each day as they struggle to live with this disease. And what makes all of this so heartbreaking is that it was - in each and every case - entirely preventable.

And yet, this is also a time to draw inspiration from the stories of heroism that are being lived each day. It's a time to draw hope from the extraordinary perseverance of those helping combat this disease around the world. And above all, it's a time to stay focused on the task ahead - stopping the spread of this disease once and for all.

That is what I will fight to do as President. As part of my comprehensive national HIV/AIDS strategy, we'll provide $50 billion by 2013 to fight the pandemic, and contribute our fair share to the Global Fund. I'll work to dispel the stigma surrounding this disease, which is what Michelle and I tried to do by taking a public HIV test in Kenya a while back. I'll expand the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief by $1 billion a year in new money over the next five years so we can reach more people in places like Southeast Asia, India, and Eastern Europe, where the pandemic is growing. We'll make sure medications developed with taxpayer dollars are available as generics in developing countries - because a person shouldn't be denied life-saving drugs just because we can't find a way to reform our patent laws. And we'll work to eliminate the extreme poverty that permits HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria to flourish by doubling our foreign assistance from $25 billion per year to $50 billion per year by 2012.

But leadership on HIV/AIDS has to start at home. We recently learned that our nation's capital has the highest AIDS infection rate of any city in this country. That is an outrage. It's time to launch a national effort to stop this disease, starting with African Americans, who are being affected disproportionately.

We cannot give the boy back the parents he lost or the woman back the future she had dreamed of. But what we can do is prevent any more suffering. What's stopping us is not a lack of knowledge or resources, but a lack of will. And until we - as Americans and as human beings - summon the will to end this moral crisis, the conscience of our nation cannot rest.

Vote for Official "2007 Obama Dog"

Anthony Thomalla — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 22:59:54 EST

Vote for the pup you think should be crowned official "2007 Obama Dog." Voting will begin at 9:00 a.m. cst on Monday December 3, 2007 and will end promptly at Midnight on Saturday December 8, 2007. You can only vote once (we'll be checking for duplicate e-mails) but you get to select your top 10 favorite hounds. Good luck! Thanks to everyone for the great support we've experienced. With regards to duplicate list serves...Lo siento www.puppies4obama.com Dr. Anthony Thomallaanthony@abcresources.com(800) 507-0515PO Box1176Valparaiso, IN 46304

Obama Admits he Drank, Used Drugs as a Teen

Anthony Thomalla — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 07:10:47 EST

That's the headline this morning...but this is old information if you've read his book. It bothers me that the media treatment of Barack always trends toward the negative. Instead of "Obama Opens Honest Dialogue With Teens" we get "Obama Admits he Drank, Used Drugs as a Teen." The only way we can battle such bias is by individually creating dialogues with as many other individuals as we can... people who do not know Barack as we do... and share our knowledge of the honest, open, caring leader that has emerged in our hearts and minds. On December 10, 2007 we plan to open our home to our neighbors for a chili dinner and to watch the debate. Maybe one more person will recognize the fresh face of change. What are your plans that day?

Mock Election

Anthony Thomalla — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 21:00:14 EST

We're trying to put together a web page to involve kids, and people who are generally young at heart, in the election process. In December we are going to have a mock election with the pictures we have posted on the page. To make this work though we need 50 more dog pictures so if you have one we'd be happy to include it. Also, we want to get this page into circulation so if you could pass it along, your efforts would be greatly appreciated.

www.puppies4obama.com

Dr. Anthony Thomalla

PO Box 1176 Valparaiso,

IN 46384-1176

(800) 507-0515

Senator Obama in The Advocate

Alex Okrent, Louisiana Field Director — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 23:26:34 EST

Senator Obama sat down recently with Kerry Eleveld of the Advocate, one of the most respected and widely-circulated LGBT publications in the country. The full text of the interview can be found here.

Let us know what you think about the Senator's answers in the comments section.

A Call for Full Equality

Alex Okrent, Louisiana Field Director — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 22:50:54 EST

Senator Obama penned an op-ed circulated around the country this week, expressing his views on full equality for members of the LGBT Community.

A Call for Full Equality

by Barack Obama

Over the last several weeks, the question of LGBT equality was placed on center stage by the appearance of Donnie McClurkin at one of my campaign events. McClurkin is a talented performer and a beloved figure among many African Americans and Christians around the country. At the same time, he espouses beliefs about homosexuality that I completely reject.

(Continue reading below the jump)

It's not to early to start thinking about giving...Thanksgiving & ObamaGiving

freedom4u_n_me — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 13:05:46 EDT

I know how busy everyone is during the holiday season, but let's take a couple hours on the Sat. after Thanksgiving, (Nov. 24th: 1pm-3pm) and celebrate ObamaGiving while spreading the word in our own neighborhoods about the BEST CANDIDATE.

Here in Peoria, IL., we will be decorating our Obama Mobile and heading around town to various, hopefully very busy, parking lots. After all, won't just about everybody be out shopping??? We have decorated coffee cans: 'Collecting Change to Make a Change'; 'Buck for Barack'...you get the idea!

If you can't come to Peoria, why not create this event in your town? I know how important the early states are right now, but if you can't be in one of those states, there's still a lot you can do. Plus, it's so much fun to get to know fellow supporters..........

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4vkpr

Here's a great idea from a fellow supporter; Kurt in St. Louis, MO. 'Worlds longest Conga Line for Barack Obama'! (fundraiser on Dec. 2nd) He will be attempting to break the Guinness book of World Records for the longest conga line in history! My daughter and I are hoping to attend this event....it sounds like so much fun!

<a href="http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/fundraising/4vhcj">see details here<a>

Have a great November, wherever you are, and let's keep the train a rollin'!

Peace,

Gail

Joint Letter from the African American Religious and LGBT Leadership Teams

Alex Okrent, Louisiana Field Director — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 15:44:20 EDT

African American Religious and LGBT Leaders

Call for Communities to Find Common Ground

CHICAGO, IL- Obama supporters and leaders in the LGBT and African American faith communities released the following letter today calling on members of their communities to come together to find common ground.

To Whom It May Concern:

As representatives of Barack Obama supporters from the African American religious community and the gay community, we are issuing a statement together for the first time. Our letter addresses the recent issue of Pastor Donnie McClurkin singing at Senator Obama’s “Embrace the Change” concert series. In the midst of division, we hope and believe that this is a moment to bring together communities that have been divided for far too long.

A few things are clear.

First, Pastor McClurkin believes and has stated things about sexual orientation that are deeply hurtful and offensive to many Americans, most especially to gay Americans. This cannot and should not be denied.

At the same time, a great many African Americans share Pastor McClurkin’s beliefs. This also cannot be ignored.

Finally, we believe that the only way for these two sides to find common ground is to do so together.

Not at arms length. Not in a war of words with press and pundits. Only together.

It is clear that Barack Obama is the only candidate who has made bringing these two often disparate groups together a goal. In gatherings of LGBT Americans and African Americans of faith, Obama has stated that all individuals should be afforded full civil rights regardless of their sexual orientation, and that homophobia must be eradicated in every corner of our nation. If we are to end homophobia and secure full civil rights for gay Americans, then we need an advocate within the Black community like Barack Obama.

At the same time, while Obama has said that he "strongly disagrees" with Pastor McClurkin's comments, he will not exclude from his campaign the many Americans including many in the African American community who believe the same as Pastor McClurkin.

We believe that Barack Obama is constructing a tent big enough for LGBT Americans who know that their sexual orientation is an innate and treasured part of their being, and for African American ministers and citizens who believe that their religion prevents them from fully embracing their gay brothers and sisters. And if we are to confront our shared challenges we have to join together, build on common ground, and engage in a civil dialogue even when we disagree.

We also ask Senator Obama’s critics to consider the alternatives. Would we prefer a candidate who ignores the realities in the African American community and cuts off millions of Blacks who believe things offensive to many Americans? Or a panderer who tells African Americans what they want to hear, at the expense of our gay brothers and sisters? Or would we rather stand with Barack Obama, who speaks truth in love to both sides, pulling no punches but foreclosing no opportunities to engage?

We stand with Senator Obama. We stand with him because of the solutions he is proposing for our nation. We stand with him because of his character and his judgment. But the most important reason we stand with him is because today, as he has done all along, Barack Obama is causing us to stand together.

That's the kind of President we need, and we are proud to support him.

Sincerely,

Rev. Dr. Otis Moss, Jr.

Olivet Institutional Baptist Church

Chair, Obama National African American Religious Leaders Working Group

Cleveland, Ohio

Stampp Corbin

Chair, Obama National LGBT Leadership Council

Former Member of Human Rights Campaign Board of Directors

Columbus, Ohio

Tobias Barrington Wolff

Chair, Obama LGBT Policy Committee

Professor of Law, University of Pennsylvania Law School

Philadelphia, PA

The Reverend Stephen John Thurston

President

National Baptist Convention of America

Chicago, IL

The Reverend Alvin Love

President

Baptist General State Convention of Illinois, Inc.

Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr.

Office of Ecumenical & Urban Affairs

African Methodist Episcopal Church

Atlanta, GA

Steven Latasa-Nicks

President, The Phelon Group, Inc.

Former Human Rights Campaign Board of Governors

New York, NY

Maxim Thorne

Former COO, Human Rights Campaign

Paterson, NJ

Phil Burgess

Former Human Rights Campaign Board of Directors

Chicago, IL

Rev. Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner

Skinner Leadership Institute

Tracy’s Landing, MD

Rev. Michael Pfleger

St. Sabina, Chicago

Rev. Edward Taylor

San Jose, CA

The Reverend Robert H. Thompson

Exeter, NH

Sharon Malheiro

LGBT Activist

Des Moines, IA

Hon. Jon Cooper

Majority Leader, Suffolk County (NY) Legislature

Rev. Paul Hobson Sadler, Sr., Pastor

Mt. Zion Congregational UCC

Statement on Reverend Donnie McClurkin

Alex Okrent, Louisiana Field Director — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 19:40:28 EDT

Statement on Rev. McClurkin

"I have clearly stated my belief that gays and lesbians are our brothers and sisters and should be provided the respect, dignity, and rights of all other citizens. I have consistently spoken directly to African-American religious leaders about the need to overcome the homophobia that persists in some parts of our community so that we can confront issues like HIV/AIDS and broaden the reach of equal rights in this country.

I strongly believe that African Americans and the LGBT community must stand together in the fight for equal rights. And so I strongly disagree with Reverend McClurkin's views and will continue to fight for these rights as President of the United States to ensure that America is a country that spreads tolerance instead of division."

~ Barack Obama
10/22/07

Today is National Coming Out Day

Alex Okrent, Louisiana Field Director — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 12:42:29 EDT

In 1988, Dr. Robert Eichberg and Jean O’Leary celebrated the first National Coming Out Day, in honor of an historic march for gay and lesbian rights DC one year earlier. Since then, October 11th has been a day for members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community, along with their allies, to speak openly about their sexuality and encourage others to do so as well.

In honor of National Coming Out Day, Senator Obama today released the following statement:

(continue reading)

Want to join us on a conference call with Barack??

Kelly — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 19:52:58 EDT

Hi fellow Senator Obama constituents! My name is Kelly and I lead the NW Suburbs of Chicago for Obama group. Currently we are neck and neck with the Washington DC for Obama group in the fundraising challenge that ends this Sunday.

The winner gets a conference call with Barack and in only two steps you too can be a part!

First step: Donate any amount, even $5, through our group’s fundraising page:

https://donate.barackobama.com/page/contribute?outreach_page_id=10807

Second step: Join our group and follow the prompts to send at least one invite to someone else to our fundraising page.

http://my.barackobama.com/page/group/NWSuburbsofChicagoforObama

Anyone who donates $5 or more and sends out at least one invite can partake in the conference call! Lets show those people in DC who really is the most fired up for Barack!!!

Thanks so much for your time; I hope to be on that conference call with you soon!

Kelly

September 8th BBQ

Jeff Vedas — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 15:37:18 EDT

I would like to take this opportunity to extend a thank you to Maggie Koehler and her parents, Senator Dave Koehler and Nora Sullivan, for hosting a lovely backyard BBQ to kick off the campaign for Obama. I met several interesting people, including the dynamic Zach Koutsky. The event was the first of its kind for me,and it definitely made me excited to see so many people so deeply involved in Obama's campaign. I am in it for the long haul I guess. With trips to Iowa planned, phone events, and more parties as well, it looks like the Senator definitely has his state behind him!

Inspiration from Scott in MI- 5 step program

freedom4u_n_me — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 09:26:25 EDT

I received this message from one of my Obama friends this morning. I wanted to share it with everyone!

Thank you, Scott.
Gail/ freedom4u_n_me/ Obama in the Heart/ Illinois Chapter of Families for Obama and co-admin of Moms for Obama

from Scott Wolverine in Ypsilanti, MI

This is already working and becoming a phenomenal success, and it's showing, in Iowa, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Carolina, and Michigan. . . .

Our objective is to organize the citizens of America around the goal of making Senator Barack Obama the 44th President of the United States.

"Some men see things as they are and say why; I dream things that never were, and say why not?" -Senator Robert F. Kennedy

In working to succeed on this historic mission, we should all have an actual, literal picture in our minds of Senator Obama taking the presidential oath of office on the West Front of the U.S. Capital on January 20th, 2009. We should all hold this picture in our minds and re-visit it often during this visionary campaign. If we see it and believe in it, we will achieve this for our country.

"Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." -President John F. Kennedy

So what can we all do in this campaign for our country?

I now receive emails on a daily basis that say something along these lines: "I believe in Senator Obama, he's the 1st candidate to come along and really inspire me to become involved with a campaign, I've signed up on the website, now what do I do?" This campaign will succeed in making Barack Obama the next President of the United States, and it will need to do so by doing what every successful organization in the world does . . . . . it will need to duplicate a system of success.

We are all so very fortunate to have this medium available to us so that we can all share different ideas and methods with each other. The following represents just one idea, one approach, one answer to the question, that has proven thus far to be very effective. It's a 5-step, cookie-cutter, duplicable process that any one of us in this campaign can take ourselves through and then duplicate in order to help propel our heroic leader onto victory. The 5 Steps:

Step 1. Join this campaign at barackobama.com
Step 2. Make a monetary contribution and then get yourself a t-shirt and a bumper sticker.
Step 3. Join 5 (or more) national and local online Obama groups through the website to get plugged into people and events. It costs nothing and takes no more than 10 minutes to do.
Step 4. Make sure you're registered to vote, and take at least 1 unregistered citizen that you know out to the homepage to get them registered to vote as well.
Step 5. Talk to 10 (or more) friends and family members, and encourage them to go to the website to see for themselves the incredible energy and optimism of this historic Obama for President campaign. (Once they join, you can encourage them to repeat this 5-step process, and so on).

Look at each step, play with the numbers, do the math, and then just imagine everyone in your state carrying this out.

We should certainly continue sharing best practices and 'ways that work' with each other from across the country, so by all means feel free to forward this on to your friends and to your groups.

"Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now; We're On The Move!"

Host a party for Barack

Alex Okrent, Louisiana Field Director — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 11:45:35 EDT

Hi Friends,

As many of you know, Senator Obama is participating in the historic HRC Presidential Forum in Los Angeles on August 9th. This forum will be televised on the LOGO Network nationally and streamed live online at
Logo Online , and we want to make sure everyone has a chance to see it. Please note that you do not need to have the LOGO network to host a party as long as you have the ability to stream video off the internet.

Because not everyone has the LOGO Network or the ability to stream video online, we are encouraging those who do to host forum-watching parties and open their house to neighbors, friends and family. If you are interested in hosting a party, or would like to attend a party in your area, click here to register your party or find one near you.

For more information, you can contact us via pride@barackobama.com or directly by phone at 312-819-2509.

This presidential forum is an amazing way to highlight Senator Obama's strong support of the LGBT community. It is only through your efforts that Barack can continue to spread his message of hope to the country. After Senator Obama speaks at the forum, there will be a conference call where he will speak to his supporters at house parties across the country.

Please forward this message anyone who may be interested in hosting or attending a party.

Thanks,
The Obama LGBT Team

click here to register your party or find one near you.

Exciting news

Alex Okrent, Louisiana Field Director — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 10:42:16 EDT

The Obama Campaign was excited to receive the endorsement yesterday of Bishop V. Gene Robinson.

There's an excellent interview with the Bishop in the latest edition of the Advocate and can be found online here: http://www.advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid47851.asp

Also exciting is the historic upcoming HRC Forum on August 9th in which Senator Obama is participating. We're encouraging people around the country to host house parties to invite their neighbors, friends and families to watch the Forum. For more information, please visit http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/hphrclogo.

Thanks, and stay tuned for more information!

Alex Okrent