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Friday, June 15, 2007
At the CNN debate on June 3rd, every single one of the Democratic candidates for President said that it was time to join our ally, Great Britain, and allow gay men and women to serve openly in the military.
Two days later at their debate, every Republican said they want to maintain the status quo of the federal government continuing to discriminate against gay soldiers with the policy of “Don't Ask, Don't Tell.” When asked the question, Gov. Mike Huckabee couldn't change the subject fast enough. Gov. Mitt Romney said there were “much bigger issues” than taking a few moments to discuss the current lack of respect and dignity afforded to the gay men and women who put their lives on the line for their country.
Sen. John McCain was eloquent when he defended his immigration bill by focusing on the Spanish-speaking soldiers who had died for our nation in both Vietnam and Iraq. It's a shame he could not find the same compassion when discussing the military expulsions and forced closets for soldiers like Marine Sgt. Eric Alva, who was one of the first American soldiers wounded in the Iraq war, losing his right leg on March 21, 2003, the first day of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Alva revealed in a news conference earlier this year that he is also a gay man.
MARC PAIGE
Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Edwards’ actions show he’s gay friendly
Re: “Edwards uncomfortable with ‘those people’” (viewpoint by Kevin Naff, June 1)
I wonder how many of those criticizing Senator John Edwards’ comfort level around members of the gay community have ever even met him.
In the 1990s, as executive director of North Carolina’s only statewide direct-service LGBT organization, and a spokesperson for a national LGBT coalition, I met John Edwards during his run to be the Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate seat. His hearty greeting was completely absent the avoidance or hesitation characteristic of what we call “Jesse-crats.”
In Washington, I met with Sen. Edwards’ staff about the hate crimes bill. During the committee discussion, I was seated behind Edwards, out of view, yet he spoke powerfully and eloquently about the need to protect our community from violence.
Later, I asked Edwards to lend his support to a mostly LGBT group of D.C. Friends of N.C. who were mobilizing to support a Democrat for Jesse Helms’ Senate seat. As I explained, he answered, “Yes!” almost before I’d finished — he was already aware of the group and applauded our efforts.
He also took the opportunity to introduce me to his wife. (In my experience, people who are uncomfortable around gays do not introduce us to their attractive spouses.) Now, I am greeted warmly by both of the Edwards’ — usually with a hug and peck on the cheek by Mrs. Edwards.
In 2004, I forwarded some information to the campaign, including a position paper urging transgender inclusion in legislation — especially the hate crimes bill. A trans friend later reported to me that the senator answered in the affirmative to her questions about such measures. Another multi-page proposal I sent via e-mail received a response within two minutes, saying that Mrs. Edwards had read it, liked it and had sent it to the senator’s chief of staff.
Certainly the Edwards’ perpetual warmth toward us, their sincere desire that we should have legal protections, and their genuine willingness for open idea sharing speaks volumes over one out-of-context phrase uttered years ago.
KENDA KIRBY
Washington, D.C.
Edwards remark is typical of hypocritical Democrats
Re: “Edwards uncomfortable with ‘those people’” (viewpoint by Kevin Naff, June 1)
Thank you for your article pertaining to John Edwards' gay comfort zone. You nailed it. This isn't only applicable to Edwards but also to the entire “accepting” Democratic Party. After all, it was the Democrats who gave us “Don't Ask, Don't Tell,” as well as the Defense of Marriage Act. It was also the majority of the 2004 Democratic presidential candidates, including John Kerry, who opposed our right to marry.
If I am not accorded the same rights as other Americans, then don't tax me at the same rates. It was because of DOMA that the gay married partner of former Rep. Gerry Studds (D-Mass.) could not realize federal benefits at Studds' death.
We need to hold the Democrats’ feet to the fire. Yes, I know the Republicans are just as bad. The difference is they’re not kissing us as they stab us in the back.
RANDAL EATON CULBRETH
Alabama
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