General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Bill Clinton Praises The Demise Of DOMA, Without Mentioning That He Signed It Into Law [View all]Ms. Toad
(33,999 posts)was lip service, when necessary, coupled (at least during the primaries leading up to the 2008 election and the early years of his first term) with a core discomfort with LGBT issues. He did us no favors - and in many ways betrayed us. That is why during the 2008 primaries I supported other candidates, rather than him. Until Edwards - who had that same core discomfort - dropped out of the primaries I supported him because he was at least honest about his personal struggles with LGBT issues. I knew where he stood. I wouldn't always like where he stood, but I wouldn't be expecting different from what might be delivered.
That changed for President Obama - particularly his core connection with LGBT issues. I don't know exactly when - but by the time he made his public announcement supporting same gender marriage the change was palpable. It was just as clear to me that it was not just lip service or politics - as it had previously clear that it was. I think it was his connection with the parents of some of his children's friends, and some people I know personally who have regular contact with him, that was the catalyst for change.
I won't dismiss the role of politics, and the changing tide of public opinion, as factors in the timing of the public announcement.
But however, and whenever, he got here he is NOW he is a strong advocate for LGBT rights, and has played a very positive role in grabbing the momentum and turning that momentum into concrete gains. And that thrills me.
But that thrill is tempered by the visceral memory of bus wheels running across my torso for the first 3 years of his administration. That memory will fade - but it will also take time.