President Obama early Wednesday evening signed a memorandum, not an executive order, that offers some, but not all, equal benefits to the same-sex partners of federal employees – America’s largest employer – but stopped short of offering health benefits. The President and aides were emphatic that this is “only one step,” and that others would follow, although how fast is yet to be determined. Criticism came quickly, with most echoing the popular refrain that promises made by Obama of change have so far forgotten the LGBT community. Richard Socarides, an attorney who worked with President Clinton on gay issues, said that “people in the gay community feel he over-promised and under-delivered,” an odd statement given that under Clinton’s watch, the Administration was responsible for the institution of the Defense of Marriage Act and the military ban on gays serving openly.
A new CBS NEWS /New York Times poll, meanwhile, is showing that support for same-sex marriage dipped slightly, with 33% of those polled supporting gay marriage, down somewhat from 42% the same poll found in April.
Cher, chronically cool, says that she will support daughter Chastity’s transition from woman to man, Cher stating with candor and care that she does “respect the courage it takes to go through this transition, and although I may not understand, I will strive to be understanding.”
T.R. Knight will have his wish granted, with news that the actor has been given permission to leave Grey’s Anatomy, opting out of his contract.
Eddie Bauer, the retailer who began as a tiny sportsman store in Seattle, Washington, has filed for bankruptcy protection. The maneuver is regarded by most analysts as good, allowing the company with a world wide brand easily recognizable to rid itself of bad debt and reposition itself into the market. According to the reports, none the company’s current stores will close, and no employees will be affected.
Danny Gokey says he has no problem with Adam Lambert or gays in general, saying “yes, I accept gay people.” Finally, now we gay people can move forward, confident, secure.
0 comments:
Post a Comment