Take Action – UAFA must be part of Comprehensive Immigration Reform
Immigration Equality is returning to regular “Take Action” updates as immigration reform heats up.
As I have stated before on this blog, and as Senator Leahy has stated so eloquently: Comprehensive Immigration Reform will not be comprehensive unless all families are part of it – including gay and lesbian families.
What Can You Do?
Ask your members of Congress:
Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CIR) got several boosts last week. Obama mentioned his support for CIR in a town hall meeting in Southern California. The Congressional Hispanic Caucus met with Obama and members came away “hopeful that Obama would address immigration reform this year.”
Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House, spoke passionately this week about the need for comprehensive reform soon. In her speech, she said a CIR bill “would unite our families, unite our families. Family unification [is an] important principle of our immigration, always has been and would be part of …comprehensive immigration reform.”
Click here to let Congress know that “comprehensive” is NOT “comprehensive” without our families!
Finally, thanks to ALL of you who are commenting on our blog. Your energy is fantastic! Your ideas and analysis are providing everyone (including us!) with a lot of insights which we are incorporating into our work.
Thanks Julie!
Will contact my Sens and Reps right away! We are happy that you have noticed our postings and want to help in any way we can!
Comment by TheHeatIsOn — March 23, 2009 @ 12:21 pm
That you so much, IE, for all the wonderful work you have done! Thanks to all the people for supporting, sharing ideas, getting into ACTION, not giving up and giving hope!
Please keep supporting us in the Ellen forum! Don’t forget to write her directly also! There’ s a lot everyone of us can do! Spread the message, talk to your family and friends, stay connected, give it a human face! Write, write and write….!
We also wrote to Rachel Maddow : Rachel@msnbc.com
Best wishes,
Lee
Comment by Lee — March 23, 2009 @ 12:36 pm
Lets keep the fire coming. WE ALL CAN AND WILL MAKE A DIFFERNCE!! I really love the fact that IE is using some of the ideas we have coming along!! we are looking for CHANGE!!!
Comment by Concerned citizen — March 23, 2009 @ 1:36 pm
I want to thank Ms. Kruse and IE for their continuing effort to push for the passage of this bill. Like many binational couples who are living inside and outside of the US, my happiness depends on the passage of this bill. My partner and I have been doing our best to inform others about this bill and giving our all to fight for the equality that we all deserve. Please, please do your part and contact your local Reps and Senators and ask them to support or co-sponsor this bill. Let’s make this happen! Thank you once again.
Comment by Simon M — March 23, 2009 @ 1:43 pm
I emailed Rachel Maddow a few minutes ago and also posted her address with a request to everyone to do likewise on the wall of the UAFA cause page on Facebook. Will check the forum for more news in a sec. Let’s keep it up folks.
Comment by Tim — March 23, 2009 @ 2:13 pm
Like many other hardworking professionals at IE, Julie is so committed to our cause. Based in the D.C. office, she works closely with legislative staff on the Hill——and with immigration groups to build allies who will be key to our success. We are very fortunate to have an effective leader like Julie who pursues our goal tirelessly. We all know IE is THE organization that is devoted to immigration equality for bi-national couples. My partner and I will do whatever we can to coordinate with IE, to join forces, and to have a unified front in getting UAFA passed. For all of us whose lives and families are torn apart by America’s discriminatory immigration system, let’s work with IE, and let’s DO something!
Comment by Rick — March 23, 2009 @ 2:19 pm
I know it gonna to Immigration Reform. but, we shouldn’t give up for UAFA.. because, if someone partner is in UK, Germany, Canada, China…etc. Who is not Qualified for that program on my knowledge.
because, Immigration Reform only for the person who illegal ie over stay, cross boarder…etc in U.S i think, We need to considerate, is it perfect for your Partner!!! ESPECIALLY, if your parter have a legal Visa in state, is it eligiable for immigration Reform Program!!
We need to pass the UAFA no matter what.
Comment by Ken — March 23, 2009 @ 2:42 pm
Might be an idea to write to Nancy Pelosi?
Comment by Tim — March 23, 2009 @ 3:23 pm
How come Ur not commenting on Barney Frank, with the interview he didnt mention immigration.
Comment by george — March 23, 2009 @ 3:54 pm
Barney Frank is part of the Human Rights Campaign paradigm…ENDA, Hate Crimes Laws and repeal DADT.
Comment by nola — March 23, 2009 @ 5:10 pm
Progress in Vermont: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/21/us/21vermont.html?ref=us.
And Schumer for gay marriage: http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid76162.asp
Comment by Rick — March 23, 2009 @ 5:19 pm
If you all like to read gay news. please go to http://www.365gay.com
They own by CBS, and updated gay news all over the nation every minute, included, Gay marriage, repeal DOMA…etc.
Comment by ken — March 23, 2009 @ 5:29 pm
Thank you Julie! I have a quick question, if CIR gets voted down–do we risk losing UAFA?
Comment by bkbzipper — March 23, 2009 @ 5:41 pm
Well, my I-94 expires next month, but with all the positive developments lately, I’ve decided to take the risk of overstaying, and then adjusting status in a few months when UAFA and other CIR laws are passed. *prays* *fingers crossed*
Comment by Kyle — March 23, 2009 @ 5:47 pm
Kyle, it’s a huge and difficult decision whether to leave or stay — from a legal, financial, and emotional point of view. And your decision will have many ramifications. There’s no telling when UAFA will happen. I would understand whatever you choose to do, but please really think it over. Best wishes!
Comment by Rick — March 23, 2009 @ 6:22 pm
Kyle, I think it’s risky to you, even though UAFA or CIR passed, it takes time to be effected. I concern if it will happen this year. Good luck.
Comment by Clarence — March 23, 2009 @ 6:30 pm
Actually, having given this some thought and having read the virulent anti illegal immigrant comments on the Boston.com article, we are having second thoughts about adding UAFA to a comprehensive immigration bill. Because the issue of immigration is highly sensitive (esp. illegal immigrants), is it not risky to put ourselves in the same boat? We then take the risk of losing due to that hot button issue.
Can someone respond to this concern?
Thanks!
Comment by TheHeatIsOn — March 23, 2009 @ 6:36 pm
Thanks everyone, it has not been an easy decision to overstay, but the constant travelling back and forth, and only seeing the Love of My Life for a few months each year is too much of a burden.
As I mentioned on this blog, I recently discovered that straight people who overstay can adjust their status to legal permanent resident if they get married to a US citizen.
Even if UAFA doesn’t pass this year, I’m hopeful that it’s only a matter of time before we have full equality, so I shouldn’t have to “live in the shadows” for too long (touch wood).
Obviously this is not an ideal situation, but seems the lesser of two evils.
Comment by Kyle — March 23, 2009 @ 6:47 pm
I think it’s better to tag along. UAFA combines two most controversial issues: gay rights and immigration reform. When added to immigration reform (which almost happened in the past few years), our bill would not attract as much opposition as it would if it’s a standing alone legislation. Also, there is more overall support for immigration reform than gay immigration.
Comment by Rick — March 23, 2009 @ 6:52 pm
RE: TheHeatIsOn
)
Many of us, unfortunately, ARE illegal at this point (and I will most likely soon be joining those ranks!) so for us the issues are closely related.
(OMG, I can’t believe I’m starting to refer to myself as an illegal immigrant…this is not cool
Comment by Kyle — March 23, 2009 @ 6:52 pm
Hi all,
Listen, this is a site which anyone can read. We don’t know who is reading along with us and don’t want to give the impression that we support illegal activity. Kyle, we understand that you need support and advice, but please be careful with posting too much information.
As good as it may seem for UAFA at the moment, we can’t be sure that it will pass.
Comment by TheHeatIsOn — March 23, 2009 @ 6:59 pm
Kyle, I began my long term relationship with my partner since 2001, I have been thinking of overstay in 2003 until the immigration bill passed. But you can see it didn’t happen, and no one know when will it happen. So think about it wisely.
Comment by Clarence — March 23, 2009 @ 7:21 pm
Actually, TheHeatIsOn, I would have to disagree with you. Visibility is key. I think it’s important to be honest and open about the immigration issues facing our community. If we hide in the shadows we will never get the rights that we deserve.
Comment by nola — March 23, 2009 @ 7:22 pm
Hi Nola,
I didn’t mean that we should hide in the shadows. I meant two things: 1)that it doesn’t reflect well on us, in the eyes of the INS if we are supporting or suggesting that someone stay here illegally and 2)that it might not be a good idea for Kyle to post too many personal details online.
Comment by TheHeatIsOn — March 23, 2009 @ 8:25 pm
Can anyone give me a link or Email address to write directly to Ellen? I’ve been looking for it but not sure where to enter.
Comment by EricJPN — March 23, 2009 @ 9:15 pm
I agree with Nola. Visibility is important. My partner overstayed and it’s been really hard on a bunch of levels. Whenever I write my congress people, I want to tell “our story” to let them know how hard our sitaution is, but I’m scared to do this. But a big component of visibility is finding other people in the same situation and feeling strenth in numbers. On this blog, which I’ve followed for more than a year-and-a-half, most people who share their experiences are the ones with international commutes, or ones who left the U.S. Of course I feel for them and everything they’ve gone through. But even here on this blog I’ve been scared to say that I’m not in that situation. In essence both my partner and I are illegals, and I always feel the need to hide.
Comment by joel — March 23, 2009 @ 9:21 pm
Here’s a contact form:
http://ellen.warnerbros.com/show/respond/?PlugID=10
Comment by Lee — March 23, 2009 @ 9:22 pm
Thanks Lee! I will write to her.
Comment by EricJPN — March 23, 2009 @ 10:09 pm
let’s do it together, keep calling your Rep and congressman & Share you door with them.
Comment by Ken — March 23, 2009 @ 10:41 pm
I also agree with Nola. If many illegal immigrants have the courage to take the streets and march for immigration reform—and do so in the face of potential arrests by the police and perhaps by ICE, then I think it’s OK for someone to share their painful struggle and dilemma on this website. The current law is immoral. It’s people like Kyle that we are supposed to fight for.
Comment by Rick — March 23, 2009 @ 10:44 pm
I can understand the situation of Kyle, me as a alien, every time I entered to US as a visitor, I have to hide my relationship with my partner. Many times the immigration custom officer are very in-polite and almost denied my entry. I do hope the law can pass soon, so that I can stay in US legally without hassles.
Comment by Caeton — March 23, 2009 @ 11:09 pm
PLEASE read this heart breaking account about a family about to be separated – the parties remain anonymous due to the sensitivity and timing-
http://www.oblogdeeoblogda.wordpress.com
Comment by melanie nathan — March 24, 2009 @ 1:08 am
Please join!
http://forum.thedailyshow.com/tds/board/message?board.id=story_suggestions&thread.id=6272
Thank you!
Comment by Lee — March 24, 2009 @ 1:52 am
I received a comment on the The Daily Show Forum ( see link above) from someone saying it’s pointless to post there.
Let’s focus on Ellen,Oprah, Rosie, Margaret Cho, Wanda Sykes, Kathy Griffin, Keith Olbermann….
Would someone please post the links to the forums/ communities/ contact forms and share them ( not only here!).
Thank you.
Comment by Lee — March 24, 2009 @ 5:34 am
@Rick, Joel…
Unfortunately, there are many couples which have no choice, because one of them comes from a country where they can’t sponsor their partner and they’re also not eligible for asylum.
If they want to be together….how can they be visible?
But that doesn’t mean that we don’t care about them! Obviously we do, otherwise we wouldn’t have written.
Best wishes,
Lee and TheHeatIsOn
Comment by Lee — March 24, 2009 @ 5:46 am
OPRAH’S MAIL
https://www.oprah.com/plugform.jsp?plugId=220
E-MAIL THE PRODUCERS
https://www.oprah.com/ord/plugform.jsp?plugId=216
Thank you!
Comment by Lee — March 24, 2009 @ 5:46 am
I agree that if the illegal immigrants took the street last year, why can’t we.
We need national attention and understanding of what we are suffering. You do not want to live in fear forever.
Meanwhile, keep calling, posting in the forums, and writing to newspapers.
http://community.ellentv.com/forum/topics/dear-ellen-please-support-and
Comment by Shawn — March 24, 2009 @ 5:58 am
Hi all,
remember there are two more threads on Ellen. The more we write in those, the better, because it shows more presence, activity and interest.
http://community.ellentv.com/forum/topics/ellen-should-support
http://community.ellentv.com/forum/topics/support-for-uniting-american
Comment by Lee — March 24, 2009 @ 7:21 am
We now have 16 co-sponsors in the Senate!! Lets keep the letters comming!!
Comment by Concerned citizen — March 24, 2009 @ 8:06 am
The 16th cosponsor is Senator Gillibrand (NY). Ironically that is Hillary Clinton’s old seat. Now we have both senators for NY. Thanks Gov. Patterson.
Comment by nola — March 24, 2009 @ 8:30 am
I sent this today to all member of the Judiciary, The Prez, VP and both Speakers…Share it with the world!
Dear Committee on the Judiciary, March 19, 2009
My name is Brian Jacobs and I am a 39 year-old man living in Los Angeles, California, that has been happily teaching high school and college English for 17 years. I am a two time Fulbright, Fund for Teachers, & Japan Fulbright Memorial Fund recipient awaiting a grant from the National Endowment of Humanities and I have earned a Master�s degree as well. I am lucky to have a great life, a promising marriage and a wonderfully supportive family!
On August 2, 2008 I married my husband Michael (Thye Peng) Ngo after having met three years prior. Michael is from Malaysia. Our wedding celebration was the most glorious event of our lives! Over 120 of our friends and family came to encircle us with their love and blessings for a fruitful life together, full of love, intimacy and caring. We decided to get married because we love one another and we share the same values and goals. I also married Michael because he is my hero, having come to the United States just three and a half short years ago to pursue his dreams of becoming a nurse. Now he IS a Registered Nurse (RN). How brave you must be to leave everything you know behind and come to a different country. I know you can relate to that! I was so very lucky to have snatched him up soon after his arrival. A year later I proposed to Michael in 2006, in a surprise atop the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. It was a dream come true for both of us. When we came together on his 30th birthday to wed on August 2, 2008, we were both overwhelmingly excited. In West Hollywood park, in a circle of rose petals, friends and loved ones, we had our wedding performed flawlessly by our dear friend Donna, with whom I work with and went to Africa with two years ago on an educational grant. As we approached the park at dusk, a sunset glow hallowed our friends as we joined in the circle as Michael’s mother (I surprised him by bringing her from half way across the world without his knowledge.), who flew all the way from Malaysia with his pregnant sister in law, escorted him, as both my parents and stepmother walked me into the circle as well. We then shared tea with the elder guests as a sign of reverence, which was a symbol of Michael’s culture. After the tea ceremony my stepmother sang a gorgeous Beatles song to us. Our ring ceremony followed and was very special. Each member of the wedding party held a red ribbon, as our two rings were passed with the ribbon going through the two rings around the circle, as each member of the wedding blessed the rings and held our two hearts. This was an extraordinary bonding experience, for our love is forever blessed by everyone we know. We then exchanged our vows with emotional intensity as we were wrapped in a talis, a tradition of my culture. There was not a dry eye in the park! We broke glass and then headed, with our guests, to our lounge reception next door to the park and celebrated all night. It was the best wedding I have ever been to! We flew off the New York City with his family for our honeymoon soon after. It all seemed so extraordinary, yet paradoxically it was just like everyone else who has been married before us. Now Michael and I are bonded in the love of our friends and family to live a beautiful life together: So we thoughtâ�¦
On November 4, 2008, our lives changed forever. I had the opportunity to vote for the only candidate I have ever believed in into office. That candidate was Barack Obama! We congratulated him and the entire country for having won and for running the bravest, most positive election in modern times! He managed to stay above the fray and inspire millions! I am overwhelmed just thinking about it now! Tears of joy filled our eyes as the world recognized the United States, once again as a place of hope! However, in the state of California, we were beginning to hear the overwhelmingly sad news that Proposition 8, a proposition that was in favor of changing our state constitution that marriage is defined as being between a man and a woman, had won. We know from the President and Vice President Joe Biden that they both support Civil Unions and that they both support that same-sex couples have the same rights as couples of the opposite sex. We have read his letter to the LGBT community several times as a beacon of hope and I have included his words below as a reminder of all of our commitments to global equality! We are now wondering when will all of this happen? We are aware that politically it may not be expedient. That is too bad for the millions awaiting such change.
Michael graduated from Nursing and has passed his board exam. He has been offered several great jobs from prestigious hospitals, like Cedar Sinai Medical Center, but when he asked about sponsorship he is shockingly turned down, and the jobs revoked. In 2006, the retrogression from the United States Government went into effect, concerning the distribution of H1C Visas for skilled nurses. This has greatly impacted Michael�s and my future together; and since the United States does not recognize our marriage and with Proposition 8 passing in California, we are losing hope, an ideal we inspired to in my vote for Barack Obama. He did finally land a position at another hospital, but can only work one year under an OPT. Then he has to go back to school or go home, since retrogression has not lifted and since the federal government does not recognize our union. Now we are unclear as to when the Congress and the Senate will take a stand and fulfill the promise you all have made for same sex couples all over America. We know the economy and the two wars are priority for our country, however we are curious as to when and how you all will make these changes for same sex couples everywhere? Will it be part of the first positive changes you all will make for our country? We are worried, terrified and just plain saddened by our, and many others, dilemma. For the first time in our lives we feel that there is hope for us with the new administration. We are sure you all are inundated with requests and mail. We are asking for President Obama to make an executive order or bring quick legislation in order for many same sex couples to live out their American Dreams!
We also know that �small things� get brought up in our legislature daily and get passed with expediency. For instance, the news reported that there was a bill to make sure American flags are made in the USA. Another example is a bill that was presented to stop scalpers at the inauguration. I know that is important to the economy, but how many real lives does that effect? I know there are bigger fish to fry!
Around the world, activists are stepping up to demand passage of UAFA. Join us fair-minded people, to demand equal immigration rights for same-sex couples. Anything less is un-American! We will pass the Uniting American Families Act (UAFA), but together we will pass it sooner.
In the debate we heard in front of tens of millions of people: “â�¦In an Obama-Biden administration, there will be absolutely no distinction from a constitutional standpoint or a legal standpoint between a same-sex and a heterosexual couple.”
On record President Obama has also said, �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 about whether this nation is going to live up to its founding promise of equality by treating all its citizens with dignity and respect.�
Our time is running out. We are growingly frustrated by the turns of events in California, where we have taken to the streets, and we are terribly worried about our future together. Will we have to leave the United States of America? I cannot even fathom the thought! This has been my home for 39 years and it is where I have established my life. I am AMERICAN! I should not even have thoughts of leaving the country I love in my mind! Michael and I have discussed this a lot and for the first time in our lives we truly feel like second-class citizens. Could you imagine what that must feel like? Could you imagine contemplating those thoughts TODAY when you look into YOUR own family�s eyes? Please help us live the American Dream and end discrimination in our country for good! We are stressed out! We even want to buy a house! We can now if we wanted but with the uncertainty of getting Michael a visa or a green card, we cannot even make a move. We are paralyzed. All our money has to be saved, just in case he has to go back to school or leave the country. THIS IS A SHAME!
We wish you all good luck in your endeavors for the world and we look forward to seeing you all grow as a leaders and make the right decisions for your citizens. We are amazed by the turn of events with Barack Obama as our President and we thank you for your consideration and service. We are also at service to you so please do not hesitate to contact us for any reason!
Below you will find your letter to the LGBT community from President Obama. We are not only impressed with his words, but that many of the things he says is on the White House website.
Yes we can! Yes we will! Thank you again!
Peace!
Brian Jacobs
�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 pass a fully inclusive
Employment Non�Discrimination Act to outlaw workplace discrimination on the
basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
As your President, I will use the bully pulpit to urge states to treat same�
sex couples with full equality in their family and adoption laws. I personally
believe that civil unions represent the best way to secure that equal treatment.
But I also believe that the federal government should not stand in the way of
states that want to decide on their own how best to pursue equality for gay and
lesbian couples �whether that means a domestic partnership, a civil union, or a
civil marriage. I support the complete repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act
(DOMA). Federal law should not discriminate in any way against gay and
lesbian couples, which is precisely what DOMA does. I have also called for us to
repeal Don�t Ask, Don�t Tell, and I have worked to improve the Uniting
American Families Act so we can afford same�sex couples the same rights and
obligations as married couples in our immigration system.
The next president must also address the HIV/AIDS epidemic. When it
comes to prevention, we do not have to choose between values and science.
While abstinence education should be part of any strategy, we also need to use
common sense. We should have age�appropriate sex education that includes
information about contraception. We should pass the JUSTICE Act to combat
infection within our prison population. And we should lift the federal ban on
needle exchange, which could dramatically reduce rates of infection among drug
users. In addition, local governments can protect public health by distributing
contraceptives.
We also need a president who�s willing to confront the stigma � too often
tied to homophobia � that continues to surround HIV/AIDS. I confronted this
stigma directly in a speech to evangelicals at Rick Warren�s Saddleback Church,
and will continue to speak out as president.
That is where I stand on the major issues of the day. But having the right
positions on the issues is only half the battle. The other half is to win broad
support for those positions. And winning broad support will require stepping
outside our comfort zone. If we want to repeal DOMA, repeal Don�t Ask, Don�t
Tell, and implement fully inclusive laws outlawing hate crimes and
discrimination in the workplace, we need to bring the message of LGBT equality
to skeptical audiences as well as friendly ones � and that�s what I�ve done
throughout my career. I brought this message of inclusiveness to all of America
in my keynote address at the 2004 Democratic convention. I talked about the
need to fight homophobia when I announced my candidacy for President, and I
have been talking about LGBT equality to a number of groups during this
campaign � from local LGBT activists to rural farmers to parishioners at Ebenezer
Baptist Church in Atlanta, where Dr. Martin Luther King once preached.
Just as important, I have been listening to what all Americans have to say.
I will never compromise on my commitment to equal rights for all LGBT
Americans. But neither will I close my ears to the voices of those who still need
to be convinced. That is the work we must do to move forward together. It is
difficult. It is challenging. And it is necessary.
Americans are yearning for leadership that can empower us to reach for
what we know is possible. I believe that we can achieve the goal of full equality
for the millions of LGBT people in this country. To do that, we need leadership
that can appeal to the best parts of the human spirit. Join with me, and I will
provide that leadership. Together, we will achieve real equality for all
Americans, gay and straight alike.�
CC
President Barack Obama
Vice President Joe Biden
LA Mayor Antonio Villarigosa
US Senator Barbara Boxer
US Senator Dianne Feinstein
Representative Henry Waxman
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Attorney General Jerry Brown
Comment by Brian — March 24, 2009 @ 9:10 am
I ask everyone the carefully consider this notion of making UAFA part of comprehensive immigration reform.
I think it is extremely risky. The immigration debate, when it happens, will be one of the most partisan and vitriolic of all of Obama’s reforms. The UAFA will be like a magnet for attack and has a good chance of being negotiated away in the heat of the fight.
In addition, the ability of Obama and friendly congress people to argue our case will be profoundly affected by the prevailing economic situation. Thus, we would also be making a bet that when immigration reform is considered it will be done in a neutral, not hostile environment as far as immigrants are concerned. History shows us that when
the society is under stress, immigrants are the first to be blamed.
I strongly suggest that we be very careful before proceeding this way.
Comment by David — March 24, 2009 @ 11:01 am
Pleased if somewhat surprised at Senator Gillbrand joining the cosponsors in the Senate. Funnily enough I thought the other day about suggesting that we write to her but the Wiki article on her mentioned that she once voted against legislation to grant same sex partners of US citizens the same immigration status as heterosexual spouses. Wonder what made her change her mind. Possibly Chuck Schumer with whom she is serving office in NY, and Schumer is a cosponsor and openly supportive of gay marriage: “It’s time. Equality is something that has always been a hallmark of America and no group should be deprived of it. New York, which has always been at the forefront on issues of equality, is appropriately poised to take a lead on this issue.” (this was mentioned on the gay rights blog of change.org)
Comment by Tim — March 24, 2009 @ 11:03 am
The Guardian in London blogs about UAFA:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/cifamerica/2009/mar/20/uniting-american-families-act
Comment by Tim — March 24, 2009 @ 11:29 am
For what it’s worth, I agree with David and others who’ve argued likewise that we should not press for UAFA to be included in omnibus immigration reforms, the risk of this tactic backfiring strikes me as too great. Unless the economy improves considerably and the public mood is a great deal less volatile than it is now (I agree that immigration reform will still be an emotional issue for many in any given situation), I feel more confident in sticking to our original request to pass the UAFA on its own. How does anyone else feel about this?
Comment by Tim — March 24, 2009 @ 11:58 am
Emailed Oprah (wrote to Rachel Maddow yesterday). Will ask my US friends to do likewise.
Comment by Tim — March 24, 2009 @ 12:10 pm
Honest question: Do you really think this CIR is going to pass? What is the reasoning behind attaching UAFA to CIR?
The UAFA is at the moment pretty unknown, and it’s a no- brainer.
But imagine all the people who are against CIR. Illegal immigrants and gays & lesbians are always a good target for the Right. Now let’s all jump in the same boat, so they can sink us more easily!
Sorry for the sarcasm, but as David also mentioned, we think it’s very risky, for both sides.
We also think that the updated letter which we are asked to send will make associations that don’t already exist. It’s difficult enough as it is to convince our congressmen/woman.
We really appreciate all your efforts, but we would like to know your reasoning.
Comment by Lee — March 24, 2009 @ 12:15 pm
Believe in the power of constituent letters and calls to make a difference! They depend on our votes (in most cases) to get them where they are.
Comment by TheHeatIsOn — March 24, 2009 @ 12:24 pm
First of all, just because the UAFA may be incorporated into the CIR does not mean that the UAFA is no longer a stand alone bill. It will still sit in Congress as a stand alone. Secondly, the UAFA or similar bills (i.e. Permanent Partner Act) have been attempted for the past 9 years to no avail. The reality is that gay rights legislation on the federal level is extremely difficult to pass. HRC has been trying to pass ENDA and Hate Crimes laws for three decades and still have not succeeded. The CIR is a golden opportunity for us, not only to garner attention, but also to build a coalition of immigrant rights advocates. The CIR will be contentious, but there is hope. The Obama administration is for it. The Democrats have more control of Congress this time around. And there are some Republicans that have voted for the CIR in the past (i.e. McCain).
Right now, we have to focus on keeping together this coalition of immigration rights groups. As a gay community we have to get behind the Hispanic community and push for their rights, and they will push for ours. It will probably get ugly, the right will try and divide us, so we will have to become more cohesive.
Comment by nola — March 24, 2009 @ 1:12 pm
I think someone has already posted this before but here’s a list of the House Reps who are members of LGBT Equality Caucus but have not co-sponsored the UAFA bill yet. If you are in his/her constituency, please contact them and let them know that you support this bill and hope that they can co-sponsor it a.s.a.p. We need all the help we can possibly get – Thanks!
Rob Andrews (D-NJ)
Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL)
Robert Brady (D-PA)
Kathy Castor (D-FL)
Charles Gonzalez (D-TX)
Patrick Kennedy (D-RI)
Mary Jo Kilroy (D-OH)
Zoe Lofgren (D-CA)
Jim McDermott (D-WA)
Patrick Murphy (D-PA)
Frank Pallone (D-NJ)
Joe Sestak (D-PA)
Edolphus Towns (D-NY)
As a side note, I do not agree with those who want to stay illegally. It will definitely hurt your application when the UAFA bill finally passes. It will pass. I suggest that for those who are considering overstaying his/her visa, please try other alternatives such as different kinds of visa, such as student, working (if that is possible), etc.
Comment by Simon M — March 24, 2009 @ 1:21 pm
I agree with Nola, to include UAFA into the CIR. It has a better chance to pass than UAFA alone.
Comment by Caeton — March 24, 2009 @ 1:34 pm
Hi all,
Thanks for so many great comments – in 24 hours! I wanted to respond to some of your thoughts:
1. If you are making decisions about legal next steps for yourself and your partner, and whether to share that information with others, I would recommend that you call our New York office at 212-714-2904 to speak with someone on our legal team. I wish I could say our legal team could help ALL of our families stay together in the United States. Until we can, we will keep up the fight in DC until we change the law! In the meanwhile, we can explore the legal options you do have (such as, for some immigrants, asylum), and inform you of the current law and how it impacts your partner and family.
2. If Comprehensive Immigration Reform passes with UAFA in it in its current form, Americans will be able to sponsor our lesbian and gay partners for immigration regardless of the country of origin of the foreign-born partner, just as straight couples who are married can now. Comprehensive immigration reform will have a lot more elements in it than just providing a path for citizenship for undocumented immigrants, including family unification measures.
3. As to the questions of whether it is risky to attach UAFA to CIR, or whether that is a good strategy, or whether CIR will pass, my thoughts:
A. Our immigration system is broken. Folks in Congress want to fix it. Members of Congress who want to fix it want to fix all of it so it works, not so that it works for just some people. These are our supporters and champions. They support immigrants including gay and lesbian immigrants. This is the political reality. Most immigration advocates and our supporters in Congress want comprehensive reform. So, we think it is more likely that comprehensive reform will pass sooner, rather than individual bills such as UAFA. Immigration Equality supports Comprehensive Immigration Reform. That said, if there is ever an opportunity to gain rights for some or all of our families, we will jump on it and fight like heck to win what we can � like we did with lifting the HIV statutory travel and immigration ban last summer, and continue to do to lift the HIV regulatory travel and immigration ban now. But we do and will support immigration reform for all immigrants and their families, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
B. UAFA is an immigration bill. It amends the Immigration and Naturalization Act to end immigration discrimination against lesbian and gay couples. No matter how we package it, it will always be an immigration bill. So all the advantages and disadvantages of that will be inherent in the bill regardless of whether it is a stand-alone bill or part of Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CIR).
C. The risks: If CIR fails, it will be bad for UAFA whether UAFA is in it or not, because it will show a lack of support for immigrants, gay or straight. So there is no good reason to stay out of CIR. On the other hand, if CIR passes, and UAFA is not in it, then that will be bad for UAFA because people will say “we already solved the immigration problems.” So there are very good reasons to be in it, the main one being: itâ��s not comprehensive if our families are not in it!
D. Our gay and lesbian partners whom we love and want to stay with are immigrants. So, UAFA is and will always be an LGBT and immigration issue. We and the people we love are part of the immigration community, and part of the LGBT community. Both of those communities must embrace us for us to be able to win our rights. Fortunately, many, many LGBT and immigration groups DO embrace us. Similarly, we must embrace our immigrant and LGBT sisters and brothers, if we want a true partnership to win rights for all.
If you are a member of an immigration or LGBT organization whether local or national, I urge you to ask your organization to endorse UAFA and add their names to the list of endorsers (which we will post on-line in the near future). If your group does endorse UAFA, PLEASE forward us their name to amerrill@immigrationequality.org so we can add them to our endorsement list. Many, many of you have been doing this already, and it has translated into major on the ground support in DC – thanks!
Comment by Julie Kruse — March 24, 2009 @ 1:47 pm
Julie, thanks so much for your thoughtful and thorough analysis. Julie really has an excellent grasp of our issues. She nailed it: our issue is an immigration issue and thus should be part of CIR. I believe that we will have a much better chance if we ride on the wave of immigration reform. Again, my deep appreciation for Julie’s hard work!
Comment by Rick — March 24, 2009 @ 2:15 pm
Julie, thanks for the feedback which has made me feel better about the inclusion of UAFA in larger immigration reforms. It would make sense in the context of what you’ve said.
Comment by Tim — March 24, 2009 @ 2:34 pm
YES we should be part of the CIR.because if they do change, update and pass new legislation…then to someone’s thought earlier in post your right.they will just turn around and say we already addressed/took care of/ fixed the system and UAFA will be even harder to pass or even get a look because in their eyes they already took care of it ..why would the make a special case for us will be their point on this
- also.regarding earlier posts legal versus illegal.while in an I deal world of course we/everyone should do the right thing…..BUT.don’t forget
1) “SYSTEM’ is broken so it’s not for the want of trying…..
2)..If anyone is illegal….then there are Millions of others too
3) and how can you be legal when there is no appropriate “classification”
the world now finds itself in a 21st century age.it needs 21st century options….
4)…WE DEFINATELY need to join/build an ALLIANCE with the Hispanic groups because if we support them they will support us…..they are in the same position as us and vise o versa……..all they want to do is work and be with family same as us “simple”…….again it’s the system.its broken so just like a car it needs servicing ………….we just need to make sure were included
Comment by derek — March 24, 2009 @ 2:54 pm
Thank you, Julie.
You have explained the rationale so well. (I had to say I wasn’t sure if it is the right step, but now I agree with you)
One thing, however, as you have mentioned about the HIV ban lifted because it was in a package last summer. I noticed that it is not really in effect, and they took it away from the order in February(?) this year. That worries me that they can do something like that and then all the effort are in vain. I don’t quite understand why something like that can happen??
Comment by Shawn — March 24, 2009 @ 3:23 pm
Change has come after 8 years and the chances for UAFA are better than ever. The current situation is no comparison to past administrations. Of course the UAFA is going to get more attention, being included in the CIR. The question is: What kind of attention?Our situation is completely different.
We DESERVE the right. The right is inherently ours, as citizens. It is so obvious, that even Jesse Helms probably understood it, without admitting it. Patrick Leahy once said that opponents have to make up reasons to be against it, because none actually exist. It is owed us. So we object on principle.
Also, we think, passing UAFA would provide legal status to those of us who have overstayed.
As we understand it, the only reasons to join CRI are:
1) the fear of being left out if it passes
2) your belief that the CIR will pass more quickly
Has it been introduced yet? Who is sponsoring it?
Are you going ahead with this? Are we forced to go along with CIR, even if we are against it in principle?
In summary: We are against it:
1) out of principle
2) due to the negative association
Comment by Lee — March 24, 2009 @ 3:28 pm
While I can see the rationale behind Julie’s argument, I also agree with Lee that UAFA on its own already has some momentum behind it and I’d like to hear some answers too as to whether CIR has been introduced in any form at all and if so, who is sponsoring it? At the same time, I agree with Julie that it is worthwhile to try asking for both the passage of UAFA *and* getting it included in CIR. The reasoning being, I imagine, that IE want to cover all scenarios, i.e. UAFA passing before CIR does, or UAFA passing as part of CIR, and avoiding the scenario of CIR passing and the UAFA still in limbo. But if IE want to pursue both strategies, it’d be crucial to regularly review the situation and to measure the pros against the cons if it comes to the point where you guys have to weigh up whether UAFA has a realistic chance of passing first or only as part of the CIR.
Hope I’ve read your intentions correctly, Julie.
Comment by Tim — March 24, 2009 @ 3:48 pm
I agree that we should support the hispanics who are in the same boat.
HOWEVER – let’s not forget that most of these are conservative Catholics, and thus may be reluctant or even opposed to supporting gays in turn.
The bloody Prop 8 saga was a clear reminder that oppressed minorities are not necessarily natural allies, with the majority of blacks and a large portion of hispanics voting against gay equality.
As for my decision to overstay illegally, there seem to be people for and against it. The reasons are compelling either way, and this is no easy decision. However, I gave up everything to come over here and be with the Love of My Life. There is nothing for me to go back to, not even family. My life is in the US now, so for me it’s UAFA or bust.
Comment by Kyle — March 24, 2009 @ 4:02 pm
Oh yes, something else I wanted to say with regards to writing letters to your local representatives:
We should probably keep these letters short and to the point. We all have long sad stories to tell, but in all honesty I don’t think many of the people in office have the time or inclination to read through 20+ pages of anyone’s life history, and this could be why man of our efforts seem to be ignored. (Just saying this from a marketing background – people are impatient, so our messages need to be concise but compelling at the same time.)
Comment by Kyle — March 24, 2009 @ 4:08 pm
Hey guys. President is going to have a prime time news conference. Please go to http://www.cnn.com and posts our question “UAFA”, “HIV Ban” with our video.
Don’t miss the chance and create A PERFECT STORM
Comment by Kim — March 24, 2009 @ 4:18 pm
1. Just like the stimulus package, the Obama administration will be having forums on immigration. Therefore, no real immigration agenda hasn’t even been outlined yet.
2. We don’t even know if the UAFA will be included with the CIR. It was not included the last time they attempted to pass a CIR.
3. We have to be careful not to draw bounties around “us and them”. It is quite possible that those “illegals” may turn out to be our allies. Like Julie mentioned, half of us are immigrants and this is Comprehensive Immigration Reform.
4. It is a slippery slope to bring up the “we are owed it” card. Obviously I personally believe we deserve immigration rights, but what I believe really doesn’t matter. Never underestimate the power of homophobia to distort logic.
Comment by nola — March 24, 2009 @ 4:19 pm
Yes, the half of us are immigrants, but we have been playing by the rules.
We just read this on Washington Post:
“The president has been silent on this issue, eerily silent to many of us,” Gutierrez said, adding that he believes “the administration is still struggling with what to do about comprehensive immigration reform.”
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/capitol-briefing/2009/03/rep_gutierrez_obama_has_been_e.html
Comment by Lee — March 24, 2009 @ 4:34 pm
The moment is coming: House Democrats ready to give immigration bill another shot http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/house-democrats-ready-to-give-immigration-bill-another-shot-2009-03-24.html
Comment by Rick — March 25, 2009 @ 1:01 am
Not only are we “owed” immigration rights but are guaranteed ALL rights by the Constitution. The politicians need to look at this document again to brush up a bit. I could care less about the public mood. I don’t care how we get it UAFA or CIR. I for one am sick of living in Canada.
Comment by Connie — March 25, 2009 @ 2:14 am
After writing and writing everyone for years, I to date have NEVER RECEIVED ONE RESPONSE from any of our politicians regarding UAFA. We are invisable to the politicians in Washington and unless our LGBT community starts protesting in the streets, nothing will happen! We need to force their hands to action, writing unread letters has produced very little results. If our issues are not consistantly in the news, we do not exsist. When is the march on Washington for equal rights? When?
Comment by Allen — March 25, 2009 @ 6:51 am
Great work Julie.
I was speaking with a straight Latino immigration attorney who told me that if gays, women, blacks, and Latinos can stay united in coalition on this (or any other matter) they (we) are unbeatable. However if we start splitting, we will be defeated again. Divide and conquer, divide and conquer. That is the tried and true formula the other side uses…..and it usually works. We need to form a strong coalition and stay together, no matter what. If we do we win, if we start fighting amongst ourselves, we all lose.
Comment by Don George — March 25, 2009 @ 7:06 am
WE GOT ANOTHER SENATOR TO SIGN. WE ARE UP TO 17. Sen Jeff Merkley from OR!! YEAH!!! WE ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE!!
Comment by Concerned citizen — March 25, 2009 @ 7:26 am
woohoo! i wrote to sen merkley so many times – i knew he would vote for it, but so glad he signed on as a cosponsor!
Comment by Tyler — March 25, 2009 @ 7:38 am
Great! 17!!!!!!!!!
@Allen…just because we don’t receive a reply that doesn’t mean they’re not reading them. We have to keep writing. But you’re right, we need more support from the LGBT community and definitely more VISIBILITY.
Also, as you said, we need more attention in the media.
It would be great, if Ellen, Oprah…or someone would take up our cause.
So please keep writing to them. Right now, we’re making a ‘to-do list’ on http://www.4uafa.com feel free to join and complete it.
We do have to stay united and motivated. We wrote our concern about the CIR, it is risky, but we can understand the reasons for getting on board.
A march would be a great idea.Who could sponsor a march? How do we get the LGBT community behind us? Any ideas?
Julie wrote:
‘Fortunately, many, many LGBT and immigration groups DO embrace us.’
Could you please tell us which ones?
Thanks.
Comment by Lee — March 25, 2009 @ 9:29 am
The White House is having an online town hall meeting on Thursday. You can submit questions and vote on the best questions to ask the President.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/OpenForQuestions/
Comment by nola — March 25, 2009 @ 10:24 am
I have read the preceding comments and, alas, no-one has addressed my concerns that in the end, immigration reform will involve a lot of horse-trading. This reform will be decided in the senate in which we have a thin majority which is not filibuster proof and indeed, not reliable.
Those who lament that we have not had support for three decades should note that for 1.5 of the previous decades the congress was under the control of the Republicans and in the previous 1.5, we were vastly more unpopular than now.
Therefore, before we make this drastic change in policy, PLEASE, PLEASE, at the very minimum, contact one or more members of congress and ask their professional opinion. I suggest starting with Senator Leahy.
Comment by David — March 25, 2009 @ 10:26 am
I suggest we can ask the help from Senator John Kerry, he seems a nice guy and helping a couples to seek the asylum from Obama. He also Asks Attorney General to Reunite Gay Couple. I think we can count on him to be our leader for gay and lesbian.
http://lezgetreal.com/?p=6814
Comment by Caeton — March 25, 2009 @ 12:02 pm
We are advancing: http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/gay-marriage-takes-center-stage-2009-03-24.html
Comment by Rick — March 25, 2009 @ 12:23 pm
I think that because of visibility allying with ANY other immigration-related group is a smart move. I do not know yet if it is better to have UAFA stand alone or to have it be part of a larger CIR package. Ultimately, we are fighting for the same objective which is FAIRNESS. This is a touchy issue naturally, but having President Obama as head of State as well as a largely Democrat Congress makes me feel hopeful. We should become more visible and PRO ACTIVE, we have to remember that the government’s role is to serve JUSTICE and equality as granted by the constitution, not to oppress us or take away our liberties. It makes me SICK that Venezuela is about to pass legislation granting EQUAL rights to gay couples and the United States of America is lacking so far behind because of ignorance and fanatism!
Comment by Harrison — March 25, 2009 @ 12:34 pm
Rick, thank you for the link, it’s great news for LGBT, but there was no mention of UAFA, if we are not mistaken….
Comment by Lee — March 25, 2009 @ 12:45 pm
Hi there, If we as a group want to get us noticed and thinking of ways to get our message across! then we need a spokes person! someone that will represent us all! It could be someone from IE, or someone that lives over in the states that the media could interview. If we’re wanting media to get the public to know our situation then how about getting incontact with ABC News! have you seen this great piece they did about two gay guys in a sports bar! or we could see if we could get an interview with the LOGO news team. Get them to help us spread our message out there!
Here’s the link for ABC’s report they did on two gay guys.
http://abcnews.go.com/WhatWouldYouDo/story?id=7152579&page=1
Comment by Kev UK — March 25, 2009 @ 12:50 pm
Please contact all the LGBT communities you know and ask them for support!
Imagine we had the same support for UAFA that we had on prop 8! Let’s use the momentum from prop 8!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_LGBT-related_organizations
Comment by Lee — March 25, 2009 @ 1:23 pm
Another Governor Discriminate our right. Call his office and complain his job now…
No Human Right, Civil Right and Gay Right, May i ask who vote him to be on this seat….
Vermont gov. to veto gay marriage bill
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
03.25.2009 3:13pm EDT
(Montpelier, Vermont) Vermont Gov. James Douglas (R) announced Wednesday that he will veto same-sex marriage legislation if it, as expected, passes the House.
Send / ShareAdd CommentUntil now, Douglas has been silent on whether he would exercise his veto power, saying only that he thinks the state�s civil unions law is sufficient.
The gay marriage bill passed the Senate on Monday 26-4. The House began hearings this week on the legislation.
It is expected that the bill will encounter little difficulty in the House, but the vote will be much closer than in the Senate.
Whether it will garner enough House support to override the veto is unclear.
Vermont was the first state in the country to legalize civil unions in 2000. Since then, LGBT groups have criticized the law for creating a â��two tieredâ�� system – marriage for opposite-sex couples and civil unions for gays.
Under the marriage bill, the civil unions law would allow marriage of same-sex partners beginning Sept. 1. Civil unions, which confer some rights similar to marriage, would still be recognized but no longer granted after Sept. 1.
Supporters cast the debate as a civil rights issue, saying a civil unions law enacted by the state in 2000 has fallen short of the equality it promised same-sex couples. Its appeal has declined, too: In 2001, the state granted 1,876 civil unions, compared with only 262 last year.
An impact study released earlier this month suggests there is a link between the economy and gay marriage.
The study, by the Williams Institute at UCLA, found that approval of gay marriage in Vermont could generate $31 million in new spending and $3.3 million in state taxes over three years.
Last November, Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders, the Boston-based LGBT rights group that brought the successful legal challenges leading to same-sex marriage in Massachusetts and Connecticut launched the �Six by Twelve� campaign to legalize gay marriage throughout all six New England states by 2012.
Opponents say gay marriage would undermine traditional male-female marriage, rendering men and women interchangeable and destroying the connection between children and marriage. They want the question put to voters in a referendum.
phone: 802-828-3333 toll-free in Vermont: 1-800-649-6825
Comment by ken — March 25, 2009 @ 1:54 pm
Thanks for the link, Rick: made for encouraging reading. @ Ken, not surprised about the pending veto against Vermont’s gay marriage bill but I wonder if it can be overturned if a two-third majority votes in favour? Would be interesting to know. But back to UAFA: I’ve looked at the Wiki link Lee provided and wrote to the following for support:
FINE BY ME : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fine_By_Me
GAY & LESBIAN VICTORY FUND: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gay_%26_Lesbian_Victory_Fund
GAY & LESBIAN ALLIANCE AGAINST DEFAMATION: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gay_and_Lesbian_Alliance_Against_Defamation
(wrote to Cindi Creager, Director of National News)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ILGA-North_America
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Lesbian_and_Gay_Journalists_Association
I’ll write to a few more tomorrow but that’s a start. Will let you know if i hear back from any of them.
Comment by Tim — March 25, 2009 @ 2:31 pm
Well, I for one am just grateful that the issue of “gay marriage” is popping up everywhere, whether the news is good or bad. The point is that we are just not going away, as much as the right-wingers want us to.
Comment by Kyle — March 25, 2009 @ 2:36 pm
the threads on Ellen’s forum have been mentioned elsewhere on the net:
http://www.pamshouseblend.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=10037
Comment by Tim — March 25, 2009 @ 2:50 pm
I just noticed that the list of issues under “Support for the LGBT Community” — impressive as it is — has zero mention of equalizing immigration rights for LGBT couples. I guess it could be assumed that it would fall under the “Support Full Civil Unions and Federal Rights for LGBT Couples,” but even there, it lists the rights that they’re talking about and omit any mention of immigration: “These rights and benefits include the right to assist a loved one in times of emergency, the right to equal health insurance and other employment benefits, and property rights.”
This is probably nit-picking, but I wonder if that omission is any indication of the White House’s level of support for something like UAFA?
See: http://www.whitehouse.gov/agenda/civil_rights/
Comment by David — March 25, 2009 @ 3:13 pm
I have just posted a comment on Ellen’s forum. Very happy to see the group is growing. Let’s keep it up!
Comment by Rick — March 25, 2009 @ 3:14 pm
@ David: I noticed that as well but if Obama is supportive of repealing DADT, introducing anti-discrimination laws in the workplace and civil unions across the country, I can’t see him not supporting UAFA either on its own or as part of the CIR. I would have voted for any UAFA-related question on the upcoming online chat but was unable to register as I’m outside the US.
Comment by Tim — March 25, 2009 @ 4:03 pm
John Kerry mentions the UAFA is an editorial on the Huffington Post.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/john-kerry/no-time-to-wait-for-justi_b_178749.html
Comment by nola — March 25, 2009 @ 5:17 pm
David, I fear…it’s simple situation of visibility…to most “regular” gay folk
they don’t have to deal with this situation their only struggle is “marriage”
they are already together…..
so we must become MORE VISIBLE then it will be part of included along with the “LGBT” slice of the cake that will be included along with any and or changes that happen…
Comment by derek — March 25, 2009 @ 5:54 pm
I want to say thank you very much to senator John Kerry for his helps to the gay couples, and supports to UAFA, and repeal DOMA.
Comment by Caeton — March 25, 2009 @ 6:01 pm
Thanks, Nola. I wish Kerry were elected in 2004. He’s really pro-gay and immigration. And he voted against DOMA.
Comment by Rick — March 25, 2009 @ 6:04 pm
Hi Everyone, I was on this site http://www.hrcbackstory.org/2009/03/ask-president-obama-your-lgbt-related-questions/, its a clip of President Obama asking the American people to ask questions about the economy also on other issues, I believe it said that he will answer some of the most popular questions. I was wondering maybe we all should write in asking when/if he is going to make an Executive decision to pass UAFA, what do you guys think? We need to start sending emails now! We need to act now to get this passed!
Comment by D — March 25, 2009 @ 6:17 pm
HRC Back Story
Working for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equal rights
BLOG HOMECONTACT USHRC HOME
« UPDATE: Hawaii civil unions bill
Ask President Obama Your LGBT-Related Questions
March 25, 2009 5:15PM
Chris Johnson
Special thanks to Communications intern Casey Katims for sending us this post!
President Obama announced yesterday that he will be hosting an online �town hall� on the White House website tomorrow, March 26. Questions will be submitted and rated by the site�s visitors, and the President will answer the most popular questions. Although the first round of questions will be about the economy, Obama will also answer whatever questions are most highly rated by the visitors�including, perhaps, some questions on LGBT-related topics.
Watch the video of President Obama discussing his online town hall:
Many of the President�s policy positions are pro-LGBT equality, but it�s important that we hold him to these promises. Here are some LGBT policies that visitors could ask about:
The Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Act
Employment non-discrimination legislation
Benefits for the same-sex partners of federal employees
Repeal of the federal Defense of Marriage Act
Repeal of discriminatory �Don�t Ask Don�t Tell� policy
The WhiteHouse.gov town hall will be conducted using a new feature called �Open for Questions,� which requires participants to sign up with a username and password. After signing up, you can submit your own questions, and vote on questions submitted by others. For those interested, CLICK HERE. By answering questions that come directly from us, Obama is attempting to reach out to the people who helped him get elected:
This experiment is about encouraging transparency and accountability, so ask the President exactly what it is you want to know � but let others do the same. It is a community-moderated system, but remember that even though you may not like the viewpoint behind someone�s question, everyone has a right to their opinion. Also remember that Americans of all ages will be participating in this event, so be thoughtful about the words you choose. Participants are asked to follow some basic guidelines for submitting their own questions and flagging other questions as inappropriate.
The event will take place tomorrow, March 26. Online voting will close at 9:30 a.m. EST, and the town hall will begin at 11:30 a.m.
Categories: Hate Crimes Marriage & Relationship Recognition Military Transgender Workplace Permalink
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Comment by Brian — March 25, 2009 @ 6:25 pm
The unresolved HIV ban is very bothersome!!
And no one is following this.
The bill passed 8 months ago and never moved forward.
And we are talking about attaching UAFA to CIR.
We must do follow through and get the first thing
done. And what can we do to make that happen?????
Comment by Shawn — March 25, 2009 @ 7:59 pm
Gay.com has mentioned bi-national issue!!!
I think this is great that a big website like gay.com picked up this topic because it will bring lots of attention from LGBT community!
http://hottopics.gay.com/2009/03/genesio-oliveira-tim-coco-senator-john-kerry-gay-asylum-case-in-massachusetts.html
Comment by EricJPN — March 26, 2009 @ 2:56 am
@Shawn
You are absolutely right that the HIV ban must ALSO be a priority.
Maybe someone from IE could let us know what we can do on that front.
@EricJPN
Yes, it will bring attention, but they will think that Kerry is taking care of it. We have to make sure that the community knows we need their action!
Comment by TheHeatIsOn — March 26, 2009 @ 4:29 am
Hi all,
If you look at the comments on the gay.com article, you will see that they are not focusing on basic, equal rights, rather on the asylum issue. This is a distraction. We have to get them to see the bigger issue, not just one family’s story. While I feel for these two men, their victory will be only theirs and not help us at all. The passage of UAFA will cover all of us, will it not?
Comment by TheHeatIsOn — March 26, 2009 @ 4:35 am
Hello everyone, there is an “Ask the President about the economy” link, that I see many groups asking about other topics… UAFA only has 8 entries (so far), there are 10 pages and more? of other LGBT issues. Please go to http://www.whitehouse.gov/openforquestions/ and post your question/comment so UAFA gets some more attention. Most of us have put our questions under financial stability. I think we have only until the end of today to do so. thanks
Comment by bkbzipper — March 26, 2009 @ 5:16 am
**I think ask a question is over at 9:30am today?!
Comment by bkbzipper — March 26, 2009 @ 6:54 am
“At the risk of sounding mean, our case is hopefully the triumph of love over money. GLADâ��s cases are all about getting money, whether itâ��s Social Security, tax benefits, pensions. Our case is about being together, which is pretty basic. And as usual, except for Sen. Kerry, we have been abandoned by all the organizations we expect to help us,” said Coco. He said GLAD, Immigration Equality and the American Civil Liberties Union all declined to get involved in the case.
http://www.baywindows.com/index.php?ch=news&sc=glbt&sc2=news&sc3=&id=88879
Comment by Lee — March 26, 2009 @ 7:48 am
Advocates may be pursuing a legislative strategy, but they do not expect it to bear fruit in the near future. President Obama has said recently that he plans to push for comprehensive immigration reform legislation at some point later this year, and Cristina Finch, HRC senior counsel, said that HRC plans to make sure that the issues facing bi-national same-sex couples are part of the debate on immigration reform. But she said immigration issues are already so politically charged that it is unlikely UAFA would be part of any comprehensive immigration bill.
“Certainly thatâ��s something that weâ��re looking towards. If thereâ��s going to be comprehensive immigration reform legislation weâ��d love to see the Uniting American Families Act to be part of that. Unfortunately immigration is a very touchy subject, and when you add LGBT immigration on top of that itâ��s a very heavy lift,” said Finch.
Asked about Obamaâ��s stance on UAFA and the likelihood of its inclusion in comprehensive immigration legislation, White House spokesman Shin Inouye said in a statement that, “The president thinks Americans with partners from other countries should not be faced with a painful choice between staying with their partner or staying in their country. We will work closely with Congress to craft comprehensive immigration reform legislation.”
http://www.baywindows.com/index.php?ch=news&sc=glbt&sc2=news&sc3=&id=88879
Comment by Lee — March 26, 2009 @ 7:54 am
Thought I should share this article from Bay Windows. I certainly hope IE’s view on UAFA’s chances is NOT as gloomy as HRC.
“Advocates may be pursuing a legislative strategy, but they do not expect it to bear fruit in the near future. President Obama has said recently that he plans to push for comprehensive immigration reform legislation at some point later this year, and Cristina Finch, HRC senior counsel, said that HRC plans to make sure that the issues facing bi-national same-sex couples are part of the debate on immigration reform. But she said immigration issues are already so politically charged that it is unlikely UAFA would be part of any comprehensive immigration bill.
“Certainly that�s something that we�re looking towards. If there�s going to be comprehensive immigration reform legislation we�d love to see the Uniting American Families Act to be part of that. Unfortunately immigration is a very touchy subject, and when you add LGBT immigration on top of that it�s a very heavy lift,” said Finch.
Asked about Obama�s stance on UAFA and the likelihood of its inclusion in comprehensive immigration legislation, White House spokesman Shin Inouye said in a statement that, “The president thinks Americans with partners from other countries should not be faced with a painful choice between staying with their partner or staying in their country. We will work closely with Congress to craft comprehensive immigration reform legislation.”
Kerry told Bay Windows that it was hard to assess the short-term prospects for UAFA.
“I can�t tell you today how that legislative fight will shape up especially in 2009 when you�ve got so many legislative fires burning. But I�m very optimistic that this common sense legislation will get done at the right moment. It�s frustrating as hell, but it takes time and you have to find the moment legislatively to get it done. Persistence counts,” Kerry said in a statement. “Look at an issue like the draconian HIV travel ban we finally ended last year – we couldn�t pass it as a stand-alone bill, but [Oregon Senator] Gordon Smith and I worked it in the Foreign Relations Committee, got it included in PEPFAR, and President Bush signed it into law. You have to work it from multiple angles, and that�s what I�m determined to do.”
http://www.baywindows.com/index.php?ch=news&sc=glbt&sc2=news&sc3=&id=88879
Comment by SupportUAFA — March 26, 2009 @ 8:04 am
why can’t we have a video blog on here so we can put videos of us that wish to have their story told like I tried to tell it! I am posting my video where ever I can to get the message across,youtube,change.org,myspace,facebook,loveexilesUK, also sending letters with my video link attached http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRPgBCnLLRk asking everyone to support UAFA. I’ve also posted it to the http://www.guardian.co.uk/ news paper where they have done a piece on UAFA (All’s not fair in love and immigration) please take a look.
Comment by Kev UK — March 26, 2009 @ 8:18 am
Here’s the actual link for the piece they did on UAFA All’s not fair in love and immigration.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/cifamerica/2009/mar/20/uniting-american-families-act?commentpage=1&commentposted=1
Comment by Kev UK — March 26, 2009 @ 8:21 am
Just watched a PBS special on immigration tonight.
There are very strong anti-illegal immigrants demonstrations.
I seriously think that we SHOULD NOT attach UAFA with CIR. There’s a bigger chance to get UAFA pass by itself. Our case number is much much smaller than the illegal immigrants….
Comment by Shawn — March 27, 2009 @ 9:56 pm
Here’s a list of all last years co-sponsors that hasn’t signed on yet this yr
Senators
Maria Cantwell WA
Robert Casy Pa
Edward Kennedy Ma
Congressional
Thomas Allen Me 1
Joe Baca Ca 43
Corrine Brown Fl 3
James Clyburn Sc 6
Joe Courtney Ct 6
Elijah Cummings Md 7
Diane Degette Co 1
Rosa Delaura Ct 3
Keith Ellison Mn 5
Al Green Tx 9
Kathy Caster Fl 11
Henry Johnson Ga 4
Jay Inlee Wa 1
Jesse Jackson Jr Il 2
Patrick Kennedy Ri 1
Tom lantos Ca 12
Martin Meehan Ma 5
Jim Mcdermott Wa 7
Michael McNulty Ny 21
Kendrick Meek Fl 17
Brad Miller Nc 13
Frank Pallone Nj 6
Laura Richardson Ca 37
Bobby Rush Il 1
Allyson Schwartz Pa 13
Chris Shays Ct 4
Adam Smith Wa 9
Hilda Solis Ca 32
Edolphus Towns Ny 10
Mark Udall Co 2
Diane Watson Ca 33
Comment by Jim — March 30, 2009 @ 9:17 pm
Keep asking they maybe reading but they are not going to answer anyone! I am homelose with a 9 month old baby girl. My husband is being deported and I have asked everyone for help to get my husband back. It has been 3 months and no answer and now he leaves friday to go to mexico.
Comment by Samantha — September 11, 2009 @ 3:50 pm