Rick Warren

[octothorpe]

Dear Mr. Obama,

WTF?

I get that you're about inclusiveness. I really do. I understand that surrounding yourself with like-minded yes-men will only further ensconce you into a bubble, and there are better ways to effect change. I also think your choice for allowing Rick Warren, a right-wing evangelical christian who has actively participated in culling fundamental human rights for the citizens of the US, to speak at the inaugural invocation is a poor one. I don't believe that you've thrown gays, or women under the bus with this decision, but considering the amount of times we *have* been thrown under the bus, I am sure you understand our trepidation. You've invited Warren to speak, it's not as if you're appointing him to be part of your cabinet.

You stated in response to the initial outcry: "I think it is no secret that I am a fierce advocate for equality for gay and lesbian Americans. It is something I have been consistent on and something I intend to continue to be consistent on during my presidency." Actually, you've also stated that you're not for gay marriage, but rather, civil unions. That's not equal, that's separate. Simply stating what you are for or against is meaningless when talking to groups that have continually been marginalised. Your actions tell the story, and the first chapter of this book is starting out poorly.

I hereby request that you rescind your invitation to Mr. Warren, and show us that you are an emissary of positive, progressive change.

Thank you for your time,
CM Harrington
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So I'm considering creating a peaceful protest march on town hall, similar to the Prop 8 marches to show Obama the people who are affected by the hatred that Warren has spread (not just gays, but women as well). Would this be of interest to anyone? If so, reply here, and we'll try to put something together. I am sure we all know some people, and those people know some people. Some of those people probably know how to organise something like this.

There is simply no need to pander to the religious right. We don't owe them anything, and we gain nothing, as their views will not change.

Thanks for your time.
The Octothorpe

Comments

[erstexman.livejournal.com]

I was taken aback a bit by this choice but not entirely surprised. Obama has had several dealings with Rick Warren outside the joint forum on religious matters he appeared at with John McCain. I hope this is not an indication of any possible difficulty GLBTQ people have with an Obama administration on several levels and just is simply an olive branch that the president elect is offering to the right wing in this country.

[theoctothorpe.livejournal.com]

And that's why I am not willing to say he's throwing us under a bus. There are *far* scarier folk out there that could have been picked. However, there are also many more folk who could have been a better choice. There are many conservative Christian clergy who may not have similar views to Obama, nor to us (as if we have the same views!) who haven't actively participated in denying fundamental human rights for the citizens of the US.