S. Congress. He has been willing to sacrifice the once-sacrosanct public option for health care, and does not seem to wish to raise divisive topics such as gay marriage before a legislature whom he is desperately trying to placate. This is also true regarding the 'don't ask, don't tell policy' regarding gays in the military. Obama's language has been slightly stronger on this issue, perhaps because gay men and women have come out who have served with distinction in Iraq: He has said: "I believe 'don't ask, don't tell' doesn't contribute to our national security. In fact, I believe preventing patriotic Americans from serving their country weakens our national security" (Obcamb 2009). After all, the military service was once segregated on the basis of race, because supposedly racial hatreds were so deep black and white men could not serve together. A similar allegation is often made about the divisive position of gays in the military. Yet on this issue as well, Obama's words have been more vigorous and forceful than his actions. The ban still remains in place, and Obama has done little...

This should not be sneezed at, given by legitimizing gay rights the president does promote tolerance and acceptance of such policies as gay marriage and gay military service. But those gay activists who elected him remain disappointed, as they expected more than powerful speeches on the subject of their civil liberties.
Works Cited

"Gay bishop invited to prayer at Obama inauguration event." On Top magazine. January 12,

2009. October 22, 2009

http://www.ontopmag.com/article.aspx?id=3041&MediaType=1&Category=26

Linkins, Jay. "Obama once supported gay marriage." Huffington Post. February 12, 2009.

October 22, 2009

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/01/13/obama-once-supported-same_n_157656.html

Obcamb, Karen. "Sweet speech Mr. President." Huffington Post.

July 1, 2009 October 22, 2009

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/karen-ocamb/sweet-speech-mr-president_b_223345.html