Highlights of White House event for U.S.-based LGBT leaders

LEADERSHIP ADVISORY
from the MCC Communications Department
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MONDAY . June 29, 2009
Here's a brief follow-up of the highlights of today's White House event for U.S.-based LGBT leaders.

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Two-hundred LGBT leaders attended today's White House reception hosted by President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, including four members of Metropolitan Community Churches: Rev. Elder Darlene Garner and her partner, Rev. Candy Holmes, and Rev. Elder Troy Perry and his spouse, Phillip Ray De Blieck.
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The President reaffirmed his campaign commitments to the LGBT community and told the group not to judge him on his promises, that at the end of his term, if judged on the things he has accomplished, the LGBT community will judge him well. He reaffirmed his commitment to overturning DOMA and DADT and he endorsed ENDA. Darlene said he was emphatic in his commitment: "He didn't give us campaign promises, he gave us his word and his pledge."
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The President and First Lady entered the East Room and were walking toward the stage when they stopped and walked over to greet Troy by name. Troy wanted to be sure the President connected with MCC and said, "I'm with Metropolitan Community Churches." Obama replied that he was very familiar with the work of Metropolitan Community Churches. Troy then said, "I want you to meet Phillip, my husband of 24 years, Today is his birthday." They both congratulated Phillip and the First Lady gave him a hug and a kiss.
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Darlene Garner and her partner, Rev. Candy Holmes, had a few private minutes with the President before the event began. Candy is a federal employee and will be testifying before Congress on July 8 concerning equal benefits for LGBT federal workers.
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The President and Michelle stayed for an extended time and talked one-on-one with the attendees.
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At least one third of those present were people of color.
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Troy has been to the White House five times -- he said he had never seen a U.S. president who was so comfortable with and among the LGBT community.

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Jim Birkitt
Communications Director
Metropolitan Community Churches
P. O. Box 691728
West Hollywood, California 90069
E-mail: info@MCCchurch.net and UFMCCHQ@aol.com