Obama's political arm raising money for ENDA fight

Washington Blade | Chris Johnson

President Obama's political arm is raising money from supporters to push for passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act.

Organizing for Action, the successor organization to Obama's presidential campaign apparatus that advocates for his policy positions, sent out an email from Executive Director Jon Carson to supporters on Thursday with the subject line, "It's 2013 — this shouldn't be legal."

"A lot of Americans don't know that it's still legal in some states to discriminate in the workplace on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity," Carson writes. "Yep — it's 2013, and every American still doesn't have that basic protection under the law...."

It's not immediately clear whether the donations will be used for ENDA or for other purposes.

Complete article at the link, above
(Emphasis mine)

LOL  Used much?

Freakin Obozo trying to screw us again.  I thought this was America the country of freedom and liberty.  I demand that our businesses have the right to fire people like me, not because of my skills or abilities, but for the fact that may view me as a "dandy queer".  Where's my liberty to be discriminated and be put at a social and economic disadvantage.  Freedom! Oh well, I guess I can move to Saudi Arabia.  They know how to do things there. At least women still can't drive and that is clearly for the better because god knows what will happen once they will be able to drive.  Probably something just as bad as the gays being allowed to enter the workforce.   

Okay, in all seriousness, it is likely being used for political purposes as the 2014 midterm elections are coming up.  Everyone knows it will likely die in some congressional committee and never see the light of day.  This is the fault of both dems and republicans.  Still, can't you put the partisanship aside for one day and applaud the fact that someone is speaking up for us?  I don't care who it comes from (Obama, Bush, etc).  As long as they say the right thing and take action to make the change, that is all that matters. Even if their actions haven't always embrace us like their words seem to (which I agree with) you seem to give no credit where it's due. Where is the alternative side?  While there are a few Republicans in favor of Enda, they are few and far in between.  I applaud those who will fight for us,  but most speak in total opposition towards the legislation.  At least it's a sign that things are improving in our favor when the president supports the law and actually makes it a priority which he didn't seem to ever do before as he was more of less indifferent.  It ensures more democrats will back the bill.  While the past may give us reason to pause and be doubtful, any positive development is worth taking advantage of and pushing the bill in advance.  I'd rather have ENDA pass and a brighter future than remain cynical and empty handed.  As of now, the Senate is looking favorable because the democratic caucus is backing the bill and some Senate Republicans are taking a positive stand, but let's see how Mr. Boehner and Eric Cantor treat the bill.  I'm hoping they will do the right thing, but that remains to be seen.  Still, it's time to contact your representatives and put on your best fight if you believe in ENDA.  If they don't support it, make them do the right thing and put their feet to the fire.  If they don't know how to vote, we sure will in November. 

Must distract from scandals... must distract from scandals...

Odd thing though, you know... to see democrats fighting against 'settled law'.  Didn't think they thought that sort of thing was an ok thing to do.   

QuoteStill, can't you put the partisanship aside for one day and applaud the fact that someone is speaking up for us?

She put partisanship aside yesterday, so yes she can, I've seen it!

Quote from: Nikko on November 03, 2013, 03:05:30 PM
Must distract from scandals... must distract from scandals...

Odd thing though, you know... to see democrats fighting against 'settled law'.  Didn't think they thought that sort of thing was an ok thing to do.   

You can dislike the democratic party as much as you want and may vote for who you feel is best. However, fighting for LGBT rights is not a distraction or a perfunctory issue.  It's very important.  The fact is there are people discriminated against for their sexuality and/or gender orientation.  That isn't okay.  And fighting for changes in policy is fine.  The question is whether or not you bring the country to a halt or threaten to default on existing debt because you don't like something that was passed democratically.  I don't see many Enda supporters looking for that.  We are looking to get it passed in Congress just like any other bill.  If that doesn't happen, we hold those who say nay responsible and remember their votes.  There are ways to make your case and get your desired policy changes.  And you have the ability to vote for who you want to make sure you get that change.  The ACA can be repealed and changed and you have the right to fight for it.  I've never heard a democrat say anything to the contrary. We just ask you not attempt to drive the country into default because of your inability to repeal it through your elected representatives or hold every other single aspect of government hostage over solitary issue.  This is something that Republican leaders like Peter King have stated (among many others), so that isn't a democratic view.  In any case, the democrats aren't against changing the law or passing policies.  That is a bit of an unfair strawman argument. 

Haha.

I would like to fight discrimination in the workplace but I think it's a cultural battle. I don't trust the governments to resolve such issues accurately and fairly for everyone involved. I also feel like it pushes a lot of the real issues under the rug. I'd rather not support the business of someone who hates gays or trans people, for instance. I'd rather know so I can work somewhere else and let them suffer the consequences of being a bigot. I feel like we'll make progress better as a civilized society that way.

That said though, I do feel ENDA or something like it is inevitable, assuming the federal government doesn't collapse before it happens. Opposing it is not a cause I'd care to personally take up or anything.

QuoteIn any case, the democrats aren't against changing the law or passing policies.  That is a bit of an unfair strawman argument.

No, not normally, but the main argument against doing away with the Unaffordable Care Act is 'it's settled law' and we all just need to move along, nothing to see here. No strawman thing.

Quote from: Nikko on November 03, 2013, 03:11:50 PM
She put partisanship aside yesterday, so yes she can, I've seen it!

I'll stay tuned.  There is nothing wrong with being a conservative or a republican.  Jamie and I have different views, but we have been able to develop a mutual respect and a friendship despite this.  Why should anything be locked?  I don't care about dems vs republicans as much as you think.  I'm a progressive, but not a democrat.  I just speak up when I think people are being unfair to one side or not giving due credit, which often happens to the republicans and conservatives on this site as well.  I don't like when I see either because it makes for an unwelcoming environment and we should be against that. I don't think it's productive to fight each other politically and I like to avoid getting deeply into this sort of debate on a support site; especially when it continuously happens. But I don't think that's what is going on in this case. One, Jaime is somebody that is fairly reasonable and worthy to have a discussion with.  Her intentions are not to create an unwelcoming environment or start a thread of partisan bashing.  Two, the topic is very much related to the lgbt community and it makes sense for us to discuss such a topic on a trans forum.  Helathcare, not so much, so I'd prefer if we don't rehash it.  You have your views and are entitled to them and I respect that. 

QuoteThere is nothing wrong with being a conservative or a republican.

Well duh. But I'm an Independent with Libertarian leanings, we're ok too.

Threads aren't locked for their politics, I can assure you of that. They WILL be locked when people start questioning why threads are locked

Quote from: Nikko on November 03, 2013, 03:38:14 PM
No, not normally, but the main argument against doing away with the Unaffordable Care Act is 'it's settled law' and we all just need to move along, nothing to see here. No strawman thing.

Again, I'm not trying to debate you on politics, but I would disagree with your assessment.  I fully support your ability to fight for something democratically which is something I said in my previous thread.  You can hold votes to repeal and vote for who you want to represent you.  I'm just not for a debt default or a government shut down over it.

In any case,  let's not be against each other because of our political differences.  Again, I think it's best for us to leave the politics outside of the discussion unless it is related to something lgbt which Enda is.  Honestly, I'm not attempting to moderate anyone, I have just learned from experience that it does more harm than good on a support site.  I'm really not looking to argue with REpublicans or start a political flame war.  Please don't misconstrue what I am saying. You are all entilted to your political views.  The reason I avoid these arguments is because it creates bad vibes and puts us against each other.  Something that is against the mission of Susans which I don't want to be a part of.  I'd rather make friends than enemies here.  And I have made enough conservative friends here to know that is very possible.   

Haing said all that, Enda is related to our community and believe the discussion makes sense.  Besides, I think we can all find common ground on this topic regardless of our political persuasion.  Perhaps that will be the best thing because then we can make the fantasy of Enda into a reality.  Why must we be enemies?  Isn't working together a more fruitful endeavor?  I'd love for the right to embrace Enda and the lgbt community.  And I'd be the first to praise them for it. 

Quote from: learningtolive on November 03, 2013, 03:40:50 PM
I'll stay tuned.  There is nothing wrong with being a conservative or a republican.  Jamie and I have different views, but we have been able to develop a mutual respect and a friendship despite this.  Why should anything be locked?  I don't care about dems vs republicans as much as you think.  I'm a progressive, but not a democrat.  I just speak up when I think people are being unfair to one side or not giving due credit, which often happens to the republicans and conservatives on this site as well.  I don't like when I see either because it makes for an unwelcoming environment and we should be against that. I don't think it's productive to fight each other politically and I like to avoid getting deeply into this sort of debate on a support site; especially when it continuously happens. But I don't think that's what is going on in this case. One, Jaime is somebody that is fairly reasonable and worthy to have a discussion with.  Her intentions are not to create an unwelcoming environment or start a thread of partisan bashing.  Two, the topic is very much related to the lgbt community and it makes sense for us to discuss such a topic on a trans forum.  Healthcare, not so much, so I'd prefer if we don't rehash it.  You have your views and are entitled to them and I respect that.

Thank you LtL!  I liked "fairly reasonable" so much, I put it in my profile!

One thing people will learn about me is, when it comes to politics, I am the ultimate skeptic.  Political altruism is an oxymoron.

I get all sorts of political literature and fundraising letters in the mail.  I usually look at them and them toss them in the trash.  Most are blatantly dishonest.  I pity the poor organization that send me an appeal for money with a pre-paid return envelope.  They get all my observations on their shadiness returned, in handwriting, at their expense.  I even have been know to fold, spindle, and mutilate the surveys. 

P.S.  I know "big head horsey-face" is laughing her buns off, but it is J-a-m-i-e!!

Thanks for bolding, Jaime!

Grrrrrr

(Neigh?)

The livestock prefers to stay out of politics for the most part.

But if you're the fairly reasonable one why does high-may have it in their avatar?

QuoteAgain, I'm not trying to debate you on politics, but I would disagree with your assessment.  I fully support your ability to fight for something democratically which is something I said in my previous thread.  You can hold votes to repeal and vote for who you want to represent you.  I'm just not for a debt default or a government shut down over it.

In any case,  let's not be against each other because of our political differences.  Again, I think it's best for us to leave the politics outside of the discussion unless it is related to something lgbt which Enda is.  Honestly, I'm not attempting to moderate anyone, I have just learned from experience that it does more harm than good on a support site.  I'm really not looking to argue with REpublicans or start a political flame war.  Please don't misconstrue what I am saying. You are all entilted to your political views.  The reason I avoid these arguments is because it creates bad vibes and puts us against each other.  Something that is against the mission of Susans which I don't want to be a part of.  I'd rather make friends than enemies here.  And I have made enough conservative friends here to know that is very possible.   

Haing said all that, Enda is related to our community and believe the discussion makes sense.  Besides, I think we can all find common ground on this topic regardless of our political persuasion.  Perhaps that will be the best thing because then we can make the fantasy of Enda into a reality.  Why must we be enemies?  Isn't working together a more fruitful endeavor?  I'd love for the right to embrace Enda and the lgbt community.  And I'd be the first to praise them for it. 

I would like to see more issues removed from political discourse. They just become wedge issues that lose sight of the people involved, they often lead to bad legislation and bad results, often having the exact opposite result. I believe ENDA could result in a higher unemployment rate for the LGBT community. I don't like being used by either political party. I think it's a fair question to ask "why now?". I'm not trying to be an anti-democrat, but I do notice while they proclaim a solidarity with many groups, they also have policies that are bad for these groups. I'm concerned ENDA could be one such law. I think it's wise to expect and demand a positive result, and not just good 'intentions'. That's my take, I'm not against you because I disagree with you.

Quote from: Jamie de la Rosa on November 03, 2013, 04:04:15 PM
Thank you LtL!  I liked "fairly reasonable" so much, I put it in my profile!

One thing people will learn about me is, when it comes to politics, I am the ultimate skeptic.  Political altruism is an oxymoron.

I get all sorts of political literature and fundraising letters in the mail.  I usually look at them and them toss them in the trash.  Most are blatantly dishonest.  I pity the poor organization that send me an appeal for money with a pre-paid return envelope.  They get all my observations on their shadiness returned, in handwriting, at their expense.  I even have been know to fold, spindle, and mutilate the surveys. 

P.S.  I know "big head horsey-face" is laughing her buns off, but it is J-a-m-i-e!!

But don't you simply love all the spelling and grammatical errors that I have come to be famous for!  My friends and I have an inside joke about me and my over use of explanation points and other typos that we always email each other in some messed up dialect that only we understand, lol.  Got to love me!

Oh, I get those political emails all the time.  They are very irritating.  They will never get a dime from me.  Especially since I have personal issues with the folks who ask me for contributions.  I gave them my everything and they gave me nothing in return. 

Still, I think Enda is something really important that and we must fight.  I don't trust Obama, but I like his tacit approval on this issue.  Now it's time to hold the dems and republicans feet to the fire and make them stand up for us.  I'm still a cynic, but I will embrace every small development with glee and suspicion that is backed with action. 

Quote from: Nikko on November 03, 2013, 04:13:14 PM
I would like to see more issues removed from political discourse. They just become wedge issues that lose sight of the people involved, they often lead to bad legislation and bad results, often having the exact opposite result. I believe ENDA could result in a higher unemployment rate for the LGBT community. I don't like being used by either political party. I think it's a fair question to ask "why now?". I'm not trying to be an anti-democrat, but I do notice while they proclaim a solidarity with many groups, they also have policies that are bad for these groups. I'm concerned ENDA could be one such law. I think it's wise to expect and demand a positive result, and not just good 'intentions'. That's my take, I'm not against you because I disagree with you.

That's a decent observation.  May I ask, why do you think that Enda will lead to higher unemployment?  If the law states they shouldn't discriminate against hiring gbt individuals, you think businesses are going to all of a sudden decide to do so?  And if they aren't doing it as of now, what would be the harm in passing such legislation if it truly won't change the status quo?  I think the legislation will do little in reality other than create a symbolic acceptance of us which can lead into more social equality and acceptance in time.  Besides, there have been anti-discriminatory laws that have helped improve the status of some groups, so it's not unprecedented (i.e, civil rights act).

I don't mind holding a conversation if it's fruitful and productive.  I just don't like when we antagonize one anther and find much of the rpolitical discussions turn that way.  However, I'm fine with messing with J A M I E because she is used to me by now and knows what sort of person I am.  So, being a friend, she gets all the bitchiness I can bring, lol. 

QuoteThat's a decent observation.  May I ask, why do you think that Enda will lead to higher unemployment?  If the law states they shouldn't discriminate against hiring gbt individuals, you think businesses are going to all of a sudden decide to do so?  And if they aren't doing it as of now, what would be the harm in passing such legislation if it truly won't change the status quo?  I think the legislation will do little in reality other than create a symbolic acceptance of us which can lead into more social equality and acceptance in time.  Besides, there have been anti-discriminatory laws that have helped improve the status of some groups, so it's not unprecedented (i.e, civil rights act).
 

If a person is difficult to fire and doing so creates significant exposure to lawsuit, companies will shy away from hiring them. That's just rational behavior. Every new employee has the risk of not working out in a particular job and companies want the option to correct those situations. I've been fired before and it's always worked out for the best. I got a better job where I was appreciated and did good work. The prior company moved on with someone else and I hope it worked out for them. My life would've been worse if the company just stuck me in some worthless role but let me stick around. Why would I want that for others? I don't. I don't condone discrimination, but it's difficult to legislate at this low of level, at the hiring/firing process of companies. I think this kind of legislation makes us look weak.

Quote from: Devlyn Marie on November 03, 2013, 04:12:32 PM
But if you're the fairly reasonable one why does high-may have it in their avatar?

There you go!  100% right.

"Jaime," when pronounced as the Spanish male name (my party of the country) is "high-may".  It is derived from the diminutive of "Jacobus."  It is Spanish and Portuguese for "Jake."

LOL, horsey-face and her dog have the same name!