Tunnel vision is somewhat of an occupational hazard when fighting for equality. Yes the American LGBT community has a lot on their plate; We are battling the Palin- lovin’ right with one hand and pleading for Obama to make good on his promises with the other. We are struggling for the Employment Non Discrimination Act (ENDA), the repeal of Don’t ask Don’t tell, and the repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), along with hundreds of other pieces of state legislation across the country. However this does not mean that we can afford to look the other way while the equality of other members of our community is threatened.
The passing of Arizona Bill SB1070 is repulsive. Even with its new federal limitations, SB1070 threatens everything that America is supposed to represent. The bill asks us to ignore the "tired," and the "poor," lower our lamp, and shut, lock and bolt "the golden door," so that only white Anglo (straight) Christians can enjoy all the beauty of America. This is not only dangerous for the immigrants who SB1070 targets, but also for every other American. "Injustice anywhere threatens justice everywhere."
We all know that Lady Gaga is a huge supporter of the LGBT community. On July 31 she will be playing a concert in Phoenix Arizona, and GetEQUAL is pushing for her to stand up not only for her queer supporters but for her immigrant supporters as well. They want her to stand up to discrimination.
This is an example of how the LGBT community must become supportive of similarly marginalized groups. America is a nation of minorities, some are based on gender or sexuality and others are based on religion or race, but in the end we are all the same. We must learn to stand up for each other, because only then can we reach true equality in America.
Right, on, Paul! It's all about building solidarity. And where one group is oppressed, we are all at risk.