We have a fierce advocate. It's Lady Gaga, not Barack Obama (AmericaBlog)

[jefferson_dem]

I can't argue with this:

We have a fierce advocate. It's Lady Gaga, not Barack Obama
Posted by Joe Sudbay (DC) at 9/19/2010 08:17:00 AM

Kerry Eleveld's latest column provides an update on the impending Senate vote to end the GOP filibuster of the Defense bill, which contains the DADT language. It's not good. There's a standoff between the Democrats and Republicans. And, there's no sign that the White House is lobbying on behalf of DADT. Think about that. If this is such a priority for the White House, why haven't we heard a peep from Obama. The Republicans are filibustering a defense bill while we're fighting two wars. And, nothing.

But, there is one voice out there speaking out. And, she's speaking to many of those young people who elected Obama. It's Lady Gaga:

One would think the White House has a stake in making sure this legislative effort doesn’t die since they seem committed to defending the constitutionality of every antigay law on the books. Even more to the point, if the bill's defeated, President Obama is facing a 2012 election scenario in which his only legislative accomplishment for the LGBT community would be passing hate crimes. I wonder how many LGBT Americans would call that fierce.

Meanwhile, Lady Gaga has been a more visible force for DADT repeal than almost every politician in Washington combined. Trust me when I say that this reporter – who suffers from severe pop culture deficit – initially discounted her. But after having discharged soldiers escort her to the Video Music Awards, exchanging tweets with Reid’s office about the vote, tweeting an explanation of a filibuster and instructing her “little monsters” to call their senators, Lady Gaga penetrated my Beltway myopia.

The YouTube video she posted Thursday advocating for repeal already has nearly a million views , and yet not a single statement urging passage of the legislation from the White House.

At last year’s Human Rights Campaign dinner, which featured appearances by both President Obama and Lady Gaga, the president joked, “It is a privilege to be here tonight to open for Lady Gaga.”

While Obama’s performance may have given Gaga a run for her money that night, he is clearly being upstaged by her now. Last night, Lady Gaga tweeted a message about all the responses to her videos and tweets from the "lil Monsters":

To @SenJohnMcCain and everyone on Twitter I received an overwhelming amount of videos responding to DADT, please watch:http://bit.ly/cWAITv

http://gay.americablog.com/2010/09/we-have-fierce-advocate-its-lady-gaga.html?utm_medium=bt.io-twitter&utm_source=direct-bt.io&utm_content=backtype-tweetcount

[impik]

1. Maybe Lady Gaga should run in 2012

The way things are, it's not such a reach to see it.

[vaberella]

7. Sure she could and then face being thrown under the bus when nothing she pushes passes.

Then she can deal with being called weak, not a leader, a corporatist and so on an so forth. Then maybe people will get the political climate and the vis-a-vis relation with the society and media thats the problem. In the end, it's whatever.

[impik]

37. Hey, even Elizabeth Warren is a sell out now

[vaberella]

56. So DU has said to me.

I remember when Warren could do no wrong. That the WH is jerking her chain as well as her supporters. On and on it went. And then news comes out she never wanted the full position as head, then it comes out that Obama picked her for interim and first the bashing for the interim thing and then mum, nada, disappearance of many of her staunch advocates once news came out (when Warren was allowed to publicly speak on it) that she adamantly refused that position as head. Ugh...the disgust. Now, I'm dealing with people comparing the President's ability to a Celebrities ability---at this point...just let the celebrity run things of course until shit hits the fan and then under the bus with her.

[Bugenhagen]

117. You don't get throw under for that. You get thrown under for not trying. (nt)

[Jennicut]

10. She is 24.

Stefani Germanotta is too young to even be a Senator. But I do admire her passion for gay rights.

[treestar]

21. I agree, this is a who cares sort of thing

People hang onto these celebrities rather than contacting their Congressmen. They blame the POTUS rather than contacting their congress persons. All they have to do is contact their Senators and Representatives, yet they prefer to waste a lot of hot air gushing over pundits and celebrities and blaming the President.

It's as if People don't know the basics of the Constitution. Contact your elected Representatives. Period.

[dsc]

24. maybe you should tell that to Sen Bennett

he is one of the response videos to her video. It should be noted, that if you bothered to actually follow the link (you clearly didn't) that Lady GaGa specificly tells her little monsters to call their Senators and even does so on the video (she tries to call Schumer and gets a full voice message box). Again, this would have been readily apparent had you bothered to follow the link provided to you.

[treestar]

28. they could do that without her help

I could not care less about this silly celebrity. If she is needed in order for people to contact their congresspeople, then this country has lost its collective mind. Who cares what she thinks? Contact your congressperson.

[Laughing Mirror]

40. Who cares what she thinks?

A lot of people.

She may be a silly celebrity to you, and yes, she is certainly celebrated. Look at the latest music video awards. She won practically everything.

I think of her as a great performance artist whose medium is pop culture. There is an immense presence in the Lady Gaga persona she has developed. It has immense power. Lady Gaga is a magnificent and empowering voice for LGBT folk all over the world and she is known and admired in every corner of the globe.

So that's Lady Gaga. And who are you, treestar? How have you used your voice for LGBT civil rights lately?

[ruggerson]

44. +1

n/t

[dsc]

41. I am no fan of the celebrity culture

but like it or not, the younger generation often needs celebrity to find out about issues.

[Mefistofeles]

59. She wouldn't win. Wall Street wouldn't give Lady Gaga money as it gave Obama and McCain

Not happening. Corporate money, and the favors necessary to get them to donate, are necessary for a candidate to become President.

[Cirque du So-What]

2. My admiration for this young woman has grown immeasurably as of late

although I'd like to point out that Lady Gaga has much more time on her hands to espouse any particular cause than the POTUS, who must juggle multiple responsibilities at all times. Besides, Lady Gaga doesn't have to be concerned about 'political fallout' over a wedge issue that is better discussed at some time outside the two-month window leading up to an important election. The nimrods who are incensed over her calls for repeal of DADT aren't the demographic who buy her recordings anyway.

[dsc]

9. This issue has 70% support

including a majority of both conservatives and republicans. It is hardly a divisive wedge issue.

[Lost4words]

3. I am impressed with this young woman & and feel let down by Obama

somebody needs to speak out GDit!

[jefferson_dem]

5. Agreed.

It's more than a shame, in my opinion, that POTUS has thus far failed to stand up proud ... and forcefully ... for equality. Real equality is coming, in a more swift fashion thanks to advocates like GaGa. History will likely show that Obama missed the opportunity to lead when he should have.

[Lost4words]

138. Obamas greatest legacy will be getting elected as the first mixed race

candidate, nothing else will be noteworthy other than missing the biggest opportunity in 100 years.


:kick: kick that Harvard city person in the ass!

[Bluenorthwest]

4. Artists carry the news, politicians carry the water.

GaGa is a fierce advocate indeed, the courage and love that is at the core of her work speaks truth in ways that politicians are congenitally unable to do. Political professionals seem to lack the capacity for empathy in ways that limit their humantiy.

[jefferson_dem]

6. True.

But, occasionally, "politicians" have stood up with remarkable courage and leadership, seizing the moment. Two examples come to mind: LBJ's "We Shall Overcome" speech to Congress in 1965 and RFK's speech in Indianapolis after King's death in 1968.

[Bluenorthwest]

20. Agreed.

I'd also like to say that I like that you posted this just as it is. Artists and other activists often empower and enhance the politicians, at times they fill the vessel with the water to be carried by the politicians. We need both sorts of people to function as a society.

[jefferson_dem]

23. To quote "The Artist" in my avatar...

"But even the president of the United States, Sometimes must have to stand naked"

[boomerbust]

8. GAGA/Hilary-2012

I know Bubba would be all for it.

[jefferson_dem]

12. GaGa//Bubba/Hillary 2012.

Bubba would probably like that "ticket" even more.

[rug]

11. It's a sad day when even Hannah Montana is more progressive than the President.

http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/entertainment/miley-cyrus-supports-gay-marriages_100183100.html

[impik]

25. It's a sad day when so called "progressives" are not very bright.

[rug]

52. Yeah, what kind of progressive is stupid enough to oppose gay marriage?

[boomerbust]

96. A straight Progressive?

To a lot of people its a non issue.

[stray cat]

13. So what has she accomplished for us? Words are easy if you are not in a position to do anything

[whistler162]

15. She said a bunch of words.....

while the President still awaits Congress to do their job!

[ruggerson]

31. If there is any lobbying going on, it's very well hidden

why can't the President, who talks about almost every other issue, publicly urge Congress to do the right thing in the last few days before this vote on Tuesday? The bully pulpit is a mighty weapon. We voted him in to use it.

[jefferson_dem]

16. She is using what she has ...

Extreme popularity and a mammoth soapbox...to promote what's right.

Obviously, GaGa is no policy maker. But that doesn't mean she hasn't impacted the policy debate. Read the OP.

I deal with "millennials" every day. Truth is... they listen to (celebs like) GaGa. I give credit where it's due.

[dsc]

14. I am sure we will hear every excuse under the sun, moon, and stars for this state of affairs

so let me try to answer a few now.

Excuse one, it is close to the election and this issue is divisive. Repealing DADT is supported by 70% of all voters, and over 50% of both conservatives and Republicans. That isn't divisive.

Excuse two, Obama is busy. This isn't about how Obama is spending his time but rather how he is directing his employees to spend theirs. This article is saying that the people who Obama employs to lobby for his legislative priorities aren't lobbying for this at all. While I will admit I wish he would give speeches about repealing DADT at the very least his legislative lobbyists should be lobbying for the repeal. And they apparently aren't doing so.

Excuse three, we don't have the votes. This is a crock. The GOP is blocking a bill for defense funding. If there is anything which we should be able to use as exhibit A in the "Gop doesn't give a damn about the country meme" it is blocking a defense funding bill when we are in two wars. Where is Obama and his surrogates saying 24/7 that the troops will die of starvation if we don't pass this bill and the GOP doesn't give a damn. We should be pounding the target Senators with ads, phone calls, and everything else we can think of.

[Proud Liberal Dem]

18. Who's making excuses?

Reid's holding a vote on it on Tuesday. Did I miss something? Did something change? :shrug:

It's one thing to complain about Dems not doing something when they're not, you know, actually DOING it but the mentality among some people seems to be to keep on criticizing people even when they're actually trying to do the right thing. :banghead:

[dsc]

19. Reid isn't Obama

as the OP points out, in crystal clear language, the White House isn't lobbying at all for this bill.

[Proud Liberal Dem]

33. The OP seems to assume (as do many other people)

that Obama had absolutely NOTHING to do with the vote occurring on Tuesday. If by lobbying Congress, you mean that he is not out there exhorting Congress to get it repealed and/or attacking Repubicans on the stump about possibly filibustering the defense bill, then, yeah, I guess you're right. I guess he hasn't been as "fierce" of an advocate about getting it repealed as, say, Lady Gaga, Hannah Montana, et. al but that doesn't mean that he has been standing still on the issue and that he hasn't already been working with Congress and the military brass to pave the way for repeal of DADT occur. It hasn't happened like how a lot of people think that it should've happened but it's still happening and he has played a crucial role in it and to suggest otherwise isn't factually correct. I would also point out that he apparently believed that it was important enough to mention in his SOTU speech this year, which is about as important of a statement to make to Congress about this issue as one can make.

[ruggerson]

38. But that's not quite how it has gone down

Congress has had to force Obama's hand a few times. In April, when Gates sent a public letter to Congress, demanding no vote this year, Obama was privately acquiescing to Sec'y Gate's timetable, which would have doomed any vote until at least 2013 and if Repubs take over one house, could have killed it.

"In another statement, Alex Nicholson, executive director of Servicemembers United, called Gates’ letter “a significant cause for concern” for those supporting gay service members and said points in Gates’ letter are “patently offensive and false.”

“If the White House and the Department of Defense had been more engaged with us and had communicated with us better about the alternatives available, Secretary Gates would surely not feel that legislative action this year would disrespect the opinions of the troops or negatively impact them and their families,” Nicholson said.

In a statement responding to the letter, Shin Inouye, a White House spokesperson, said President Obama’s commitment to repealing the ban on service “is unequivocal,” but suggested the White House is on board with holding off on ending the law.

“That’s why we’ve said that the implementation of any congressional repeal will be delayed until the DOD study of how best to implement that repeal is completed,” he said.

In a statement, Aubrey Sarvis, executive director of the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, repudiated the White House statement and said Obama “appears to have reversed himself” from his State of the Union announcement on planning to work for repeal this year.

“We have the votes in the House and we’re close to having the votes in the Senate Armed Services Committee — the president, however is not helping us to get the votes we need,” he said.

http://www.washingtonblade.com/2010/04/30/gates-letter-advises-against-%E2%80%98don%E2%80%99t-ask%E2%80%99-repeal-this-year/

Pro-repeal members of Congress went ballistic after receiving a letter from Gates asking them not to act. They went to the WH and forced their hand and the compromise that was reached was that a vote would be taken this year with the provisoo that it would only take effect after this survey and when the Defense Dept agreed that it was ready. I give Obama points for being in favor of repeal. I don't give him points for being a very effective or strong advocate for actually getting it done.

[Proud Liberal Dem]

53. So

You mean to tell me that President Obama, well.......actually listens to progressives/equality advocates instead of, say, John McCain or (insert random homophobe)? :shrug:

[ruggerson]

73. Yes, and I've given him kudos in the past for just that

But quite often the people pushing him to do the right thing are initially the grassroots and the bloggers, such as Aravosis and Spaulding, followed by the MSM, followed by the "official" advocacy groups and the various public figures who listen to them.

We've seen time and time again that the grassroots initiate this process, yet the hatred here for Aravosis and others who are pushing the President on civil rights is staggering.

[Proud Liberal Dem]

89. Maybe it is HOW things are being said sometimes

rather than the substance of what is being said? :shrug:

Not to say that some people don't overreact to what's being said sometimes too, of course. I've probably been guilty of it myself.

[ruggerson]

92. Well there's truth to that

but the history of civil rights movements in this country show that those seeking change are a diverse bunch: often loud and dissonant as well as inspiring and hopeful. We have the Human Rights Campaign which is respectful of power and uses back channels to lobby and we have the grassroots and LGBT bloggers and some MSM journalists, who are often more raucous and caustic and impatient and critical. If history is any guide, it takes all of the aforementioned to move a nation.

[dsc]

39. No that isn't what I, or the article says

It clearly states in the article, in no uncertain terms, that OBAMA'S LOBBYISTS HAVE BEEN SILENT. That isn't Obama has been silent. The people he hires to lobby for his legislative priorities have been silent. Now if you have evidence the article is wrong, then present it. But don't pretend I am saying one thing when I have clearly said another.

[Proud Liberal Dem]

47. "Obama's Lobbyists"

Maybe I'm just dense or ignorant but Obama has lobbyists??? Liaisons, yes, but lobbyists??? Is that what you're referring to?

[dsc]

50. yes the white house employees people to lobby on its behalf

they are called lobbyists or liasons if you prefer. It isn't sinister to have them.

[Proud Liberal Dem]

54. No, I don't think it's sinister or anything

I guess I've just never heard of them referred to them as such.

[sellitman]

17. I still don't want to "Meat" her N/T

[Top Cat]

22. Kick ... Lady Gaga for taking a stand..

[phleshdef]

26. I repeat. The President's job is to get stuff done. Not entertain you.

I admire her advocacy and outspokeness on the issue. Thats great. But it has nothing to do with actually getting legislation overturned in congress, which is what the President has been working on tirelessly. Joe Biden explained how the process has played out on Maddow the other night and I suggest people actually listen to it instead of continuing to bitch about something they have no knowledge about from an inside perspective.

[vaberella]

35. Amen.

Someone who gets it.

[Tarheel_Dem]

42. Thank You. Is the president supposed to tweet us about his talks with Congress?

When it's repealed, what will they bitch about then? Obama has taken more heat for this shit than any president before him, even the one who signed the damned thing in the first place. :eyes:

[ruggerson]

45. "they"?

Uh, LGBT Democrats are US, bub. We're an integral part of the Democratic coalition.

[Name removed]

67. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[ruggerson]

75. Look in this thread and other similar ones

and the hostility towards gay bloggers, including the one JD linked to. And, no, I don't know that the poster was referring in general to people who "err on the side of criticizing the President", because his post is specifically about this issue (DADT) and the bloggers/advocates who are pushing the President to be publicly forceful.

[phleshdef]

80. The "hostility" you speak of has ZERO to do with the sexual orientation of "they".

Those that act like Obama isn't going anywhere with the DADT repeal are willfully ignoring all the actions taken thus far, willfully ignoring the public calls by this President to repeal it and willfully ignoring the fact that we are very close to getting it repealed.

[ruggerson]

84. If it weren't for the people who the poster attacks

the vote in the House may not have happened and the legislation would have been pushed back to 2013, or doomed if the Republicans take controlf of one house of congress.

From post 38:

Congress has had to force Obama's hand a few times. In April, when Gates sent a public letter to Congress, demanding no vote this year, Obama was privately acquiescing to Sec'y Gate's timetable, which would have doomed any vote until at least 2013 and if Repubs take over one house, could have killed it.

"In another statement, Alex Nicholson, executive director of Servicemembers United, called Gates’ letter “a significant cause for concern” for those supporting gay service members and said points in Gates’ letter are “patently offensive and false.”

“If the White House and the Department of Defense had been more engaged with us and had communicated with us better about the alternatives available, Secretary Gates would surely not feel that legislative action this year would disrespect the opinions of the troops or negatively impact them and their families,” Nicholson said.

In a statement responding to the letter, Shin Inouye, a White House spokesperson, said President Obama’s commitment to repealing the ban on service “is unequivocal,” but suggested the White House is on board with holding off on ending the law.

“That’s why we’ve said that the implementation of any congressional repeal will be delayed until the DOD study of how best to implement that repeal is completed,” he said.

In a statement, Aubrey Sarvis, executive director of the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, repudiated the White House statement and said Obama “appears to have reversed himself” from his State of the Union announcement on planning to work for repeal this year.

“We have the votes in the House and we’re close to having the votes in the Senate Armed Services Committee — the president, however is not helping us to get the votes we need,” he said.

http://www.washingtonblade.com/2010/04/30/gates-letter-advises-against-%E2%80%98don%E2%80%99t-ask%E2%80%99-repeal-this-year/

Pro-repeal members of Congress (and LGBT bloggers and advocates) went ballistic after receiving the letter from Gates asking them not to act. They went to the WH and forced their hand and the compromise that was reached was that a vote would be taken this year with the proviso that it would only take effect after this survey and when the Defense Dept agreed that it was ready. I give Obama points for being in favor of repeal. I give him kudos for ultimately agreeing to this compromise which saved the current legislation. I don't give him points for being a very effective or consistently strong advocate for actually getting it done. The LGBT grassroots and bloggers who have unrelentingly kept the pressure on the President have been a vital ingredient in ensuring that this process has gotten as far as it has.

[Name removed]

102. Deleted sub-thread

Sub-thread removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[LostinVA]

101. Yeah, that is who "they" are

And, the usage is unfortunately nothing new.

[terrya]

64. Yeah, those whiny homos

Who consistently vote with the Democrats, by large majorities, in every single election. As ruggerson mentioned, GLBT Americans are a definite part of the base of the Democratic Party. Please don't refer to us as "they".

[phleshdef]

68. As I said to the other poster. You aren't fooling anyone. You don't think thats what "they" meant.

[LostinVA]

103. That is who was meant by "They"

You are the one not fooling anyone.

Same old same old.

[LostinVA]

100. "They" -- oh brother

:eyes:

At least the mask has finally come off.

[QC]

120. There was a mask? n/t

[Laughing Mirror]

48. Gaga's advocacy has nothing to do with getting legislation overturned in Congress?

Well then why bother to call your Senator in the first place.

Lady Gaga has not only tweeted about DADT repeal, even explained what filibustering is, she has posted two videos to youtube since Thursday, urging people to get in touch with their Senators to repeal DADT.

Her first video, where you see her calling her Senator's office, posted on Thursday, has at this writing been viewed more than 1,303,000 times.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GG5VK2lquEc&feature=player_embedded

Her follow-up video, which is a sample of some of the many video responses she has received to her first video, has at this writing been viewed more than 77,100 times.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SztT7HsCPw&feature=PlayList&p=5C1FB2CF520CE6A3&index=0&playnext=1

If she gets only a small percentage of the multitudes of her video viewers to call their Senator to repeal DADT, it sounds like highly effective political activism to me.

So yes, the serious actions of the entertainer Lady Gaga may actually help to get legislation overturned in Congress. How could anybody think otherwise?

[phleshdef]

65. No. This overturning has been in motion for a long time.

I'm not trashing anything Lady Gaga has done or said in support of overturning it. But using hollywood activism as a means to criticize the President for something he has been working on since he took office is dishonest bullshit.

[Laughing Mirror]

83. Lady Gaga's senators are Schumer and Gillibrand, senators from New York

What's Hollywood got to do with this?

[vaberella]

131. Hollywood = celebrity.

It's a location with a lot of celebrities it's just a word to exemplify celebrities. Additionaly these Congressmen and women have both been advocates for the repealing of DADT and DOMA in Congress since Obama became President and it's due to their actions and the President's actions we have the language to repeal in the Defense Bill. Not Lady Gaga.

[Laughing Mirror]

136. With no help from the likes of you

It's quite obvious what's going on with you. You don't want DADT repealed, do you?

[vaberella]

141. You don't know me or my past posts...so I suggest you keep your assupmtions to yourself.

For a point of clarification. I just dislike celebrities immensely, and I have never been shy to say that. Overpaid for doing nothing.

[QC]

139. Do you really think you should be accusing people of getting star struck over celebs?

Seriously?

[vaberella]

142. Basically...I don't like celebrities. Unless Pelosi and Obama count as celebrities.

Have you seen this thread?! There are people who are stating that it was because of Lady Gaga that we have the a vote this week. Are you catching this?! There are posters saying this?! So yeah, I'm going to take issue with people who seem so star struck that they assume votes on such an important matter are due to some action by a celebrity. Taking credit away from all of the people who've been working for years, and years, and taking it away from people in office who finally pushed for this---to be given to flake. I mean seriously....yeah I will take issue. It pisses me off.

[vaberella]

130. You're incorrectly glorifying crap.

This has been in the works for almost a year now. This was talked about since 2009. With the President putting it out there with Barney Frank. So don't give Lady Gaga unwarranted credit.
Frank stated this:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/11/11/dadt-likely-to-be-part-of_0_n_354528.html <---Check out the dates.
http://www.advocate.com/News/Daily_News/2009/11/11/DADT_Likely_To_Be_Part_of_Defense_Bill/

So no. Lady Gaga didn't do shit to move something that has been in the works for a year now. A Year!!! And nothing gets put in the Defense Bill that deals with repealing without the President's knowledge. So no, She did nothing to start this. Please get the facts.

[Laughing Mirror]

135. Lady Gaga is using her extraordinary fame to get people to pressure their Senators on DADT

This has been explained to you over and over again, but it falls on deaf ears.

Nobody is claiming Gaga claimed she authored the bill to repeal DADT or in any other way is responsible for it coming up for a vote on Tuesday.

This would be plainly obvious to you if you would go look at the videos she has posted on youtube, but you won't do that because you want to remain comfortable in stupidity and ignorance -- attributing preposterous claims to Lady Gaga's sincere and beautiful lending of her celebrity status to get the buzz going to help repeal this hateful discrimination that is DADT.

So it's you who needs to get your facts straight, and so, no, sorry, I cannot accept your "glorifying crap" crap. I return your crap to you in the spirit in which it was given.

[dsc]

51. I don't want entertained

I want the lobbyists who work for him to help pass his legislative agenda to actually lobby on behalf of DADT repeal, which the Advocate article claims they are not doing.

[phleshdef]

66. This whitehouse has been working on the repeal since the beginning.

As I said, listen to Biden explain what actually HAS been going on instead of relying on a bunch of uninformed bloggers and wannabe journalists.

[LostinVA]

104. No it hasn't, and it still isn't

Wait, "We" keep getting told it's up to Congress and not the WH to repeal DADT, so now it's the WH's?!

[ensho]

27. kick

nt

[ruggerson]

29. JD: Interesting that when you post somethingi like this, it's a relatively calm thread

but when a gay DU'er posts it, all hell breaks loose.

Food for thought.

Thanksk for the OP - she's a really great role model for her generation. She also has the largest twitter following on the planet. :)

[ruggerson]

76. OK, I take that back

some of the U.S. have arrived.

[LostinVA]

105. I've noticed that too, and it is disrespectful to the OP

I know he and I have clashed alot, but I do believe the OP is what it is: a sincere OP.

[ruggerson]

114. I agree; the OP has been a longtime, consistent supporter of LGBT equality

across the board.

[Parker CA]

30. Wow. Very impressed that she's doing this. Thanks for the info! nt.

[bullwinkle428]

32. Sad that this thread can't get more recs.

[vaberella]

36. Celebrities aren't policy makers.

And there are massive unspoken heroes out there---b/c they don't aren't celebrities. I'm not about to waste my time on a clown celebrity who's entertaining a fickle society for the time being. A good cause is a good cause and shouldn't ever be compared to the seat of the President.

[ruggerson]

43. there isi a generation of young voters that listen to her

she has the largest twitter following of ANYONE. Why can't we just acknowledge that what she is doing is very good and very helpful and leave it at that?

[vaberella]

60. Which is ridiculously heartbreaking in and of itself.

Rather than getting educated they are listening to a celebrity for their news and "facts" on life. Sadly, I don't follow twitter and even though I was born into the MTV generation, the mere fact that aspects of MTV are have enough power to control the airwaves raises some questions.

I never said what she did was wrong or horrible. However the comparison to a Presidential leader is what I find disturbing, additionally its the fact that celebrities in America are given so much power---it disgusts me. I support her cause, although I personally found it rather demeaning her bringing fired soldiers of DADT with her to some awards show. I see where she meant good, or I think I do----however to me it's in the same vein of when Gwen Stefani brought her puppet Japanese girls. It's just disturbing to me. Helpful depends on the person, although I do not debate her intentions are good, if not impressive.

[Laughing Mirror]

55. Lady Gaga invites you to call your Senator to repeal DADT

And let the phone keep ringing. And if the voicemail is full, wait and call back later. Keep calling until you get through.

That's Lady Gaga's message. That's all she is asking. Call your Senator to repeal DADT.

Really, is that too much to ask? Is that such a hard thing to do?

[vaberella]

61. Luckily I live in a State where my Senators are on board and were on board before she was popular.

I have no idea what you're saying to me...you act as though I'm not a concerned voter and this issue isn't important to me. I'll have you know when I found out my senators were supporters I sent them both thanks through emails and phone calls and money. I take issue only when I see a Celebrity is given so much credence on this board. I, however, make no apology to the fact I'm against all things Hollywood. And when I see that profession compared in some way to elected officials it irks me. It's whatever anyway.

By the way, I'm from the state of New York, FYI. I've got Schumer and Gillibrand.

[Laughing Mirror]

82. You have the same senators as Lady Gaga

She does not live in Hollywood. And your phone call to Schumer and Gillibrand is just as important as Gaga's.

That's what this about.

[vaberella]

85. And I'm not getting this praise.

Which was my point. There are a lot of unsung heroes...but many on this thread are giving her this great importance. To be honest I don't know or care where Lady Gaga is from. You know more about her than I do or ever will.

[Laughing Mirror]

93. Because she has a great voice that inspire many many people to take action

to help right some of the wrongs in our society. That is why we appreciate her. For her voice.

The same way we appreciated the voices of Marlon Brando, Josephine Baker, Muhammad Ali, just to name three great artists and heroes who used their great voices for civil rights. That's what Lady Gaga is doing.

[Kdillard]

34. Wow l didn't know lady gaga had put the actual thing

Necessary to get the legislation overturned. Lady Gaga may be outspoken on the issue but she has no power to get anything done. However keep pissing on the people doing the actual work.

[Tarheel_Dem]

58. +1000. Call me when Lady Gaga is elected to Congress. People are

asking why not just support, and be thankful for Gaga's advocacy? Take a look upthread, and the answer becomes clear. Because people are intent on contrasting an "entertainer's" advocacy to that of the president? The usual suspects turn up to blame the White House first.

[Cha]

70. It's more about hate for President Obama than

has anything to do with reality.

Good that lady gaga is an excellent advocate..maybe she can go and testify before Congress?

[Bodhi BloodWave]

72. what i find interesting tho

is that some of those who cheer Lady gaga on and support what she is speaking about.....would simply dismiss it if it was the president speaking since its actions that counts....not words, words are free after all(i do love that disconnect)


I do however fully agree that its good Lady gaga is an excellent advocate

[Cha]

94. Of course, it's all about pretzel

logic instead of what all President Obama has done..which is this..

"hosted a reception for 300 LGBT activists at the White House to honor LGBT Pride

appointed more openly gay people to his administration than the last two combined, including the first ever transgender appointees

awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Harvey Milk and Billie Jean King

signed the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act

spoken out against LGBT discrimination at the National Prayer Breakfast

spoken out about repealing Don’t Ask/Don’t Tell in his first State of the Union Address

invited gay families to the Easter Egg Roll as part of the Obama administration's outreach to diverse communities

publicly invited shunned gay Mississippi high school prom student to the White House

extended the Family and Medical Leave Act to cover employees taking unpaid leave to care for the children of same-sex partners" Thanks to the person who gathered this list~:hi::grouphug:

And, President Obama knows there's more to be accomplished and Lady Gaga is helping him.

[vaberella]

132. +Infinity. n/t

[terrya]

46. That appears to be the case.

Last week, I called not only both of my Senators, but the offices of Senators Bayh, Lugar, Voinoich, Dorgan, Conrad, Pryor, Collins. To urge them to vote for DADT repeal. While I, and others were doing this, it would have been nice for the White House to also urge for DADT repeal. And...not one single word from them.

But Lady Gaga sure has been a fierce advocate. And our community can't thank her enough.

[PopSixSquish]

49. Ok This May Not be a Popular Opinion But Here Goes

I don't care if Lady Gaga is ultimately more responsible for helping overturn DADT than President Obama or vice versa. If Schmoe Lieberman does more to get the law overturned than the administration, I don't care. If the White House is pushing behind the scenes and has decided not to talk about their efforts in public, I don't care.

The United States Senate is going to vote this week and I don't care how it gets done, just as long as it gets done!

[golfguru]

57. GAGA for president 2012

I would go seriously gaga!

[jefferson_dem]

62. Hey, I love her but that's just ...

:dunce:

[LostinVA]

106. She's not even quite old enough to run for the House!

[ClarkUSA]

63. Aravosis' cognitive dissonance is pathological.

If it weren't for Pres. Obama, DADT repeal wouldn't even be on the radar, much less be up for a vote next week.

Unrec for bringing this nonsensical crap here.

[dsc]

74. so which is it?

Over and over and over again we have been told, in no uncertain terms that the Senate and only the Senate controls the timing. NOw that a vote is finally going to happen, all of the sudden Obama does control the timing. Frankly I think the biggest reason we are seeing this vote now is Reid wants it for his reelection prospects (it also has the Dream Act which makes it helpful both to Hispanics and gays both of which Reid needs.)

[ClarkUSA]

79. It's what I just said: Aravosis' cognitive dissonance is pathological.

<< NOw that a vote is finally going to happen, all of the sudden Obama does control the timing. >>

I never said anything about President Obama controlling "the timing" did I? But you knew that when you made up your strawman argument.

Without President Obama, DADT repeal would not be on the radar, much less be up for a vote next week because (and I am adding this to further state the obvious) the Senate Majority Leader would never have put DADT repeal to a vote if the White House had not been pushing for it from the start of this presidency. You can deny it all you want, but I learned long ago that some people lay all the blame on President Obama and none of the credit. Lady Gaga knows politics well enough to aim her message at the Senate, not the President. Aravosis and his fans should get a clue.

[vaberella]

133. + Infinity.

This added to the actions of Congressmen and women, good ones who cared about the issue and have been pushing for this since Obama has been President. I don't understand why Lady Gaga is given so much love...to the point where there are people on this thread who thought she is the one who made the vote happen this week. How absurd is that?! So quick are people to dismiss the words and actions over the past year of our leaders who really have worked tirelessly and others who remain unnamed for a twit with a costume. Lord.

[bullwinkle428]

140. Are you seriously trying to suggest that the nearly 80% of the public

in favor of overturning DADT, feel that way because of Pres. Obama's statements?

[Radical Activist]

69. She's being smart by targeting the Senate

instead of being one more person whining about Obama. The Senate is the roadblock to most progressive legislation and she chose her target wisely.

[ibegurpard]

77. As have we all

The difference being she is someone with a high profile and can't be quite so easily dismissed.

[Radical Activist]

78. We who?

Many online pundits and DU posters write as though Obama is the only elected official in America.

[vaberella]

90. True enough. But there are posters like ccharles000 on DU who don't get this much praise.

That's the point. ccharles000 is someone who continously posts on that issue, posting about our Senators, Congressmen/women, and Mayors and other elected officials and most of is posts are ignored or not even given a rec. Yet people post about this "artist" and it's like...Even Obama doesn't do what she does. Well there are others without the profile who have done just as much if not even more. They just don't have the cameras on them 24/7 while doing it and they go around totally unrecognizable---especially on DU.

[young but wise]

99. Agreed

[Cha]

71. Lady gaga is working with President Obama and I commend

her for that..she's not pitting people against each other.

The President always said he couldn't do this alone and she is actually doing something about that.

How stupid to say she is more of an advocate than the President..there is a process and she's helping..while the professional left is throwing out the fracking red meat to get the Hate going against our PResident.

[Radical Activist]

124. I suspect that Obama and Lady GaGa both understand this.

I'm amazed by how many pundits still don't understand how this is supposed to work.

[Colobo]

81. Lady Gaga- An overrated fad.

[vaberella]

86. +Infinity. n/t

[Bluenorthwest]

116. Well she's no Donnie McClurkin, that's for sure!

GaGa is a composer who had written for others prior to her fame in spite of her very young age. She has the training and the talent, the skill and the something and there are no other creditials needed. Many people, when they hear music or see art they don't get become defensive. She's an amazing talent. I'm in 'the biz'. What is it you do? What do you listen to?
There are many artists I don't personally dig who I still know are excellent and talented. My not digging their particular modality is not the deciding factor quality wise. Everybody needs music.
In GaGa's case, I find it amazing that so many who whine so loudly about the media fail to take note when they see the media used like an instrument by a skilled practioner. Dig it. She's helping to make change. This is what it looks like. Big, noisey, and multi-faceted.

[Mefistofeles]

87. Well, young people who are into music and people are more into politics may view her differently

Her record-sales and multiple awards may be an indication that she is not overrated.

"Lady GaGa Sets Digital Sales Records" http://atrl.net/forums/showthread.php?t=92669

A couple a weeks ago she won 8 prizes in the Video Music Awards, including best video of the year: http://omg.yahoo.com/news/lady-gaga-the-big-winner-at-mtv-music-awards/47046

[vaberella]

91. Record sales is not a synonymous with skill.

God...why do people know so much about this woman.

[jefferson_dem]

95. And mass popular appeal is not necessarily incompatible with artistic quality.

Sorry, GaGa has "it" ... whether you appreciate that or not.

FWIW, i'm far from a sheepish fan of the typical shlock ... and I do not appreciate the typical sham. GaGa embraces the absolute absurdity of celebrity culture and shoves it right back at us. Good for her.

[Odin2005]

112. She actually has a very good voice, unlike Britney and Kesha.

Your anti-pop snobbishness is showing, not all pop-stars are voice-modulated idiots.

[Odin2005]

115. Just because something is popular doesn't mean it sucks.

Snobishness DOES suck, however.

[proteus_lives]

88. Agreed. She won't be mentioned in any history books.

[LostinVA]

108. Like that actor, what's his name? Ronald Reagan

[proteus_lives]

125. This Madonna clone ain't RR.

[boppers]

127. Madonna couldn't sing.

*HUGE* difference.

[dsc]

97. Elvis and the Beatles were considered fads at one point too

Now I am not saying she is the equivalent of them but I am saying I have no idea if she will become the equivalent of them or not.

[terrya]

98. Because....she's getting people involved in an issue?

Is that it?

People might have said the same about Madonna.

[Mefistofeles]

118. She is getting blasted for doing something positive

Sad.

[QC]

126. She is getting blasted for doing something positive **for LGBT people.**

That's the part that has inspired such fury among the crowd that always shows up to stage epic hissyfits in LGBT-related threads.

(But it is a rules violation to draw the obvious conclusion about this behavior, so don't.)

[LostinVA]

107. She's not my thing, but she is very talented

Being popular doesn't mean someone isn't good, and I can recognize someone being good even if I will never own a CD of theirs.

[Odin2005]

111. -1,000,000

:puke:

[smalll]

109. Gaga 2012: Ready On Day One -- To Look Fabulous!

Plus, doesn't she have a song called "Telephone?" As long as she's willing to pick it up at 3am, she's good to go!

;)

[Odin2005]

113. Thanks, now that soing is stuck in my head!

:rofl:

[Odin2005]

110. The vast majority of us Millenials support Same-Sex Marriage.

Gaga's views are perfectly typical for a Millennial such as her or I. Much of the homophobic BS comes from people over 30. The the RW Culture Warriors that don't get it, they have lost, they just don't know it yet.

[Clio the Leo]

119. I want Gaga to DEMAND a meeting with the President!!!!

.... and I want him to grant it to her!!!

And then I want a picture of the moment!!!!

And then, I want the President to be SO inspired by her, that he and Michelle use THIS song for their second Inaugural dance:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQ4Z3lXE6PQ

Two of my favorite people on the planet!!

(and those of you comparing her to Bieber or Hannah Montana can go suck it ........ 1. she's promoting progressive legislation unlike just about anyone in the country and 2. she can SING HER NATURAL BEHIND OFF!!! ... and we wont even mention her writing talents.)

[ruggerson]

121. She's Madonna with an actual voice

that's my story and I'm sticking to it. ;)

[Clio the Leo]

129. yep! ...

.... and song writing ability .... a factor that .... in the modern era and after watching Beiber lip sync like some kind of trick pony .... cant be emphasized enough.

[vaberella]

134. Please tell me this is sarcasm. I'm dying here. n/t

[Clio the Leo]

143. I'm being silly, but I'm dead serious...

.... Gaga is AWESOME ..... ALMOST Obama and Tweety Awesome. ;)

[vaberella]

145. Tweety ..ahaha..

You do realize I"m not a fan of tweety in that sense?! I barely like anything the guys says. I do however enjoy his show because it's like political jerry springer----it's really a show with that energy---cause at times people get pwned and he's able to disarm people and have them get gritty and dirty on national tv.

[Clio the Leo]

148. I love over the top people....

.... and Tweety and Gaga are both that.

[rocktivity]

122. Her grandmother Madonna must be proud.

:headbang:
rocktivity

[AtomicKitten]

146. ouch

:rofl:

[stevenleser]

123. Huge Gaga fan, and she is right here. n/t

[boppers]

128. It's only a coincidence that her next single to drop is partially about GLBTQ rights.

She previewed a line from "Born this way" at the VMA's, it looks like it could be a huge culture smasher on racism, sexism, genderism, and a whole lost of other '-isms'.

That being said, I can agree the she, like Amanda Palmer, Lou Reed, Alan Ginsberg, and countless other artists in music, in painting, in dance, in writing, in theater, have been the "fierce advocates" our culture needs. Without them, the .01% to 10% (or more, I'm a huge fan of the GLBTQ construct) of us on the margins would continue to be ignored.

Has she done more than Obama? Well, until Obama can craft dance hits, and get his speeches played every night in night clubs, I doubt he can do what she has.... but this isn't Obama vs Gaga any more than is was Dylan vs. <whoever>. Politicians rule the culture, artists change the culture. They have very different jobs.

[Dawgs]

137. Gaga has some fun songs and is talented, but it's all about marketing with her.

She's Britney Spears with better songs and better promotion.

[SoxFan]

144. Hold on there, big fella

Let's look at what each of them have on their plate:

Obama:

Afghanistan
Iraq
Financial reform
Climate change
Alternative energy
Small business development
Education reform
Arms control negotiations
Israel and the Palestinians
Manufacturing enhancement
Border security
Health care
Immigration reform


Gaga:

Finishing that "Alejandro" remix

[Uzybone]

147. KnR for Lady Gaga

its too bad that liberal writers have to try and pit people against President Obama to get attention.