Equality California has launched the “Win Marriage Back” campaign aimed at restoring marriage equality California. In this effort they have release new television ads telling  the stories of real familes in California who were impacted by the passage of Proposition 8.

Ruben & Hector

[youtube width=”480″ height=”295″]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBi5QJenrBU[/youtube]

Frances & Cynthia

Today Doug McKelway arrogantly refused to apologize for threatening gay blogger Mike Rogers yesterday, asking for a tight shot of his remarks.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ulZFOz0N6Fg[/youtube]

Second Lieutenant Sandy Tsao wrote a letter to Barack Obama last January when she came out of closet, asking the President to repeal Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT).

What follows is an excerpt from the letter and it’s response from GlaadBlog.

An excerpt from her original letter in January reads:

We have the best military in the world and I would like to continue to be part of it. My mother can tell you it is my dream to serve our country. I have fought and overcome many barriers to arrive at the point I am at today. This is the only battle I fear I may lose. Even if it is too late for me, I do hope, Mr. President, that you will help us to win the war against prejudice so that future generations will continue to work together and fight for our freedoms regardless of race, color, gender, religion, national origin or sexual orientation.

This past Tuesday, May 5, Sandy received a package from the White House. As Sandy unwrapped the thick envelope and looked inside, she tearfully fell to her knees. Protected between two pieces of cardboard, the parcel contained a handwritten note from President Obama.

The President, responding to Sandy’s letter, wrote:

Sandy – Thanks for the wonderful and thoughtful letter. It is because of outstanding Americans like you that I committed to changing our current policy. Although it will take some time to complete (partly because it needs Congressional action) I intend to fulfill my commitment. — Barack Obama.

I believe this is an indication that if we are patient, Obama will deliver on much of his promise to the gay community.

Visit GlaadBlog for the rest of  Sandy’s story.

Today Rachel Maddow revealed that previous guest Army National Guardsman Lt. Dan Choi, who came out publicly on her show, is the latest of victim of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, having received a letter from the Army informing him that he is being kicked out of the military.

This is to inform you that sufficient basis exists to initiate action for withdrawal of Federal Recognition in the Army National Guard for moral or professional dereliction. Specifically you admitted publicly that you are a homosexual, which constitutes homosexual conduct. Your actions negatively affected the good order and disciplin of the New York Army National Guard.

Video begins about 1:25 in:

Lt. Choi will be appearing live on the Rachel Maddow Show tomorrow night.