The Evolution Will Be Televized

Wednesday, May 9th, 2012

A follow-up to Evolve, inspired by President Obama’s statement today in favor of marriage equality.

Although it appears he had to think twice,

President Obama has followed my advice.

As Chris Matthews points out, this action isn’t risk-free,

And will certainly be used as a wedge issue by the GOP.

It’s particularly risky in key battleground states

Because of the opportunity for divisiveness that it creates.

But President Obama did it nonetheless,

For which I my sincere admiration express.

***

Here’s Martin Bashir’s5/09/12 “evolution will be televized” report (President Obama’s remarks are at the 5”25 mark).

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Here’s Rev. Al’s panel discussion. Rev. Al, Melissa Harris-Perry, and Jonathon Capehart discuss the political courage the President exhibited.

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Another thing that impressed my about the President’s statement was how he did it. I was getting ready to write something suggesting that he “come out” either at the LA fundraiser, or at his planned speech next month to LGBT activists. My suggested opening line for his speech: “I have evolved.” (You’re still welcome to use that, Mr. President.)

But the way he did it was much better. He did it not as a candidate for reelection, but as President. He did it not as a fired-up applause line in a campaign speech (not that there’s anything wrong with that), but as a reflective personal statement. He did it not in giant stadium before thousands of cheering fans (he is after all a celebrity), but in a one-to-one interview.

But most importantly, he did it. 

Kudos, Mr. President.

Tags: Al Sharpton, Freedoms, Gay rights, History, Jonathon Capehart, Marriage equality, Martin Bashir, Melissa Harris-Perry, Obama
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