Lobby Days Are Here Again
Two organizations plan September Hill visits to push LGBT equality before the midterm elections
While questions remain about the scope of advances to be made on LGBT equality issues in the waning months of the 111th Congress, at least two groups still plan to push grassroots lobbying efforts later this month.
On Sept. 15, the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) plans to hold a lobby day as part of its ”Out on the Hill” gathering of national black LGBT leaders from Wednesday through Sept. 18. In addition to the lobby day, the event is slated to include a White House briefing and community reception on Thursday.
In promotional materials, NBJC Executive Director Sharon Lettman-Hicks wrote to invitees that the event is taking place during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 40th Annual Legislative Conference and is intended to work within the framework of the caucus event.
On Sept. 16, meanwhile, Servicemembers United will hold its fall ”Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” lobby day. The organization has described this event as being much more focused on the nuances of the DADT repeal amendment that is soon to be up for debate on the floor of the Senate.
In addition, the leadership and staff of the Pentagon working group conducting the DADT repeal review will meet with a group of lesbian and gay military partners during SU’s Military Partners Forum on Sept. 16 as well. The group also has a reception planned in conjunction with the event.
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