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Gay Rights Rally Draws Tens of Thousands to DC

Energized by Obama's vow on 'don't ask, don't tell,' activists demand equality

By the Associated Press

Posted Oct 11, 2009 2:58 PM CDT

(AP) – Thousands of gay and lesbian activists marched from the White House to the Capitol today, demanding that President Obama keep his promises to end "don't ask, don't tell" and work to end discrimination against gays. Rainbow flags and homemade signs abounded as participants chanted "Hey, Obama, let mama marry mama" and "We're out, we're proud, we won't back down." Many children were among the protesters.

A few counterprotesters also joined the crowd, which stretched several blocks. Some participants in the National Equality March woke up energized by Obama's blunt pledge to end the ban on gays serving openly in the military during a speech to the largest gay rights group in the US Saturday night. "I will end 'don't ask, don't tell,'" he said to a standing ovation from the crowd of about 3,000 at the annual dinner of the Human Rights Campaign. He offered no timetable or specifics.

Participants in the National Equality March yell during a protest today in Washington, DC.
Participants in the National Equality March yell during a protest today in Washington, DC.   (Getty Images)
An activist yells during a march for gay rights today in Washington, DC.
An activist yells during a march for gay rights today in Washington, DC.   (Getty Images)
Activists wait to march in today's gay rights event in Washington, DC.
Activists wait to march in today's gay rights event in Washington, DC.   (Getty Images)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 24 comments
Robert_Dada
Oct 12, 2009 12:45 PM CDT
That is 100% bullshit dontlikeyou. The conservative march news was all over the place. Everywhere I turned, I saw mention of it. Of course it was good for a hearty laugh so I didn't mind too much.
luvroks
Oct 12, 2009 7:46 AM CDT
Im going to use the michele malkin/glenn beck school of math and say there were over 2 million...at least...lol
NxBigmouthery
Oct 12, 2009 7:27 AM CDT
Look at the rabidity and stupidity of ignorant fuck knuckles who will suck down any old runny manure fed to them by loudmouths...they will flood the streets with their infantine posters and slogans, screaming blue murder on topics about which they know fuck all. These people completely shift debate. Hot button issues need to be dealt with sensitively cos God knows there are so many fatuous, brain dead cunts out there who will shoot down evolution in its tracks. He does have to tiptoe.

Copyright 2012 Newser, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. AP contributed to this report.

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