Today, Towleroad’s Corey Johnson spoke with Wisconsin Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin at the Democratic National Convention in Denver. Baldwin talked with us about her position on the platform committee and why this Convention’s platform is historic as it relates to LGBT citizens.
Says Baldwin: "We have seen in the past three platforms — the year 2000, 2004, and 2008 — a steady and bold progression to really embrace all the issues of equality that we’ve identified. So this platform calls for the first time ever for a comprehensive strategy to fight AIDS and HIV in the United States. It calls for the first time ever of fighting discrimination against people on the basis of many characteristics including for the first time gender identity. I think this is very powerfully important as we try to pass inclusive legislation. It speaks to the importance of our families, and our families (i.e. same-sex couples) receiving equal benefits obligations, and responsibilities as we try to protect our families. And putting our same-sex couples on the same and equal footing with all American families. It calls for the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ and replacement with a policy that allows all qualified servicemen and women to serve openly regardless of their sexual orientation. It opposes DOMA and calls specifically for an end to using the issue of our families as a wedge issue to divide Americans…As you hear me list those, it is unprecedented compared to prior platforms with its specificity. Not just general equality language but getting down to the specifics of what legislation we must pass. It calls for passage of a comprehensive ENDA. It is a remarkable document. We should feel very proud of it as Democrats and also because it reflects the vision and the values of our nominee."
Much more in the interview on ENDA, her support of Clinton during the primary, and what’s ahead for the next four years.
