A bit of good news and a reposting

Top Researcher: Ex-Gay 'Therapy' Group NARTH Distorted My Studies

(Editor's note: I think we are in double digits now with scientific complaints about the religious right)

Truth Wins Out released an exclusive video interview today with University of Utah professor, Dr. Lisa Diamond, who said that the National Association of Research & Therapy of Homosexuality (NARTH) grossly and deliberately distorted her research on sexual orientation. Dr. Diamond's assertion comes one week before NARTH's annual conference in Denver, which will take place Nov. 7-9.

"Dr. Nicolosi, you know exactly what you are doing," said Diamond in the video, addressing NARTH's co-founder Dr. Joseph Nicolosi."This is a willful misuse and distortion of my research. Not an academic disagreement. Not a slight shading of the truth. It's willful distortion. And, it's illegitimate and it's irresponsible and you know that. And you should stop."
"We are fighting back against the gross distortions of our lives by anti-gay organizations who manipulate science for political gain," said Wayne Besen, Executive Director of Truth Wins Out. "These organizations claim to be moral, but often twist scientific research in the most shameless and dishonest ways imaginable. We are committed to exposing these lies and ensuring that science is accurately and honestly presented."

Lisa M. Diamond, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Psychology and Gender Studies in the Department of Psychology at the University of Utah. She has won a number of awards for her work. In 2000, Dr. Diamond published a study, "Sexual identity, attractions, and behavior among young sexual minority women over a 2 year period." This study was distorted by NARTH. The anti-gay organization falsely claimed that Dr. Diamond's work shows that sexual orientation is "amenable to change."

Let's not forget Arkansas

So much attention seems to be given to the "Last Battle of California" with Proposition 8 . Even the good witch of the religious right, James Dobson, ventured from his ivory tower to speak on it.
Proposition 8 must be defeated. But let's not forget the other states with equally disturbing ballot initiatives. With that in mind, I am referring to an earlier post I wrote regarding the anti-gay adoption initiative in Arkansas:

Arkansas makes a possible boo boo:

If the religious right wins this fight in Arkansas, expect to see more initiatives like it on a nationwide basis.

Obama tells truth about American climate during Brown vs. Board of Education

You have probably heard the latest smear about Obama:

Ooooh he compared the United States to Nazi Germany. See, he doesn't like America.

Well like the other smears, this one is a lie. But to me, an African-American, this is an extra insulting distortion:

In a radio interview in 2001, Barack Obama likened the United States to Nazi Germany . . .

The web site Little Green Footballs broke the scoop that Obama compares the "doctrines of Nazism... to what we have going on, back here at home." The remark came during a discussion of the United States at the time of Brown vs. The Board of Education.

Obama said, "...just to take a, sort of a realist perspective…there's a lot of change going on outside of the Court, um, that, that judges essentially have to take judicial notice of. I mean you've got World War II, you've got uh, uh, uh, the doctrines of Nazism, that, that we are fighting against, that start looking uncomfortably similar to what we have going on, back here at home."

Some folks have tried to use this comment as the lastest "Obama is not one of us" lies." But to me, this is more than a smear.

It is a slap in the face to all African-Americans. You see, Obama was not lying when he made his statement.

We all know the history of racism in this country. No matter how many folks like to say "it's in the past, forget about it," no one can.

And no one should. The fact of the matter is that during the Brown vs. Board of Education decision, the climate in this country can be compared to that of Nazi Germany.

During that time, some whites did not want to go to school with blacks. Some whites did not want blacks living in their neighborhoods. Some whites did not think of blacks as Americans worthy of the American dream.

They believed that there was a social, religious, and ethical order that made blacks inferior. And they lied, cheated, and murdered in horrible fashion to perserve this order.

The segregation, the lynchings, the dehumanization and victimization of entire group of people on the basis of race in America during that time is no different the victimization of entire group of people on the basis of religion during the time of Nazi Germany.

Sorry, but it is a fact. And no rallies, no flag waving, and definitely not mindful ignorance of that awful time in American history will make it go away.

We can give hell to the Nazis for what they did to the Jews and other groups, as we should. But when are we ever going to own up to our own history of racial discrimination?

So to those who criticize Obama for making this simple fact known, I have one thing to say:

How dare you.


Things are getting stinky down here in SC . . . and other issues via links

SC Senate Candidate Mick Mulvaney in Sick Robocalling Scheme (a South Carolina candidate gay bashes? It must be a week day)

Elizabeth Dole unleashes outrageous 'Love of God' ad (I'd never vote for someone named "Libby." That's like hiring someone named Scooter as your chief of staff)

McCain's Last Ditch Effort: Tying Obama To Muslim World (all of these attacks on Muslims due to 9/11 is something I don't understand. Was Timothy McVeigh or the Unibomber Muslims?)

Joe the Plumber pursued for record deal (Say what! The only way you can get famous around here is either butt in a rally with a distortive question or sleep with a Republican. I would do the latter but there aren't any who are attractive enough.)

And now a bit of lunacy brought to you by the religious right

With the election fast approaching, the word has come out that the religious right have opened all cynlinders of attack on Obama.

Fine by me. Let the world see how morally empty they are.

But just in case we need a few reminders, check this little tidbit out from People for the American Way.

This lovely bit is via our favorite female nut, Janet Folger (now she is known as Janet Porter. I am NOT going there):

Vote for Obama, Go To Hell

I would say that girlfriend has lost her mind, but based on Janet Porter's (when she was formerly Janet Folger) past behavior, I can't help but asking was she born with a few fries short of a Happy Meal?

And lest we forget, how about a couple of articles about Obama via the "Christian" One News Now:

Obama interview points to 'Marxism' philosophy

Obama's socialist past explored further

McCain must state obvious: Obama is a socialist

News media in bed with Obama?

And you gotta love these comments:

"That's exactly what I've been trying to tell people. I can't understand why he's so popular. Why can't everyone see what he wants to do to our country? I believe he'll turn our country into the next Russia, China, or Cuba. Socialism will not work in our country. There is too much greed and too many lazy people who expect the government to hand them everything. The few of us that try to make something of our lives will end up losing our savings so that the government can coddle those that don't deserve the car they drive. I already know plenty of people who abuse the welfare system and get away with it."

"Socialism is coming. America is already leaning too far left and will continue to do so. And one reason is Christians are lazy. A few work their hearts out while the rest are content to set in the pews. Redistribution of wealth should be through opportunities not taxes. But when Christians will not even do what it takes to start businesses and gain wealth then no one will. Stop burying your talents and start putting them to work."

"I hope America comes to it's senses and quickly. Obama is rushing everyone to vote early. He is so scared that more and more of his platform and ideas will be researched and people are going to see that he is not the savior/superstar that he appears to be. If they vote early, they can't change their vote. Like sheep to the slaughter...."

"It's true that the media once was in favor of McCain when he was running against real conservatives. Now with real conservatives out of the Presidential picture, McCain is running against their Messiah and McCain is now the bad guy. As far as the media is concerned, the earth is tilted on it's axis to the left. It's a garrantee that they will be on the left side of any issue. Remember the two little guys, one on each shoulder, that try to influence the way you think. They have earned the left shoulder...you know the guy with the the little red tights wispering the words Obama, Obama..."

"The very worst part of all of this bias is that the truth about Obama's history is not coming out and there are only scattered stories about his oppressive ways when it comes to his campaign. We need honest news, not dishonest and scheming twisting of words or mudslingling when it has no newsworthy purpose. There are very few reporters on TV or in print whose bias in favor of Obama is not clear, and they are downright vicious when it comes to McCain and Palin. Only one source, one speaker on Christian radio gave the complete story about who is who about Palin's accusers in Alaska. It was a very interesting and clear story, but never heard anyplace else."
"I am a Christian and also Barak should be on the FBI most wanted list. He is running in our country based on lies that have been proven. He has proven to be unpatriotic, a liar, and we are not even sure if he is allowed to run in this country! But being "in bed" with the media is what is helping. They can report any way they want, even if its lies, and they do just that. It is getting to close to the election to be playing games. The truth, the whole truth and nothing BUT the truth needs to come out about this Arab! And FAST! Not that it will be reported and even then they will make sure his silver tongue (with smoke breath)will sound like someone being "picked on" by other races. Thats how he plays! God help us all!"

"I don't believe I've ever witnessed a more deliberate attempt by the media to promote their liberal agenda than during this Presidential campaign. What I don't understand is the ignorance of the American people. Have our morals deteriorated to the point that we no longer value human life, that we no longer care whether we live in a democracy, that we no longer care who a Presidential cndidate associates himself with as long as he does something for the economy? To me, as a Christian, the choice is clear. I vote according to what the Bible tells me is right or wrong. I honestly don't see how anyone calling themselves a Christian could vote for Barack Obama."

"Does this actually surprise anyone? He is the liberal media's "Glory Boy" you can read about him in the book of Revelations. This election was bought and paid for months ago. God help us all."

"We may be beginning to pay the price for our rejection of the Lord. The recent collapse of our economy, the pain at the gas pump, terrorism an ever-present possibility, etc. Yes, we are beginning to reap the results of our rebellion."

"When a person refuses to swear in on the Bible and disrespects our U.S. Flag then that person should not be qualified to run in any election much less the President of The United States. Come on America THINK!"

"The "main stream" media has lost most of it's credibility among most folks who don’t lean left. Their subscriptions are in the tank and worsening monthly. They know they are on life support. Their only chance at resuscitation is to usher in their savior; Obama, for he bringeth forth the “fairness doctrine” to maketh all things fair again, like it was before “Talk Radio” when the only truth was what the 6:00 News said it was. Lord Obama, please maketh all things fair again…"

8 more days to go - Desperation brings out the ugliness in some people

No words, just links on how ugly it's going to be until Nov. 4:

Obama called a n***** at Palin Rally in Iowa (I don't know. It certainly sounds like it to me) - UPDATE - turns out the word may not have been used.

Transparently Backwards: The "Common Alliance" of Smearmongerers Strikes Again - you are going to hear about this ad naseum until November 4 on Drudge and Fox. It used to be that when people were doing character assasinations, they would have the good taste not to be so open about it. For the record, Obama actually said:

" . . . one of the, I think, the tragedies of the civil rights movement, was because the civil rights movement became so court focused, I think that there was a tendency to lose track of the political and community organizing activities on the ground that are able to put together the actual coalitions of power through which you bring about redistributive change, and in some ways we still stuffer from that."

And last but not least, this lovely bit of news:

Skinheads held over Obama death plot (Are you paying attention, Kevin McCullough)

Lastly, a bit of seriousness:

My heart goes out to Jennifer Hudson and family because of the tragedy that has affected them. Having lost my father through the violence of others, I know how hard it is to gain equilibrium and healing from such a tragedy.

The Hudson family are in my prayers.

This just in - Kevin McCullough is a hot mess

I will admit that the pandemonium from the other side over the possible election of Obama has been enjoyable.

And it gets more enjoyable when conservatives set their sites on the fact that there is a very high level of support in the African-American community for Obama.

On this point, all of the arguments the other side pushes seem to be "What is wrong with you stupid black people. How can you support this man rather than the candidate we want you to support. Why can't you be good puppies and do what we tell you."

Today, conservative writer Kevin McCullough takes the prize for inanity.

His piece, An Open Letter to Black Obama Supporters, is the usual self-righteous clap trap that black folks have heard from Republicans and conservatives this electoral season.

What makes McCullough's piece so special is this opening sentence, which by the way, negates anything point he makes in the piece:

As a man who has fathered a son whose skin is darker than the average African American, and has mild special needs on top that, I am guided in this election by more than just economics, security, and the right of all innocent human beings to life. This election I am burdened deeply by the manipulation of race, the impact of social justice, and the absolute disparity and reproach that an Obama administration would have in store for the African American families of this nation.

You got that, folks? Just because he has fathered a son whose skin is darker than the average African-American, McCullough feels that he has some credibility in the black community. He thinks that we should ignore American history, ignore all the talk of welfare queens, all of the Southern Strategies, all of the white hands commercials, and all of the Willie Horton scare tactics and embrace his point of view simply because his son has skin darker than the average African-American.

How very presumptous. And how very insulting. The fact that he has to justify his column by such a ridiculous opening says more about the Republican and conservative mind set than anything McCullough can dredge up by way of conversation.

The problem with folks like McCullough is that they want to ignore the parts of history that don't suit their agendas. They think that the pendulum of life should swing for them and actions done by those like them should have no negative consequences. They tend to think that black people are so stupid that we should roll over and forget history and common sense simply because someone like him says "bark."

A little tip, McCullough. Maybe you should have a talk with Pat Buchanan and others in your party who have gone out of their way to demonize African-Americans before you call yourself an expert in what can cause the black community harm.

UPDATE - McCullough is offended by this column. He told me so in the comments section. And of course I gave my answer back. This column is not about his son but how he tried to use his son to gain credibility in the black community. And for the record, the following link is a main reason why I give McCullough no credibility.

Obama will probably take Pennsylvania, thanks to Ashley Todd

By now, I am sure that many of you have heard the story of the McCain campaign worker who was allegedly robbed by a black Obama supporter who then carved a "B" in her face.

Especially the part about her now admitting that the story was a hoax.

As a black man, there is a certain degree of exasperation about this sort of thing. I attended Winthrop University when Susan Smith falsely accused a black man of stealing her car with her two children in tow.

I never believed her story. But I was shocked and disgusted when it came out that she not only made up her story but drove her car in a lake, allowing her two children to drown.

I know the story of Charles Stuart accusing a black man of murdering his wife when he was guilty of the crime. I also know the story of Emmett Till who was mutilated for allegedly whistling at a white woman.

So I am not shocked about today's revelation.

Exasperated but not shocked.

But with one thought in my mind.

Throughout different times in this country's history, the false accusation of assaulting a white woman have led black men to be castrated, burned alive, and butchered beyond recognition.

How very fitting that it can now help lead to a black man's election to the White House.

Kismet indeed.


Thank you Mass Resistance for making my life very interesting (and rewarding)

In my post yesterday about the anti-gay group in Massachusetts, Mass Resistance, I neglected to mention that the Southern Poverty Law Center considers them an official hate group.

Of course the head of MassResistance, Brian Camenker, does not particularly like that designation.

But how can he object when things like what happened today takes place:

A Wakefield man claimed he was standing outside a local school snapping photos of students for a documentary, but after a foot chase through backyards while stripping his clothing, police aren't buying his story.

"We don't know what his intention and purpose was around the school and the kids," said police Lt. James Hashem.

But Michael Olivio's employer has come forward to back up his story. Olivio, 48, works for the anti-gay rights group MassResistance.org. Brian Camenker, head of the group, said Olivio mistakenly went to West Middle School Tuesday to snap pictures instead of the high school.

Camenker said Olivio was to get pictures of the high school because the state Commission on Gay, Lesbian, Bi-sexual and Transgendered Youth held a meeting there Monday night.

"I figured I would do a write-up for the Web site and I wanted a picture of the high school," Camenker said.

Police said the incident happened at West Middle as children were being let out of school. As parents watched, Olivio parked his car, got out, and began taking many pictures of the school and the students.

Police received a flood of 911 calls from parents and soon the school called. A gym teacher tried to talk to Olivio, who fled toward the high school, police said.

Camenker said Olivio realized he was at the wrong school and jogged over to the high school to get the picture.

"I didn't even want any pictures of the kids,'' Camenker said.

He said Olivio did not recall hearing the gym teacher trying to talk to him.

When police caught him, Olivio said he was taking pictures for a documentary and he would not elaborate on it," Hashem said. Hashem said police could not associate him with any media organization.

"The answers were somewhat vague and suspicious," he said.

Olivio was ordered to leave the area because police had no reason to detain him further. But then the man began to act erratically, Hashem said.

After being told to leave the area, Olivio ran through yards on Shawsheen Road and nearby side streets, shedding clothing as he ran, police said.

He had removed several items of clothing before officers finally caught him on North Main Street and placed him in handcuffs, Hashem said.

"He was not completely naked," Hashem said.

More here

Again, thank you Brian Camenker and Mass Resistance for all you do to help the gay community in Massachusetts.

Peter LaBarbera's friends are our best allies

I think our friend Peter LaBarbera takes pride in the fact that sometimes he exasperates a lot of people.

To me, its not his tendency to intentionally ignore lgbt families while seeking leather daddies in the corners of the latest Folsom Street festival.

Nor is it his desire to reduce the richness and the history of lgbt lives to stereotypes about anal sex.

It is his tendency, as it is with the rest of the anti-gay industry, to repeat a point continuously even in the face of it being exposed as a lie.

But he more than makes up for it by the company he keeps.

Like the lastest screed for Proposition 8 in California, What ‘Gay Marriage’ Has Done to Massachusetts, he placed on his webpage.

There is no need to rehash it. It's the same crop of lies that the forces for Proposition 8 have been repeating over and over again. The ole "gasp and swoon, children are going to be forced to learn about homosexuality if we don't do something" lie.

Which by the way has been debunked. However, when have the anti-gay industry ever let the truth get in the way of a good talking point?

The piece is by Brian Camenker, a phony pro-family activist in that state. To put it nicely, Camenker has done more to help the cause of lgbts in Massachusetts than any group or organization.

His organization, Mass Resistance, is a laughing stock of Massachusetts. Forget the "gang who couldn't shoot straight," Mass Resistance is the "gang that continuously shoots itself in the ass."

They have accused gays of everything from attacking their members to stealing their credit cards.

And they have this bizarre (but fun to watch) tendency of accusing everyone of a conspiracy when they don't get their way. Subsequently, they have alienated just about everyone in Massachusetts; Democrats, Republicans, conservatives, liberals, zipoids, wastoids, smurfs, elves, pixies, etc. etc.

They even got on Mitt Romney's bad side. And that simply amazes me.

And lest I forget, they are behind the David Parker controversy, including conveniently being there when Parker was arrested while at the same time feigning ignorance of the entire situation. By the way, Camenker continues to spin the Parker controversy in the piece.

To get a good idea Camenker's mind, check out this transcript of when he appeared on Comedy Central's Daily Show:

Ed Helms: So the quality of life has decreased?

Brian Camenker: Yeah.

Ed Helms: Homelessness gone up?

Brian Camenker: I could, you know...

Ed Helms: Crime rates?

Brian Camenker: Crime rates?

Ed Helms: Air quality?

Brian Camenker: I mean, let me put it this way, I could, if, I could sit here, and I could probably, you know, find some way of connecting the dots to gay marriage, to all of these, if I had enough time, and I did some research.

Ed Helms (voice-over): Yeah! Why take time to do the research, when saying it is so much faster!

Falsely blaming gays for everything? I can see why Peter thinks of him as the most principled and effective pro-family advocate in (the People’s Republic of) Massachusetts.

Of course Peter has gone on record calling a racist Anti-Semite a "pro-family advocate," so his embracing of Camenker isn't unexpected.

But you know what, Peter? Continue your behavior that you probably do not necessarily in truth, but in spite.

But don't forget to bring along your friends. They more than make up for it.

Mass Resistance Watch is the premiere site in all things regarding Mass Resistance. Big ups to them on the work they do.