Obama's plan to win over black evangelicals in South Carolina by touring with the infamous homophobe, preacher, and black gospel singer Donnie McClurkin is backfiring, to say the least.
Obama's statewide tour dubbed Embrace Change is to begin in Charleston this week. Some call it Embrace the Homophobia.
Donnie McCurkin argues that homosexuality is a choice and that it can be "cured" by prayer. The minister and gospel singer supported Bush and performed at the Republican National Convention in 2004.
In an effort to diffuse the controversy, Obama has issued a statement: "I have clearly stated my belief that gays and lesbians are our brothers and sisters and should be provided the respect, dignity, and rights of all other citizens."
But Obama has not changed his plans to tour with the bigot. For some mysterious reason, Obama does not appear to comprehend the simple tenet of 'You are known by the company you keep.' It's simple. Hire a bigot, campaign with a bigot, and you look like and will be perceived as a bigot.
Already gays and allies are saying good bye to Obama. Read some of their letters over at Americablog. Here's a taste:
Barak, Kiss my money and my vote goodbye! If I want to be marginalized, treated like a criminal, etc, I'll look to the republicans. -- MajorD
Maybe Obama's campaign should be asked if they are going to invite other agents of intolerance. I mean they have a gay basher in their next event what's next David Duke doing the Obama for Israel drive? -- DKarma
Obama wants to have it both ways - court the homophobic black vote and also be pro-gay. Politicians have no ethics by definition. -- G.
Update: Donnie McClurkin isn't the only homophobe on the bill with Obama
Obama Donnie McClurkin Gay News Politics Homophobia South Carolina 2008 Evangelicals
