Pgh Lesbian Correspondents

I’m still puzzled by the lack of local LGBT voices in the media coverage. Clearly, that’s an issue we need to address as a community. But I was quite intrigued to learn that a man I greatly admire, Tony Norman, would be appearing on today’s Essential Pittsburgh to discuss the President’s statement on marriage equality.

Call my cynical but I detect a theme that local media wants to play up the “sexy” provocative elements of how this will impact black support for Obama and right wing responses. And I was eager to see what Tony would do.

He did not disappoint. He had the data and the facts to refute – perhaps destroy- the myth that black voters are inherently homophobic. He referenced everything from Prop 8 voting data to significant statements on the parallels between the struggle for civil rights in both communities. Yes, he said civil rights over and over and over. It was wonderful and it redirected the whole conversation. I was almost in tears of joy.

Mind you, I’ve gone round a bit with Tony on language. We don’t always agree, but I’ll never doubt that he knows what he is talking about AND he’s willing to admit when he might still have something to learn such as his willingness to read the GLAAD Media Guide.

Here’s the link to the broadcast. I urge you to listen.

Follow Tony on Twitter @TonyNormanPG