If Gov. Bob McDonnell could rewrite America’s history, he would probably tell a tale of the Founding Fathers preserving the right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” for white heterosexual males. At least this is what McDonnell has signaled in his recent move to block a retired lesbian Navy Captain, Joan Darrah[1], from testifying on same-sex marriage and the repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act before the GOP platform committee during the week of August 20.[2]

According to Tucker Martin, a spokesman for McDonnell, Darrah won’t be given the opportunity to speak because the slots have already been assigned.[3] Martin stated, “…once in Tampa, the only individuals to speak at the Platform Committee are the Platform Delegates and Subcommittee Chairs.” It’s a relief to know that the GOP is so committed to playing by the rules…

But in an indirect democracy like ours, it stands to reason why a member of the gay community would not be allowed to speak about same-sex marriage and repealing the Defense of Marriage Act, presuming that there won’t be any openly gay delegates or subcommittee chairs at the meeting.

Darrah’s openness about her “sexual orientation” and service to her country puts her in a unique position to represent a voice that has been suppressed in the U.S. for too long, a voice that is still fighting to find a space in the Republican Party. Darrah confounds particular stereotypes about gays and their supposedly uniform looks and behaviors.[4]

The GOP and Bob McDonnell have another chance to prove to Americans and the world that they are not bigots who only concern themselves with wealthy white heterosexual men. Unfortunately, the GOP doesn’t seem poised to take advantage of another golden opportunity. Instead, the party will further pander to the most extreme elements of its base and fall further outside of mainstream America’s political views.

On second thought, though, maybe this isn’t such a bad thing!

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[1] http://www.sldn.org/blog/archives/stories-from-the-frontlines-captain-joan-darrah-usn-ret/

[2] http://www.washingtonblade.com/2012/08/09/mcdonnell-wont-let-lesbian-vet-testify-before-gop-platform-committee/

[3] http://www.washingtonblade.com/2012/08/09/mcdonnell-wont-let-lesbian-vet-testify-before-gop-platform-committee/

[4] http://lifestyle.allwomenstalk.com/common-gay-stereotypes-you-should-avoid/3/