Gay-rights groups mobilize

Civil disobedience, call-in campaign launched as lawmakers return from recess.

Gay-rights activists are stepping up the pressure on Democrats to take action on two contentious issues.

One effort comes from GetEqual, which interrupted a debate between Rep. George Miller (D-Calif.) and his Republican opponent on Wednesday.

The activists want lawmakers to pass the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (HR 3017), which would protect workers from discrimination based on sexual orientation.

The group plans to protest House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) on Thursday. Pennsylvania members of GetEqual are also pressuring Democratic Rep. Chris Carney on the same issue.

The second activism push is being led by Human Rights Campaign, the largest D.C.-based gay-rights group, which is trying to get Don't Ask Don't Tell repealed.

The group is calling on its grassroots base to call lawmakers and ask them to take up the Defense Authorization bill, which includes the call for repealing the military's ban on openly gay Americans, before November elections.

"While many believe repeal of this odious law is a foregone conclusion, the real truth is that this is not yet a done deal," HRC President Joe Solmonese said.

-- Ambreen Ali, Congress.org

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