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Entire communities still lack hospitals or emergency care. New Orleans continues to battle problems, including crime and lack of affordable housing. "We owe it to them to raise these issues louder than ever." "We owe it to them, those who survived, those who are still struggling to rebuild their lives," Smiley said. Smiley said he picked New Orleans as the 2008 host city to highlight the continued plight of its residents in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Some of the nation's top black activists and politicians attend the State of the Black Union. "It's better for his campaign to be in Texas," said Tiffany Washington. "I'm standing behind him 100 percent."Ĭlinton probably was at the event because "she needs it more than right now," he added.Īnother State of the Black Union attendee said many people at the forum wished Obama had come, but understood his reasons for declining the invitation. "Personally, I don't think it's much of an issue," said Victor Reed. Several forum attendees seemed unfazed by Obama's absence Saturday. It's getting to be crazy," Smiley told the newspaper. They are harassing my momma, harassing my brother. The talk show host told The Washington Post he has been inundated with angry e-mails and even death threats. "Now, I am not interested in demonizing him for his choice, but I do disagree with it." Watch a report on the controversy »īut Smiley's criticism has also prompted many people to come to Obama's defense. "I think it's a missed opportunity on Mr. Smiley has been vocal about his disapproval of Obama's decision. "That is why, with regret, I am not able to attend the forum." Watch the candidates stump in Texas » "In the final stretch, I will be on the campaign trail every day in states like Ohio, Texas and Wisconsin talking directly with voters about the causes that are at the heart of my campaign and the State of the Black Union forum," Obama wrote. In a letter to Smiley earlier this month, Obama commended the forum for addressing important issues, but explained he needed to focus on his presidential run ahead of the critical March 4 primaries. Meanwhile, Obama's absence at the forum has prompted both controversy and a backlash against Tavis Smiley, the organizer of the event who has openly criticized Obama's decision. Democrats to face off in must-win state for Clinton.In addition to Indy Pride Fest, Indy Pride is the parent organization of the Chris Gonzalez Library & Archives, the Indianapolis LGBT Film Festival, Circle City Pride Softball League, and the Circle City Fest Volleyball Tournament. Indy Pride Fest is the largest fundraiser for Indy Pride, Inc., who uses the funds raised to support the community, award scholarships, support organizations in Central Indiana. In 2018, Circle City Indy Pride will continue with the name Indy Pride Fest. became the parent organization of the newly combined Pride Festival in June 2003, and in 2009, the Festival was re-christened Circle City IN Pride in an effort to brand the event beyond the name of the main organization. In existence since 1995, Indy Pride, Inc. is governed by the Board of Directors elected by its membership. welcomes the participation of all, regardless of age, creed, gender, gender identification, HIV status, national origin, race, religion, sexual origin, and regardless of ability. is a wholly volunteer-managed non-partisan, tax-exempt, not-for-profit corporation that organizes Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered Pride events in Central Indiana. exists to unite and serve its members and the LGBTQ community of Central Indiana through leadership development, educational and support programs, and community events that achieve inclusivity, equality, strong community connections, and awareness of LGBTQ issues. Snag a Pride Pie in the month of June and 20% of all sales will go to Indy Pride! Order the Pride Pie now and help support a good cause! This year, it’s our honor to support them with their own pizza. HotBox has been a proud supporter of Indy Pride for years. We’ve taken our popular Porky the Pie and re-named it the Pride Pie for the month of June! It’s got pepperoni, ham, sausage, bacon, and red sauce.
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