While the gay, lesbian, and bisexual community worked earnestly to see a positive and gay-friendly candidate in office, the realities have been somewhat less positive than the promises. What has been accomplished since Obama took office in January and what has not? Are steps being taken to see campaign promises made reality?

The two most critical campaign promises to the gay and lesbian community were the big issues, the Defense of Marriage Act and Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. The current Defense of Marriage Act prevents the recognition of same-sex marriages across state lines and on a federal basis. This poses questions of states’ rights as well as individual rights. Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell has led to the expulsion of many qualified military personnel, a practice which still continues.

Unfortunately, the only action on the Defense of Marriage Act has not been positive. On June 12, 2009 the Justice Department filed papers defending DOMA. The official administration statement is that President Obama supports a legislative repeal of the act, but until that time the Justice Department will continue to defend DOMA. Critics contend that the Justice Department brief was especially problematic as the cases quoted backing their argument included a state not recognizing an incestuous marriage and states not being required to recognize underage marriages.

While the Defense of Marriage Act requires legislative repeal, some political experts believe the enforcement of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell could stop immediately with an executive order. This might cause some amount of political fallout; however, pressure from the Obama administration could likely eliminate this piece of legislation altogether. Moreover, public polls support the open service of gays and lesbians in the military, making a repeal likely to pass the House and Senate with ease. Why then, are officers and enlisted service people who have worked hard to serve, served faithfully and given of themselves being given dishonorable discharges?

Gay and lesbian federal employees have seen a positive change. At last, federal employee benefits extend to the partners of gay and lesbian employees. Unfortunately, this change seems a paltry offering to a community that fought for change.

The GLBTQ community has been patient. We have been supportive. For many of us, our patience is beginning to wear thin. It is time for the current administration to make good on their promises and to see change. States are making positive changes and it is time for the federal government to follow.