datSPOT

Why the Right People Matter

2006-03-07T04:06:00.000-05:00

I hope you don't mind if I take a moment to stand on my soap box for a moment, but I have been reading again...well actually listening because my latest selection has been a book on tape. This book has been proliferated throughout corporate offices for the past few years as THE book to read if you want to get ahead, etc. etc. I will be the first to admit that lots of folks especially leaders (including pastors yall) get hooked on catch phrases of the moment, and life changing books, etc. So I am not claiming that to be the case with this book. If you are not into business reading don't read it...you will not enjoy it. However, there is one concept that is addressed in this book that I believe applies to every aspect of life. The author highlights one of the keystones of moving a company or any organization from "good" to "great" is to have the right people on board. This may not seem like new to most of you...but for me it was one of those common sense awakenings...something that I already knew but never really thought about. The more I thought on this topic I realized that this was not only true in corporate America, but also applied in our personal lives. We all have friend, associates, lovers, whatever you want to call them...who are not the "right people" in our lives. They are not supportive, they are not there for you when you need them, they seem more interested in themselves than in anyone else around them. If we really took a good inventory of the people we carry around in life we would be shocked at how much time we spend on people who don't do anything to add value to our lives. So, in essence, if you want to move yourself from "good" to "great" as a human being...start by looking at those that are around you...and ask yourself - "Are they the right person?" If you are not opposed to reading or listening to a business book check this one out. Good to Great by Jim Collins.

Justices Rule in Favor of Military Recruiters

2006-03-07T03:45:00.000-05:00

The issue of whether or not military recruiters should be allowed to recruit on college campuses in light of the military's anti-gay stance has been one that I have watched with much interest. 35 prominent law schools leb by Washington University challenged the military by banning military recruiters because of the military's position on homosexuality. The Federal government countered that action by threatening to deny any school that adopted similar policies of all federal aid. The Supreme Court's 8-0 ruling in favor of the Pentagon's recruiting forces is a major blow for efforts to erradicate discrimiantion. What is so astounding about this entire issue if that the highest court in the land allows the United States government to use discriminatory hiring practices, while in many other federal and state cases the courts have found corporate america guilty of using the same devices. Why the double standard?

They caught the Bastard!

2006-02-05T09:24:00.000-05:00

Last Thursday I posted an article about an attack at a gay bar in Massachusetts and that the attacker quietly walked out of the bar and had not been seen since. But good news has arrived. He was caught some 1200 miles away from the incident, but not after he hurt 2 other people.

Follow the link below, posted on CNN. There is even a couple videos, one of the victim that was hacked with the hatchet.

http://www.cnn.com/2006/US/02/04/robida.arrest/index.html

At Least 3 Shot In Mass. Gay Bar

2006-02-02T23:17:00.000-05:00

Read this story... Why do people do these things?

(Boston, Massachusetts) A young man with blonde hair and wearing a black coat walked into Puzzles Lounge in New Bedford, Massachusetts early Thursday morning, calmly pulled out a gun and began firing.

There were 18 people in the bar at the time.

Witnesses accounts of what transpired vary. Some people said that the man also was armed with an axe. Others say he had a machete and hatchet.

A bartender told local media that the man asked if the the club was gay and if there were any other gay bars in town. Then he began shooting.

Other witnesses said that the attacker hit a man with the hatchet first and as customers tried to subdue him he began shooting.

Police are still gathering witness accounts.

At least three people were shot - two were shot in the face, the third in the chest. A fourth person was hit on the head with the axe or hatchet.

The gunshot victims were airlifted to Boston hospitals. The fourth victim was taken to St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford.

Their conditions have not been released.

Following the attack the man quietly walked out of the club and has not been seen since.

GIs from celebrated unit in gay porn!

2006-01-28T10:15:00.000-05:00

Wow, I woke up this morning and turned on the internet to my homepage CNN.com. As I browsed the articles, this one just jumped out at me. There are so many website that claim to portray "military dudes" or "GIs"... but for some to be recognized or identified and investigated is wild. The 82nd Airborne Division (Fort Bragg, NC) is definitely one of the most celebrated division in the Army and are known to steadily be deployed to defend the nation and are considered a group of hardcore, die-hard GIs. It is going to be very interesting how the Army deals with this situation and how much information is put out to the public. Let's keep an eye on this story. As homosexuality slowly becomes more mainstream (media, public, churches), it's going to be interesting how the next US president deals with this issue in America's Armed Forces. The link to the article is below... What do you think?

http://www.cnn.com/2006/US/01/27/army.gayporn.ap/index.html

2005 World Aids Day, 1 December 2005

2005-11-16T23:53:00.000-05:00

To find out more go to http://www.worldaidsday.org/index.asp

Where Have We Been?

2005-11-04T23:01:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm sure this posting may catch many of you off guard, because there has been a void in our post for quite a while now. The answer is simple, WE'VE BEEN BUSY! We have both recently had career moves which has actually resulted in us switching position...so maybe I should become midwestbrutha and he should become eastcoastbrutha...I think we will leave things as they are though to avoid confusion. At any rate, the postings will resume on a somewhat regular schedule ...we know you missed us!

They Say, "Distance Makes the Heart Grow Stronger"

2005-09-14T18:57:00.000-05:00

They say it, do you believe it?.... I do! I have not posted in a long time, so I figured I would resurface with a topic that is dear to my heart, Long-distance relationships! My current relationship has pretty much been a long-distance one from day one (celebrated 1 year last month). And now we may both be in transition which will keep us apart for at least another year. So what do you do to make a long distance relationship last? Should you do any more than if you're with someone in the same town or someone you live with? I think there are added measures needed to ensure that the relationship can withstand the distance. For example, communication is key in any relationship, but even more in one when you don't see eachother as much. We make a point to talk to eachother at least twice a day if not more. Make time to visit, we try to see eachother at least once a month and it's worked out thus far with trips for work and personal vacations.

I'm curious to know how many of you out there are in long distance relationships, and what do you see as challenges and what techniques have you used to deal with those challenges?

Until another topic pops in my head....midwestbrutha, out!

Thoughts and Prayers are In New Orleans

2005-08-31T00:18:00.000-05:00

The events that have occurred in the New Orleans area over the past few days have been reported almost constantly through every media outlet, and the devastation is very evident. I would ask that everyone really focus their thoughts on New Orleans and consider supporting the effort of your choice in an attempt to restore this great city. I am not personally advocating the red cross or any other specific agency, but I am sure there will be plenty to choose from. Please, simply ensure that it is a legitimate organization before contributing. New Orleans should be especially considered because of its rich heritage and connection with people of color. The city has been the home to several black mayors and other leaders. Of course it is also very likely that those who were living in the lowest lying areas with the most damages were minorities, based on the obvious economic realities of America. Do what you can, and if nothing else, pray. Pray that the looting, shooting, and other non-productive acts being carried out there cease. CNN Coverage

Should I come out in the local paper?

2005-08-30T18:00:00.000-05:00

I received an e-mail yesterday from a writer at the Patriot-News (The local paper here in PA's capital city). She is interested in doing an article on local bloggers, and invited me to participate. I must say, I was very pleased to get the invitation, but as I started thinking about it I realized something...I have never officially had my "coming out". Now, I am sure some of you might be rolling on the floor at this point, because obviously I have my picture posted on this blog, as well as in my profile (hopefully you wont find it online anywhere else), and those of you who know me personally may be saying...it's no secret, but seriously I have never officially "come out". I have been living in a middle ground of sorts...I don't tell, and no one asks. I would imagine that some of the most shocked folks might be my colleagues at the 9-5, then again they might not be shocked at all. I really think I should do it, because black gay men have to stop being a stereotype, or even worse, this silent segment of society. While we are hiding, we have no voice. Who knows...if and when the story makes it to print I will let you guys know...if I don't chicken out!

What Should I Read Next? Lazarus!

2005-08-27T23:27:00.000-05:00

I usually am ready a couple of thinks at any given moment in time, and I must say that this summer has been pretty busy as far as gay literature is concerned. I have read about 6 new fiction books this summer, some were better than others of course, but I will only mention the ones that I was really feeling here of course. The latest hit in my summer reading program is Lazarus by Rashid Darden. I had Rashid's book for about a month before I started it, only because I was backlogged reading other books, but when I got to it, I found that it was well worth the wait. This book will be especially interesting to anyone who, like I were exploring their sexuality during their college years, also any folks out there involved in or interested in black greek organizations this book will hit dat spot for you too. Really, the book is all around well written, it will definitely keep you flipping the pages. You can find out more about the book and order it at Rashid's website www.oldgoldsoul.com. Keep up the good work Rashid!

Europe is Ahead Again

2005-08-27T23:05:00.000-05:00

The United States prides itself on being on the forefront of almost everything especially any issue concerning Human Rights. We send our troops around the world to "protect" human rights of others all across the globe. We do this while here at home many of our own citizens are denied their rights. We have talked about gays in the military on the site before, and obviously it is not a new topic, but as I read an article about a gay pride parade that took place in Manchester, England yesterday I just had to mention it again. Some may be aware that England has allowed open gays and lesbians to serve in her armed forces since 2000, but I did not quite realize just how open they were to it. In the Manchester parade uniformed troopers and members of the Royal Air Force marched in the parade. The Royal Air Force even had a float, and by the way, these were all official entries on behalf of Britain's Armed Forces. The purpose of their presence: to recruit...it appears that the military leaders in England are interested in recruiting gays and lesbians...to fight alongside our troops in Iraq and elsewhere...I think the Pentagon should be alarmed, some of these gay British soldiers may infiltrate our units! LOL

Farrakhan invites us all to the Millions More Movement Rally

2005-08-27T21:11:00.000-05:00

Well folks, it now appears that Minister Louis Farrakhan has decided to extend an invitation to black gays and lesbians everywhere to take part in the Millions More Movement on October 15th in Washington, DC. This invitation was extended by his inclusion of the National Black Justice Coalition as a co-convener, which allows that organization to be involved in the planning processes. This invitation is in stark contrast to the tone set by Rev. Willie Wilson, who is the Executive Director of the event. As you might recall we wrote about Rev. Wilson a few weeks ago and his blazing anti-lesbian sermon delivered from his pulpit. While this invitation to join the event is rather late, and some may question the ministers motives it really does not matter much, because whether anyone knows it or not there where already tens of thousands of black same gender loving males already planning to be in attendance. What this action does is provides a public presentation of our presence. Also, the NBJC has requested that the organizers allow a gay male and a lesbian to speak at the event. At this point I do not believe that particular request has been granted. The NBJC and other black gay organizations are still planning to have our own rally at 8:00 AM in DC's Freedom Plaza on the day of Millions More. I hope to see lots of you guys there!

It's My Birthday

2005-08-25T21:35:00.000-05:00

Well people it is my day! I turned 27 today...and I am not sure exactly how I feel about it. I have never been one to make a big deal out of birthdays, however this year I do feel a very great deal of gratitude just for being alive and well. I think that is what birthdays really are all about, a type of personal thanksgiving...its also a time for all of your friends and family to celebrate with you and to be thankful for your life, and you being thankful of having them in yours. So to all the other Virgos out there Happy Birthday.

Nearly Half of Us May Already Be Infected. Who Gives a Damn?

2005-08-18T01:39:00.000-05:00

The Black AIDS Institute issued an open letter yesterday to all bi-sexual and gay black men. The letter addresses the grave findings of a recent CDC report which revealed that some 46% of black gay or bi me in the 5 major cities involved in the study were HIV positive. Two-thirds of them were not aware of their status, you may recall the findings were discussed in a previous article on July 1, 2005. The open letter is a call to action...as well as a chastisement to the black community for not reacting to these profound findings. The black community should be declaring a state of emergency, but it appears that many in our community have been mum on the findings. Take time to read the letter and then take action wherever you are. You can find the letter here at the Black AIDS Institute website.

Gay Mexican Man Granted Asylum in U.S.

2005-08-15T22:20:00.000-05:00

A gay Mexican man with HIV was recently granted asylum in the United States after a judge found that he would be in danger if he were returned to his home country because of his sexuality. The judge also cited the fact that the man's ability to access proper treatment would be limited. Now, I am very glad that this particular judge is compassionate to the plight of HIV positive individuals, however this action has caused me to wonder about the direction of domestic "policy" here in America. Many gay men and women need to seek asylum from the very communities that they live in. We have seen a consistent string of violent acts against gays right here in this country, and many states and local jurisdictions are very reluctant to providing protection to those at risk. We also have HIV ravaging our communities, especially in the South at unprecedented rates. All of this is going on without any substantial additional attention by our government. When will we begin to show the same consideration to our own that we seek to extend throughout the world to others in need?

Liberty for All?

2005-08-15T21:26:00.000-05:00

Over the past weekend I had the opportunity to visit Philadelphia with a friend. This being my friends first trip to the city we decided to visit some of the cities historical sites and take in a bit of Americana. Of course, Philadelphia is a city that is very symbolic of freedom in general. Of course the signing of the Declaration of Independence is probably most prominent, the Liberty Bell really caused thoughts to begin stirring in my mind. As some of you may know the Liberty Bell was used very often as a symbol of freedom by Abolitionists seeking to eradicate slavery, some of the images on display at the liberty bell pavilion really helped to associate the bell as a symbol of the freedom movements, both the slavery abolition and the civil rights movements. However as I thought about the proposition of Black American's being free and enjoying liberty many images quickly came to mind of people who are not free at all. Many within our communities are very much captive, some are grappling with drug addiction, some are dealing with confusion over sexuality, and some are struggling with oppressive religious forces, but of all these the most prominent barrier between Black Americans and true freedom are the shackles of the mind. Of course my thoughts are not new, I thought it was time to address the issue here. When I talk to many of our people I quickly realize that many of us are limited by our minds, and a pattern of thinking that has been passed through the generations. Of course the million dollar question is how do we break this cycle? The answer is not simple, but the way to start is to take an individualistic approach. All of us who have seen the light and are no longer trapped within the madness of our own minds have to reach out and talk to our brothers and sisters. We have to share enlightenment with them, even though many of them may not want to hear it initially, we have to keep talking and sharing. Repetition works! Hearing our proclamations of prosperity and success for our people can cause a shift in thinking, but we have to step out and talk about the issues. No longer can we stand by and ignore our brothers and sisters that need our help.

Pioneer John H. Johnson Dies at 87

2005-08-10T02:59:00.000-05:00

Over the years the name John H. Johnson has been synonymous with pride, success, wealth, achievement, and blackness. Johnson, a man from humble beginnings was able to cultivate pure drive and determination into a business and a fortune that was long unmatched in the black community. The publisher of Ebony and Jet magazines not only built personal wealth for himself, he literally broke down the racial barriers that existed in the communications industry and made room for the Black Enterprise, Oprah, BET, and TV One of today. Through his efforts, the black economy was quantified. He proved to America, that black people all over the world had money to spend, and that money equates to economic power. Many people have had varied opinions of Johnson's publications over the years, however no one can dispute their permanent place in the hearts and minds of the black community. If anyone is interested in learning more about Johnson and his life's struggle and success I would suggest reading his autobiography: Succeeding Againts the Odds. This book (one of my favorites) is available directly from Johnson Publishing Company as most bookstores will not have it because it is out of print. Most online booksellers such as Amazon.com do have used copies available.

President Bush 'Playing' Black America

2005-08-02T22:42:00.000-05:00

This is not a new question...it is one that has resonated in some circles since the second President Bush took office, however because of some recent events in the last week, I thought it might be worth bringing it up again. For those of you who do not know, the President once again declined an invitation to speak at the NAACP national convention which was held last week. Now, there are many camps on the NAACP even within the black community, but we all can admit that the NAACP is the dominant civil rights and anti-discriminatory organization in the country. The interesting thing here is not that the president snubbed the NAACP for a second time, but that while snubbing them, he re-arranged his schedule 3 times to accommodate the Boy Scouts of America's annual Jamboree, which is their annual national gathering. Of course the Boy Scouts have made it very clear that they are a discriminatory organization that refuses to allow homosexuals within their ranks, and the courts have determined that they have the right to do so. However, it is very interesting to me that the President of the United States, who is supposed to be representing the interests of all citizens would go to such lengths to accommodate the Boy Scouts, while seemingly making every effort not to attend the NAACP convention.

In addition to his snubs towards the NAACP, the president has also raised some concern by holding meetings with carefully selected "Black Leaders", and not including members of the Congressional Black Caucus. He is known for not being very accessible to the members of congress who are the best representatives of our interests. A few weeks ago, I wrote about Mexican President Vincente Fox and his highly inappropriate comments concerning blacks...but I am concerned that our very own president , although in a more politically correct manor, continually sends the message that our interests are not important. When will we stop allowing the President of this country to play us?

Gay Blood is not Good Enough

2005-08-02T21:43:00.000-05:00

A Tasmanian man is suing the Red Cross because his was denied the opportunity to give blood because he is an active gay man. The Australian Red Cross policy states that any man involved in male to male sexual contact within the preceding 12 months cannot give blood. The Tazmanian man is engaging his country's Human Rights Campaign to protest this highly discriminatory practice. This recent news item caused me to question the American Red Cross' stance on this very sensitive issue, and our national organization actually goes a step further by prohibiting donations from any man who has had sex with another man since 1977. This ban applies even if you have only had sex with a man one time since 1977. Now, the question I really have regarding this policy is: "Does the Red Cross actually think people answer the question truthfully". I wonder because I have answered the question falsely myself in the past, then I finally realized that if my blood was not good enough then I would simply not donate any longer. With testing readily available to detect HIV antibodies, and all of this testing already being performed on every single donation that is processed anyway, such policies are simply discriminatory against our community. I realize that there are some serious implications associated with maintaining the integrity of our nation's and the world's blood supply, but a discriminatory screening process that cannot possibly work properly in practice, and has already been outmoded by blood testing processes really is sending the wrong message.

Millions More March...Be There

2005-07-29T23:06:00.000-05:00

Just over one week ago I posted an article about Rev. Willie Wilson, pastor of the Union Temple Baptist Church in SE DC, who is the leader of the Millions More March, which is the follow-up to the Million Man March held 10 years ago. In that article I discussed and some of you commented on the deeply seeded and hate filled remarks the good reverend made regarding black lesbians, and all gays in general. At the time, I was really undecided on whether or not the black gay community should be supportive of this event or not. My thoughts on this topic spawned further when I received an email from a reader who suggested that our community should be there in an organized fashion. He was unaware of any organized effort, and so was I. Of course, I was still undecided on whether or not we should even be present, however the more I have thought on this matter I've determined that we must make our presence known at this event, and in the largest numbers possible, even if it is in spite of some organizers. If we do not step forward and take this stand demanding our own self respect, we will once again be relegated to the closet that the larger black society tends to push us into. The more we are heard and seen, the more accepting and educated the black community becomes of us and our concerns. Also, these types of displays (with our participation) will provide confidence and example to others within our world who might not have reached the comfort point yet for fear of societies treatment. Keith Boykin informed me that his organization, the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) is organizing an event in coordination with the MMM. Information can be found on their website at http://www.nbjcoalition.org/.

What a Difference a Name Makes

2005-07-20T13:46:00.000-05:00

Chaniqua, Jaquita, Bionte, Shaquita, or Beyonce...what do they all have in common? Well, according to the National Bureau of Economic Research these young ladies are all less likely to achieve academically, they will also have more trouble finding jobs, getting loans, and getting ahead in life. Why? All because of their names. The Bureau did a study that spanned from 1994 to 2001, looking very closely at names popular within the African-American community that in general society make it very easy to identify, or assume ones ethnic identity. As a part of the research, they also compared siblings, those with indentifying names, and those without. It seems that many of the educators involved in these surveys have negative impressions of children with names such as these. This of course leads to less attention given to that student, which results in lower achievement. Of course, in the job market, we know that discrimination exists, however these names serve as an identifying factor on resumes that can prevent us from getting in the door. So who is to blame in this mess, should parents be blamed for naming their children as they saw fit, or should educators and corporate America be called out for the prejudiced approach they have taken? I think there is some blame on both sides, because as black people we know what we face daily from society, we also know what perceptions are out there, so why should we do anything to make life more difficult for our children. While we have to take responsibility for that side of it, educators or any other human being alive who carries these types of impressions is not fit for the position they occupy. They are doing a disservice to children everywhere.

Why don't we focus on Rick Santorum's Gayness?

2005-07-20T12:14:00.000-05:00

Who is Rick Santorum, and why is he on a blog about black gay life, you might ask...well Mr. Santorum is a republican senator from Pennsylvania, who ranks #3 in the senate. He is also one of the fiercest opponents to GLBT issues, and has spoken out against our community and our lives countless times. Well, it appears that one of his senior staffers, Robert Traynham has been outed as being a gay black male. Of course, with this revelation, the news media has been in buzz mode of course questioning Santorum's record on GLBT issues, but also spending much time on Mr. Traynham, exploring questions like "How can you work for a politician like Santorum", etc. Of course, initially I asked myself the same question, and I have avoided commenting on this issue, until I was clear on my own position on the matter. On one hand, I question how any of us can question Robert Traynham, when most of us work for corporations or individuals, who are not exactly staunch supporters of our causes, black or gay in most cases. So what makes his scenario so wrong? The primary issue here in the hearts and minds of gays and especially black gays everywhere is that when you enter the political arena, no longer are you simply "doing a job". When we look at prominent black figures in the political arena, (Condoleeza Rice, Colin Powell, etc.) we view their affiliations, and support of their respective employers as representative of their own beliefs. It has been reported that when confronted on this issue, Mr. Traynham sys he is supportive of the Senator. Now, whether these are his genuine feelings, or his attempt to save face professionally, we may never know, but for our agenda to advance, those of us who are in positions of influence must stand up. As long as we stay hidden in our closets...we are right where they want us.

DC Black Leader 'Goes Off' on Homophobic Rampage

2005-07-20T11:51:00.000-05:00

Why do Some Black Minister's Work to Divide Race?

Rev. Willie Wilson, pastor of Union Temple Baptist Church in Southeast Washington DC and national executive director of the Millions More Movement to mark the 10th anniversary of the Million Man March in October, warned his congregation that "Sisters making more money than brothers and it's creating problems in families that's one of the reasons many of our women are becoming lesbians." This rampage is in sharp contrast to an effort Wilson championed to bring the black community together despite our differences a few years ago.

Wilson stated "I ain't homophobic because everybody here got something wrong with him, he said. But a women falling down on another woman, strapping yourself up with something, it ain't real. That thing ain't got no feeling in it. It ain't natural. Anytime somebody got to slap some grease on your behind and stick something in you, it's something wrong with that. Your butt ain't made for that." Now, first of all, his insinuation that a homosexual person has "something wrong with them" is ludacris and a perfect example of the uneducated views that exist. Also, I have to question the almost explicit depiction of sexual activities between two SGL personunnecessaryas unecessary, and reminds me of some x-rated literature...which I am sure Rev. Wilson would not endorse!

As we already stated, Rev. Wilson is the head of Louis Farrakhan's Millions More Movement, whose objective is to commemorate the Million Man March's 10th anniversary. Rev. Wilson previously met with activist Keith Boykin and agreed to an inclusive movement this time around. I would have to question his commitment to inclusion, given his recent comments. Just one more example of our religious leaders trying to divide the black community. What do you think?

NAACP Chairman Reaffirms His Commitment to Racial, Religious, and Gay Minorities

2005-07-12T21:27:00.000-05:00

Renewing his attack on conservatives and the Bush administration Sunday, NAACP chairman Julian Bond accused national leaders of rolling back past civil rights gains, crippling efforts to battle racism and undermining democracy.

"The President likes to talk to the talk, but he doesn't walk the walk," Bond told members at the annual convention of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

President Bush has turned down five invitations to attend NAACP gatherings, including this year's, and Bond on Sunday invited Bush to the next one, in Washington.

"Mr. President, we're extending the invitation a year in advance," Bond said. "We want to see you and we want you to see us -- we want to know you think you're our president, too."

Bond also addressed an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, which has said NAACP officials' political statements are partisan comments that violate the group's nonprofit status.

"They may try to intimidate us into silence," Bond said, "but we will not be frightened away from the truth."

The Baltimore-based nonprofit, which has struggled in recent years to raise money, this year faced allegations that former president Kweisi Mfume granted workplace favors to an NAACP employee with whom he had a relationship.

The national board last month selected a new president, retired Verizon executive Bruce S. Gordon, who has pledged to raise an endowment and improve efficiencies in the organization. He is expected to be confirmed Thursday.

The group's 96th convention, a six-day event, is being attended by more than 8,000 people, including 2,200 young adults.

Republican Rep. James Sensenbrenner of Wisconsin also spoke to the group Sunday evening, saying he would help fight for reauthorization of the Voting Rights Act, portions of which are due to expire in 2007.

"The stakes have not been higher on this in the last 25 years," Sensenbrenner said.

Bond stressed the convention's theme, Conscience of a Nation, saying the NAACP has been a pivotal force in shaping the U.S. and plans to continue doing so.

"There is not a single American -- black, white, male, female, Christian, Muslim or Jewish, straight or gay -- who is not a beneficiary of the work the NAACP did in the past or is doing today," Bond said. But, he said, "the enemies of justice and fair play" are trying to "steal the just spoils of our righteous war."

He criticized Democrats who agreed recently to support conservative judicial nominees. And he pointed to conservative blacks and some black churches that receive federal funding and promote conservative causes such as attacking affirmative action.

Earlier Sunday, civil rights advocates and other NAACP officials echoed those sentiments, saying blurring the lines between religious groups and politics threatens equal opportunity.

Democratic Rep. Bobby Scott of Virginia said religious groups that receive federal funding for social programs are increasingly hostile to program participants who disagree with their views on social issues.

"When you allow discrimination based on religion in federal programs, you lose all your moral authority to enforce civil rights legislation," Scott said.