WASHINGTON — Rep. Barney Frank, an openly gay member of Congress, said he would rather see gay-rights supporters lobbying their elected officials than marching in Washington this weekend, calling the demonstration “a waste of time at best.”
Frank said in an interview with The Associated Press that he considers such demonstrations to be “an emotional release” that does little to pressure Congress.
“The only thing they’re going to be putting pressure on is the grass,” the Massachusetts Democrat said Friday.
Thousands of gay men and women are expected to gather today for the National Equality March. Many gay- rights advocates have criticized President Barack Obama for not moving faster to keep his campaign promises to extend gay rights, and Congress has also drawn flak for not doing more.
This weekend’s activities won’t have much impact with lawmakers, Frank said, because most of them are back in their states or districts for the Columbus Day holiday. The Associated Press
