This is a quick review of the progress, or lack thereof, that was made during the previous year.  There has been movement which is always positive but those who are affected by this will say so far its not enough.

Senate Hearings

There were Senate hearings for the Uniting American Families Act for which Shirley Tan testified.  It was an extremely emotional appearance which put a face to the struggle that gay and lesbian people have to go through in order to remain together in the US.  Shirley Tan, who described herself as an ordinary mother just wanting to care for her family, won Advocate magazines Activist of 2009.

HIV Ban Lifted

Obama lifted the ban on those living with HIV being able to travel or to immigrate to the US.  Among immigration advocates this was seen as an amazing step forward.  PBS Article.

Uniting American Families Act Co-sponsors

HR1024 in the House now has 118 co-sponsors, sadly no one new has signed up since 6th November.  S424 in the Senate has 23 co-sponsors, again no one signing up since 18th November.  Maybe this isn’t being taken seriously until immigration reform is addressed next year.

Reuniting Families Act

Congressman Mike Honda introduced the Reuniting Families Act (H.R. 2709) which addresses America’s current broken system and keeping families together in the US.  Mike Honda said that immigrants are more successful with a family safety net surrounding them and the current backlogs in the system are causing great strain on people.  An LGBT element has been included within this legislation is such a way it cannot be compromised in any way.  This legislation is likely to be addressed during 2010 as part of wider immigration reform.

As of January 1st, 2010 this bill has 76 co-sponsors.

Press and Publicity

There certain has been more publicity for this issue than ever before, following are some articles of note:

• Gay couples should be allowed to stay together in the United States – Washington Post
• Bill Proposes Immigration Rights for Gay Couples – New York Times
• Comprehensive, Inclusive Immigration Reform: The Most Important Gift of All – Huffington Post
• Same-sex couples seek immigration benefit – Associated Press
• Legislation Watch: A Nation of Immigrants – The Nation
• Desperately Seeking Freedom – Newsweek