President Obama’s immigration policy came under direct challenge Wednesday from a heckler at the White House. As Obama spoke to a gathering celebrating LGBT Pride Month, an undocumented LGBT activist from Mexico called for an end to deportations.
President Obama: “I want to thank all of you—advocates, organizers, friends, families—for being here today. And over the years, we’ve gathered to celebrate Pride Month, and I’ve told you that I’m so hopeful about what we can accomplish. I’ve told you that the civil rights of LGBT Americans”—
Jennicet Gutiérrez: “President Obama”—
President Obama: “Yeah, hold on a second.”
Jennicet Gutiérrez: “Release all LGBTQ detention centers! President Obama, stop the torture and abuse of trans women in detention centers! President Obama, I am a trans woman. I’m tired of the abuse. I’m tired [inaudible]”—
President Obama: “Listen, you’re in my house.”