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In 2013 John Arthur passed away; only a few months earlier, Jim Obergefell married him in Maryland. Gay marriages had not yet been legalized in Obergefells home state; meaning he was not legally recognized as Arthur’s widow. When Obergefells case reached the supreme court he had the ability to change marriage laws all over America. Although it was more controversial at the time, Obama showed his full support of gay marriage and had been doing so since 2012. Obama supported the repeal of Anti-Gay acts such as the Defense of Marriage Act. Having a leader such as Obama who openly accepts and advocates for the rights of marginalized groups creates a strong sense of trust in those who don't usually have much in their government officials.

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The President Speaks on the Supreme Court’s Decision on Marriage Equality

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President Obama delivers remarks in the Rose Garden heralding the Supreme Court's ruling that gay and lesbian couples have the right to marry in America. #LoveWins

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Today laws are continuously being passed that restrict LGBTQ+ rights. Even though Obama had been in support of a major leap, there is still action to be taken as states continue to pass anti-LGBTQ+ laws. The repeal of laws such as Roe v. Wade may seem unconnected to LGBTQ+ rights however Human Rights Attorney Cathryn Oakley stated that accessing contraception could become much more difficult along with access to fertility treatments also being jeopardized. The conflict between pro and anti LGBTQ+ rights still continues to this day; however, the support of former government does leave a strong mark on the community.

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On December 12, 2012, Adam Lanza shot and killed 20 kids and 6 staff members at Sandy hook Elementary school in Newtown Connecticut, prior to the event he had also fatally shot his mother. After 10 minutes the police arrived at the scene and Lanza shot and killed himself. Obama spoke on the shooting shortly after it occurred, with sincerity and empathy he opened his speech commemorating those lost, those who have lost, and those who have aided. Admiring the town for their courage in adversity Obama spoke about the unity and strength that America as a whole must have through difficult times. Not only did he address the highlights and strength that shadowed through, but he also discussed the lack of reform happening in order to keep children safe. Although many gun owners across America did not enjoy the idea of stricter gun laws, those that are pro gun control were pleased to have a voice on the lack of change and justice happening.

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President Obama Makes a Statement on the Shooting in Newtown, Connecticut

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School Walkouts Planned Across America in Protest of Gun Violence

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Years after Obamas presidency, the need for gun control rises. Gun violence is still being seen through mass shootings and government officials continue to turn a blind eye. Although Obama did agree and push for stricter gun laws, he left more of an impact on the youth of this country, encouraging them to use their freedom of speech to advocate for themselves and others. Today, gun laws are still being protested in hopes of a stricter regime for safety.

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9/11 had greatly impacted the nation leaving thousands of families devastated and at a loss. Almost ten years after 9/11 the leader of terrorist group al Qaeda had finally been located and killed by the american government. The C.I.A had been unsuccessful in locating Osama bin Laden until April when he was located in Abbottabad, Pakistan. On May 1st bin Laden was killed. That same night, Obama addressed the United States, informing the country of his death and the dedication the government has to end terrorism. After Obama made his speech many came to the celebration and support of Americas efforts to end terrorism.

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President Obama on Death of Osama bin Laden

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Just recently in 2023 a counter terrorism conference was held. During that conference Christopher Wray, the Director of the FBI, spoke about how terrorism isn't nearly as big as a threat it was years ago, however he did commemorate the hard work and efforts of counter terrorism in the years before, especially after 2001. Although today terrorism hasn't had as big effect on our nation efforts are still being made within our government to ensure it remains that way.