A sad Barney Frank gave an interview to CNN Host Jake Tapper recently. He rambled on about how the LGBTQ community needs to be flexible about transgender issues so that we don’t get bogged down in political disputes. As one commentator noted, in the 1990’s political compromises produced “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” and “Defense of Marriage” Acts that set the movement back decades. We also were reminded that courts and not the Congress gave us our advantages.

During his time in Congress from 1981 - 2013, Barney often spoke as the only gay man in the House. Journalists would call him for comments on LGBTQ issues that came up. He came from a progressive state that was far ahead of others in recognizing the LGBTQ community. As a long-time serving Congressman, he was involved in a wide range of legislation on many issues. He reached the pinnacle of power while serving as the Chair of the House Financial Services Committee. During his tenure, the world of LGBTQ changed greatly.

He faced controversy over his relationships with two successive partners before he publicly came out. He was married in Massachusetts in 2012. He also faced some controversies over his relationships with Fannie Mae, but he avoided any censure.

To his defense, I also have the opinion that the Human Rights Campaign was not particularly politically astute either. They gave a lot more than they got, but it took a new decade of political activists who were more aggressive.

I was sad to see his diminished condition as he was entering hospice care. I think he waited too late for his final interview. At his peak, he was entertaining and quick-witted so he was often sought for his opinion.

In spite of the current Trump Administration’s hostility, we have seen a large improvement in LGBTQ rights and public acceptance in the past 20 years. The radical right will never understand us, or make any effort to do so. They are emotionally invested in defending what they see as an attack on religion. If they more carefully read the Bible, they would see that Jesus welcomed everyone.

The current Republican-controlled Congress is openly hostile to the LGBTQ community, especially transgender. In a short time, their status has been reversed in government and in the military. Hundreds of bills also have been introduced in the state houses to satisfy the radical right.

History has judged Barnet Frank harshly, but he was a victim of the times as much as anyone else. It took some time to find his voice, but then he used it well.

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