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Wednesday's White House reception to commemorate President Obama's signing of the hate crimes bill was an emotional and poignant affair, as family members of James Byrd and Matthew Shepard shared the stage with the president during his remarks.
There was, however, a moment of humor. As Obama finished speaking, he stepped down to shake hands with those standing in the front row. Among them was Cyndi Lauper, looking fit and eternally youthful as always. I was standing nearby and caught their brief exchange. When Obama reached Lauper, it was clear that he recognized her instantly. "Oh, I love you," he said.
I couldn't hear what she said in response, but Obama then told her that Lady Gaga was copying her style and that Lauper is "the original." I couldn't agree more.
The Washington Post caught Obama and Lauper's meeting in this photo.
Lauper graciously posed for photos with her many fans in the crowd after Obama made his exit. The reception, sponsored by the David Bohnett Foundation, brought together many LGBT rights supporters on the Hill, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, gay Reps. Frank, Baldwin and Polis, Attorney General Eric Holder and even Sen. Arlen Specter. It was a historic and moving night, with a dash of pop culture humor for levity.
 Posted by Kevin Naff,
Washington Blade Editor | Oct. 30 at
5:49 AM | knaff@washblade.com
Permalink: http://www.washblade.com/blog/blog.cfm?blog_id=27856
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