By Senior Political Producer, Pamela Gentry 

Posted Oct. 26, 2007  – A grassroots effort to bring Barack Obama’s (D-Ill.) campaign to South Carolinians with music and song has hit a sour note, as the controversy surrounding the events host, pastor/gospel singer Donnie McClurkin, has taken center stage. 

A concert tour scheduled to kick off today was designed to introduce Obama to Black folks in the first southern primary state.  “Embrace the Change” is the theme and folks would hear the story of how Obama’s family values and faith have shaped his leadership.

But the selection of McClurkin as the host has taken the spotlight off the candidate and onto the issue of homosexuality.  McClurkin’s reputation as anti-homosexual has riled gay rights activists.  They charge that McClurkin, who they say is an outspoken critic of homosexuality, sends the wrong message for Obama, who touts his inclusiveness and ability to unite disparate communities. 

 This controversy has put the Obama camp on the defensive.  In an effort to calm the controvesery surrounding the “40 Days of Faith and Family” tour, Obama’s campaign is seeking middle ground in hopes of not isolating any support or any votes – emphasis on “any.”

In an open letter, Obama’s supporters urge voters to recognize him as the best alternative among the candidates running for the White House.  

The letter states: “It is clear that Barack Obama is the only candidate who has made bringing these two often disparate groups together a goal. In gatherings of LGBT Americans and African Americans of faith, Obama has stated that all individuals should be afforded full civil rights regardless of their sexual orientation, and that homophobia must be eradicated in every corner of our nation. If we are to end homophobia and secure full civil rights for gay Americans, then we need an advocate within the Black community like Barack Obama.

“At the same time, while Obama has said that he “strongly disagrees” with Pastor McClurkin’s comments, he will not exclude from his campaign the many Americans including many in the African American community who believe the same as Pastor McClurkin.

“We believe that Barack Obama is constructing a tent big enough for LGBT Americans who know that their sexual orientation is an innate and treasured part of their being, and for African American ministers and citizens who believe that their religion prevents them from fully embracing their gay brothers and sisters. And if we are to confront our shared challenges we have to join together, build on common ground, and engage in a civil dialogue even when we disagree.”

If the tour goes forward as planned, it will begin in Charleston and move through Greenwood and Columbia. Gospel stars include Mary Mary, Byron Cage, Fred Hammond, and the gospel quartet the Mighty Clouds of Joy.

Do you think  Obama is doing the right thing by trying to keep everybody happy?