Activists: Stick with change vow

CHICAGO – With opponents speaking out at health care town halls and “Tea Party” demonstrations, supporters of President Obama gathered Tuesday in the Chicago park where he gave his election night speech to celebrate and encourage his mantra of change.

A group that included the Rev. Jesse Jackson, proponents of immigration reform and gay rights activists signed a letter praising how far Obama has come on health care reform. The letter also asked the president to quickly address issues such as immigration, unemployment and the environment.

“Opposition to significant change is always fierce ... Protectors of the broken status quo predictably attempt to manipulate fear to block reforms in many arenas,” the letter read. “On this anniversary of your election we urgently ask that you show ... courage in support of everyday Americans and the common good.”

The hometown praise comes as Obama faces scrutiny for not acting quicker on immigration reform, climate change issues and to repeal the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy on gays in the military.