WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama says that while he's dedicated to expanding gay rights, many Americans still cling to what he calls "worn arguments and old attitudes."

At a White House celebration of Gay Pride Month, Obama said, "There are good and decent people in this country who don't yet fully embrace their gay brothers and sisters -- not yet." To change that, the president said he has promoted gay rights in front of skeptical groups like members of black churches.

Obama said Congress should repeal what he referred to as "the so-called Defense of Marriage Act." He also said his administration is working to pass a hate crimes bill and to repeal the "don't ask, don't tell" policy on gays in the military.

The audience at the White House ceremony included Episcopal Bishop Gene Robinson and other gay clergy.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
AP-NY-06-30-09 0335EDT