Just visibility of LGBT voices themselves was essential, as the likes of out Reps. Barney Frank and Tammy Baldwin, as well as DNC Treasurer Andrew Tobias, staked out prominent spots both on the podium and behind the scenes.

From ailing but still dynamic Sen. Ted Kennedy: "Barack Obama will close the book on the old politics of race and gender and group against group and straight against gay."

From former President Bill Clinton: "The values of freedom and equal opportunity, which have given him his historic chance, will drive him as president to give all Americans—regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability—their chance to build a decent life and to show our humanity, as well as our strengths, to the world."

Sen. Hillary "No way. No how. No McCain" Clinton: "(We want) to fight for an America defined by deep and meaningful equality—from civil rights to labor rights, from women's rights to gay rights."