As we move closer toward equality in the United States, over 2.7 billion people live in a world where it is criminal to be lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT). Act now to ensure that the U.S. remains a strong leader in the global fight for LGBT rights.
Add your name to our letter telling Secretary of State John Kerry we need to appoint a senior official to put the spotlight on LGBT issues internationally. Let's show the world that hate is not an American value.
Tell Secretary Kerry: We need a senior official on LGBT human rights at the State Department.
Dear Secretary Kerry,
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people around the world. Under your leadership, the State Department has continued to prioritize this crucial human rights issue -- but we can do more.
Despite the progress we have made, 78 countries around the world still criminalize same-sex relationships. Additionally, as many as 10 punish same-sex conduct with the death penalty and three have instituted "anti-propaganda" laws that restrict the freedom of speech, expression and association of LGBT advocates and allies.
In the face of this ongoing discrimination, we believe it is essential that the State Department have a senior official to spearhead and be a public face for the Federal government's efforts to protect and advance human rights for LGBT people internationally. The State Department has already created senior level positions on special areas, including climate issues, international energy affairs and combating anti-Semitism. The upcoming UN General Assembly meetings provide an opportunity to announce the new position dedicated to the human rights of LGBT people.
As the Human Rights Campaign works to improve the lives of LGBT individuals in the U.S. and around the world, we know that "victory" is rarely clear cut. For example, while Uganda's constitutional court recently overturned their Anti-Homosexuality Act on procedural grounds, the law's proponents still say that they are undeterred and will introduce a new bill soon.
[Your comments here]
Putting an end to such discriminatory laws takes effort and constant focus. A dedicated State Department official, working side-by-side with HRC and other advocates and allies, will bring us closer to full LGBT equality.
Sincerely,
[Your name here]
