Hillary Clinton: All Love is Equal

Hillary Clinton ‏@HillaryClinton

All love is equal. It's time for marriage equality.

Hillary Clinton ‏@HillaryClinton 

"Some have suggested that gay rights and human rights are separate and distinct—in fact, they are one and the same."

Hillary Clinton To Speak! (No, probably not about that.)

The metaphor of Hillary Clinton waiting in the wings has run through these pages before in both words and images.  Hillary Clinton can look tantalizingly attractive as she waits to take the podium, and,  for her supporters, the natural thought progression migrates to the steps of the Capitol on a January morning in 2016 in the rough-and-tumble, lickety-split manner of The Pokey Little Puppy's litter mates.

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton waits to walk onto stage to speak at the third annual U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue (S&ED) at the Department of the Interior in Washington May 9, 2011.
REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque

How fitting that the week and month that begin with April Fool's Day should herald Mme. Secretary's first three public speaking engagements as she emerges from her cocoon as a full-blown private citizen for the first time in decades while, in the outside world, Hillary-Fever hits epidemic proportions making fools of some. In cable media, every self-respecting host devotes at least one segment to the Hillary Effect while the print media, bloggers, and Facebook groups offer, according to their place on the political spectrum, varied speculation on what Hillary Clinton could possibly be up to as she so coquettishly keeps us waiting for her answer to the Big Question.

 Memory can be short.  Those who stood shoulder to shoulder with Hillary through the brutal 2008 primary campaign tend to be more circumspect about what a campaign would entail, how it might roll out, and the degree to which Hillary's current sky high poll numbers might hold in a campaign setting.  Ironically, among some of the louder and more self-assured voices are those who assaulted her most viciously in 2008.  On his Sunday show yesterday, Chris Matthews stated with all the certainty in the world that "Hillary Clinton has given every indication that she is running..." which, of course she has not and has taken pains to avoid.  At counterpoint to this is Jim Rutenberg in yesterday's New York Times who actually took the trouble to speak with Hillary's spokesman Philippe Reines and exuded no such certainty.  It is not a stretch to imagine Matthews and his ilk to be dangling her out there as a pretty, candy-filled piñata waiting to be bashed once again when the new flavor of the month arises.  Who that might be I leave to speculation, but judging from responses to my tweets and Facebook posts a particular name proliferates.   True Hillary loyalists must regard current endorsements and their sources with a glance in the rear view mirror and a healthy dose of skepticism.

The only credible news is that Hillary Clinton will speak twice this week.  Tomorrow in Washington D.C. at Kennedy Center for the annual Vital Voices Global Leadership Awards and again on Friday at Lincoln Center in New York at the annual Women in the World Summit.   Her first official paid speaking event is scheduled for April 24 in Dallas.  Despite a rally scheduled for tomorrow evening outside Kennedy Center and promoted by the Ready for Hillary SuperPAC,  it is most unlikely that what we will hear her say will have anything to do with running for president.  It is far more likely, as reflected in Kathleen Parker's excellent piece in Newsweek for Women in the World, that we shall hear her directly address the question of how her initiatives for women, established under the the auspices of the State Department, will continue  now that she no longer occupies her State Department post.

Can the Hillary Effect sustain itself without the Hillary? ( Thomas Whiteside/Jed Root )

The Hillary Effect

Will Clinton’s Agenda Survive?

by Kathleen Parker

The Hillary Effect has spread across the globe. But how well will it last without Hillary at the helm?

Read the article >>>>

Aside from a summary of how her agenda remains underpinned at the State Department, it seems realistic to expect an announcement of some private initiative on her part to continue addressing women's issues on a global basis.  At both of these events she will have no dearth of strong women leaders from all over the world surrounding her who surely would join any campaign she embarks upon to advance the causes - the many causes of women - from education, to security in sending one's children to school, to human trafficking, to marrying whom one chooses, to running businesses and running for political office. 

While the next presidential election remains years away, daily, in many cultures, child brides are promised like chattel.  Assuredly, Mme. Secretary timed her marriage equality video for release prior to last week's SCOTUS arguments, but the message resounds more broadly than the LGBT community, and women, who drive economies, who are the growers, makers, students, educators, and shoppers have their greatest impact when they are free rather than subjugated by fathers and by husbands they have not chosen.  That aspect of marriage equality, the full equality of citizens,  and its implications for women and girls is likely to arise among the many issues confronting women in the world today.

No, it is not likely that Hillary Clinton will have an announcement about a presidential campaign when she emerges from behind her curtain this week, but there is certain to be a campaign nonetheless.  There will be a platform, and as is always the case with Hillary Clinton, there will also be a blueprint for building the social structure she conceives.

Hillary Clinton in Support of Gay Marriage

The Human Rights Campaign has released a video by Hillary Clinton in support of marriage equality. In part, the HRC states:

We are honored to have Secretary Clinton’s moving statement as part of our Americans for Marriage Equality series.  Now that she has left office and can speak publicly about the issue that is so important to all of us, Hillary shares her experience as Secretary and what she learned while representing our country around the world, and what she has come to believe.

A little over a year ago in Geneva. I told the nations of the world that gay rights are human rights and human rights are gay rights. And that the United States would be a leader in defending those rights.
Now there were some countries that did not want to hear that. But I believe America is at its best when -- -- the freedom and dignity of every human being. That's who we are it's in our DNA.
And as secretary of state. I had the privilege to represent. That America.
I will never forget the young Tunisian who asked me after the revolution in his country. How America could teach his new democracy. To protect the rights of its LG BT citizens.
He saw America. As an example for the world and as a beacon of hope. That's what was in my mind as I engaged in some pretty tough conversations with foreign leaders.
Who did not accept that human rights apply to everyone. Gay and straight. When I directed our diplomats around the world.
To combat -- -- -- laws and reach out to the brave activists fighting on the front lines. And when I changed State Department policy to ensure that our LG BT families are treated more fairly. Traveling the world these past four years reaffirmed and -- my pride in our country in the ideals we stand for.
It also inspired and challenged to me. To -- -- -- about who we are in the values we represented the world. Now having left public office I want to share some of what I've learned.
And what I've come to believe. For America to continue leading in the world there is work we must do here at home. That means investing in our people our economy our national security.
It also means working every day as citizens. As communities as -- country. To live up to our highest ideals and continue.
Our long march to a more perfect union. LG BT Americans. Our our colleagues.
Our teachers our soldiers our friends. Our -- ones. And they are full and equal citizens and deserve the rights of citizenship.
That includes marriage. That's why I support marriage for lesbian and gay couples. I supported personally and as a matter of policy and law.
Imbedded in a broader effort to advance equality and opportunity for LG BT Americans and all Americans. Like so many others my personal views have been shaped over time by people I have known and loved. By my experience representing our nation on the world stage.
My devotion to law and human rights and the guiding principles of my faith. Marriage after all is a fundamental. Building block of our society.
A great joy and yes a great responsibility. A few years ago bill and I celebrated as our own daughter married the love of her life and I wish every parent that same joy. To deny the opportunity to any of our daughters and sons solely on the basis of who they are and who they love.
Is to deny them the chance. To live up to their own god given potential. Throughout our history as our nation has become even more dedicated.
To the protection of liberty and justice for all. More open to the contributions of all our citizens. It has also become stronger.
More competitive. More ready for the future. It benefits every American.
When we continue on that path. I know that many in our country still struggle to reconcile. The teachings of their religion the poll of their conscience.
The personal experiences they have in their families and communities. And people of goodwill and good faith will continue to view this issue differently. So I hope that as we discuss and debate whether it's around -- kitchen table or in the public square.
We do so in a spirit respect. And understanding. Conversations with our friends our families our congregations.
Our coworkers. Are opportunities to share our own reflections. And to invite others to share there's.
They give us a chance to find that common ground. And a path forward. For those of us who lived through the long years of the civil rights and women's rights movements.
The speed with which more and more people have come to embrace the dignity and equality. -- LG BT Americans has banned breath taking. And inspiring.
We see -- all around us every day in major cultural statements. And in quiet family moments. But the journey is far from over and therefore we must keep working to make our country freer and -- And to continue to inspire the -- the world puts in -- leadership. In doing so we will keep moving closer and closer to that more perfect union promised to us all. Thank you.

The transcript comes compliments of ABC News to which the web administration at HRC kindly pointed us

The Human Rights Day speech of December 6, 2011 to which she refers can be viewed and read here:   Video: Secretary Clinton’s Human Rights Day Speech, December 6, 2011

Tomorrow: On Hillary Clinton's Agenda

Secretary Clinton To Deliver Remarks at the Gays and Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies 20th Anniversary Celebration

Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC

November 27, 2012

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On Wednesday, November 28, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton will deliver remarks at the 20th Anniversary Celebration of Gays and Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies (GLIFAA), the State Department’s officially recognized employee affinity group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) employees.
Today, under the leadership of Secretary Clinton, LGBT employees at the State Department and their families have a level of benefits and recognition never before seen in foreign affairs agencies of the U.S. government. Most notably, Secretary Clinton is responsible for the extension of the full range of legally available benefits and allowances to same-sex domestic partners of Foreign Service members serving overseas. She also instituted the 2010 revision of the Department’s equal employment opportunity policy to prohibit discriminatory treatment of employees and job applicants based on gender identity.
Advocating for employees of the Department of State, the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Peace Corps, the Foreign Agricultural Service, the Foreign Commercial Service, and the Millennium Challenge Corporation, and all foreign affairs units of the U.S. government, GLIFAA works to ensure full parity for LGBT personnel and their families in U.S. foreign affairs agencies serving both domestically and abroad.
GLIFAA began in 1992 to challenge a security clearance process that at the time discriminated against LGBT employees. GLIFAA has grown since that time to include hundreds of members and associates and become the officially recognized voice of LGBT personnel in U.S. foreign affairs agencies.
Members of the GLIFAA Board meet regularly with the management of the State Department, USAID, and other agencies to discuss ideas and solutions to address the continued concerns of LGBT personnel and their families. The issuance of a non-discriminatory policy by then Secretary of State Warren Christopher in 1994 was an early success. In the summer of 2009, GLIFAA was instrumental in encouraging the Department of State to grant Eligible Family Member (EFM) status to domestic partners of Department employees and to their children. This change was followed by a number of other agencies which send employees overseas.
Secretary Clinton, Counselor and Chief of Staff Cheryl Mills, Deputy Administrator Donald Steinberg, and GLIFAA President Ken Kero-Mentz will deliver remarks. Congressman David Cicilline, GLIFAA co-founder David Buss, and Deputy Assistant Secretary Daniel Baer will also participate in the program. The event will take place in the U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin Franklin Dining Room from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

These pictures are from a GLIFAA event in June 2011.

Happy Independence Day!

IN CONGRESS, JULY 4, 1776

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America

hen in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

Read more>>>

While it may be an accident of history that the storming of the Stonewall occurred in the month directly preceding Independence Day leading to the designation of June as LGBT Pride Month, it is eminently appropriate that in the run-up to Independence Weekend, here and in other countries as noted in an earlier post, Secretary Clinton began last week with her wrap-up of Pride Month hosting a GLIFAA event.

One could argue that there are no coincidences; that nothing happens by accident. Given the preponderance of independence days at this time of year, one could lay the casting off of fetters to the same conditions that today have military leaders worried about troop drawbacks in Afghanistan on the cusp of the Taliban fighting season.

It could easily have been fears of a long, hot summer of gay uprisings that caused the police to storm the Stonewall, although the concept causes me to smile. What kind of NYPD force would admit being scared of guys who just want to dance with each other? Well, whatever the reason might have been, the upshot has been a Pride Month that this year attained critical mass with the New York State Senate passing a gay marriage bill that resounded around the country and the world.

The LGBT community built up a lot of momentum in the past 10 days. It should come as no surprise to that community nor to candidates for and occupants of public office that this is a voting bloc. It is richer and more powerful than anyone can really speculate due to huge numbers of professionals of every stripe who remain closeted even now for very good and well-considered reasons of their own.

As a new general election season commences, the LGBT community does well to assess its own power, and candidates do well to consider the consequences of alienating this bloc.

A kind reader who attended Secretary Clinton's GLIFAA event on Monday, Derek Brown, was generous enough to share the photos he took.

Here, in celebration of Independence Weekend, is a slideshow of some of his pictures. Our lovely Mme. Secretary has long been on the right side of history on this issue. It is not new to her.

Thank you so much, Derek!

Additional photos of this event are posted at Derek's gallery here.

SECRETARY HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON: Public Schedule for June 27, 2011

Public Schedule for June 27, 2011

Public Schedule

Washington, DC

June 27, 2011

---

SECRETARY HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON

9:15 a.m. Secretary Clinton meets with the Assistant Secretaries, at the Department of State.
(CLOSED PRESS COVERAGE)

10:25 a.m. Secretary Clinton delivers remarks at an event co-hosted by the Department of State and Gays and Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies (GLIFAA) in celebration of LGBT Pride Month, in the Dean Acheson Auditorium at the Department of State.
(OPEN PRESS COVERAGE)
Watch live on www.state.gov.

2:00 p.m. Secretary Clinton releases the 2011 Trafficking in Persons Report, in the Benjamin Franklin Room at the Department of State.

(OPEN PRESS COVERAGE)
Watch live on www.state.gov.

5:00 p.m. Secretary Clinton hosts a reception in honor of departing Under Secretary McHale, at the Department of State.
(CLOSED PRESS COVERAGE)

Press Statement Hillary Rodham Clinton: United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution on Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity

United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution on Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity

Press Statement

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State

Washington, DC

June 17, 2011

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Today, the UN Human Rights Council adopted the first ever UN resolution on the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons. This represents a historic moment to highlight the human rights abuses and violations that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people face around the world based solely on who they are and whom they love.

The United States worked with the main sponsor, South Africa, and a number of other countries from many regions of the world to help pass this resolution, including Brazil, Colombia, members of the European Union, and others. This resolution will commission the first ever UN report on the challenges that LGBT persons face around the globe and will open a broader international discussion on how to best promote and protect the human rights of LGBT persons.

All over the world, people face human rights abuses and violations because of their sexual orientation or gender identity, including torture, rape, criminal sanctions, and killing. Today’s landmark resolution affirms that human rights are universal. People cannot be excluded from protection simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The United States will continue to stand up for human rights wherever there is inequality and we will seek more commitments from countries to join this important resolution.

Secretary Clinton's Statement on International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia

International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia

Press Statement

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State

Washington, DC

May 17, 2011

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In every part of the world, men and women are persecuted and attacked because of who they are or whom they love. Homophobia, transphobia and the brutal hostility associated with them are often rooted in a lack of understanding of what it actually means to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). So to combat this terrible scourge and break the cycle of fear and violence, we must work together to improve education and support those who stand up against laws that criminalize love and promote hate. As we mark the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia this May 17, let us resolve to redouble our efforts.

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am proud to reaffirm our support for LGBT communities at home and abroad, and to call for an end to discrimination and mistreatment of LGBT persons wherever it occurs. Whether by supporting LGBT advocates marching in Belgrade, leading the effort at the United Nations to affirm the human rights of LGBT persons, or condemning a vile law under consideration in Uganda, we are committed to our friends and allies in every region of the world who are fighting for equality and justice. These are not Western concepts; these are universal human rights.

Despite these gains and hard work, there is more to do to turn the tide of inequality and discrimination against the LGBT community. If you are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, know that the United States stands with you and we are unwavering in our commitment to ending this cycle of hate.

Hillary Clinton's Statement on the UNHRC: Ending Violence Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity

I would like to see Hillary Clinton run for President in 2012. Instead of kicking people to the curb, she fights for those who are wounded and lying in the gutter. A great many, not all, of the LGBT community did not recognize her support for them in 2008, but there is no mistaking it now. She is a hero to many: 18 million+ diverse Americans, women and children the world over, the freedom-loving people of Libya and neighboring states, and the LGBT community. There are no limits in her heart. None!

If only she WERE!

Human Rights Council Statement on Ending Violence Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity

Press Statement

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State

Washington, DC

March 22, 2011

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Today, 85 countries from every region of the world joined together in a historic moment to state clearly that human rights apply to everyone, no matter who they are or whom they love.

The United States, along with Colombia and Slovenia, took a leading role on this statement along with over 30 cosponsors. Countries around the world participated including many that had never supported such efforts. And we hope that even more countries will step up, sign on to the statement and signal their support for universal human rights.

This statement is an example of America’s commitment to human rights through dialogue, open discussion and frank conversation with countries we don’t always agree with on every issue. In Geneva, our conversations about the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals with countries where sexual orientation is not only stigmatized, but criminalized, are helping to advance a broader and deeper global dialogue about these issues.

As I said last June, gay rights are human rights and human rights are gay rights. We will continue to promote human rights around the world for all people who are marginalized and discriminated against because of sexual orientation or gender identity. And we will not rest until every man, woman and child is able to live up to his or her potential free from persecution or discrimination of any kind.

Here is the statement to which HRC refers:

Joint Statement on the Rights of LGBT Persons at the Human Rights Council

Fact Sheet
Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
March 22, 2011

At the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva 85 countries joined a Joint Statement entitled “Ending Acts of Violence and Related Human Rights Violations Based On Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity.” This follows previous statements on the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons issued at the United Nations, including a 2006 statement by 54 countries at the Human Rights Council, and a 2008 statement that has garnered 67 countries’ support at the General Assembly. The United States is amongst the signatory states to both previous efforts. The United States co-chaired the core group of countries that have worked to submit this statement, along with Colombia and Slovenia.

Key facts about the new statement:

* A core group of over 30 countries engaged in discussions and sought signatures from other UN member states for the statement. In many places, United States diplomats joined diplomats from other states for these conversations.
* This statement adds new references not seen in previous LGBT statements at the UN, including: welcoming attention to LGBT issues as a part of the Universal Periodic Review process, noting the increased attention to LGBT issues in regional human rights fora, encouraging the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to continue addressing LGBT issues, and calls for states to end criminal sanctions based on LGBT status.
* 20 countries joined this statement that were neither signatory to the 2006 or 2008 statements.
* The statement garnered support from every region of the world, including 21 signatories from the Western Hemisphere, 43 from Europe, 5 from Africa, and 16 from the Asia/Pacific region.

The full list of signatories and text of the statement follows:

Joint statement on ending acts of violence and related human rights violations based on sexual orientation & gender identity

Delivered by Colombia on behalf of: Albania, Andorra, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Bosnia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, the Central African Republic, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the former-Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Malta, the Marshall Islands, Mexico, Micronesia, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Rwanda, Samoa, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tuvalu, the United States of America, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Ukraine, Uruguay, Vanuatu, and Venezuela

1. We recall the previous joint statement on human rights, sexual orientation and gender identity, presented at the Human Rights Council in 2006;

2. We express concern at continued evidence in every region of acts of violence and related human rights violations based on sexual orientation and gender identity brought to the Council’s attention by Special Procedures since that time, including killings, rape, torture and criminal sanctions;

3. We recall the joint statement in the General Assembly on December 18, 2008 on human rights, sexual orientation and gender identity, supported by States from all five regional groups, and encourage States to consider joining the statement;

4. We commend the attention paid to these issues by international human rights mechanisms including relevant Special Procedures and treaty bodies and welcome continued attention to human rights issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity within the context of the Universal Periodic Review. As the United Nations Secretary General reminded us in his address to this Council at its Special Sitting of 25 January 2011, the Universal Declaration guarantees all human beings their basic rights without exception, and when individuals are attacked, abused or imprisoned because of their sexual orientation or gender identity, the international community has an obligation to respond;

5. We welcome the positive developments on these issues in every region in recent years, such as the resolutions on human rights, sexual orientation and gender identity adopted by consensus in each of the past three years by the General Assembly of the Organization of American States, the initiative of the Asia-Pacific Forum on National Human Rights Institutions to integrate these issues within the work of national human rights institutions in the region, the recommendations of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, the increasing attention being paid to these issues by the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights, and the many positive legislative and policy initiatives adopted by States at the national level in diverse regions;

6. We note that the Human Rights Council must also play its part in accordance with its mandate to “promote universal respect for the protection of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, without discrimination of any kind, and in a fair and equal manner” (GA 60/251, OP 2);

7. We acknowledge that these are sensitive issues for many, including in our own societies. We affirm the importance of respectful dialogue, and trust that there is common ground in our shared recognition that no-one should face stigmatisation, violence or abuse on any ground. In dealing with sensitive issues, the Council must be guided by the principles of universality and non-discrimination;

8. We encourage the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to continue to address human rights violations based on sexual orientation and gender identity and to explore opportunities for outreach and constructive dialogue to enhance understanding and awareness of these issues within a human rights framework;

9. We recognise our broader responsibility to end human rights violations against all those who are marginalised and take this opportunity to renew our commitment to addressing discrimination in all its forms;

10. We call on States to take steps to end acts of violence, criminal sanctions and related human rights violations committed against individuals because of their sexual orientation or gender identity, encourage Special Procedures, treaty bodies and other stakeholders to continue to integrate these issues within their relevant mandates, and urge the Council to address these important human rights issues.

Video& Text: Hillary Clinton's Remarks at the State Department LBGT Pride Celebration

Remarks at An Event Celebrating Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Month

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State

Loy Henderson Auditorium

Washington, DC

June 22, 2010

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Thank you. Thank you all very much. (Applause.) Thank you. Gee, let’s do this every week. (Laughter.) It’s great after a hard week to tell you how delighted I am to join with all of you from the State Department and USAID and indeed from departments across our government and many guests who are here in the State Department celebrating Pride Month.

And the purpose of this occasion is to recognize with gratitude the contributions made by LGBT members of the State Department family every single day. We celebrate the progress that is being made here in our own country toward advancing the rights of LGBT Americans, and we recognize that there is still a lot of work to be done but that we are moving together in the right direction. And we reaffirm our commitment to protect and advance the rights of all human beings, as Cheryl just said, of members of the LGBT community around the world. I want to thank Administrator Raj Shah who we are so delighted, is leading USAID into a very positive future. I want to thank Eric Schwartz, who has traveled tirelessly on behalf of his bureau here at the State Department, dealing with population, refugees, migration. And I want to thank Bob Gilchrist, the outgoing GLIFAA president, for his leadership.

I look around this room and there are not only familiar faces, but there are some longtime friends whom I have had the great personal pleasure of knowing over the years. And I must say that knowing my friends who are here, and assuming much about many of you, I know that this occasion is really part of a deeply personal effort that has impacted lives and has helped to create, as Cheryl said, more space and time for people to lead their own lives. And people in this room – I know from experience – have marched in parades and demonstrations; have lobbied our government and other governments to overturn discriminatory laws; have demonstrated courage, both in public and private, to confront hatred and intolerance; and have helped to build a national movement that reflects the diversity of America.

I have been really moved and greatly motivated by the personal stories and the testimonies of so many whom I have known over so many years. Ten years ago, I was the first First Lady – that is often a phrase that I hear – I was the first First Lady to march in a Pride parade, and it was so much fun. (Applause.) And one or two of you marched with me and I am still grateful to you. (Laughter.) As a senator from New York, I was proud to co-sponsor the Employment Non-Discrimination Act; the Domestic Partnership Benefits and Obligations Act, which would grant equal benefits to same-sex domestic partners of federal employees; and the Matthew Shephard Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act, which President Obama signed into law this year. (Applause.)

Now, we, though, in the State Department have to continue the work that many of you have begun and many of you carry on around the world. And I’m very proud that the United States, and particularly the State Department, is taking the lead to confront the circumstances that LGBT people face in just going about their daily lives. So as we enjoy today’s celebration and as we mark the progress that has been truly remarkable – I know that when you’re in the midst of a great movement of change it seems like it is glacial, but any fair assessment, from my perspective, having lived longer than at least more than 75 percent of you that I see in this room – (laughter) – is that it is extraordinary what has happened in such a short period of time.

But think about what’s happening to people as we speak today. Men and women are harassed, beaten, subjected to sexual violence, even killed, because of who they are and whom they love. Some are driven from their homes or countries, and many who become refugees confront new threats in their countries of asylum. In some places, violence against the LGBT community is permitted by law and inflamed by public calls to violence; in others, it persists insidiously behind closed doors.

These dangers are not “gay” issues. This is a human rights issue. (Applause.) Just as I was very proud to say the obvious more than 15 years ago in Beijing that human rights are women’s rights and women’s rights are human rights, well, let me say today that human rights are gay rights and gay rights are human rights, once and for all. (Applause.)

So here at the State Department, we will continue to advance a comprehensive human rights agenda that includes the elimination of violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. We are elevating our human rights dialogues with other governments and conducting public diplomacy to protect the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons.

Our Bureau for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor produces an annual Human Rights Report that include a section on how LGBT persons are treated in every country. And recently, that bureau announced a new grant to provide emergency aid to human rights defenders in Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East who are at risk, either because they work on these issues or because of their LGBT status.

Our regional bureaus are working closely with our embassies on this issue. The Bureau of African Affairs has taken the lead by asking every embassy in Africa to report on the conditions of local LGBT communities. And I’m asking every regional bureau to make this issue a priority. (Applause.)

Today, we are joined by four human rights activists from Africa who are working to protect LGBT rights in their communities. I want to welcome them to the State Department and ask if they would stand: our four African activists. (Applause.) I thank you for the work you do, often in unfriendly, even dangerous circumstances, to advance the rights and dignity of all people.

Now, the United States is also focused on threats facing LGBT refugees. Eric Schwartz is working to increase protection for refugees who face persecution because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Dr. Eric Goosby, through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, PEPFAR, is working to ensure that HIV prevention, treatment, and care are provided to all members of the LGBT population. For example, in the greater Mekong sub-region, we support the Purple Sky Network, which helps protect the health of gay men and transgender people who are too often overlooked or excluded from lifesaving social services.

And around the world, members of the U.S. Foreign Service continue to stand with LGBT communities in ways both large and small. There are two people who are not here that I want to mention and recognize, because they are indicative of both what people face as they fight for these rights and what our embassies and posts across the globe are doing to support them.

In Albania, a young man named Klodian Cela recently came out on a popular television program called Big Brother. Soon after, our ambassador, John Withers, went on television to publicly express support for this man. He visited his hometown and he invited him to an event at our Embassy, conveying to all Albanians that the United States supports his rights and respects his courage.

In Slovakia, at that nation’s first ever Pride Parade last month, our chargé, Keith Eddins, marched to represent the United States. There were anti-gay protestors who became violent and the police used tear gas, which our chargé and other diplomats were exposed to – a quite unpleasant experience, but in service to a just cause.

So as we continue to advance LGBT rights in other countries, we also must continually work to make sure we are advancing the agenda here.

At the State Department, USAID, and throughout the Administration, we are grateful for the contributions of all of our team. And I just want to say thank you, thank you to those of you who serve, thank you for doing so by being open and honest about who you are and helping others see the dignity and purpose of every individual. Our work is demanding and we need every person to give 100 percent. And that means creating an environment in which everyone knows they are valued and feels free to make their contribution.

Last year, I received a petition with more than 2,200 signatures supporting equal benefits to same-sex partners. And I was delighted that soon after, the President signed an executive order to that effect. This month, the Bureau of Consular Affairs issued new regulations making it easier for transgender Americans to amend their passports, ensuring dignified and fair processing. And today, I’m pleased to announce that for the first time, gender identity will be included along with sexual orientation in the State Department Equal Employee Opportunity Statement. (Applause.)

Now, we know that a lot of work lies ahead, and I really want to challenge each and every one of you. Whether you’re LGBT or not, if you’re here, you obviously care about or at least were curious enough to come, and therefore are exhibiting an interest in what we are attempting to achieve here. And in looking at you and seeing a group of accomplished, successful, well-educated, professionally challenged people reminds me that many in our own country, let alone around the world, who are LGBT don’t have those tools, don’t have those assets to be able to speak for themselves, to stand up for themselves, to be in a position to claim who they are.

I used to, when I represented New York, have the great joy and honor of traveling across New York state, so I could go to a Pride Parade in New York City and then I could be a few days later somewhere in upstate New York, where someone would take me aside after an event and whisper their fears about the life they led and wonder whether there was anything we could do. And I used to remind my very activist friends in the Pride movement that they were doing this not for themselves, because basically many of them were well enough off to be able to construct a life that would be fairly immune from the outside world, but they were doing it for so many others who did not have that opportunity, that luxury, if you will.

Well, I still believe that. We’ve come such a far distance in our own country, but there are still so many who need the outreach, need the mentoring, need the support, to stand up and be who they are, and then think about people in so many countries where it just seems impossible. So I think that each and every one of you not only professionally, particularly from State and USAID in every bureau and every embassy and every part of our government, have to do what you can to create that safe space, but also personally to really look for those who might need a helping hand, particularly young people, particularly teenagers who still, today, have such a difficult time and who still, in numbers far beyond what should ever happen, take their own lives rather than live that life. So I would ask you to please think of ways you can be there for everyone who is making this journey to defend not only human rights globally, but to truly defend themselves and their rights. The struggle for equality is never, ever finished. And it is rarely easy, despite how self-evident it should be. But the hardest-fought battles often have the biggest impact. So I hope that each and every one of us will recommit ourselves to building a future in which every person – every, single person can live in dignity, free from violence, free to be themselves, free to live up to their God-given potential wherever they live and whoever they are. And I thank you for being part of one of history’s great moments.

Thank you all very much. (Applause.)

SECRETARY OF STATE HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON: Daily Appointments Schedule for June 22, 2010

Daily Appointments Schedule for June 22, 2010

Washington, DC

June 22, 2010

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SECRETARY OF STATE HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON

7:45 a.m. Secretary Clinton meets with Vice President Biden, at the Vice President’s Residence.
(CLOSED PRESS COVERAGE)

9:30 a.m. Secretary Clinton meets with the Ambassadorial Seminar participants and the Transatlantic Diplomacy Fellows, at the Department of State.
(CLOSED PRESS COVERAGE)

11:00 a.m. Secretary Clinton delivers opening remarks at an event celebrating LGBT Pride Month at the Department of State.
(OPEN PRESS COVERAGE)

For more information, click here or watch live at http://blogs.state.gov.

11:45 a.m. Secretary Clinton holds a bilateral meeting with Indian Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, at the Department of State.
(CLOSED PRES COVERAGE)

12:15 p.m. Secretary Clinton delivers opening remarks at a luncheon co-hosted by Deputy Secretary Jim Steinberg and Under Secretary Robert Hormats for the U.S.-India CEO Forum, at the Department of State.
(OPEN PRESS COVERAGE FOR REMARKS)


2:30 p.m. Secretary Clinton meets with Congressman Levin, Director of the National Economic Council Larry Summers and General James Cartwright, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, at the White House.
(MEDIA TO BE DETERMINED BY WHITE HOUSE)

3:45 p.m. Secretary Clinton attends a Cabinet meeting at the White House.
(MEDIA TO BE DETERMINED BY WHITE HOUSE)

5:15 p.m. Secretary Clinton attends a meeting at the White House.
(MEDIA TO BE DETERMINED BY WHITE HOUSE)

6:00 p.m. Secretary Clinton attends a meeting at the White House.
(MEDIA TO BE DETERMINED BY WHITE HOUSE)

Hillary Clinton's Signature Issue

In every country where she sets her pretty little foot, Hillary Rodham Clinton, U.S. Secretary of State, makes crystal clear that her signature issue centers on three overlapping populations, not countries, not regions, global populations: Women, children, and specifically girls. Those pundits who claim that she has adopted no signature issue are simply not paying attention to her words as she delivers address after address around the world.

Hillary Clinton is nothing if not single-mindedly dedicated to supporting and uplifting the marginalized and the helpless the world over, and she reminds us often that doing so is often simple, cost-effective, impactful, and the right thing to do. (Of course she is more than that, much more, that was simply a turn of phrase up there.) Tomorrow, at a State Department event celebrating Gay Pride Month, indications are that she is about to add another marginalized population to the list of those she intends to campaign on behalf of on her journeys.

Here is the State Department announcement of the event, which I mentioned over the weekend here and promised to remind readers about.

Secretary Clinton and USAID Administrator Shah to Deliver Remarks at Event Celebrating LGBT Month on June 22

Office of the Spokesman

Washington, DC

June 18, 2010

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Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and U.S. Agency for International Development Administrator Rajiv Shah will deliver opening remarks on “LGBT Human Rights and U.S. Foreign Policy” at an event co-hosted by State's Office of Civil Rights and GLIFFA, the organization for Gays and Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies, on Tuesday, June 22 at 11:00 a.m., at the Department of State.
The event is part of LGBT Pride Month celebrations at the U.S. Department of State and USAID.
Following the opening remarks, Assistant Secretary for Populations, Refugees, and Migration Eric Schwartz will lead a panel discussion with Deputy Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Daniel Baer, Mark Bromley of the Council for Global Equality, and Cary Johnson of the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission.
The event will be open to credentialed members of the media and can be watched live on www.state.gov.

Now those who have been following her tenure as Secretary of State, know very well that almost upon entry to the building last year, she met with GLIFFA members who asked for benefits for their domestic partners. They will also remember that last year, at the outset of Gay Pride Month, she announced that the research on that request was complete, the request was deemed reasonable and doable and was granted. This year, she streamlined the process for transgendered people to change their passports to reflect their new designation. But more is coming. We will probably hear it from her tomorrow. This will be a very important speech because it will alter U.S. foreign policy in a way that will leave her mark forever.

It will not be a treaty or anything that will require Congressional ratification. It will be a simple expansion of Hillary Clinton's agenda to include human rights for LGBT people all over the world - not just at the State Department, embassies, and consulates, not just Americans, all LGBT people across the globe. That is huge.

In Beijing in 1996, she famously said that women's rights were human rights and vice versa. I expect a similar declaration tomorrow which will imply a new demand that we will make on countries that do not grant full human rights to gays. It will add a new population to the list for whom she speaks out. It will alter her signature issue, now to become: Women, children, girls, and gays.

I realize I am sticking my neck out with this prediction, and I have been known to be wrong (not often), but I feel safe in making it because she's Hillary Clinton, and this is the kind of thing she does.

Upcoming: On Hillary Clinton's Agenda

One thing we love (among SO MANY!!) about our lovely and brilliant Secretary of State is her creativity and devotion in celebrating designated months. She has a way of setting off fireworks - sometimes even by accident. Due to the earthquake in Chile, her original itenerary for her March tour of South America was altered and diverted her to Buenos Aires where she spent day one of Women's History Month at the Casa Rosada (RICH with women's history) with President Cristina Kirchner.

While I will repeat my disappointment that her Gay Pride Month Proclamation was not sent out as a press release but rather buried in a section of the State Department website that you had to know to go to, I am heartened that she and Administrator Shah are participating in this event on Tuesday since I know that the SOS had nothing to do with hiding the proclamation.

Secretary Clinton and USAID Administrator Shah to Deliver Remarks at Event Celebrating LGBT Month on June 22

Office of the Spokesman

Washington, DC

June 18, 2010

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Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and U.S. Agency for International Development Administrator Rajiv Shah will deliver opening remarks on “LGBT Human Rights and U.S. Foreign Policy” at an event co-hosted by State's Office of Civil Rights and GLIFFA, the organization for Gays and Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies, on Tuesday, June 22 at 11:00 a.m., at the Department of State.
The event is part of LGBT Pride Month celebrations at the U.S. Department of State and USAID.
Following the opening remarks, Assistant Secretary for Populations, Refugees, and Migration Eric Schwartz will lead a panel discussion with Deputy Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Daniel Baer, Mark Bromley of the Council for Global Equality, and Cary Johnson of the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission.
The event will be open to credentialed members of the media and can be watched live on www.state.gov.

Then there is this bringing a smile to my face.

Pakistan: US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to Visit in July

VOA News 19 June 2010

Pakistan's foreign minister says U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will visit Islamabad in July.

Shah Mehmood Qureshi told reporters Saturday that his American counterpart would be visiting for a second session of their U.S.-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue. The first session was held in March.

Read more>>>>

Readers here are well aware of how happy FM Qureshi is to make this announcement.

The Secretary of State's 2010 LGBT Pride Proclamation

The Secretary of State's 2010 LGBT Pride Proclamation

June 7, 2010

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This June, we celebrate Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Pride Month. I join President Obama in recognizing the immeasurable contributions of the LGBT community both in the United States and around the world. In honor of LGBT Pride Month and on behalf of the State Department, I extend my appreciation to all those who work on behalf of human rights for all. At the State Department, USAID, and throughout the Administration, we are grateful for our LGBT employees in Washington and around the world. They and their families make many sacrifices to serve our nation. Their contributions are vital to our efforts to establish stability, prosperity, and peace worldwide.

The United States also recognizes the unflagging efforts and courage of advocates and organizations fighting to promote equality and justice around the world, especially in countries where doing so puts their lives and their families at risk.

Human rights are the inalienable right of every person, no matter who that person is or who that person loves. The State Department is firmly committed to supporting the right of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals to lead productive and dignified lives, free from fear and violence. We have specifically included the status of the human rights of LGBT individuals in our annual Human Rights Report in each country. We are working to protect LGBT people across the world, particularly those forced to flee their homes or countries. And the State Department will continue to counter efforts, anywhere they occur, to marginalize, criminalize, and penalize members of the LGBT community.

We have made significant progress but we still have challenging work ahead. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people face horrific violence and repression around the world. Pride marches are often met with active and armed government resistance. Laws banning sexual orientation and gender expression undermine civil society, the rule of law, and public health outreach. The persecution and violation of human rights of members of the LGBT community is not only an affront to human dignity, but it also diminishes human progress and potential. As Secretary of State, I will continue to advance a comprehensive human rights agenda that includes the elimination of violence and discrimination against people based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

Let us recommit ourselves this year to building a future in which every child, whoever and wherever they are, has the opportunity, dignity, and freedom to fulfill his or her God-given potential.

I do not know why, but this did not come to me via any of my many State Department subscriptions. It is not listed in press releases or on the Secretary's remarks. Anyway, I just found it, almost by accident, and am posting it now - better late than never as I promised ... resolved ... to keep a tight record this year. This is part of it. It will be a big part, since she is about to bring this to the global level. Add this to women, girls, and children. You can take that to the bank!

I have two of those brown tee shirts with Hillary's signature in aqua on the front. on the back of the neck, also in aqua, it says "Make history." Well, that certainly is what she is doing!

Secretary Clinton's Remarks to the Members of GLIFAA

Gays & Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies: A group whose issues Hillary promised to study continues to receive the attention requested of her.

Remarks to the Members of Gays and Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies (GLIFAA)


Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
October 22, 2009


On behalf of the Department of State and USAID, I want to congratulate the Gays & Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies on winning the Employee Resource Group of the Year Award by Out & Equal Workplace Advocates.

GLIFAA’s efforts with this Administration began when I received a letter signed by 2,200 employees, LGBT and straight, asking that they be treated equally and with the same respect. With recommendations from GLIFAA, we were able to quickly change the Department of State’s policy and provide benefits for same-sex partners of Foreign Service officers. And GLIFAA played a significant role in ensuring that other federal agencies followed suit. For more than 17 years, GLIFAA members have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the rights of the global LGBT community.

At the State Department, we are starting to track violence against the LGBT community globally. The United States supports the UN Statement on Human Rights, Sexual Orientation, and Gender Identity, and condemns human rights violations based on sexual orientation and gender identity wherever they occur.

Human rights abuses are crimes against all of us. And we must recommit ourselves to expanding the full circle of human dignity. And while we have made progress here, and even throughout the world, there is much more to be done. We must condemn violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and not tolerate men and women being persecuted, singled out, or even murdered.

I promise to continue to fight for a world in which all people live free from violence and fear, regardless of who they are or whom they love. Once again, congratulations for this wonderful award. Your advocacy has created a lasting legacy, and I look forward to our mutual efforts toward a more equitable world.

Thank you all very much.

Above and beyond the call of duty. That's our girl!

Hillary Clinton Grants Benefits to Same-Sex Domestic Partners of Foreign Service Personnel

Benefits for Same-Sex Domestic Partners of Foreign Service Employees

Press Statement

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State

Washington, DC

June 18, 2009

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While a career in the Foreign Service is rewarding, the demands to serve our country require great commitment and sacrifice by Foreign Service employees and their families. As in American society, our Foreign Service families come in different configurations; all are part of the common fabric of our Post communities abroad. Family members often uproot their lives, endure hardship conditions, and put their own careers on hold to support our overseas missions. The Department of State acknowledges these vital contributions by providing certain family members with benefits, training, and allowances.
The same has not been true for domestic partners of Foreign Service employees. While these partners support the work of our overseas posts, they are not granted benefits and allowances provided for other family members. Domestic partners of federal employees have for too long been treated unequally. As one of my first acts as Secretary, I directed the Department to review whether we had the flexibility to extend additional benefits to domestic partners.
Yesterday, the President issued a memorandum reflecting his commitment to ensuring that same-sex domestic partners receive the maximum benefits that each agency legally can undertake. I am pleased to announce that the Department of State is extending the full range of legally available benefits and allowances to same-sex domestic partners of members of the Foreign Service sent to serve abroad.
Changing our policy to provide training, medical care and other benefits to same-sex domestic partners will promote the cohesiveness, safety and effectiveness of our posts abroad. It will help the Department attract and retain personnel in a competitive environment where domestic partner benefits and allowances are increasingly the norm for world-class employers. This change is the right thing to do, and it is the smart thing to do.
We will implement this policy by changing our Foreign Affairs Manual and the Standardized Regulations to allow the same-sex domestic partners of the Department’s Foreign Service employees to qualify as family members for a variety of benefits and allowances. Where appropriate, this extension of benefits and allowances will apply to the children of same-sex domestic partners as well. To qualify for these benefits and allowances on behalf of a same-sex domestic partner, an employee must file an affidavit identifying his or her same-sex domestic partner and certifying to certain eligibility requirements that will be set forth in the FAM.
The Department of State intends to provide the following additional benefits and allowances for declared same-sex domestic partners of eligible employees serving overseas:

• Diplomatic passports,
• Inclusion on employee travel orders to and from posts abroad,
• Shipment of household effects,
• Inclusion in family size calculations for the purpose of making housing allocations,
• Family member preference for employment at posts abroad,
• Use of medical facilities at posts abroad,
• Medical evacuation from posts abroad,
• Emergency travel for partners to visit gravely ill or injured employees and relatives,
• Inclusion as family members for emergency evacuation from posts abroad,
• Subsistence payments related to emergency evacuation from posts abroad,
• Inclusion in calculations of payments of overseas allowances (e.g., payment for quarters, cost of living, and other allowances),
• Representation expenses, and
• Training at the Foreign Service Institute.

The Department also will work with foreign governments to provide same-sex domestic partners, to the extent possible, with diplomatic visas, privileges and immunities, and authorization to work in the local economy.
We look forward to implementing these changes.