NGLTF Updates (89 Articles with 92,355 total views)
News from the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF). The mission of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is to build the grassroots power of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. We do this by training activists, equipping state and local organizations with the skills needed to organize broad-based campaigns to defeat anti-LGBT referenda and advance pro-LGBT legislation, and building the organizational capacity of our movement. Our Policy Institute, the movement’s premier think tank, provides research and policy analysis to support the struggle for complete equality and to counter right-wing lies. As part of a broader social justice movement, we work to create a nation that respects the diversity of human expression and identity and creates opportunity for all.
May, 2013
Employment Non-Discrimination Act introduced in Congress
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is urging Congress to pass the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), which would protect against workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The measure was introduced today in both chambers of Congress by Sens. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Mark Kirk (R-Ill.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) and Reps. Jared Polis (D-Colo.) and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Fla.).
Marriage equality sweeps all of New England with Rhode Island set to become 10th state with the freedom to marry
WASHINGTON, April 24 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds today's Senate passage of a bill granting same-sex couples the freedom to marry in Rhode Island. The measure passed in a 26-12 vote. A similar measure passed the House in January, and the bill now returns to the House for a largely procedural vote on small changes made on the Senate side. Gov. Lincoln Chafee has promised to sign the bill into law.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds reintroduction of Student Non-Discrimination Act in U.S. House
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds today's reintroduction in the U.S. House of the Student Non-Discrimination Act. The bipartisan measure prohibits any school program or activity receiving federal financial assistance from discriminating against any public school student on the basis of actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. The Task Force is working in coalition to pass this legislation.
National Religious Leadership Roundtable urges inclusion of LGBT families in immigration reform
WASHINGTON, April 12 The National Religious Leadership Roundtable, convened by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, today urged Congress to include lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) families in immigration reform.
Task Force: Bipartisan bill marks first step on road to full and fair immigration reform
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, a longtime advocate of fair and humane immigration reform, responded to the introduction of a bipartisan immigration reform bill in the U.S. Senate. The Task Force is a signatory on this Statement of Principles for Immigration Reform (http://thetaskforceblog.org/2013/04/16/task-force-and-other-lgbt-groups-affirm-commitment-to-humane-immigration-reform-with-set-of-principles/).
April, 2013
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds the nomination of Thomas Perez for labor secretary
WASHINGTON, March 18 -- The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds President Obama s nomination of Thomas Perez to become the next secretary of labor. Perez is currently an assistant attorney general heading the Civil Rights Division at the Justice Department. If confirmed by the Senate, Perez would replace Hilda Solis, who stepped down in January after four years of running the Labor Department.
National Religious Leadership Roundtable responds to election of new pope
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force's National Religious Leadership Roundtable responded today to the election of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio as Pope Francis I.
Supreme Court should strike down Prop. 8 and DOMA
WASHINGTON, March 26 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force has been organizing around one of the most historic civil rights events of our time marriage equality at the Supreme Court. Justices are hearing arguments today and tomorrow in two landmark cases: one challenging the Prop. 8 marriage ban in California, and the other challenging the discriminatory, federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is part of the United for Marriage coalition, which has organized a vigil and two rallies at the Supreme Court, A Prayer for Love & Justice interfaith service, and other activities related to this watershed moment. More details here: http://www.lighttojustice.org/join-us-in-dc.html
March, 2013
Freedom to Marry Applauds Obama Brief Filed Against Prop 8, In Support of Marriage
Washington, DC - Today President Barack Obama and the Department of Justice filed a brief in the case Hollingsworth vs. Perry, opposing Proposition 8, which stripped same-sex couples of the freedom to marry in California in 2008.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds Senate passage of LGBT-inclusive Violence Against Women Act reauthorization bill
WASHINGTON, Feb. 12 -- The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds the U.S. Senate s passage today of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) reauthorization bill, which includes explicit protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) survivors of domestic violence and enhanced protections for Native American and immigrant survivors. It also includes a new provision that would support prosecution of sexual assault cases by reducing evidentiary (rape kits) backlogs.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force hails passage of LGBT-inclusive Violence Against Women Act
WASHINGTON, Feb. 28 -- The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds the U.S. House's passage today of an inclusive Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) reauthorization bill. The measure, passed earlier this month by the Senate in a bipartisan 78-22 vote, includes explicit protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) survivors of domestic violence, enhanced protections for Native American and immigrant survivors, and campus safety provisions.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force responds to State of the Union address
The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force responded to President Obama s State of the Union speech tonight by reiterating its call for an executive order prohibiting companies that contract with the federal government from discriminating in employment based on sexual orientation and gender identity; passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), federal legislation that would prohibit workplace discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people; and an end to the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA).v id="nuan_ria_plugin">
National Religious Leadership Roundtable responds to pope's impending resignation
WASHINGTON, Feb. 11 -- The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force's National Religious Leadership Roundtable responded to the news that Pope Benedict XVI will resign at the end of February.
Pentagon Extends New Protections to Military Spouses Harmed by DOMA
New York – Today Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta announced that same-sex spouses of active members of the military will begin receiving protections that were previously denied to them, including the issuance of military identification cards, access to family support initiatives, and joint duty assignments. The Secretary noted that the Pentagon was doing what it could, within the constraints imposed by the discriminatory so-called Defense of Marriage Act.
February, 2013
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds reintroduction of Uniting American Families Act in Congress
WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 -- The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauded the reintroduction in Congress of the Uniting American Families Act (UAFA) by U.S. Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.). This overdue legislation would allow Americans to sponsor their same-sex permanent partners for legal residency in the United States, a right under immigration law that is currently afforded to married opposite-sex couples. Because the U.S. does not legally recognize same-sex couples and their children as families, many binational same-sex couples are forced to separate and their families are wrenched apart.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Executive Director Rea Carey presents State of the Movement address
ATLANTA, Jan. 25 National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Executive Director Rea Carey presented the annual State of the Movement address today at the 25th National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change, in Atlanta, Ga., where more than 3,000 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights advocates have gathered to strategize on how to advance equality. Below is the full text of the State of the Movement speech:
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force responds to Obama announcement of inclusive immigration policies
WASHINGTON, Jan. 29 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force commends President Barack Obama for moving forward on immigration reform inclusive of the path toward citizenship for undocumented immigrants, including specifically for DREAMers, and a plan to treat same-sex families as families by giving U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents the ability to seek a visa on the basis of a permanent relationship with a same-sex partner. While the president did not mention same-sex couples in his immigration speech laying out his broad vision today in Las Vegas, he did address them in the White House principles document: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/01/29/fact-sheet-fixing-our-broken-immigration-system-so-everyone-plays-rules
National Religious Leadership Roundtable applauds Washington National Cathedral announcement that it will celebrate weddings of same-sex couples
WASHINGTON, Jan. 9 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force's National Religious Leadership Roundtable applauds the announcement (http://www.nationalcathedral.org/press/PR-60QF1-3I0018.shtml) today by the Washington National Cathedral that it will celebrate the weddings of same-sex couples. The cathedral, part of the Episcopal Church, is among the most prominent churches in the nation.
President Barack Obama addresses nation's largest gathering of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights advocates in special video message
ATLANTA, Jan. 25 President Barack Obama issued a video statement airing today before 3,000 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights advocates assembled for the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force's 25th National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change.
Task Force supports efforts to rename San Francisco International Airport in honor of slain gay leader Harvey Milk
ATLANTA, Jan. 27 At its 25th National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change today in Atlanta, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force voiced its support for the San Francisco International Airport to be renamed in honor of legendary gay leader Harvey Milk.
Task Force: President Barack Obama's second term holds great promise for continuing progress for LGBT people
WASHINGTON, Jan. 21 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force responded to President Barack Obama s inaugural address today and the promise for continuing progress on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) issues during the president s second term.
January, 2013
25th National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change Jan 23-27, 2013
WASHINGTON, Dec. 5- More than 3,000 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights advocates from across the country will converge in Atlanta, Ga., on Jan. 23-27 for the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force's National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force calls upon Secretary of Defense nominee Chuck Hagel to address LGBT concerns during confirmation process
WASHINGTON, Jan. 7 The Obama administration today nominated former Sen. Chuck Hagel (R-Neb.) to become secretary of defense. Hagel's senatorial record on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) issues as well as reproductive rights is cause for concern.
December, 2012
Maryland voters affirm Maryland DREAM Act with passage of Question 4
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 Maryland voters have passed Question 4 affirming the Maryland DREAM Act, a law passed last year that provides undocumented immigrants access to in-state tuition at public universities and colleges. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, a longtime advocate for fair and humane comprehensive immigration reform, is proud to have worked with local groups to make the Dream ACT a reality.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force commemorates World AIDS Day
WASHINGTON, Dec. 1 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force today commemorates World AIDS Day with a call for greater focus toward combating the continuing epidemic of HIV/AIDS.
Task Force: Election 2012 was a watershed moment for LGBT equality in America
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 Election 2012 saw stunning results for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) equality, from the passage of the first-ever marriage equality measures by popular vote, to the election of the first openly lesbian candidate to the U.S. Senate, to the re-election of the most pro-LGBT president in American history and the first sitting president to come out in support of the freedom to marry.
Task Force: Obama's re-election means more progress for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people
The bottom line is that America deserves nothing less than a president who will treat all families fairly and that's what we have. National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Executive Director Rea Carey
Voters in Maryland Affirm the Freedom to Marry for Same-Sex Couples
ANNAPOLIS – Voters in Maryland approved a ballot measure on Tuesday, November 6, that would grant same-sex couples the freedom to marry and access to all of the state rights and obligations afforded to married couples.
Washington state voters approve Referendum 74 granting same-sex couples the freedom to marry
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 Voters in Washington state have approved Referendum 74 allowing same-sex couples the freedom to marry. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force contributed staff resources and training to the marriage equality efforts in Washington.
October, 2012
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force submits testimony for Senate hearing on hate crimes and domestic extremism
WASHINGTON, Sept. 19 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund submitted testimony for today s Senate Judiciary Committee, Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Human Rights hearing on Hate Crimes and the Threat of Domestic Extremism, in response to ongoing hate violence, including the shooting last month at a Sikh temple in Oak Creek, Wis.
Task Force: California's new law banning sham therapies aimed at LGBT youth serves as a model for the rest of the country
WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds California Gov. Jerry Brown for signing legislation that makes California the first state to protect lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) minors from reparative therapies administered by mental health professionals. The law takes effect on Jan. 1, 2013.
August, 2012
Health Discrimination Against Trans People Is Illegal
Have you ever been discriminated against in our health care system? The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently confirmed that the Affordable Care Act's (you know, Obamacare) ban on sex-based discrimination includes discrimination based on gender identity. This confirms the Task Force's longstanding position that federal civil rights statutes that prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex include protections against discrimination on the basis of gender identity. This means that no one can be discriminated against because of their gender identity or because of a healthcare provider's stereotype about sex - what a man or a woman "ought to look like."
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force slams Boy Scouts of America's reaffirmation of anti-gay policy
WASHINGTON, July 17 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force today responded to the continuing refusal by the Boy Scouts of America to change its policy of excluding gay people. A special committee of Scouts leaders made its recommendation to reaffirm this anti-gay policy and, as a consequence, the Scouts’ national executive board reportedly will not reconsider changing its membership policy to allow gay people to serve in that organization.
July, 2012
Faith leaders applaud Episcopal Church's approval of rite to bless same-sex unions and the ordination of transgender people
WASHINGTON, July 11 Members of the National Religious Leadership Roundtable, convened by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, applauded the Episcopal Church's approval of an official liturgy for blessing same-sex unions and a nondiscrimination policy that will allow transgender people to be ordained to the priesthood. The resolutions were passed by the House of Bishops and the House of Deputies, the Episcopal legislative bodies, at the triennial General Convention in Indianapolis, Ind.
Health and Human Services report details progress and new goals on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender health issues
WASHINGTON, June 20 The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released its annual report (http://www.hhs.gov/secretary/about/lgbthealth_objectives_2012.html) of steps it has taken to promote the health and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people. The report outlines new goals for the coming year, as well as accomplishments from 2011.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds National Council of La Raza's marriage equality endorsement
WASHINGTON, June 26 — The board of directors of the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), the nation’s largest Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization, recently voted to endorse marriage equality. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and NCLR have worked together on issues related to racial and economic justice, comprehensive and humane immigration reform, LGBT rights and marriage equality, among others.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds Supreme Court ruling upholding Affordable Care Act
WASHINGTON, June 28 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling (http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/11pdf/11-393c3a2.pdf) today upholding the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act. The Task Force advocated for the passage of the historic health care reform law.
Supreme Court strikes down key provisions of Arizona's anti-immigrant law
WASHINGTON, June 25 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, a longtime advocate for comprehensive and humane immigration reform, responded to the U.S. Supreme Court ruling today striking down significant portions of SB 1070, Arizona s anti-immigrant law. The court did, however, leave intact the racist show me your papers provision. The Task Force has repeatedly spoken out against the unjust law.
Task Force responds to Obama administration announcement that it will stop deporting young undocumented immigrants
WASHINGTON, June 15 - The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force responded to today's announcement (http://www.dhs.gov/ynews/releases/20120612-napolitano-announces-deferred-action-process-for-young-people.shtm) by the Obama administration that it will stop deporting some young undocumented immigrants.
Time to level the playing field for LGBT people by passing ENDA
WASHINGTON, June 12 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund submitted testimony for today's Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee hearing on the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), federal legislation to ban workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Currently there are no clear federal employment protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people, and no such protections exist in over half the states.
June, 2012
Task Force launches 'Queer the Vote' campaign
WASHINGTON, June 6 - The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force today launched 'Queer the Vote,' (http://www.queerthevote.org/) a campaign to educate and mobilize lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights supporters in this critical and volatile election year.
May, 2012
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds U.S. Senate introduction of Health Equity and Accountability Act
WASHINGTON, April 27 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds the introduction by Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-Hawaii) of the Health Equity and Accountability Act, comprehensive legislation designed to eliminate racial and ethnic minority health disparities. For the first time, the measure recognizes the importance of addressing lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) health disparities.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force calls for end to racial profiling
WASHINGTON, April 17 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund submitted written testimony for today’s hearing on “Ending Racial Profiling in America,” held by the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Human Rights.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force congratulates labor and civil rights leader Dolores Huerta on receiving Presidential Medal of Freedom
WASHINGTON, April 26 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force congratulates legendary labor and civil rights leader Dolores Huerta on becoming a 2012 Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient. Huerta co-founded the National Farmworkers Association with labor leader Cesar Chavez in 1962. She is a longtime supporter of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights. Huerta was a keynote speaker at the Task Force's National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change in 2009 in Denver, Colo. Watch here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bx_468y7El4
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force hails EEOC ruling protecting transgender workers
WASHINGTON, April 24 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds the opinion by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) that transgender people are protected from discrimination by federal law. The EEOC found that an employer who discriminates against an employee or applicant on the basis of the person's gender identity is violating the prohibition on sex discrimination in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
New study finds genderqueer people face unique patterns of abuse and discrimination
WASHINGTON, April 23 — Genderqueer people face distinct patterns of discrimination and violence according to a new study based on the dataset gathered for Injustice at Every Turn: A Report of the National Transgender Discrimination Survey from the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and National Center for Transgender Equality.
Social Security Equality Act of 2012 introduced, aims to end discrimination same-sex couples face in receiving Social Security benefits
WASHINGTON, April 26 The Social Security Equality Act of 2012, which seeks to end the discrimination same-sex couples face with respect to Social Security benefits, was introduced by U.S. Rep. Linda Sanchez (D-Calif.) and includes 90 House co-sponsors.
U.S. Senate passes LGBT-inclusive Violence Against Women Act reauthorization bill
WASHINGTON, April 26 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds the U.S. Senate’s passage today of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) reauthorization bill, which for the first time includes explicit protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) survivors of domestic violence. The 1994 federal law provides funds to enhance investigation and prosecution of violent crimes such as domestic violence and sexual assault, and it bolsters victim services programs. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund, along with a broad coalition of organizations including the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs, has been lobbying for inclusion of sexual orientation and gender identity in the law.
April, 2012
National lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights groups issue joint open letter on the killing of Trayvon Martin
WASHINGTON, April 2 — A coalition of national lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights organizations today issued an open letter that described the killing of Trayvon Martin as a “national call to action”; urged local and federal authorities to find answers in the case that has garnered worldwide attention; and demanded justice be served. Full text below:
March, 2012
Faith leaders respond to Catholic priest's denial of communion to lesbian parishioner
WASHINGTON, Feb. 29 — The National Religious Leadership Roundtable, convened by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, responded to the action by a Roman Catholic priest who denied communion to a lesbian parishioner at her mother's funeral in Maryland this past weekend.
Maryland governor signs marriage equality bill
WASHINGTON, March 1 — Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley today signed the marriage equality bill, making the state the eighth to allow same-sex couples to marry. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is a member of the Marylanders for Marriage Equality coalition, and Task Force staff were on hand for the bill-signing ceremony in Annapolis.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force responds to Obama administration’s announcement on contraceptive services
WASHINGTON, Feb. 10 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force responded to the Obama administration’s announcement today that it will require insurance companies, rather than employers, to provide free contraceptive services to employees at religious institutions
February, 2012
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Executive Director Rea Carey presents 'State of the LGBT Movement' address
BALTIMORE, Md., Jan. 27 — National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Executive Director Rea Carey presented the annual “State of the LGBT Movement” address today at the 24th National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change, in Baltimore, Md., where nearly 3,000 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights advocates have gathered to strategize and mobilize to advance LGBT equality and social justice in this critical election year. What follows is the full text of Carey's speech:
January, 2012
Thousands of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights advocates will convene to strategize and organize in critical election year
WASHINGTON, Dec. 12 — More than 2,500 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights advocates from across the country will converge in Baltimore, Md., on Jan. 25-29 for the 24th National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change. It is the largest convening of LGBT activists and allies in the country. They will come together from every corner of the nation to strategize at the start of a critical election year and learn how to build political power back home.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services releases update of steps to improve health of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people
WASHINGTON, Jan. 12 — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today released a summary update of actions it has taken to promote the health and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people throughout HHS programs and activities
December, 2011
New analysis shows startling levels of discrimination against Latino/a transgender people
WASHINGTON, Dec. 5 — Latino and Latina transgender and gender non-conforming people face some of the highest levels of discrimination of all transgender people according to a new analysis released today, Injustice at Every Turn: A Look at Latino/a Respondents in the National Transgender Discrimination Survey.
Pro-lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender faith leaders call for dialogue with U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 — A leading organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Catholics has sent a letter to Archbishop Timothy Dolan, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, urging for respectful and open dialogue related to LGBT people and their families. In addition, members of the National Religious Leadership Roundtable, convened by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, have issued statements supporting the letter. The letter from DignityUSA and the supportive responses are below.
White House issues presidential memorandum on U.S. government strategy addressing the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people abroad
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force joins with its international partner, the Council for Global Equality, in applauding President Obama and U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton for their outspoken commitment to ending abuses and discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people worldwide. The White House today issued a presidential memorandum directing all federal agencies engaged abroad to ensure that U.S. diplomacy and foreign assistance promote and protect the human rights of LGBT people.
November, 2011
Residents in Traverse City, Mich., vote to retain LGBT-inclusive city nondiscrimination ordinance
WASHINGTON, Nov. 8 — Residents of Traverse City, Mich., have voted to retain the city’s nondiscrimination ordinance, which includes explicit protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people. According to local media reports, the city voted to keep the ordinance by a nearly 2-to-1 margin.
October, 2011
First openly gay minister to be ordained by Presbyterian Church (USA) tomorrow
WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds the historic ordination of Scott Anderson set for tomorrow in Madison, Wis. He will become the first openly gay minister ordained by the Presbyterian Church (USA) since the denomination amended its constitution this year to eliminate official barriers to the ordination of people based on their sexual orientation. He was ordained 21 years earlier, but was forced out of the ministry after his sexual orientation was made public.
Injustice at Every Turn: A Look at Black Respondents in the National Transgender Discrimination Survey
WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 — Black transgender and gender non-conforming people face some of the highest levels of discrimination of all transgender people according to a new analysis released today, Injustice at Every Turn: A Look at Black Respondents in the National Transgender Discrimination Survey.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force launches next phase of Queer the Census campaign to ensure lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people are counted in federal surveys
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is launching the next phase of its “Queer the Census” campaign, which is designed to ensure lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people are included in a broad swath of federal surveys and data collection efforts. The Task Force is encouraging people to learn more about why federal surveys are important and to get involved through an action center on its www.QueertheCensus.org website.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force mourns the passing of LGBT rights leader Paula L. Ettelbrick
WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force mourns the passing of Paula L. Ettelbrick, a lifelong activist for LGBT rights and former Task Force family policy director, who died today of cancer. The Task Force honors and remembers Paula’s significant contributions to our movement.
New 2010 census data released on married same-sex couples
WASHINGTON, Sept. 27 — The U.S. Census Bureau today released its new estimates of the number of households headed by same-sex couples in the United States, including the number of couples identifying as married. The 2010 census marked the first time the Census Bureau tracked information about same-sex spouses. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force played a key role in getting the U.S. Census Bureau to report the number of married same-sex couples in the 2010 census, and continues to work with policymakers to ensure lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people are included in a broad swath of federal surveys and data collection.
July, 2011
ACLU Says Department of Defense Must Immediately Certify Repeal of "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell" After Federal Appeals Court Ruling
NEW YORK – The American Civil Liberties Union today said a federal appeals court order that the Obama administration immediately end the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy on gays serving in the military underscores the urgent need for the Department of Defense to certify Congress’ repeal of the policy.
Connecticut governor signs transgender nondiscrimination bill
WASHINGTON, July 6 — Connecticut Gov. Dan Malloy has signed legislation barring discrimination based on gender identity or expression in employment, housing, public accommodations, credit and all other laws under the jurisdiction of the state’s Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities. Connecticut becomes the 15th state, along with the District of Columbia, with clear protections for transgender people in its statewide nondiscrimination laws.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, HRC and UNID@S release new bilingual guide on sexual orientation, gender identity and the Bible for Latino/a families and churches
CINCINNATI, June 29 — In an effort to foster a dialogue with Latino/a families and churches on sexual orientation, gender identity and the Bible, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation and UNID@S, today unveiled a new bilingual guide, A La Familia: A Conversation About Our Families, the Bible, Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity at a press conference during the League of United Latin American Citizens’ (LULAC) 82nd national convention in Cincinnati, Ohio.
June, 2011
Congressional briefing spotlights findings of Injustice at Every Turn: A Report of the National Transgender Discrimination Survey
WASHINGTON, May 16 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE) today sponsored a Capitol Hill briefing on key findings from the Task Force and NCTE's groundbreaking new report, Injustice at Every Turn: A Report of the National Transgender Discrimination Survey. The briefing was held on behalf of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus.
May, 2011
Maryland Senate fails to pass Gender Identity Anti-Discrimination Act
WASHINGTON, April 11 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force expressed disappointment in the Maryland Senate’s failure to pass the Gender Identity Anti-Discrimination Act, which would prohibit discrimination in the areas of employment, housing and credit. The Senate today voted to recommit the bill to committee. The House previously passed the bill in an 86-52 vote. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force has been working in partnership with Equality Maryland to secure gender identity protections, and will continue to do so.
April, 2011
Maryland House of Delegates passes Gender Identity Anti-Discrimination Act
WASHINGTON, March 26 — The Maryland House of Delegates today passed the Gender Identity Anti-Discrimination Act (HB 235), which would prohibit discrimination in the areas of employment, housing and credit. The measure passed 86 to 52. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force has been working in partnership with Equality Maryland to pass the bill, which now moves to the Senate.
March, 2011
Massachusetts governor signs order protecting transgender state employees
WASHINGTON, Feb. 17 — Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick today issued two executive orders, numbers 526 and 527, which extend nondiscrimination protections to state employees on the basis of gender identity and expression, and apply to all state agencies and programs, as well as businesses that contract with the state.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force mourns death of the Rev. Peter Gomes
WASHINGTON, March 1 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force mourns the death of the Rev. Peter J. Gomes, an openly gay Harvard minister, theologian and author, who died yesterday at the age of 68.
December, 2010
Commemorating World AIDS Day 2010
WASHINGTON, Dec. 1 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force commemorates World AIDS Day with a commitment to continue working toward the “eradication of ignorance, intolerance and HIV/AIDS.”
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds U.S. Department of Health & Human Services' announcement of new far-reaching policy protecting same-sex couples in hospital settings
WASHINGTON, Nov. 17 — The Obama administration today took a significant step forward in ensuring same-sex couples are no longer discriminated against in hospital settings. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced its final rule on ending such discrimination in hospital visitation policies across the country. The new rule, which takes effect in 60 days, directs any hospital receiving Medicare or Medicaid funds to have written visitation policies that prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force denounces Senate vote blocking action on ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ repeal, calls it 'huge disgrace and disservice to our country'
WASHINGTON, Dec. 9 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force strongly denounced the U.S. Senate's failure today to allow a vote on the National Defense Authorization Act, blocking action on “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” repeal.
November, 2010
Election 2010: Gains and losses on key contests impacting lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people nationwide
WASHINGTON, Nov. 3 — Election 2010 results are proving to be a mixed bag for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights. Republicans regained control of the U.S. House, which will pose challenges for advancing progressive legislation, including LGBT rights legislation. In state contests, several gubernatorial candidates who support marriage equality were victorious, but the GOP made numerous gains in state legislatures across the country, which could adversely affect LGBT rights legislation. In Congress, meanwhile, there will be four openly gay and lesbian members.
October, 2010
Make History With Us in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 2!
From the Task Force: On Oct. 2, 2010, we have the opportunity to make history. The Task Force urges you to stand together with the LGBTQ, labor, civil rights, women’s, youth, environmental, immigrant, faith and peace communities as we all stand unified as One Nation Working Together (ONWT). Join the Task Force and the other three conveners of ONWT's "LGBTQ Table" — Pride At Work, the National Black Justice Coalition and National Stonewall Democrats — as participants in this massive mobilization.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force’s National Religious Leadership Roundtable responds to Carl Paladino’s divisive comments
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 — The National Religious Leadership Roundtable, convened by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, responded to the divisive comments about homosexuality by the New York Republican candidate for governor, Carl Paladino. He told a gathering in Brooklyn on Sunday that children should not be “brainwashed” into thinking that homosexuality was acceptable. According to media reports, Paladino’s campaign manager said that the candidate “is simply expressing the views that he holds in his heart as a Catholic.”
New report reveals rampant discrimination against transgender people by health providers, high HIV rates and widespread lack of access to necessary care
WASHINGTON, Oct. 13 — Transgender and gender non-conforming people face rampant discrimination in health care settings, are regularly denied needed care, and experience a range of health risks because they are transgender or gender non-conforming, according to a report of more than 6,450 transgender and gender non-conforming people. The National Transgender Discrimination Survey: Report on Health and Health Care was released nationally today by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and the National Center for Transgender Equality.
August, 2010
New York City coalition responds to anti-LGBT violence in Puerto Rico
NEW YORK, July 13 — A coalition of New York City elected officials and organizations today released a report that documents the hate-motivated violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in Puerto Rico. This report comes out just a week after the most recent transgender victim was found shot to death in Loíza, Puerto Rico. In the past eight months, seven LGBT individuals have been killed on the island.
Task Force: Pay equity and workplace fairness are critical to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people
WASHINGTON, July 20 — The White House Middle Class Task Force and Council on Women and Girls today unveiled recommendations from the Equal Pay Enforcement Task Force aimed at ending pay inequity and discrimination. The recommendations are related to the 2009 passage of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, which helps women who face wage discrimination recover their lost wages. National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Executive Director Rea Carey joined leaders of women’s and labor groups for the release of the recommendations, which include ways to better inform employees about their rights and improve coordination among enforcement agencies. Advocates and officials also urged the Senate to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act, which will help ensure people who do equal work receive equal pay.
July, 2010
Task Force: Extending Family & Medical Leave Act ‘fair and humane’
WASHINGTON, June 22 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force calls the extension of Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA) benefits to same-sex parents “fair and humane.” These parents, who previously had to fight legal battles to have the right to care for their sick or newborn children, can now focus on their families without fear of losing their jobs.
June, 2010
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights groups and allies join outcry against anti-immigrant measure in Arizona
More than 20 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) equality groups and allies today issued the following joint statement: Arizona’s S.B. 1070 takes the state down a path that will lead to racial profiling, discrimination and anti-immigrant extremism. We stand in solidarity with other individuals, organizations and local governments in rejecting the misrepresentation of immigrants put forth in this unjust and ill-conceived measure.
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force: End the archaic FDA blood ban now
WASHINGTON, June 9 — At a press conference today, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force called for an end to the Food and Drug Administration’s lifetime ban on blood donations from any man who has had sex with another man since 1977.
May, 2010
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender aging issues to take center stage at congressional briefing on Capitol Hill
WASHINGTON, April 21 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and Services and Advocacy for LGBT Elders (SAGE) are convening a National LGBT Aging Roundtable this week in Washington, D.C. In addition, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force has organized a congressional briefing on issues facing lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people as they age. The briefing will be held April 22, 9:30–11 a.m. in Room 121 of the Cannon House Office Building on Capitol Hill.
LGBT and allied groups call on Congress to pass ENDA now
WASHINGTON, April 21 — Today, the nation’s leading lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) organizations, along with allies in the faith, labor and civil rights communities, issued the following statement to members of the United States Congress: “Pass the Employment Non-Discrimination Act NOW.”
Task Force responds to guilty plea in case involving the killing of Puerto Rican gay man
WASHINGTON, May 12 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force responded to today’s guilty plea in the case involving the killing last fall of Jorge Steven López Mercado, a 19-year-old gay man in Puerto Rico. Juan Martínez Matos, who had been scheduled to go on trial Monday, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder at a hearing in Caguas and was sentenced to 99 years in prison.
April, 2010
How Big is the LGBT Community?
WASHINGTON, April 14 — Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people have only a few days left to “Queer the Census” by affixing a big pink sticker that highlights their sexual orientation and/or gender identities to their census envelopes. Nearly 200,000 stickers have already been ordered and sent to LGBT community members and their allies.
‘Pope Benedict, the world is watching and waiting’
WASHINGTON, March 30 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and its National Religious Leadership Roundtable condemn the handling of the evolving scandal of sexual abuses by priests in the Roman Catholic Church. Pope Benedict XVI is now at the center of the controversy, which has garnered worldwide attention. The pope is being blamed directly for ignoring repeated pleas by senior U.S. clergy to take action against Father Lawrence C. Murphy, a priest who had molested up to 200 boys while working at the St. John’s School for the Deaf in Wisconsin from 1950 to 1974. Just today, media reports said the Vatican is launching a legal defense designed to shield the pope from a lawsuit that seeks to have him deposed over claims that the Holy See was negligent in failing to report abuse claims.
NGLTF Updates
News from the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF). The mission of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is to build the grassroots power of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. We do this by training activists, equipping state and local organizations with the skills needed to organize broad-based campaigns to defeat anti-LGBT referenda and advance pro-LGBT legislation, and building the organizational capacity of our movement. Our Policy Institute, the movement’s premier think tank, provides research and policy analysis to support the struggle for complete equality and to counter right-wing lies. As part of a broader social justice movement, we work to create a nation that respects the diversity of human expression and identity and creates opportunity for all.
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