IGLHRC Responds to News of LGBT Special Envoy Created by U.S. State Department

February 5, 2015- Jessica Stern, executive director of the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission, issued the following comments, in response to news that the U.S. State Department will appoint a special envoy to advocate for the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people overseas:

"This is a welcome development and historic moment in the U.S. government's progress in promoting the dignity and equality of LGBT people around the world.

The creation of the special envoy position is a significant advance in the increasing institutionalization of LGBT rights in U.S. foreign policy.  With opponents in both houses of Congress and in countries around the world, the potential of this position to heighten credibility and increase resources for LGBT issues in international development and cooperation comes just in time. 

We hope that the special envoy will act with strategy, with sensitivity, and with meaningful input from grassroots LGBTI communities. 

The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission has long supported creation of this position, and we look forward to engaging with the State Department's chosen nominee to make a difference in the lives of individuals by affirming their basic human rights."