HRC Statement on the Departure of LGBT Ally, Associate Attorney General Tony West

by Charles Joughin

WASHINGTON – Today, Attorney General Eric Holder announced the planned departure of Associate Attorney General Tony West. Attorney General Holder said, “Over the years, Tony’s efforts have made a tremendous and lasting difference in the lives of millions of people across the country. I have been honored to count him as a colleague – and privileged to work alongside him.” Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Legal Director Sarah Warbelow issued the following statement:

“The Obama Administration, under the leadership of Attorney General Eric Holder, has worked tirelessly to protect the rights of LGBT Americans, and Tony West has been key to many of those decisions.  The American people will continue to benefit well into the future from the leadership exhibited by Tony West.  HRC wishes him all of the best in his next endeavors.”

As the Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division, West played an integral role in the Administration’s decision not to defend Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act. 

West was also instrumental in securing reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act, the first federal non-discrimination law that included the LGBT community.  His advocacy and leadership on behalf of all Americans continued as Associate Attorney General, the third ranking official in the Department of Justice.

The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

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