WASHINGTON - The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, announced today the winner of an online video contest aimed at highlighting National Coming Out Day on October 11, 2008. In this crucial election year, individuals from around the country created a short video telling the world how they will come out and vote to make a difference in the hearts and minds of their friends, family, classmates, co-workers and country.

"This year's winner, Tyler Oakley, really captures the energy and spirit I've seen on college campuses across America. Tyler's message exemplifies the power of Generation Equality to change America - with their voices and their votes," said Candace Gingrich, HRC Youth & Campus Outreach Senior Manager.

HRC staff reviewed the video entries and chose the winner. Oakley, a 19-year-old Michigan State University student, will receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C. and will have the opportunity to be on XM radio's show, "The Agenda with Joe Solmonese." Along with his guest post on www.HRCBackStory.org, it will also be featured on HRC's website, YouTube channel, and Facebook and MySpace pages.

Human Rights Campaign also released a National Coming Out Day awareness video, produced by the HRC media center. The video is now available online along with a list of events that took place across the country: http://www.hrc.org/issues/10772.htm.

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, 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.