Human Rights Campaign Urges Participation in Diversity Initiative

by Admin •

WASHINGTON - The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the nation's largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, highlighted today a nationwide survey, "Equality Forward," part of a comprehensive listening project to learn more about the lives of African American, Latino and Asian Pacific Islander GLBT people. The launch of Equality Forward by HRC's Diversity Department includes qualitative and quantitative research, community events and diversity workshops, already underway.

"The GLBT community is as diverse as America - this is an opportunity to reach out and listen to a wide range of opinions from people throughout the country," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. "The information collected in this survey will be used as a resource by GLBT organizations nationwide."

In 2007, the Human Rights Campaign created the chief diversity officer position and introduced Cuc Vu to lead the department. As chief diversity officer, Vu reports directly to HRC president, Joe Solmonese.

"Whether we are black, Latino/a, Asian Pacific Islander, Native American, Arab, mixed race, or white, we all should be respected and valued for who we are," said Vu, chief diversity officer. "We come from many different backgrounds, but are stronger when we all come together to fight discrimination based on our skin color, gender identity, or who we love. Together, we can move equality forward."

To make sure the survey reaches deep into communities nationwide, HRC is organizing a grassroots effort led by the organization's volunteers and members to engage face-to-face with African American, Latino and Asian Pacific Islander GLBT people at work, at home, at places of worship and in the many different ways in which we come together in our communities. The results will help shape HRC's legislative agenda in 2008, as well as its diversity and educational outreach programs.

"We need people to participate and make sure gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning people of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds are heard," said Vu.

To participate in the Equality Forward initiative, visit http://www.hrc.org/issues/equalityforward.asp. For a Spanish language version, visit: http://www.hrc.org/issues/8356.htm.
To learn more about Chief Diversity Office Cuc Vu, visit: http://www.hrc.org/about-us/6090.htm.

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation respects the privacy of survey participants. All survey responses are strictly confidential. No individually-identifiable information will be sold or shared with outside individuals or entities. You must be at least 18 years old to participate. For the latest updates visit the HRC blog, www.HRCBackStory.org.

The Human Rights Campaign 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 GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

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