WASHINGTON - Joe Solmonese, president of the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, issued the following statement regarding the passing of former President Gerald Ford.

Said Solmonese:

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of President Ford, who believed that Americans, including gays and lesbians, should be treated equally under the law. His belief for inclusion and fairness are the characteristics of a national leader."

In a 2001 interview with columnist Deb Price, Ford stated that gay and lesbian couples should be treated the same as married couples under the law, and supported legislation to outlaw anti-gay job discrimination.

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.